Mla format essay example

General
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mla format essay example

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mla format essay example

Answer:
The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is commonly used in humanities, especially in writing on languages and literature. When crafting an essay in MLA format, it’s essential to follow a specific set of guidelines. Below, I’ve illustrated what a properly formatted MLA essay will look like by providing a detailed example.

MLA Format Essentials:

  1. General Formatting:

    • Use standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
    • Double-space the text of your paper.
    • Use a legible font like Times New Roman, 12 pt.
    • Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks.
    • Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
    • Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. MLA recommends using the Tab key rather than the Space Bar for this purpose.

  2. Header:

    • Include a header in the upper right-hand corner that includes your last name, followed by a space with a page number. Number all pages consecutively with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin.

  3. First Page:

    • In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor’s name, the course, and the date. Again, be sure to use double-spaced text.
    • Center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place it in quotation marks. Write the title in Title Case, not in all capital letters.

  4. In-text Citations:

    • When citing a source in-text, use the author-page format: (Smith 123). For sources without an author, use a shortened title of the work.

  5. Works Cited Page:

    • The works cited page should begin on a new page at the end of the paper. Center the title, “Works Cited” (not italicized or in quotation marks), and double-space between the title and the first entry.
    • Each entry should be alphabetized by the author’s last name. Use a hanging indent for each entry.

Example of an MLA Format Essay:

Header:

Smith 1

First Page Header:

Jane Smith
Professor Johnson
English 101
14 March 2023

Title:

The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication

Body:

Social media has revolutionized the way people communicate and interact with each other. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have enabled instantaneous sharing of information and ideas, leading to the creation of a global village. According to Johnson, "Social media has bridged gaps that once made communication challenging" (45). However, with these advancements come significant implications for personal privacy and mental health.
     One of the primary advantages of social media is its ability to connect people from different parts of the world. This connectivity fosters cultural exchange and enables users to stay informed about global events in real-time. Smith argues that "the instant nature of social media updates allows for unmatched immediacy in communication" (78). Nonetheless, this immediacy also presents challenges, including the spread of misinformation and the potential for online harassment.
     ...

At the same time, it's essential to consider the adverse effects of social media usage. An increasing number of studies highlight the correlation between extensive social media use and mental health issues. Doe emphasizes that "users who spend more than two hours per day on social media platforms report higher levels of anxiety and depression" (96). Therefore, society must find a balance between leveraging the benefits of social media while mitigating its negative impacts.

Works Cited:

Works Cited
Doe, John. "The Psychological Impacts of Social Media." Journal of Internet Studies, vol. 15, no. 2, 2022, pp. 94-112.
Johnson, Emily. Social Networking: Bridging Gaps. Penguin Books, 2021.
Smith, Adam. "Enhancing Communication through Social Media." Communication Today, vol. 43, no. 1, 2021, pp. 45-81.

By following the structure provided in this example, you will adhere to the MLA format guidelines effectively. Always cross-check the specific requirements of your instructor or the publication you are submitting to, as they may have additional guidelines.