Q&A for How to Write a Paper for School in MLA Format

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Do I or do I not indent the first paragraph? In the pictures there is no indent, but I thought there was supposed to be.

Community Answer

On school papers, yes, indent the first paragraph - and do not double space between paragraphs. On business letters and papers, do not indent the first paragraph, and double space between paragraphs.

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Question

How many spaces do I use after each sentence?

Community Answer

One space after every period, and typically any form of punctuation. Example: Hello, I'm Bob. I like apples. I also enjoy bananas.

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Question

How many spaces do I need to indent for MLA format?

Community Answer

Paragraphs should be indented a half-inch from the left margin.

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Question

Is it permissible to have border lines on the pages on my MLA document?

Community Answer

Usually not, but some teachers allow it. I would avoid it, just to play it safe.

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Question

Should I Indent the second and third paragraph when writing a school essay?

Community Answer

Yes, you should indent every paragraph in your writing for a school essay. Unless the teacher provides you with other instructions, in which case, follow those.

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Question

How do I cite articles in MLA format?

Community Answer

Refer to Cite Sources in MLA Format .

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Question

Is a paper written in MLA format double-spaced?

Alex

Top Answerer

Yes, it is. All writings and papers in MLA are double-spaces throughout the whole paper.

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