Formatting & Citation

MLA Running Header Step By Step Guide

A properly formatted MLA running header is crucial for academic papers. This guide breaks down the process into simple steps, covering everything from page numbers to your last name. We'll walk you through setting it up in common word processors, ensuring your work adheres to MLA 9th edition guidelines. Avoid common pitfalls and present your research professionally with this essential formatting element.

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Why Your MLA Running Header Matters

In the world of academic writing, presentation is nearly as important as content. A well-formatted paper signals attention to detail and respect for scholarly conventions. Among these conventions, the MLA running header (also known as a page header) is a fundamental component. It's a small but significant detail that helps readers navigate your work and identifies it as yours. Comprising your last name and the page number, it appears at the top right of every page, starting with the title page. While seemingly minor, a correctly implemented running header demonstrates your understanding of MLA style guidelines, contributing to the overall credibility and professionalism of your submission. For students and professionals alike, mastering this element is a straightforward yet vital step towards polished academic work.

Understanding the Components of an MLA Running Header

The MLA running header, as defined by the Modern Language Association's 9th edition (the most current), is concise and serves two primary functions: identification and pagination. It consists of two main elements, placed in a specific order and format:

Your Last Name: This should be your surname, capitalized. For instance, if your name is Jane Doe, it would appear as DOE.
The Page Number: This is the sequential number of the page within your document. It should be a standard Arabic numeral (1, 2, 3, etc.).

These two elements are separated by a single space. Crucially, the header appears on every page of your paper, including the first page. Unlike some other citation styles, MLA does not require a separate title page unless specifically requested by your instructor. If a title page is omitted, your running header begins on the very first page, which contains your name, the instructor's name, the course name, and the date, followed by the title of your paper. If a title page is included, the running header begins on the second page (the first page of your actual text).

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Running Header in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a ubiquitous tool for academic writing, and setting up an MLA running header is a relatively simple process. Follow these steps carefully:

Open Your Document: Launch Microsoft Word and open the document you are working on.
Access the Header: Navigate to the 'Insert' tab on the ribbon. In the 'Header & Footer' group, click on 'Header.' From the dropdown menu, select 'Edit Header.' This will open the header editing pane.
Align Text to the Right: With the header pane active, go to the 'Home' tab. In the 'Paragraph' group, click the 'Align Right' button. This ensures your last name and page number will be positioned correctly.
Type Your Last Name: Type your last name in all capital letters (e.g., SMITH).
Insert a Space: Press the spacebar once.
Insert the Page Number: Go back to the 'Insert' tab. In the 'Header & Footer' group, click on 'Page Number.' From the dropdown menu, select 'Current Position' and then choose 'Plain Number.' This will automatically insert the correct page number for each page.
Verify Formatting: Ensure there is only a single space between your last name and the page number. The font should typically match the font of your document's body text (usually Times New Roman, 12-point). While not strictly part of the header text itself, maintaining consistent font is good practice.
Close the Header: Double-click anywhere in the main body of your document, or click the 'Close Header and Footer' button on the 'Header & Footer Tools' tab that appears when the header is active. This will return you to your document.

It's crucial to double-check that the header appears on all pages and that the page numbers are sequential and correct. If you've opted for a separate title page, remember that the header should not appear on that first page. You'll need to adjust the settings to ensure the header starts on page 2.

Setting Up Your Running Header in Google Docs

Google Docs is another popular choice for students. The process is similar to Word, with a few minor differences:

1. Access the Header: Go to 'Insert' > 'Headers & footers' > 'Header.' 2. Align Right: Click the 'Align right' icon in the toolbar (it looks like lines stacked on the right). 3. Type Your Last Name: Type your last name in all caps (e.g., JONES). 4. Insert Space: Press the spacebar once. 5. Insert Page Number: Go to 'Insert' > 'Number' > 'Page numbers.' Select the option that shows page numbers starting from the second page if you have a title page, or the first page if you don't. Google Docs often defaults to including the page number in the header automatically when you select the header option.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even with clear instructions, some common mistakes can creep into MLA running headers. Being aware of these can save you valuable points on your assignments.

Forgetting the Last Name: The header isn't just the page number. Your last name must be included.
Incorrect Capitalization: The last name should be in all caps.
Extra Spaces: Ensure there's only one space between your last name and the page number. Too many spaces can push the page number too far to the left.
Header on the Title Page (When Not Supposed To Be): If your instructor requires a separate title page, the running header should not appear on it. You must configure your word processor to use a 'different first page' header.
Incorrect Page Numbering: The page numbers must be sequential and accurate. Avoid manually typing page numbers, as this can lead to errors if you add or delete content later.
Wrong Font or Size: While the MLA handbook doesn't strictly dictate the header font, consistency with the body text (typically 12-point Times New Roman) is standard practice and expected.
Using the Wrong Style: Double-check that you are following MLA 9th edition guidelines, not an older version or a different style like APA or Chicago.

The Role of the Running Header in Professionalism

Beyond simply fulfilling a requirement, a correct MLA running header contributes significantly to the perceived professionalism of your work. Imagine a lengthy research paper or a manuscript you're submitting for publication. A consistent, correctly formatted header makes it easy for the reader—whether it's a professor grading your paper or an editor reviewing your work—to keep track of your pages. It subtly communicates that you are meticulous and understand the established norms of academic and professional discourse. This attention to detail can leave a positive lasting impression, suggesting that the content within the paper is equally well-researched and presented.

Example of a Correct MLA Running Header

On any given page of your document (excluding a separate title page, if applicable), the top right corner should look like this: SMITH 3 Here, 'SMITH' is the student's last name in all caps, followed by a single space, and then '3' is the current page number. This format should be consistent across all pages of the paper.

Troubleshooting Common Word Processor Issues

Sometimes, even following the steps precisely, you might encounter issues. Here are a few common troubleshooting tips:

Header Not Appearing on All Pages: Ensure you haven't accidentally set 'Different first page' if you didn't intend to, or vice-versa. Check the header settings in your word processor.
Page Numbers Resetting: This often happens if you have sections formatted differently. Ensure your document is set to continuous section breaks if necessary, or that the page numbering is set to restart from the correct point.
Cannot Edit Header: Make sure you are in 'Edit Header' mode. Sometimes, simply double-clicking the top margin area will open it.
Font Mismatch: Select the text within the header, go to the 'Home' tab, and explicitly set the font and size to match your body text (e.g., Times New Roman, 12pt).

Final Check Before Submission

Before you hit that submit button or print your final draft, take a moment for a final review specifically focused on your running header. Scroll through your entire document. Does the header appear on every page it should? Are the page numbers correct and sequential? Is your last name spelled correctly and capitalized appropriately? Is the spacing right? A quick visual scan can catch errors that automated checks might miss. Remember, these details matter and contribute to the overall quality and impression of your academic work.

FAQs

Does the MLA running header go on the first page?

According to MLA 9th edition guidelines, the running header (your last name and page number) appears on every page of your paper. If you are submitting a paper with a separate title page (which is not standard MLA practice unless specifically requested by your instructor), the running header should not appear on the title page itself but should begin on the second page. If you are not using a separate title page, the header appears on the very first page of your document.

What font and size should I use for the MLA running header?

The MLA 9th edition handbook does not specify a particular font or size for the running header. However, the standard convention and best practice is to match the font and size of your document's body text. Typically, this means using a 12-point font, such as Times New Roman.

Do I need to include my first name in the running header?

No, the MLA running header only requires your last name, followed by the page number. Your last name should be in all capital letters.

How do I ensure the page numbers are correct if I add or delete text?

The best way to ensure correct page numbering is to use your word processor's automatic page numbering feature. When you insert the page number as described in the guide (e.g., via 'Insert' > 'Page Number' in Word or Google Docs), the software will automatically update the numbers as you edit your document. Avoid typing page numbers manually.