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How to Format Essays

Once your revisions are complete, it’s time to format your essay — or arrange the way it is presented.

The first rule to writing in College Essay format is simple: ask your professor. He or she may prefer a special format.

If they say “Use MLA” or “Use APA,” follow the instructions below.

MLA Format Essay

Title page: Usually no — check with professor
Margins: 1 inch all around
Font: Usually Times Roman, 11 to 12 point
Heading: Yes — follow illustration below
Page number: Yes — upper left hand, with last name.

Instructions on automatically setting up this information using Microsoft Word.

First, second and Works Cited page of MLA formatted essay.

MLA Research paper

MLA Format Page 1
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Information about the process of using MLA in College Essay Format

MLA Format Page 2
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MLA college essay work cited example

MLA Format Work Cited
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APA Format

Title page: Usually yes — check with professor
Margins: 1 inch all around
Font: Usually Times Roman, 11 to 12 point
Heading: Yes — follow illustration below
Page number: Yes — upper left hand, with last name.

Instructions on automatically setting up this information using Microsoft Word.

First, second and Works Cited page of APA formatted essay.

APA College essay format example 1

APA Format Page 1
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APA College Essay Format example 2

APA Format Page 2
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APA College essay format example 3

APA Format Page 3
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