Problem: If your writing looks sloppy, people will be less likely to find your ideas reliable and believe what you are saying.
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Solution: If you follow the rules for MLA (Modern Language Association) formatting, your writing will look more professional and reliable.

MLA Formatting Guidelines

• Text should be double-spaced.
• Font should be easy to read. Use  Times New Roman, Arial, or Cambria. This includes the title.
• Font size should be 12. This includes the title.
• Each paragraph should be indented using the Tab key.
• Create a header that includes your last name and numbers each page in the upper right-hand corner.
• In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list:
  • your name
  • your teacher's name
  • the class or period
  • the date the paper is due
• If a title is required, center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place the title in quotation marks.

Here is a sample essay that uses the MLA format.