MLA layout is simple and easy to use. The basic guidelines are:

1. Use one inch margins on every page.
2. Every thing is double spaced without exception.
3. The use of 10 point Arial or 12 point Times Roman is generally preferred by most instructors.
4. MLA recomends the use of left justification; however, it is not a requirement. You may generally use either left or justified margins. Left margins look better if you use a monospace font such as courier. Proportional fonts such as Arial or Times Roman look better with justified margins.
5. As you type, only hit the enter key once at the end of each paragraph. Let the word processor handle the formatting for you.
6. MLA does not favor the use of a cover sheet.
7. Use only white 8-1/2 by 11 inch paper for the final copy and only print on one side.
8. Block quotes must be over four lines in length. Do not use quotation marks and indent one inch on the left only. If the quote is four lines or less, embed the quote in the body text and set it off with double quotation marks.
9. MLA recommends avoiding the use of folder or binders. A staple in the top left corner is sufficient.
10. In the top left corner of the first page, put your name on the first line, your instructor's name on the second line, the course information on the third line, the date on the fourth line.
11. The title goes on the fifth line and is centered.  The first word and all major words should be capitalized. Do not capitalize articles, prepositions, or the infinitive 'to'. Do not use bold, underline, italic attributes or use a different font. Exception: any word that would be underlined or italicised in text should be similarly treated in the title.
12. The first paragraph begins on the sixth line and has a one half inch indent.
13. Page numbering is placed in the top right corner, one half inch from the top, right justified and consists of your surname, a space, and the page number only. Using MS Word's Header feature makes this simple. Open the header, hit the tab key twice, type your surname, a space, and click on the automatic page number button in the toolbar. Your paper will be perfectly numbered for you.
14. The page number is optional on the first page. Generally, the paper looks better without it, however some prefer it.
15. The works cited page begins on a new page after the end of the body text and continues the page numbering.
16. Remember that ALL borrowed material must be cited in the appropriate manner. It is best to summarize such material in your own words, or alternatively, use paraphrase.  The use of direct quotes is generally used only were summarization or paraphrase is not feasible.
17. For estimating purposes, figure approximately 200 words per page, thus a 1000 word essay will run five full pages plus the works cited pages. A good rule of thumb is to include approximately two to three sources per page. A single source is a bit sparse and four or more begins to look like string quoting. 
18. Be aware that these are guidelines only. Instructors generally have preferences on these details--so it is wise to follow them.

Learn about in text citation.

—By Douglas E. Greathouse, M.A.