Headings and subheadings help your readers understand the structure of your paper. If using headings, keep them short and consistent. If using multiple levels of internal headings, each level should be used more than once. In other words, if using a level one heading, at least one other level one heading should be used.
Headings should be flush with the left margin, not indented or centered. In general, boldface, larger font indicates prominence; a smaller font, italics or lack of bold can be used to signal subordination (Adapted from MLA Handbook 9th ed. p. 4-5).
An MLA paper should follow these general formatting guidelines (unless directed otherwise):
It is important to use software tools and features in your word processing program to set the style so that formatting will remain correct when additions and changes are made to the paper or citation list.
To make sure the formatting is correct in MS Word, highlight the entire paper or a selection of the paper and then: