How does the font and type size I choose affect the formatting of block quotations in my paper?

As the MLA Handbook notes, “If a quotation extends to more than four lines when run into your text, set if off from the text as a… Read More

Are grade levels hyphened in MLA style?

MLA style hyphens grade levels in adjective form but not in noun form: a third-grade student, a student in third grade, a third grader. Read… Read More

If I am citing two poems, each by a different poet, should I use the word line or lines the first time I quote from each poet’s work?

Yes. The MLA Handbook says that “in your first citation” of a poem, “use the word line or lines and then, having established that the numbers designate lines, give… Read More

Introducing Lateral Reading before Research

A lesson on lateral reading Read More

How should I capitalize a salutation in a letter?

The MLA provides style recommendations for research papers. For guidance on how to capitalize salutations addressed to various categories of persons (e.g., religious, governmental, military),… Read More

Helping Students Use Grammar to Support Their Writing Goals

Teachers can help their students by addressing grammar in the context of student writing Read More

Should I insert “page 1” at the top of a one-page assignment?

Listing a page number for a one-page assignment is likely not necessary, but you should check with your instructor about pagination and other formatting… Read More

How to Use (Not Abuse) Parentheses

Get tips on how to use parentheses and how to avoid overusing them Read More

Accent Marks in Microsoft Word

There are two basic ways of generating accent marks for text in foreign languages Read More

Note Formatting in Microsoft Word

Learn how the how to format notes in Microsoft Word Read More