MLA Format Header FAQ

Common questions about the free MLA format header generator.

What is an MLA format header?
An MLA format header is a standardized heading that appears at the top-left of the first page of an academic paper. It includes the student's name, instructor's name, course number, and date, all formatted according to the Modern Language Association (MLA) style guidelines. The header is double-spaced and uses a legible font such as Times New Roman 12pt.
How do you format a header in MLA style?
To format an MLA header: (1) Place your full name on the first line, (2) your instructor's name on the second line, (3) the course name on the third line, and (4) the date in day-month-year format (e.g., 13 April 2026) on the fourth line. All text should be left-aligned, double-spaced, in 12pt Times New Roman font. Your last name and page number go in the top-right header.
What date format does MLA use?
MLA style uses the day-month-year format without commas, such as '13 April 2026' or '1 January 2025'. Do not use abbreviations for months. This differs from APA style, which uses month-day-year format.
Should the MLA header be double-spaced?
Yes, the entire MLA header should be double-spaced, including between each line of the header and between the header and the essay title. This follows the MLA Handbook 9th edition guidelines for manuscript formatting.
What is the difference between an MLA header and a running head?
An MLA header appears only on the first page at the top-left and contains your name, instructor, course, and date. A running head (or page header) appears on every page at the top-right and contains only your last name followed by the page number (e.g., 'Smith 1'). Both are required in MLA format.
Does MLA require a separate title page?
No, MLA format does not require a separate title page. Instead, the MLA header and essay title appear on the first page of the paper. If your instructor requires a title page, follow their specific instructions.
Is the MLA header generator free?
Yes. The tool is free to use and does not require an account or login.
Does the MLA header generator store my data?
No. Everything runs in your browser. No data is sent to or stored on any server.
Can I export my MLA header?
Yes. You can copy the header to your clipboard or download it as a .docx file.