MLA Format Sub-headings | MLAFormat.org
≡ Menu

MLA Format Sub-headings

If you would like to utilize subheadings (subtitles) in your research paper, it is a good idea to first check with your instructor to be 100% sure what subheading format he/she would like you to use.

Depending on how long your paper is, you will need either one level subheadings or several levels subheadings

One Level Subheadings:

Format: centered, capitalize the first letter but not the whole subtitle.

Example:

MLA Format, Sample Subheadings

MLA Format One Level Subheading

*Visit this full sample paper for ideas!

Multi-Level Subheadings:

If your paper has subtitles under subtitles, see the format below. Be sure to check with your instructor first if he/she agrees with this format before you decide to use it.

LevelFormat
1Boldface, flush left
2Italicized, flush left
3Boldface, centered
4Italicized, centered
5Underlined, flush left
Tips:– Do not capitalize the whole subheadings. Capitalize the first important letters (Example: Limitations of the Study)- A subheading should always have at least two lines of text following it. If a subheading happens to fall at the bottom of a page, move to the next page and start the subheading at the top of the new page.

Reference:

– MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th Edition
– Writing the Research Paper, 7th Edition.

{ 7 comments… add one }
  • Maddie March 22, 2020, 4:21 pm

    super helpful thank you!

  • Carlota December 7, 2019, 9:52 am

    Thank you for the information, it really worked for my minerals and rocks research essay

  • Matthew June 4, 2019, 10:55 pm

    Very helpful 🙂

  • Hugh G. Rection April 25, 2019, 11:29 pm

    Thanks for the help my friend.

  • Richy April 25, 2019, 5:34 am

    Thank you

  • Katie February 6, 2019, 6:55 pm

    Thank you

  • Monika January 30, 2014, 10:43 pm

    Thank you

Cancel reply

Leave a Comment