Binding Your Paper

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Modern Language Association updated their guidelines on April 1, 2016. We have not yet updated this section of Resources for Researchers to reflect these changes. We have ordered a copy of the new guidelines and will update as soon as possible.

Proper MLA format requires that you use a paper clip or a staple to bind your paper. Please check with your professor to see what he/she prefers.

Never use binders. And do not fold the corners over on your paper.

Some instructors might, however, request that you use a binder your paper. In such a case, follow your instructor's directions.

Download an MLA Template

Download a template that has margins, heading, and other information formatted using MLA requirements.



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I require my students to use a paper clip to bind their papers. If a student uses a staple to bind his/her paper, I rip the corner off the page. However, because their students will wander into my office to borrow my stapler, I know that some of my colleagues require that their students staple their paper.


Photo Credit: Dominique Godbout