Q. How do I set the correct margins and spacing for my paper using Google Docs or Microsoft Word?

Margins for both MLA and APA papers should be 1 inch all around. Papers in both styles should be double-spaced with no additional spaces between paragraphs or references.

Google Docs

Margins

1. Click on File (step 1)
2. then Click Page Setup (step 2)
3. If your content is highlighted, make sure that the Apply to box shows Selected content
4. Make sure that all the margins are set at 1 inch, and click OK (step 3).

Spacing

With your paper highlighted, change your spacing to double either with the Line & Paragraph shortcut or by going to Format > Line &  paragraph spacing > double spacing.

Microsoft Word

Margins

1. Click on Layout (step 1)
2. then click Margins and select Normal (step 2)

Spacing

To double-space text using Microsoft Word, first click the Dialog Box arrow under "Paragraph" and change "Line Spacing" to "Double".

You should also change "Spacing" to read 0 pt for both "Before" and "After."

Please contact one of our Librarians in person or through our Ask a Librarian if you have questions.