Essay Header Rules: How to Format Your Paper Correctly in MLA & APA

An essay header, also known as a running head, is a small but essential part of academic formatting. It appears at the top of each page and helps keep papers organized and professional. Different formatting styles, like MLA and APA, have specific rules for running heads.

If you’re writing an essay and unsure how to format your running head correctly, this guide will walk you through the rules for MLA and APA styles, including step-by-step instructions for setting it up in Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

What Is an Essay Header?

An essay header (or a running head) is the header that appears on every page of an academic paper. Its primary purpose is to help identify the document and maintain consistency throughout the essay.

The style guide you are using will determine how to format your running head. In MLA format, it includes your last name and page number. In APA format, student papers only require the page number, while professional papers include a shortened title in all caps.

Using the correct running head format is important because professors and publishers expect papers to follow these standards.

MLA Running Head Rules

The MLA running head is simple and consistent across all pages of the essay.

General Essay Header Format

• Font: Times New Roman, 12 pt (or other readable fonts like Arial).
• Line spacing: Double-spaced.
• Margins: 1-inch on all sides.

Placement and Content

• Located in the upper right corner of each page.
• Includes:
  • The student’s last name (e.g., Smith)
  • A space
  • The page number (e.g., Smith 1)
• No other text or special formatting is needed.

How to Insert an MLA Running Head in Word & Google Docs

Microsoft Word

1. Click Insert > Header.
2. Select Blank Header.
3. Click the right-align button.
4. Type your last name, press space, and insert the page number using Insert > Page Number > Top of Page > Right.
5. Close the header section.

Google Docs

1. Click Insert > Headers & Footers > Header.
2. Click the right-align button.
3. Type your last name, press space, and insert the page number using Insert > Page Numbers > Top Right.
4. Close the header section.

Formatting an essay header might seem simple, but it can be frustrating when working under tight deadlines or switching between different style guides. Small mistakes, like misplacing the page number or using the wrong font, can lead to unnecessary point deductions. An essay helper from EssayHub can make the process easier by ensuring formatting is correct and consistent.

APA Running Head Rules

APA formatting has changed in its 7th edition. A running head with a title is not required for student papers; only the page number is necessary.

General Essay Header Format

• Font: Times New Roman, 12 pt (or other APA-approved fonts like Calibri or Arial).
• Line spacing: Double-spaced.
• Margins: 1-inch on all sides.

Placement and Content

• Located in the upper right corner of each page.
• Student papers: Only the page number (e.g., 1, 2, 3…).
• Professional papers: Running head includes a shortened title in all caps and the page number (e.g., RESEARCH METHODS 1).

How to Insert an APA Running Head in Word & Google Docs

Microsoft Word

1. Click Insert > Header.
2. Select Blank Header.
3. Click the right-align button.
4. Click Insert > Page Number > Top of Page > Right.
5. Close the header section.

Google Docs

1. Click Insert > Headers & Footers > Header.
2. Click the right-align button.
3. Click Insert > Page Numbers > Top Right.
4. Close the header section.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

When formatting a header for essay, students often make small but costly mistakes. Here are some typical errors and how to fix them:

• Incorrect Placement – The running head should always be in the top right corner. Fix it by adjusting the alignment in the header section.
• Wrong Content – MLA requires a last name + page number, while APA (student papers) only needs the page number. Ensure that the format used in your paper is correct.
• Forgetting Page Numbers – Some students forget to insert page numbers on all pages. Always check by scrolling through the document.
• Extra Text or Formatting – Don’t include additional text in MLA headers or unnecessary elements in APA headers. Keep it simple and clean.
• Inconsistent Font or Size – The header should match the rest of your paper in font style and size. Double-check that it is set to 12-point Times New Roman or the required font for your format.
• Manual Numbering – Some students try to type page numbers manually, which can cause errors when adding or deleting pages. Use the automatic page numbering feature to ensure consistency.

Final Thoughts

A properly formatted essay header (running head) makes your paper look polished and professional. Whether you’re using MLA or APA, following the correct format ensures your work meets academic standards.

Also Read

• 10 Steps on How to Write an Essay in English: Format, Samples, and Tips
• A Comprehensive Guide to Writing College Essay: Importance, Elements and Format
• Statement of Purpose vs Personal Statement

Always double-check your headers before submitting your paper, and use the formatting tools in Word or Google Docs to set up your running head correctly. With these simple steps, you can avoid mistakes and focus on writing a great essay.