As a student, writing a research paper is an inevitable task that you will come across at some point in your academic journey. One of the essential aspects of writing a research paper is formatting. There are various formatting styles available, but the most commonly used ones are MLA (Modern Language Association) and Harvard. In this article, we will discuss how to write a research paper in MLA or Harvard format and also provide MLA Harvard Assignment Help.

MLA Format

MLA format is widely used in the humanities field, including literature, language, and cultural studies. The following are the guidelines for writing a research paper in MLA format.

a) Paper Layout

The paper should be typed and double-spaced on standard-sized paper (8.5" x 11") with 1-inch margins on all sides. The font should be Times New Roman, 12 pt.

b) Title Page

There is no title page required in MLA format. Instead, include the following information in the upper left-hand corner of the first page of your paper: your name, your instructor's name, the course title, and the date.

c) In-Text Citations

When using sources in your paper, you must cite them properly. In-text citations should be included immediately after the quote or reference and should include the author's name and page number. For example: (Smith 56).

d) Works Cited Page

At the end of your paper, include a Works Cited page that lists all the sources you used in alphabetical order by the author's last name. The Works Cited page should be double-spaced with a hanging indent.

Harvard Format

Harvard format is commonly used in the social sciences and natural sciences. The following are the guidelines for writing a research paper in Harvard format.

a) Paper Layout

The paper should be typed and double-spaced on standard-sized paper (8.5" x 11") with 1-inch margins on all sides. The font should be Times New Roman, 12 pt.

b) Title Page

Include a title page that includes the title of your paper, your name, your instructor's name, the course title, and the date.

c) In-Text Citations

When using sources in your paper, you must cite them properly. In-text citations should be included immediately after the quote or reference and should include the author's last name, year of publication, and page number. For example: (Smith, 2005, p. 56).

d) Reference List

At the end of your paper, include a reference list that lists all the sources you used in alphabetical order by the author's last name. The reference list should be double-spaced with a hanging indent.

Tips for Writing a Research Paper

Regardless of the formatting style, the following tips will help you write an excellent research paper:

1. Choose a Topic

Choose a topic that interests you and has sufficient information available for research. Your topic should also be specific enough to cover in the scope of your paper.

2. Conduct Research

Conduct thorough research on your topic using credible sources. Take notes and organize your findings to make it easier to write your paper.

3. Create an Outline

Create an outline for your paper that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. Organize your research findings into subtopics and include them in your outline.

4. Write the First Draft

Use your outline to write the first draft of your paper. Remember to include in-text citations and a Works Cited or Reference list, depending on the formatting style.

5. Edit and Revise

After completing the first draft, edit and revise your paper for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Make sure your paper is well-organized and flows logically.