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  • Tags: Essay , Essay Editing

A header for an essay is an important part of APA or MLA formatting guidelines . In this article, we’ll find out the purpose of an essay header, how to format it, and the APA and MLA essay header variations.

A properly formatted header helps your professor quickly and easily identify your essay. In APA format , the essay header also carries a gist of your larger topic, providing the reader with basic information about your essay in one glance.

Let’s take a more detailed look at how to write a header for an essay.

Ensure top-notch essay formatting! Get started

What is a header in an essay?

A header for an essay is a line of text typically included at the top of the page. The content of the header depends on your essay header format. The MLA essay header includes your last name whereas the APA essay header includes a shortened title of your essay.

The use of a header is especially important in longer essays, as it helps professors navigate the document with ease. The page number helps them locate specific information quickly and the author’s name helps them associate each essay with the student who wrote it. 

MLA essay header

The Modern Language Association (MLA), often used in literature and humanities essays, requires a specific type of header. It consists of your last name, followed by a space and then the page number. Thus, the MLA essay header helps the instructor easily associate your work with you amidst a sea of other assignments.

The header for an MLA format essay is typically placed in the top right-hand corner of each page of the document. The information is right-aligned, double-spaced, and is usually preceded by a 0.5-inch margin. 

Here’s an essay header example to help you understand:

It is important to note that the MLA essay header is not the same as a title page. The title page is a separate page that includes the essay title, your name, the course title, and the date of submission. The MLA format essay header is simply a standardized way to format page numbers and your personal information within the document itself.

APA essay header

The American Psychological Association (APA) usually requires a header to be included in both student and professional essays. The APA essay header includes an abbreviated title of the essay along with the page number.

The title should be in all capital letters and should not be more than 50 characters long. It should be included on the top left corner of the page. The page number should be included opposite the title, in the top right corner of the page.

Take a look at this essay header example:

It is important to note that running head in an APA essay header is optional for students but compulsory for professionals. While the header must be present in both types of APA essays, the elements differ.

How to write a header for an essay

1. To activate the header for an essay, double-right-click on the top of the page.

If you need additional help with headers and other formatting guidelines, you can also consider working with a professional essay editing service .  

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How To Write A Header For An Essay That Grabs Your Reader's Attention

Declan Gessel

May 9, 2024

woman typing essay - How To Write A Header For An Essay

Writing a header for an essay is crucial for setting the tone and providing structure, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout the content. Knowing how to write a header for an essay can significantly impact the overall quality of your work. 

In this guide, you will learn the importance of headers, the different types, and the best practices to make your essay stand out. By the end of this post, you will have the necessary skills and knowledge to write compelling headers that engage readers and make your essay cohesive and easy to follow. You will learn tips and tricks on how to write an essay .

Table of Contents

What makes a good essay header, how to grab attention with clear and engaging essay headers, avoiding cliches and overused phrases in your essay headers, 5 pro tips for how to write a header for your essay, write smarter with jotbot — start writing for free today.

man feeling good in office - How To Write A Header For An Essay

Let’s delve on what makes a good essay header: 

Guiding the Reader Through the Essay's Structure

A clear header is like a map. It tells the reader what the upcoming paragraph is about. When readers have this information, they can easily decide if they want to continue reading. For example, if the reader knows a paragraph is about how to write a header for an essay, they will read on.

Avoiding Overly Broad or Vague Headers

Readers want to know what they are getting into before they start reading. Avoid overly broad headers that leave the reader unsure of the content. Make sure the header gives the reader a clue about what is coming next. For example, "Writing a Clear Essay Header" gives readers an idea of what the paragraph will be about.

Acting as Mini-Summaries

Informative headers act as mini-summaries. They give readers a quick preview of what they will read. This helps readers get more out of the paragraph. When readers know what to expect, they can better understand what they are reading.

Using Keywords and Key Phrases

If you can, use keywords or key phrases from the body paragraph in the header. This helps the reader connect the header to the content of the paragraph. For example, if “mini-summaries” is a key phrase in the paragraph, try to use it in the header.

Related Reading

• Argumentative Essay • Essay Format • Expository Essay • Essay Outline • How To Write A Conclusion For An Essay • Transition Sentences • Narrative Essay • Rhetorical Analysis Essay • Persuasive Essay

woman concentrating on work - How To Write A Header For An Essay

Below are the tips on how to grab engaging headers for essays:

Use Clear Verbs

To write more engaging headers for your essays, switch out passive verbs for active ones. For instance, instead of saying "The Impact is Analyzed," try "Analyzing the Impact." This change adds more punch to your writing, making it more engaging.

Ask Questions

Another way to make your essay headers more captivating is by incorporating questions . Questions pique readers' curiosity, enticing them to read further. For example, you could ask, "Can Technology Solve Climate Change?" This question creates a sense of intrigue that readers can't ignore.

Highlight Key Points

A great way to ensure that your essay header shines is by showcasing the main idea of the section right at the top. For example, instead of using a generic header like "Social Media Influencers," you could opt for "The Rise of Social Media Influencers." This way, readers know exactly what to expect from that particular section.

Keep it Simple

Lastly, when writing headers, remember to keep things straightforward. Don't use overly complex language that might confuse your readers. The aim is to create headers that are easy to understand and resonate with your audience.

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• Words To Start A Paragraph • Essay Structure • Types Of Essays • How To Write A Narrative Essay • Synthesis Essay • Descriptive Essay • How To Start Off An Essay • How To Write An Analytical Essay • Write Me A Paragraph • How To Write A Synthesis Essay

header of essay

When writing essay headers, it's crucial to steer clear of clichés and overused phrases. These generic terms can easily dull the impact of your writing. Instead, focus on original, engaging, and exciting ways to draw your reader in.

I. The Pitfalls of Clichés and Overused Phrases

Clichés often fall short in two key areas:

1. Lack of Originality

Clichés can sound tired and lackluster, failing to grab the reader's attention.

2. Misrepresenting Content

Overused phrases might not accurately reflect the unique argument of your essay section.

II. Alternatives to Clichéd Language

A. strong verbs and precise nouns.

Steer away from weak verbs and generic terms. Instead, opt for:

Action verbs to capture the essence of your point.

Specific nouns for clarity.

For instance, instead of "The Importance Of Education," try "Cultivating Critical Thinking Skills: The Cornerstone of Education."

B. Figurative Language (Used Sparingly)

Use metaphors, similes, or other figures of speech creatively, but in moderation. For example, "A Web of Deceit: Unraveling the Conspiracy Theory."

C. Active Voice and Questions

Try using an active voice to make your header more engaging and consider sparking curiosity with questions. Instead of "Challenges Faced by Immigrants," try "Navigating New Waters: Challenges and Opportunities for Immigrants."

III. Brainstorming Effective Headers: A Step-by-Step Approach

A. identify keywords.

List your key points or arguments and choose keywords that accurately reflect your essay section.

B. Craft a Clear and Concise Sentence

Construct a sentence using identified keywords and strong verbs/nouns. Ensure it accurately represents your content.

C. Refine for Impact

Consider adding figurative language sparingly to inject intrigue. Explore phrasing options for a more engaging structure.

Avoiding clichés and overused phrases can greatly enhance your headers' impact by keeping readers engaged and interested. Be creative, precise, and original to truly capture the essence of your essay section.

man typing his essay - How To Write A Header For An Essay

1. Mastering Crystal Clear Communication for Your Essay Headers

By being upfront and informative, you can create headers that accurately reflect the content below, letting readers know exactly what they're about to learn. Ditch vague terms like "Healthy Habits" and go for something specific like "Boost Your Energy: 3 Simple Habits for a Healthier You."

2. Igniting Reader Curiosity with Power Words in Your Essay Headers

Weave in powerful words that pique interest and tap into the emotions of your readers. Words like "unlock," "secrets," "ultimate," or "mistakes" can add a spark. Instead of "Email Marketing Tips," use "Unlock the Power of Email: 3 Strategies to Boost Engagement."

3. The Sweet Spot: Keeping Your Essay Headers Short and Sweet

Attention spans are short online. Aim for concise headers that are easy to read and scannable. Focus on the core message and avoid unnecessary fluff.

4. Numbers: Utilizing Numerical Values to Craft Engaging Essay Headers

People love lists! Headers with numbers like "5 SEO Mistakes You Might Be Making" or "7 Hacks to Boost Your Blog Traffic" are easy to scan and instantly communicate value.

5. Sparking Curiosity with Intriguing Questions in Your Essay Headers

Spark curiosity by posing a question that taps into your reader's needs or pain points. For example, instead of "Social Media Marketing," try "Feeling Lost on Social Media? 3 Proven Strategies for Growth."

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How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

The deadline for your latest writing assignment is mere minutes away. You’re rushing to get the final details together and suddenly realize you’ve forgotten a title. You quickly throw something random on top of the page and submit it to your teacher.

You’re not satisfied with your title, but you vow to do better next time. And you will!

Waiting until last minute to come up with a title for your writing assignment is never a good idea. This is the first detail your readers notice and should not only prepare them for what they’ll read but intrigue them as well.

You’ve learned from your mistake: essay titles are not a last-minute detail. They’re an integral part of any piece of written work and should be planned out earlier on in the writing process.

Titles lead to your reader’s first impression of your essay, and the headings help organize your thoughts and make the essay easier to read. Let’s take a look at how you can turn your titles from an afterthought into a well-thought-out writing element.

How Do You Write a Great Title?

People DO judge a book by its cover, and they will judge your essay by its title. So writing a strong title is an important part of starting your writing off on the right foot.

Your essay title has two main functions:

  • Inform your reader
  • Spark your reader’s interest

Additionally, keep in mind these three pointers:

Be clear and concise

Vague titles do not inform the reader. Provide a specific description of what your focus will be. Your audience wants to know precisely what they will be reading.

Bad Example: Oceans

Good Example: Disappearing Ocean Life in the Pacific Rim

Offer an exciting tidbit or interesting fact

If your title is boring, readers will not want to keep reading. Offer them something that will get attention.

Bad Example: How Consumers are Wrongly Spending Money

Good Example: The Seven Million Dollar Mistake

Everyone may be writing a college admissions essay, but don’t title yours: My College Admissions Essay . No matter what the prompt, make your title something that stands out from the stack.

Bad Example: My Research Project

Good Example: Relocating the Human Race to Mars

How Do You Create a Great Header?

Essay headers are often overlooked by writers, but they can really help your readers as they journey through your essay. While the title may get the reader hooked, the headers keep them moving smoothly through your paper. They enhance readability and help explain what is most relevant in the essay.

Each essay header should answer these two questions:

  • What will I learn?
  • What is the focus?

When readers approach a new section of your essay, they will have a better reading experience if they have a small preview of what’s to come.

Essay headers should answer two questions for your reader: What will I learn? and What is the focus?

Writing a useful header should be relatively easy. Read through your paragraphs and see what the main idea of is. From here, make a list of sub-topics that are discussed in each section. The best way to do this is to pull from the main points you listed out in your outline (which you, of course, remembered to do!).

Remember the following details about writing a header:

Be simple, but informative

You don’t want to give away all of your ideas here, but you need to give some guiding information.

Bad Example: Eating Too Many Fatty Foods Can Increase Your Cholesterol Levels

Good Example: How Your Diet Affects Your Health

Be consistent throughout your essay.

Choose a pattern and stick with it throughout the entirety of the assignment. If you start off by having a heading for each paragraph, keep it that way until the end. Also, make sure the format remains the same. If your first heading is in the form of a question, all of the rest should be as well.

Bad Example: Beaches, What is Up With Littering?, I Want to Clean Up the Planet

Good Example: Neglected Beaches, Effects of Litter, Motivated Activists

Just like when you are writing a title, there are generic headings you can lean on to get it done quick and easy. But don’t use these. Your conclusion shouldn’t have the header, "Conclusion." Come up with something unique for each part of your essay to keep your reader from feeling fatigued as they read on.

Bad Example: Conclusion

Good Example: Will the Pandas Survive?

Be organized and helpful

Your essay should be scannable. This means that if someone needs information fast, they can find it without having to read every word of your piece.

Although titles and headers are often neglected, they are very important to your pieces of writing. They grab your reader’s attention from the start and keep them focused throughout the rest of your essay. Taking the time to craft great titles and headers can advance your writing to the next level.

Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.

101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Need a topic for your upcoming argumentative essay? We've got 100 helpful prompts to help you get kickstarted on your next writing assignment.

Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay

Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your college application. Follow these guidelines for an exceptional admissions essay.

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MLA Format Heading

This page contains guidelines on how to properly format the headings of your research paper using the MLA format.

1. The Opening Page:

On the opening page or the first page, you would include the whole heading and your paper’s title. The whole heading would include the following information:

  • Your Instructor’s Name
  • Your Class Information
  • Your Paper’s Due Date
  • Font: choose an easy to read font such as Times New Roman.
  • Font Size: set the font size to be twelve (12) throughout your research paper, including your paper’s title. Never set the font site larger than 12.
  • Margins: 1-inch for top/bottom/right/left throughout your paper.
  • Double-space: double-space throughout your paper. Don’t add extra spaces (besides double-space) between your headings, your title and your paragraphs.

Sample of the Opening Page:

header of essay

A sample of the first page of your paper.

2. The Inner Pages:

For the pages that follow the first page, set the heading like this: instead of the whole heading, you would use the header feature on your word processing program and including the following information: Your Last Name and the Page Number.

Sample of the Inner Page:

header of essay

Example of the heading for inner pages.

3. The Works Cited Page:

Every research paper must include a works cited page.

  • The works cited list is placed at the end of your paper, on a new page.
  • The heading for your works cited pages should be the same as the heading for your inner pages, which include your name and the page number at the top.
  • Enter the title as “ Works Cited ” and place this title 1-inch from the top of the page, see more details in the example illustration picture below.

Sample of the Works Cited Page:

MLA Format Works Cited

Example of the works cited page.

– MLA Handbook, 8th edition

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I have the following level 3 heading in my thesis:

Project management office and (pmo) metrics team.

Should the abbreviation pmo be in lower case as it is or should it be in upper case?

Please Advise. Thanks.

So for the works cited page, you don’t need the name, teacher, date, and period heading at all?

No. It should only be on the first page of the essay.

This is some good stuff to know.

I have to write a paper for an application and they want it to be in MLA format. I don’t know how to do the heading because it’s not going to one teacher in particular and it is not for one class.

I don’t think you need a heading besides the “Last name-1” on the inner pages.

Hey Shannon. You might try “To Whom it may concern” or something like that. Don’t trust me on this because I am not for sure on that and if you did do this you might get it wrong and whoever might not accept your application. I hope you figure out how to do it and do great on that application! 😀 – Christopher

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How to Create a Header in MLA Style

How to Create a Header in MLA Style

  • 2-minute read
  • 6th January 2023

In MLA style papers, the header is an important component. You may have heard of both headers and headings, so what’s the difference? And how are they formatted in MLA ? Read on to learn more.

What Is an MLA Header?

In the MLA style , the header is found on every page of your paper. It’s in the top right corner and provides your last name and the page number. To create one in Microsoft Word, follow the steps below:

  • Go to Insert > Page number > Top of page. Choose the option that shows the page number on the right side.

header of essay

2. Add your last name and make sure the font style and size match with the rest of your paper. Your header should now appear on each page of your paper.

header of essay

What About Headings in MLA?

The MLA style doesn’t typically require a cover page, but your instructor still needs to see some introductory information. That’s where a heading comes in. It goes on the first page in the upper left-hand corner, and it includes your name, instructor’s name, course name/number, and the date.

header of essay

As seen in the screenshot, the heading must be double spaced and in a readable font. You should then put the title of your paper below your heading, centered on the page.

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As far as section headings go, MLA doesn’t have any specific rules – however you choose to format them, just ensure that you remain consistent throughout the paper.

Summary: MLA Headers and Headings

The MLA style offers lots of flexibility and can be pretty easy to follow, once you get the hang of it. As a quick review, remember:

  • Headers go on the top right corner of every page and include your last name and the page number.
  • Headings go on the first page and include your name, professor’s name, course name/number, and the date.

If you need help with your MLA paper, our editors are here for you. We can help you out with formatting, references , and, of course, editing for grammar, spelling, punctuation, word choice, clarity, and concision. Get your first 500 words proofread for free to try it out!

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MLA Format: The Ultimate Guide to Correctly Formatting Your Paper

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By Hannah Yang

the ultimate guide to MLA headings cover

So you need to create an MLA heading? You’re not alone—MLA format is one of the most common styles you’ll be expected to use when you’re writing a humanities paper, whether you’re a high-school student or a PhD candidate.

Read on to learn what a correct MLA heading looks like and how to create one that works like magic.

What Is an MLA Heading?

How do you format an mla heading, what is an mla header, how do you format an mla header, headings are only the beginning, commonly asked questions about mla headers, final thoughts.

The term “MLA heading” refers to five lines of important information that appear at the top of the first page.

Here are two examples of what an MLA heading could look like:

Hermione Granger

Professor McGonagall

Transfiguration—6th period

18 October 1991

“How to Turn A Matchstick into a Needle”

MLA heading set out in Word

Harry J. Potter

Prof. Remus Lupin

Defense Against the Dark Arts

4 March 1994

“Why I Think My Professor Is a Werewolf”

Why are these headings important? Well, your teacher probably collects hundreds of papers every year. If any identifying information is missing from these assignments, grading and organizing them becomes much more of a challenge.

MLA headings ensure that all key information is presented upfront. With just a glance at the first page, your teacher can easily figure out who wrote this paper, when it was submitted, and which class it was written for.

essay heading tip: save your heading as a template

What Are the Parts of an MLA Heading?

An MLA heading should include:

  • Your instructor’s name
  • The name of the class
  • The date the assignment is due
  • The title of your paper

Your instructor may give you specific guidelines about how much detail to include in each line. For example, some teachers may ask you to refer to them by their titles, while others may ask you to use their full names. If you haven’t been given any specific instructions, don’t sweat it—any option is fine as long as it’s clear and consistent.

Follow these formatting rules for your MLA heading:

  • Start each piece of information on a separate line
  • Don’t use any periods, commas, or other punctuation at the end of the line
  • Keep the heading double-spaced, in the same font as the rest of your paper
  • Left-align the first four lines (they should start at the 1-inch margin on the left side of your paper)
  • Center the title (it should appear in the middle of your paper)
  • Make sure your title is in title case

Title case means that major words should be capitalized and minor words should be lowercase. Major words include nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, and any word longer than four letters. Minor words include conjunctions, prepositions, and articles.

Tip: Remember that Hermione’s “Society for the Promotion of Elfish Welfare” shortens to S.P.E.W., not S.F.T.P.O.E.W—only the major words are capitalized!

graphic of the SPEW acronym highlighting major words

The MLA heading should only appear on the first page of your paper . But wait, you’re not done yet! In the rest of your paper, you need to include something called an MLA header at the top right corner of every page.

Think of the MLA header as a short, simple “You are here” marker that shows the reader where they are in the paper. By looking at the MLA headers, your instructor can easily understand where each page goes and which paper it belongs to.

What Are the Parts of an MLA Header?

The MLA header consists of your last name and page number.

For example, the second page of Hermione Granger’s essays would be labeled “Granger 2”, the third would be labeled “Granger 3”, and so on.

MLA headings in Word

Creating MLA Headers in Microsoft Word

If you’re writing your paper in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:

  • Click Insert
  • Scroll down to Page Numbers and click on it
  • Set the position to “Top of Page (Header)”
  • Set the alignment to “Right”
  • Make sure there’s no checkmark in the box for “Show number on first page”
  • Click on the page number and type your last name before the number
  • Set your font and font size to match the rest of your paper, if they don’t already

Creating MLA Headers in Google Docs

If you’re writing your paper in Google Docs, follow these steps:

  • Scroll down to Page Numbers and hover over it
  • Choose the option that sets your page number in the upper right corner
  • Set your font and type size to match the rest of your paper, if they don’t already

Tip: After you create your first MLA header, save a template document for yourself that you can re-use next time, so you don’t have to follow these steps every time you write a paper!

Once you've got your headings sorted, it's time to start writing your paper. While we can't help you edit the content of your essay , ProWritingAid is here to make sure your grammar, spelling, and style is on point.

As well as checking your grammar, ProWritingAid also shows you your progress towards key goals like varied sentence structure, active voice, readability, and more. The target scores are all based on averages for real essays, so you'll always know if you're on track.

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Whose last name should you use in your MLA header if you’re writing a group paper?

The MLA Style Guide has no specific guidelines for group projects. You should always include the names of all members of the group project in the first line of your heading, but you don’t necessarily need to do this for the header on every page.

If there are only two or three authors collaborating on your paper, you can include all of your last names in the MLA header, e.g., “Granger, Potter, and Weasley 2.”

If you’re part of a bigger group and it would take up too much space to include all of your last names, you can write the name that comes first in the alphabet and then add “ et al. ”, e.g., “Granger et al. 2.” (The term “et al.” is short for the Latin term “et alia”, which means “and others.” You’ll often see it used in academic papers with multiple authors.)

example of a heading for a larger group project

Should you include your class period in your MLA heading or just the class name?

There’s no MLA rule about this, but when in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of including too much information in your heading rather than not enough.

If your instructor teaches more than one version of the same course, they’ll probably find it helpful if you specify the class period you’re in. You can either include your class period after the class name, e.g., “History of Magic—2nd period”, or before the class name, e.g., “2nd Period History of Magic.”

What should you write in your MLA heading if you don’t have an instructor?

If you have no instructor, you can explain the situation in the line where you would normally put the instructor’s name, e.g., “Independent Study” or “No Instructor.”

What should you write in your MLA heading if you have multiple instructors?

If you have multiple instructors, you can include both of their names in the line where you would put the instructor’s name. If you’re in a college course where you have a professor and a TA, you should choose whose name to include in the header depending on who will ultimately be reading your paper.

no instructor vs. multiple instructors

Should you include the date you started writing the paper or the date the paper is due?

The MLA Style Guide has no specific guidelines about which date you need to put in the heading. In general, however, the best practice is to put the date the assignment is due.

This is because all the papers for the same assignment will have the same due date, even if different students begin writing their assignments on different days, so it’s easier for your instructor to use the due date to determine what assignment the paper is for.

Should you format the date as Day Month Year or Month Day Year?

In MLA format, you should write the date in the order of Day Month Year. Instead of writing May 31 2021, for example, you would write 31 May 2021.

What font should you use for your MLA heading and header?

Both the heading and the header should be in the same font as the rest of your paper. If you haven’t chosen a font for your paper yet, remember that the key thing to aim for is readability. If you choose a font where your teachers have to squint to read it, or one where your teachers can’t figure out the difference between what’s italicized and what isn’t, you should rethink your choice.

When in doubt, go with Times New Roman, 12 pt. It’s always a safe bet for MLA papers unless your instructor specifically tells you otherwise.

font comparison to show easier and more difficult-to-read fonts

Do you need to italicize or bold the title of your MLA paper?

No. There’s no need to use any special styling on the title of an MLA paper, such as bold or italics.

How do you format section titles in your MLA paper?

If you’re writing a paper with multiple sections, you may need to include a subtitle at the top of each section.

The MLA Style Guide gives you two options for using subtitles in a paper: one-level section titles or several-level subtitles (for papers with subsections within each section).

For one-level section titles, the formatting is simple. Every subtitle should look the same as the title (centered and double-spaced, with no special formatting).

one level section title examples

The only difference is that instead of using title case, you should capitalize only the first word of each subtitle. For example, a title would be spelled “How to Turn a Matchstick into a Needle”, while a subtitle would be spelled “How to turn a matchstick into a needle.”

For several-level subtitles, you will need to format each level in a different way to show which level each section is at. You can use boldface, italics, and underlining to differentiate between levels. For example, subtitles at the highest level should be bolded, while subtitles at the next level down should be italicized.

See the chart below for MLA’s suggested formats.

three different formats to denote different subtitle levels

What is the difference between MLA format and APA format?

MLA and APA are two sets of guidelines for formatting papers and citing research.

MLA stands for the Modern Language Association. The MLA handbook is most often used in fields related to the humanities, such as literature, history, and philosophy.

APA stands for the American Psychological Association. The APA format is most often used in fields related to the social sciences, such as psychology, sociology, and nursing.

The APA manual includes a heading format similar to the MLA heading format with a few key differences, such as using a separate cover page instead of simply including the heading at the top of the first page. Both heading formats ensure that all of your papers include all your key identifying information in a clear and consistent way.

consult the MLA handbook if you're unsure

Where can you learn more about MLA style?

If you have questions about how to format a specific assignment or paper, it’s always best to consult your instructor first. Your school may also have a writing center that can help you with formatting questions.

In addition, Purdue has fantastic resources for all kinds of formatting topics, from MLA headings to MLA citations and everything in between.

If you would like to find out more directly from the Modern Language Association, consult the MLA Style Center or the MLA Handbook (8th edition).

Now you’re ready to write an MLA paper with a fantastic heading. Make sure your essay does your heading justice by checking it over with ProWritingAid.

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Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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MLA General Format 

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Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

MLA Style specifies guidelines for formatting manuscripts and citing research in writing. MLA Style also provides writers with a system for referencing their sources through parenthetical citation in their essays and Works Cited pages. 

Writers who properly use MLA also build their credibility by demonstrating accountability to their source material. Most importantly, the use of MLA style can protect writers from accusations of plagiarism, which is the purposeful or accidental uncredited use of source material produced by other writers. 

If you are asked to use MLA format, be sure to consult the  MLA Handbook  (9th edition). Publishing scholars and graduate students should also consult the  MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing  (3rd edition). The  MLA Handbook  is available in most writing centers and reference libraries. It is also widely available in bookstores, libraries, and at the MLA web site. See the Additional Resources section of this page for a list of helpful books and sites about using MLA Style.

Paper Format

The preparation of papers and manuscripts in MLA Style is covered in part four of the  MLA Style Manual . Below are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in  MLA Style :

General Guidelines

  • Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
  • Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). Whatever font you choose, MLA recommends that the regular and italics type styles contrast enough that they are each distinct from one another. The font size should be 12 pt.
  • Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks (unless otherwise prompted by your instructor).
  • Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
  • Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. MLA recommends that you use the “Tab” key as opposed to pushing the space bar five times.
  • Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow your instructor's guidelines.)
  • Use italics throughout your essay to indicate the titles of longer works and, only when absolutely necessary, provide emphasis.
  • If you have any endnotes, include them on a separate page before your Works Cited page. Entitle the section Notes (centered, unformatted).

Formatting the First Page of Your Paper

  • Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested or the paper is assigned as a group project. In the case of a group project, list all names of the contributors, giving each name its own line in the header, followed by the remaining MLA header requirements as described below. Format the remainder of the page as requested by the instructor.
  • In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date. Again, be sure to use double-spaced text.
  • Double space again and center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place your title in quotation marks. Write the title in Title Case (standard capitalization), not in all capital letters.
  • Use quotation marks and/or italics when referring to other works in your title, just as you would in your text. For example:  Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas  as Morality Play; Human Weariness in "After Apple Picking"
  • Double space between the title and the first line of the text.
  • Create a header in the upper right-hand corner that includes your last name, followed by a space with a page number. Number all pages consecutively with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or other readers may ask that you omit the last name/page number header on your first page. Always follow instructor guidelines.)

Here is a sample of the first page of a paper in MLA style:

This image shows the first page of an MLA paper.

The First Page of an MLA Paper

Section Headings

Writers sometimes use section headings to improve a document’s readability. These sections may include individual chapters or other named parts of a book or essay.

MLA recommends that when dividing an essay into sections you number those sections with an Arabic number and a period followed by a space and the section name.

MLA does not have a prescribed system of headings for books (for more information on headings, please see page 146 in the MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing , 3rd edition). If you are only using one level of headings, meaning that all of the sections are distinct and parallel and have no additional sections that fit within them, MLA recommends that these sections resemble one another grammatically. For instance, if your headings are typically short phrases, make all of the headings short phrases (and not, for example, full sentences). Otherwise, the formatting is up to you. It should, however, be consistent throughout the document.

If you employ multiple levels of headings (some of your sections have sections within sections), you may want to provide a key of your chosen level headings and their formatting to your instructor or editor.

Sample Section Headings

The following sample headings are meant to be used only as a reference. You may employ whatever system of formatting that works best for you so long as it remains consistent throughout the document.

Formatted, unnumbered:

Level 1 Heading: bold, flush left

Level 2 Heading: italics, flush left

Level 3 Heading: centered, bold

Level 4 Heading: centered, italics

Level 5 Heading: underlined, flush left

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How to Write a Header for an Essay: MLA vs. APA Format

Aug 27, 2024 | 0 comments

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Aug 27, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

When you’re diving into the world of academic writing, one of the first hurdles you’ll face is crafting the perfect header for your essay. A header for an essay is a line of text typically included at the top of the page. It might seem like a small detail, but trust me, it’s crucial.

As someone who’s been through the ups and downs of essay writing , I’m here to guide you through the process of how to write a header for an essay, that not only meets academic standards but also sets the tone for your entire piece. Think of your essay header as the first impression you make on your reader – it’s your chance to show them you mean business!

How do you write a header for an essay? To write a header for an essay, include your last name and the page number in the upper right corner of every page.

For MLA header format, place your last name and page number 0.5 inches from the top of the page, while for APA format, include a shortened version of your essay title (up to 50 characters) along with the page number. The specific content and placement may vary depending on the required citation style , but generally, an essay header should be concise, informative, and consistently formatted throughout your paper.

Now, let’s break down the elements of an effective essay header and walk through the process step by step. Whether you’re dealing with MLA style , APA style, or another style guide, I’ve got you covered. Let’s make sure your essay starts on the right foot!

Table of Contents

The Elements of an Effective Essay Header

When I first started writing essays, I was surprised to learn that a well-crafted essay header typically consists of three key components: the title, your name, and the course information. These elements work together to provide essential context for your reader and ensure your work is properly attributed.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these components:

  • Title: This is the heart of your header. It should be concise yet descriptive, giving readers a clear idea of what to expect from your essay. We’ll dive deeper into crafting compelling titles later.
  • Your name: This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Always include your full name as the student who wrote the essay.
  • Course information: This typically includes your course title, instructor’s name, and date of submission. This information helps contextualize your work within your academic journey.

Remember, the exact placement and formatting of these elements can vary depending on whether you’re using MLA format, APA format, or another style guide. Don’t worry, though – we’ll cover those differences in detail as we go along.

Headings vs. Titles: Understanding the Difference

Headings vs. Titles

Now, before we dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of formatting, let’s clear up a common source of confusion: the difference between headings and titles. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve distinct purposes in academic writing.

A title is the main label for your entire essay. It’s what you see at the top of the first page and what appears in the table of contents (if your essay has one). Your title should encapsulate the main idea or argument of your entire paper.

Headings, on the other hand, are used to organize the content within your essay. They break up your text into sections and subsections, making it easier for readers to navigate your ideas. You might have main headings (usually in bold or larger font) and subheadings throughout your essay.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because it affects how you format your paper. Your essay header includes the title, while headings are used throughout the body of your essay to structure your arguments.

Crafting a Compelling Title

Now that we’ve cleared up the difference between headings and titles, let’s focus on crafting a compelling title for your essay. Your title is like the cover of a book – it’s the first thing your reader sees, and it needs to grab their attention.

Here are some tips I’ve learned for creating titles that pack a punch:

  • Be specific: Your title should give a clear idea of what your essay is about. For example, instead of “Education Essay,” try “The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”
  • Use keywords: Include key terms related to your topic. This helps readers quickly understand your focus and can also be beneficial for search engines if your essay is published online.
  • Keep it concise: Aim for a title that’s informative but not overly long. A good rule of thumb is to keep it under 12 words.
  • Consider using a subtitle: If you need to provide more context, a subtitle can be helpful. For example: “Digital Classrooms: The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”
  • Use title case: Capitalize the first letter of each major word. For example: “The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School Mathematics.”

Remember, your title is your first chance to engage your reader. Take the time to craft something that’s both informative and intriguing. After all, amidst a sea of essays, you want yours to stand out!

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Formatting the First Page of Your Paper

Now that we’ve got a killer title, let’s talk about how to format the first page of your paper. This is where things can get a bit technical, but don’t worry – I’ll walk you through it step by step.

The formatting of your first page largely depends on whether you’re using modern language association (MLA) or APA style. Let’s break down both:

MLA Format:

MLA Format for first page

  • Your full name
  • Your instructor’s name
  • The course name
  • Center your title about one-third of the way down the page.
  • Start your essay immediately after the title.
  • In the upper right corner, include your last name and the page number.

APA Format:

APA Format for the first page

  • APA requires a separate page for the title.
  • The title of your paper (centered, about 3-4 lines down from the top of the page)
  • Your institutional affiliation (e.g., your school)
  • Include a running head on every page, including the title page. This is a shortened version of your title (up to 50 characters) that appears in the header along with the page number. This should be right-aligned to the corner of the page in capital letters.

Remember, regardless of the format you’re using, your essay should be double-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. Use a readable font like Times New Roman in 12-point size.

As we transition to discussing common mistakes, keep in mind that paying attention to these details from the start can save you a lot of headaches later on!

Read More: Essay Title Page: Everything You Need to Know

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As someone who’s made plenty of formatting mistakes in my time, I can tell you that they’re easy to make but also easy to avoid if you know what to look out for. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of when creating your essay header:

  • Inconsistent formatting: Make sure your header is consistent across all pages. In MLA format , your last name and page number should appear in the upper right corner of every page, including the Works Cited page.
  • Incorrect capitalization: I n titles, capitalize all major words and any word that’s four letters or longer. For example: “The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication.”
  • Forgetting page numbers: It’s easy to overlook, but page numbers are crucial. They help your reader (and you!) navigate the document easily.
  • Using the wrong font: Stick to standard, readable fonts like Times New Roman or Arial. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts that might distract from your content.
  • Improper spacing: Ensure your entire document, including the header, is double-spaced. This improves readability and gives your instructor space for comments.
  • Misplacing the running head in APA: In APA format, the running head should appear on every page, including the title page. It’s a shortened version of your title, up to 50 characters long.
  • Forgetting to include all necessary information: Make sure you’ve included all required elements – your name, course information, date, and title.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re already ahead of the game. Remember, attention to detail in your header shows that you’re meticulous and care about presenting your work professionally.

Tips for Making Your Header Stand Out

Now that we’ve covered the basics and common pitfalls, let’s talk about how to make your header stand out. While it’s important to follow the guidelines of your chosen format, there’s still room for a bit of creativity. Here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way:

  • Use descriptive language in your title: Instead of a generic title like “Essay on Climate Change,” try something more specific and engaging like “Rising Tides: The Urgent Need for Climate Action in Coastal Communities.”
  • Consider using a subtitle: If your main title is catchy but not quite descriptive enough, a subtitle can provide additional context. For example: “Digital Natives: How Generation Z is Reshaping the Landscape of Online Communication.”
  • Pay attention to font choice: While you should stick to standard fonts, you can still choose one that complements your writing style. Just make sure it’s easily readable.
  • Use bold or italics sparingly: If your style guide allows it, you might use bold or italics to emphasize keywords in your title. But remember, less is often more.
  • Ensure proper alignment: In MLA, your header should be flush left, while in APA header in an essay, it should be centered. Proper alignment gives your paper a clean, professional look.
  • Consider your audience : Tailor your title to appeal to your intended readers. A title that works for a scientific journal might not be appropriate for a more general audience.

Remember, while these tips can help your header stand out, the most important thing is that it accurately represents the content of your essay. A flashy header won’t make up for weak content, but a well-crafted header can certainly enhance strong writing.

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Tailoring Your Header to Different Essay Types

As we wrap up our discussion on essay headers, it’s important to note that different types of essays may require slight variations in header style. Let’s explore how you might adapt your approach based on the type of essay you’re writing:

  • Research Papers : For research papers, your header might include additional information like the name of the research institution or funding body. In APA format, you’ll need to include a running head with a shortened title of your essay.
  • Argumentative Essays : In these essays, your title could reflect your stance on the issue. For example: “The Case for Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality.”
  • Narrative Essays : For personal narratives, you might use a more creative title that hints at the story you’re about to tell. For example: “Lessons from the Summit: My Journey to Mount Everest’s Base Camp.”
  • Compare and Contrast Essays : Your title should indicate the subjects being compared. For instance: “Apple vs. Android: A Comparative Analysis of Smartphone Operating Systems.”
  • Group Projects : If you’re working on a group project, you’ll need to include all group members’ names in the header. Typically, you’d list names alphabetically by last name.

Remember, regardless of the essay type, always follow the specific guidelines provided by your instructor or institution. They may have particular requirements that supersede general formatting rules.

Conclusion on How to Write a Header for an Essay

As we’ve journeyed through the ins and outs of how to write a header for an essay, I hope you’ve come to see it as more than just a formality. Your header is the first impression your essay makes, setting the tone for everything that follows. It’s a small but crucial part of your academic writing that demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

We’ve covered a lot of ground, from understanding the difference between headings and titles to tailoring your header for different types of essays. We’ve discussed the intricacies of MLA and APA formatting, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to make your header stand out.

Remember, whether you’re formatting your header in the upper right corner or creating a separate title page, consistency is key. Pay attention to details like capitalization, font choice, and proper alignment. These small elements can make a big difference in how your essay is perceived.

As you continue your academic journey, don’t be afraid to refer back to these guidelines. Practice makes perfect, and soon, creating a stellar essay header will become second nature. And remember, while formatting is important, it’s the content of your essay that truly matters. A great header is just the beginning – it’s what comes after that will truly showcase your ideas and arguments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you write headings for an essay.

Writing headings for an essay involves understanding the structure and purpose of your essay. Typically, headings are used to organize content and make it easier for readers to navigate. To write headings for an essay, start by identifying the main ideas or sections of your essay. Each heading should succinctly reflect the content of that section. Use a consistent formatting style, such as bold or italics, to differentiate headings from the body text. If you’re following specific formatting guidelines, such as MLA format essay header or APA essay header includes, make sure to adhere to those standards for a professional appearance.

How to properly write a header?

To properly write a header, ensure it contains essential information that aligns with the requirements of your essay format. For instance, in MLA format essay header, the header typically includes your name, your instructor’s name, the course title, and the date, all placed in the left corner of the page. It should be double-spaced and use a readable font like Times New Roman. In contrast, an APA and MLA essay header might include a page number on the right corner of the page. Always remember to follow your specific formatting guidelines to achieve a polished look.

What is an example of a topic heading?

An example of a topic heading might be “The Impact of Climate Change on Urban Areas.” This heading indicates what the section will discuss and allows readers to quickly grasp the focus of your content. When creating a heading, make sure it is descriptive yet concise. Consider using an abbreviated version of the title if your essay has a long title, ensuring it remains relevant to the content that follows.

How do you write a header for a paragraph?

Writing a header for a paragraph involves creating a brief, focused statement that encapsulates the main idea of that paragraph. For instance, if the paragraph discusses the effects of social media on mental health, a suitable header could be “Social Media and Mental Health.” This not only aids the reader in understanding the paragraph’s thrust but also enhances the overall organization of your essay. Ensure that the header aligns with the overall thesis of your essay and adheres to any specific formatting guidelines you are following.

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English Composition 1

Inserting headers into essays.

According to the MLA (the Modern Language Association), each page of an essay, including the first page, should include the writer's last name and the page number inserted as a header in the upper right corner of the page, as illustrated below:

The header should not be typed where the text of your papers should be. It should be inserted as a header in your word processor so that your last name and the page number appear slightly above the first line of text on each page.

This page explains how to insert a header using Microsoft Word 2010. The procedure for inserting a header will vary depending on what type of word processor you are using, but a similar approach to what is explained below should work in other word processors.

How to Insert a Header in Microsoft Word

Begin by opening in your word processor the document in which you want to add the header.

  • Make the "Insert" ribbon active at the top of the screen.
  • Click the "Page Number" icon.
  • Click "Top of Page."
  • Click "Plain Number 3."

Inserting Headers

  • Type your last name and a space just before the page number that will be added to the upper right of your document.
  • If the header is not in the correct fonts, highlight your name and the page number, make the "Home" ribbon active, and choose the correct fonts.

Inserting Headers

Double left mouse click anywhere outside of the header area to return to the text area of your document.

If you need to make changes to the header after you have added it, just double left mouse click in the header area of the document.

If you do not see the header added to your document, the problem most likely is the "View" you are using. To see the document with the header, just make the "View" ribbon active and click "Print Layout."

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What Is an Essay Header?

An essay header is a continuous line of text that appears at the top of a page. It includes the author's last name or part of the title and the page number. Essay headers are usually required for academic texts.

A header makes your essay look polished and organized. Moreover, a professor working with dozens of student essays would find it easier to sort if the essay pages spilled or otherwise got mixed up.

MLA, APA and other styles have their own guidelines for creating headers for academic works. For MLA, use your last name and the page number, with no punctuation. For APA, use the first several words of the title and the page number, with five spaces in between. Find out which style guide is required for your essay, and follow that format.

Creating a Header

You don't have to type a header for each page of your essay. Software programs such as Microsoft Word make it easy to create a consistent header that appears in the correct position and format at the top of each page.

The first page of an essay does not require an essay header.

Occasionally an essay header may be forbidden, such as in a contest with a blind review process. Eliminating details about the author allows judges to evaluate each work impartially.

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Should you Include Headings and Subheadings in an Essay?

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If you have ever tried reading a large blob of text, then you know how hard it can be. However, it becomes easier to read when broken into headings and subheadings.

Academic writings like essays have a standard of writing that must be upheld. While not every essay requires headings and subheadings, they are important for organizing your writing.

Headings describe the succeeding section, while subheading gives supporting information for the heading.

With that said, here is everything you need to know about headings

What are Headings in Essays and Academic Papers?

According to Merriam-Webster, a heading forms or serves as a head.

In academic writing, headings represent what is to come in the assignment. Adding a heading will help structure a piece of writing and guide the reader throughout the content. Short pieces of writing don't always require headings. In long-form writing, each specific section should have its heading to communicate what the reader should expect clearly. Think of it as the title of that section.

Since some points are more important than others, the heading chosen should be based on whether the idea you are talking about is the main point. Each heading chosen should tell the reader what the following idea is about. This is because the main points are the building blocks of the content. Make sure it is short, descriptive, and precise.

You can include headings and subheadings/subtopics in an essay if it is long, but ensure that the subtopics or subheadings are relevant to the content and consistent throughout the text in a manner to contribute to your thesis statement. As a good practice, ensure that the essay headings and subheadings do not exceed 12 words.

Subheadings are not recommended for short essays . However, they improve the overall structure of a long essay, help you frame and explore your topic, and enable the readers to know what to expect (they act as signposts in an essay or research paper).

Heading vs. Title

Headings and titles may look similar at a first glance, but they are not. A title represents the entire paper and explains it in clear and short phrases. It is the first thing the reader will see and determine whether they read the rest of the document. For this reason, you need to think of striking, informative, and appropriate titles. You should also write the title based on why you are writing that document. For instance, if the aim of the documents is tutorial, then the title should be task-based.

On the other hand, a heading represents what each section of the paper discusses. They help guide the reader throughout the documents, which is why you should write effective headings, and they should be as descriptive as possible.

Headings are a requirement in most forms of writing, but some lecturers may be divided about using them in academic essays, which is why you should confirm with them first. 

Headings Vs. Subheadings

Headings are key parts of writing as they will capture the reader's attention and lure them into the document's purpose. They guide the reader to the main points of the paper. You have to set the headings apart from the body of the text by coming up with an enticing phrase.

Subheadings, on the other hand, do more than grab the reader's attention; they show the different subsections of the text. They keep the reader engaged by quickly guiding them to the information they want.

Headings and subheadings appear at the beginning of a section and organize the flow of the documents. In addition, they are both used to break down large blocks of text to make them more scannable. They also have a hierarchy that is Heading (H2) first, followed by subheadings (H3) and (H4) in that order. Subheadings should always come after the heading, as demonstrated.

The Best Length for Headings in Academic Writing

A heading can be as long as you want it to give the reader a snippet of the idea. A good rule of thumb should be no more than 70 characters.

For higher level headings, like H1, H2, and H3s, they could be as low as one word, for instance, the introduction, methodology, and such. For such sections, the one word is clear enough for the reader to know what it represents. Low levels like H5 and below can be much longer and direct the reader to exactly what they are looking for.

Levels of Heading in Academic Writing

Headings are an important part of academic writing as they act as a preview of the document. They guide the reader on what you are talking about, which is why you should assign different heading levels.

There are five levels of headings in APA style. Level 1, Level 2, level 3, level 4, levels 5. Level 1 is the main heading, followed by level 2, its subheading, and level 3 is the subsection of level 2 in that order.

Level 1 headings are your main headings and are usually typed in the center of the paper in title case and bolded. Their text beneath will always start in the next line, indented inward, just as you begin a new paragraph. These help the reader find their way through the document, read what they want and skip what they are not interested in.

The length and complexity of the paper will determine how many levels you will use. If it's just a short piece of writing, you can use Level 1. If you need two headings, use level 1 and level 2. If it's a 2000-word article, research paper, term paper, or essay, you will need between 3 and 5 headings.

Keep in mind that not every paragraph needs a heading. While headings can keep your work neat, too many can defeat the purpose. Also, make sure that each of the headings and subheadings has a connection to the main title.

All these levels are differentiated by different styles and formats depending on the publication manual provided, which can be either APA or MLA format.

Reasons to Use Headings in Academic Writing

Headings are helpful in academic writing for a myriad of reasons, including:

Making Your Content More Readable

Much information goes into academic writing to pass information to the reader. Putting all your information in a large block of text will be overwhelming and can scare away the readers. The white gaps at each heading section will offer a resting place hence a visual break. Therefore, separating the large chunks of text into manageable portions will keep your readers engaged.

Outlining Your Content

Headings serve as the structure of your writing. By dividing the large bulk of text with headings, you guide the reader through each section and what it is about. Otherwise, they won't know what it is about.

Capturing the Reader's Attention

The main aim of any heading is to hook the reader and create curiosity enough for them to continue reading through the rest of the article. Having a catchy and informative heading will entice them to read even further.

Remember that readers rarely read documents from start to finish. Major headings should stand out but so should headings and subheadings if you want the readers to continue reading your paper.

Finding Important Information

Readers will likely scan the essay to get a general idea of what it is about and decide if they want to read it. Well-structured headings will help them achieve that.

Improving Overall Quality

Headings and subheadings improve the quality of the essay. A high-quality essay is suitable for readers and also for search engine optimization (SEO) if you intend to publish it online. Ensure to use keywords in the headings and structure them to improve visibility.

Tips to Include Better Headings and Subheadings

Writing informative and precise headings and subheadings is vital if you want your writing to get the message home. You need to borrow the following tips to show that they should spend time reading your writing.

Use the Right Length

The length of your article or essay will determine how long your headings and subheadings should be. Put yourself in the reader's shoes and think of the heading you would like to read. Lengthy headings aren't attractive. Most readers want something short and precise, which is what you should do. It should only take them a few seconds to read, so be sure the length should be not more than 30 words.

Make It Relevant to the Content and Topic

Headings and subheadings are essential to catch the reader's attention but are not important enough to stand independently. They represent the critical concepts and all the supporting ideas. Therefore, you need to consider the topic's relevance when determining what phrases to use in your subheading. Carefully think about each key piece of information you'd like to include in each of your sections. Then ensure that each subheading is connected to the main title or the heading.

Be Clear and Concise

Headings and subheadings tell the reader what the content is about. They are usually about five words long. Therefore, you should go directly to the point using clear language that is easy to understand. Most readers skim through the text before reading which is why you should use simple and straightforward words. Always remember that readers have questions and are looking for answers and shouldn't have to ponder what you are talking about. If your heading is clear and to the point, they won't leave to look for answers elsewhere.

Place It in the Right Place

Consider where your target audience is likely to look and where they are likely to appear. While doing this, also consider the kind of phrases they are likely to type for the specific information they want. This gives you a general idea of where to place headings and subheadings. Remember that the APA and MLA format requires that all headings be placed hierarchically. So as you choose your phrases, ensure that they align with the content's topic and flow.

Consider the Formatting Style

Heading styles format your headings to make them stand out from the rest of the text. They also give your essay structure and make it more accessible to the target audience. In addition to this, headings also help in:

  • Generating a table of contents
  • Use style sets to reformat the document
  • Rearranging the documents
  • Creating a structured pdf file using the heading tag

Remember that each heading is formatted with a different heading style located in the style section. Since you've already used H1 for the major heading, the first subheading will be H2, and the second subheading will be H3.

Related Reading: How to indent an essay well.

Number the Heading or Subheading if Needed

Putting numbers on your heading makes it easy to scan. Top-level headings like H1 are numbered 1,2,3,4 while second-level headings, like H2, are numbered 1.1, 1.2, 1.3

Remember that even though you are numbering the headings, you need to introduce your topic in the first paragraph after the headings. Headings don't speak for themselves, so writing a few sentences restating the main idea will tell the reader what will come.

Be Consistent Throughout the Paper

If you intend to use headings in your paper, ensure each section has a heading and subheading. Also, ensure they are consistent in font, size, color, indentation, etc. The style function in Microsoft Word will help create consistency in your headings. You must select the text you want to convert into a heading, then select the appropriate heading from the Style box.

Avoid Repetition

Avoid repeating any phrases in your headings. Using the same heading more than once can affect the reader's comprehension of your message, negatively impacting their reaction to your essay. Sometimes you may repeat the headings without even noticing. For this reason, you should use the Find Function in MS Word or Google Docs.

Another way you can check for repetition is by reading your essay out loud, and this will help you spot any headings or subheadings that have been repeated.

Capitalize, Format, and Punctuate Well

Effective headings are well capitalized, formatted, and punctuated. The APA style uses two styles for this, title case and sentence case. In the title case, major words are capitalized, while minor ones are lowercase. Sentence cases, on the other hand, only capitalize the proper nouns while the rest remain in lowercase.

Use Automatic Heading in Word Processor

Microsoft Word has a built-in feature that anticipates how you want to format your document. As you begin typing, your text starts in the typical style, but when you press enter and move to a new line, the style changes to H1 with different fonts, colors, etc.

If you are typing a paragraph with a small number of words and press enter and then fail to provide proper punctuation, the feature will assume you are moving to a new paragraph, and it will then automatically enter a new heading with a heading style.

Use Descriptive Headings

Use concrete and descriptive language to make your headings more effective so the reader can know what to expect in each section. Don't use function headings when writing your technical reports; these are not so predictable, and readers benefit from the headings being much more descriptive.

Function headings are only used when writing pieces that need consistent structures, for instance, lab reports. An example is:

  • Introduction
  • Methodology
  • Conclusions

Include Technical Terms Needed

Technical terms should not be used in headings because they may be hard to understand except those who know the languages. Technical terms are primarily used in academic documents that professionals read but if not specified, avoid them.

Related Read: How to write an article title in academic papers.

Final Words

Headings and subheadings are vital features in academic writing that represent the main points of a topic. The difference in formatting helps reader's the main points from the rest of the texts. Ensure you follow all the tips about including headings and subheadings in your text. Talk to your lecturer, professor, teacher, or instructor if you are unsure whether to add them to your essay.

What are Headings in an Essay?

Headings are markers that guide the reader through an essay by showing them what the next section is about. Like a title, they are only a few words long and are essential in structuring your content so as not to overwhelm the reader.

Should I Put Headings in an Essay?

Yes. It will help if you put headings in your essays to make them more readable. Essays consist of three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Most of them are written in a continuous, paragraphed text without the need for section headings, especially if it's a short essay. On the other hand, long-form essays need headings and subheadings to make them easy to write and read. Since most lecturers are divided about using them in academic essays, you should confirm with your tutor before you start writing.

How Do I Include Subheadings in an Essay?

Subheadings are mini headlines that come after the headings, and they help explain more about the headings and aid readers in skimming through the content. If you have used the first heading, H1, and need to provide more information about it, add a subheading, H2.

If you have trouble deciding how to use subheadings correctly, think of them as an outline. Therefore, break down your topic into simple ideas, then use them to organize your essay.

How Do You Make a Heading in an Essay or Academic Paper?

You must think carefully about the aim of writing a paper and the main idea. Each heading should be clear and to the point. You don't want to mince words and possibly confuse the reader. Also, remember that headings are meant to enhance, not replace, the main topic. Ensure you set it apart from the body of the text by using H1 formatting in either Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

Borrow some of the following best practices to write an effective heading:

  • Create a controversy
  • Ensure it short
  • Pose a question
  • Suggest a number
  • Provide an explanation

How Do You Use Headings and Subheadings?

Headings (section headings) are the title of your essay. They appear at the beginning of the page and guide the reader through your content. It is the first one your readers see before reading your essay or text. It doesn't matter whether the reader reads every word in your essay; they can still get the basic idea of your paper. Using different heading levels will help the reader navigate through the document. The headings and subheadings should be captivating enough to make an excellent first impression.

When writing a subheading, keep in mind that the H2s are the headers of each header for the main section of the essay. H3s are the subsections of the main points in H2s. H4s, on the other hand, are detailed subheadings breaking down the text into more specific options. The subheadings amplify the title or heading of the essay, and they also complement the headings. They make your writing flow and should be relevant to the topic. With such an organization, you have achieved a first-class essay level. A good subheading captures the essence of the title and consistently informs the reader that they are still on an idea related to the topic. It is also short, descriptive, clear, and concise.

Should Essays Have Section Headings?

Yes. Just like books are divided into chapters, essays and articles should be divided into sections. Essays should have section headings because they help make your work more organized and easy to read. And within those sections, the text can be divided into subsections.

Are There Specific Words to Use in Headings and Subheadings in Essays?

You will probably be tempted to use more words to make your heading more concise, but this isn't a good idea. Make sure you carefully choose words that clearly describe your chosen topic. If possible, use numbers in your headings because they are like brain candy, making your work more interesting. Also, ensure you use odd numbers because they are more attractive to readers than even numbers, according to the Content Marketing institute . Avoid abbreviations, idioms, or colloquial expressions when writing headings and subheadings.

How Many Headings to Use in an Essay or Academic Assignment?

To be safe, only use a maximum of three headings. However, this will depend on the length of your academic assignments. Remember that headings are short phrases that introduce the topic you are writing about and make it easy for the readers to read through. So if you are writing a short essay of fewer than 1000 words, there is no need for headings. But for articles above 1000 words then, you must use them. Headings will help identify the different sections in an essay.

What Are Heading Levels?

Headings organize your essay in a hierarchical order. Since some points are more critical, assigning different levels will help distinguish them.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how to format a college essay header.

Hi guys, I'm writing my college essays and I was wondering what the proper header format is for a college essay? Should I include my name, date, class, or anything else? Thanks in advance!

Hi there! When it comes to formatting a college essay header, simplicity is key. Most colleges prefer the following format:

- In the top left corner of the first page, include your full name, followed by a space, and then your high school (or the abbreviation of your high school name).

- On the line below your high school's name, type the course title (if applicable) or the purpose of the essay (for example, "Personal Statement" or "X School Supplement").

- Add one more space, and then type the date of submission.

It should look something like this:

City High School

Personal Statement

December 1, 2023

For the body of the essay, use 12-point font, double-spacing, and 1-inch margins. Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri are common font choices. Don't forget to proofread and check for any specific formatting requirements provided by the colleges you're applying to.

Keep in mind that for schools that use the Common App you won't need to format your essay like this; you just copy and paste your essay into the provided text boxes. Good luck with your essays!

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  • How to structure an essay: Templates and tips

How to Structure an Essay | Tips & Templates

Published on September 18, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

The basic structure of an essay always consists of an introduction , a body , and a conclusion . But for many students, the most difficult part of structuring an essay is deciding how to organize information within the body.

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Table of contents

The basics of essay structure, chronological structure, compare-and-contrast structure, problems-methods-solutions structure, signposting to clarify your structure, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay structure.

There are two main things to keep in mind when working on your essay structure: making sure to include the right information in each part, and deciding how you’ll organize the information within the body.

Parts of an essay

The three parts that make up all essays are described in the table below.

Part Content

Order of information

You’ll also have to consider how to present information within the body. There are a few general principles that can guide you here.

The first is that your argument should move from the simplest claim to the most complex . The body of a good argumentative essay often begins with simple and widely accepted claims, and then moves towards more complex and contentious ones.

For example, you might begin by describing a generally accepted philosophical concept, and then apply it to a new topic. The grounding in the general concept will allow the reader to understand your unique application of it.

The second principle is that background information should appear towards the beginning of your essay . General background is presented in the introduction. If you have additional background to present, this information will usually come at the start of the body.

The third principle is that everything in your essay should be relevant to the thesis . Ask yourself whether each piece of information advances your argument or provides necessary background. And make sure that the text clearly expresses each piece of information’s relevance.

The sections below present several organizational templates for essays: the chronological approach, the compare-and-contrast approach, and the problems-methods-solutions approach.

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The chronological approach (sometimes called the cause-and-effect approach) is probably the simplest way to structure an essay. It just means discussing events in the order in which they occurred, discussing how they are related (i.e. the cause and effect involved) as you go.

A chronological approach can be useful when your essay is about a series of events. Don’t rule out other approaches, though—even when the chronological approach is the obvious one, you might be able to bring out more with a different structure.

Explore the tabs below to see a general template and a specific example outline from an essay on the invention of the printing press.

  • Thesis statement
  • Discussion of event/period
  • Consequences
  • Importance of topic
  • Strong closing statement
  • Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages
  • Background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press
  • Thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation
  • High levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe
  • Literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites
  • Consequence: this discouraged political and religious change
  • Invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg
  • Implications of the new technology for book production
  • Consequence: Rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible
  • Trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention
  • Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation
  • Consequence: The large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics
  • Summarize the history described
  • Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period

Essays with two or more main subjects are often structured around comparing and contrasting . For example, a literary analysis essay might compare two different texts, and an argumentative essay might compare the strengths of different arguments.

There are two main ways of structuring a compare-and-contrast essay: the alternating method, and the block method.

Alternating

In the alternating method, each paragraph compares your subjects in terms of a specific point of comparison. These points of comparison are therefore what defines each paragraph.

The tabs below show a general template for this structure, and a specific example for an essay comparing and contrasting distance learning with traditional classroom learning.

  • Synthesis of arguments
  • Topical relevance of distance learning in lockdown
  • Increasing prevalence of distance learning over the last decade
  • Thesis statement: While distance learning has certain advantages, it introduces multiple new accessibility issues that must be addressed for it to be as effective as classroom learning
  • Classroom learning: Ease of identifying difficulties and privately discussing them
  • Distance learning: Difficulty of noticing and unobtrusively helping
  • Classroom learning: Difficulties accessing the classroom (disability, distance travelled from home)
  • Distance learning: Difficulties with online work (lack of tech literacy, unreliable connection, distractions)
  • Classroom learning: Tends to encourage personal engagement among students and with teacher, more relaxed social environment
  • Distance learning: Greater ability to reach out to teacher privately
  • Sum up, emphasize that distance learning introduces more difficulties than it solves
  • Stress the importance of addressing issues with distance learning as it becomes increasingly common
  • Distance learning may prove to be the future, but it still has a long way to go

In the block method, each subject is covered all in one go, potentially across multiple paragraphs. For example, you might write two paragraphs about your first subject and then two about your second subject, making comparisons back to the first.

The tabs again show a general template, followed by another essay on distance learning, this time with the body structured in blocks.

  • Point 1 (compare)
  • Point 2 (compare)
  • Point 3 (compare)
  • Point 4 (compare)
  • Advantages: Flexibility, accessibility
  • Disadvantages: Discomfort, challenges for those with poor internet or tech literacy
  • Advantages: Potential for teacher to discuss issues with a student in a separate private call
  • Disadvantages: Difficulty of identifying struggling students and aiding them unobtrusively, lack of personal interaction among students
  • Advantages: More accessible to those with low tech literacy, equality of all sharing one learning environment
  • Disadvantages: Students must live close enough to attend, commutes may vary, classrooms not always accessible for disabled students
  • Advantages: Ease of picking up on signs a student is struggling, more personal interaction among students
  • Disadvantages: May be harder for students to approach teacher privately in person to raise issues

An essay that concerns a specific problem (practical or theoretical) may be structured according to the problems-methods-solutions approach.

This is just what it sounds like: You define the problem, characterize a method or theory that may solve it, and finally analyze the problem, using this method or theory to arrive at a solution. If the problem is theoretical, the solution might be the analysis you present in the essay itself; otherwise, you might just present a proposed solution.

The tabs below show a template for this structure and an example outline for an essay about the problem of fake news.

  • Introduce the problem
  • Provide background
  • Describe your approach to solving it
  • Define the problem precisely
  • Describe why it’s important
  • Indicate previous approaches to the problem
  • Present your new approach, and why it’s better
  • Apply the new method or theory to the problem
  • Indicate the solution you arrive at by doing so
  • Assess (potential or actual) effectiveness of solution
  • Describe the implications
  • Problem: The growth of “fake news” online
  • Prevalence of polarized/conspiracy-focused news sources online
  • Thesis statement: Rather than attempting to stamp out online fake news through social media moderation, an effective approach to combating it must work with educational institutions to improve media literacy
  • Definition: Deliberate disinformation designed to spread virally online
  • Popularization of the term, growth of the phenomenon
  • Previous approaches: Labeling and moderation on social media platforms
  • Critique: This approach feeds conspiracies; the real solution is to improve media literacy so users can better identify fake news
  • Greater emphasis should be placed on media literacy education in schools
  • This allows people to assess news sources independently, rather than just being told which ones to trust
  • This is a long-term solution but could be highly effective
  • It would require significant organization and investment, but would equip people to judge news sources more effectively
  • Rather than trying to contain the spread of fake news, we must teach the next generation not to fall for it

Signposting means guiding the reader through your essay with language that describes or hints at the structure of what follows.  It can help you clarify your structure for yourself as well as helping your reader follow your ideas.

The essay overview

In longer essays whose body is split into multiple named sections, the introduction often ends with an overview of the rest of the essay. This gives a brief description of the main idea or argument of each section.

The overview allows the reader to immediately understand what will be covered in the essay and in what order. Though it describes what  comes later in the text, it is generally written in the present tense . The following example is from a literary analysis essay on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein .

Transitions

Transition words and phrases are used throughout all good essays to link together different ideas. They help guide the reader through your text, and an essay that uses them effectively will be much easier to follow.

Various different relationships can be expressed by transition words, as shown in this example.

Because Hitler failed to respond to the British ultimatum, France and the UK declared war on Germany. Although it was an outcome the Allies had hoped to avoid, they were prepared to back up their ultimatum in order to combat the existential threat posed by the Third Reich.

Transition sentences may be included to transition between different paragraphs or sections of an essay. A good transition sentence moves the reader on to the next topic while indicating how it relates to the previous one.

… Distance learning, then, seems to improve accessibility in some ways while representing a step backwards in others.

However , considering the issue of personal interaction among students presents a different picture.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

  • Ad hominem fallacy
  • Post hoc fallacy
  • Appeal to authority fallacy
  • False cause fallacy
  • Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

  • Choosing Essay Topic
  • Write a College Essay
  • Write a Diversity Essay
  • College Essay Format & Structure
  • Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

  • Grammar Checker
  • Paraphrasing Tool
  • Text Summarizer
  • AI Detector
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • Citation Generator

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

An essay isn’t just a loose collection of facts and ideas. Instead, it should be centered on an overarching argument (summarized in your thesis statement ) that every part of the essay relates to.

The way you structure your essay is crucial to presenting your argument coherently. A well-structured essay helps your reader follow the logic of your ideas and understand your overall point.

Comparisons in essays are generally structured in one of two ways:

  • The alternating method, where you compare your subjects side by side according to one specific aspect at a time.
  • The block method, where you cover each subject separately in its entirety.

It’s also possible to combine both methods, for example by writing a full paragraph on each of your topics and then a final paragraph contrasting the two according to a specific metric.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Structure an Essay | Tips & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-structure/

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