1. Follow MLA Format: 1” margins all around Double space
12 pt. Times New Roman
Cite properly (author page) ex.(Hinton 45)
Heading (top left corner):
Your Name
Mrs. Willever
English Language Arts
23 September 2011

2. Quotes Use one correctly cited quote that is introduced and analyzed
Includes author’s last name and page number of the quote
No comma is used (Jones 124).
End mark will be outside the parenthesis
Short quotes (four typed lines or less)
Introduce and analyze the quote
Never drop in a quote without an explanation
Always follow a quote with a discussion of how it proves your point – do not assume it speaks for itself – you are interpreting and explaining it’s meaning to the reader
Refrain from referring to the quoted words as “the quote”
For example – instead of writing “This quote shows that…” write “Mrs. Smith’s donation shows…”

3. Analysis – Rules for Writing
Avoid plot summary – answer the question that is asked in the prompt
Conclude with a sentence or two that covers the entire paragraph, not just the last example
Do not use the pronouns “I” or “you” in formal academic writing
Creative Title
– do not underline, bold, or put in quotes
- do not use the title of the book or the assignment
Example: The Outsiders
Better: Conflict in The Outsiders
Best: Opposing Forces