How To Write a Professor’s Name on a Paper: MLA Style Explained
Writing a research paper for college can feel like navigating a maze. One of the trickiest parts? Getting the formatting right. And within that formatting, the professor’s name can sometimes cause a bit of a headache. This guide will break down exactly how to write a professor’s name on a paper using the Modern Language Association (MLA) style, ensuring your paper looks polished and professional. We’ll cover everything from the basics to specific scenarios, so you can confidently submit your work.
Understanding the Basics of MLA Formatting
Before we dive into the professor’s name, let’s refresh our memory on the core principles of MLA formatting. MLA is a style guide primarily used in the humanities and liberal arts. It emphasizes clarity, consistency, and ease of reading. Key elements of MLA style include:
- Double-spacing: Every line of text in your paper, including the title, body, and works cited, should be double-spaced.
- 1-inch margins: Set your margins to one inch on all sides of the paper.
- Font: Use a readable font like Times New Roman or Arial, and ensure the font size is 12 points.
- Header: Include a header with your last name and the page number in the upper right-hand corner of each page.
- Works Cited: Include a comprehensive list of all sources used in your paper at the end, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
These foundational elements create a consistent and professional look, making your paper easier for your professor to read and evaluate.
The Student’s Information Block: Where the Professor’s Name Goes
The professor’s name is included in the student’s information block, which is typically located in the upper left-hand corner of the first page of your paper. This block provides essential details that help identify the paper and its context. Here’s how it’s structured:
- Your Name: This is the first line.
- Professor’s Name: This is the second line.
- Course Name: This is the third line.
- Date: This is the fourth line.
Each line should be single-spaced, and the entire block is left-aligned.
Formatting the Professor’s Name: The Correct Way
The correct way to format your professor’s name is surprisingly straightforward. You need to include their title (if applicable), followed by their full name. Here’s the standard format:
Professor’s Title (if applicable) First Name Last Name
For example:
- Dr. Jane Doe
- Professor John Smith
- Mr. Michael Brown
If your professor doesn’t have a title, you can simply write their full name:
- Jane Doe
- John Smith
- Michael Brown
It is always best to err on the side of formality. If you are unsure of your professor’s preferred title, it is always safe to use “Professor” unless they explicitly request otherwise. Double-check your syllabus or course website for any specific instructions from your instructor.
Addressing Professors With Advanced Degrees
Many professors hold doctoral degrees, such as a PhD or EdD. While you can use the title “Dr.” before their name, it’s often more common and considered perfectly acceptable in an academic setting to use the title “Professor,” regardless of their specific degree. This is a matter of academic convention.
However, always respect your professor’s preference. If they specifically indicate a preference for “Dr.” or “Mr./Ms.,” follow their instructions. If you’re unsure, using “Professor” is the safest bet.
Including the Course Name and Date
The course name and the date are also crucial parts of the student information block. The course name should be the full name of the course, as it appears on your syllabus. The date should follow the day-month-year format. Here’s an example:
Your Name Professor Jane Doe English 101 23 October 2024
Notice that the date is formatted with the day, then the month (written out), then the year.
Formatting the Works Cited Page: No Professor Here!
The professor’s name does not appear on the Works Cited page. The Works Cited page is a list of the sources you used in your paper. Each entry on the Works Cited page follows a specific format based on the type of source (book, journal article, website, etc.). The information included on the Works Cited page relates to the sources themselves, not the instructor or the course.
Specific Scenarios and Variations
While the basic format is consistent, there might be subtle variations depending on the specific instructions from your professor or the context of your assignment.
- Online Courses: If your course is online, the formatting for the professor’s name remains the same.
- Collaborative Papers: If you are working on a group project, each student’s name and their professor’s name are included in the student information block.
- Instructor’s Specific Instructions: Always prioritize your professor’s instructions. If they specify a different format, follow their guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several common errors can detract from the professionalism of your paper. Avoiding these mistakes will help you present your work in the best possible light:
- Incorrect spacing: Ensure all lines in the heading are single-spaced.
- Missing the professor’s title: If your professor uses a title, include it.
- Inconsistent formatting: Be consistent with the formatting throughout your paper.
- Incorrect date format: Use the day-month-year format.
- Omitting information: Include all required elements in the student information block.
Why Accurate Formatting Matters
Proper formatting, including the correct way to write your professor’s name, is more than just an aesthetic concern. It demonstrates attention to detail, respect for academic conventions, and a commitment to producing high-quality work. It makes your paper easier to read and understand, and it shows your professor that you care about the presentation of your ideas. It also helps the professor identify the paper and its context quickly.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that go beyond the basic headings above:
What if my professor has a name that is difficult to spell or pronounce?
Double-check the spelling of your professor’s name on the syllabus, course website, or email signature. If you are still unsure, politely ask your professor for the correct spelling.
Should I use a nickname for my professor?
No. Always use your professor’s full, formal name, unless they specifically ask you to use a nickname.
Is it okay to abbreviate the professor’s title?
Generally, no. Write out “Professor” unless your professor uses a different title, like “Dr.” Always follow their preference.
What if the course has multiple instructors?
List all instructors’ names on separate lines, following the format of the student information block.
Can I find examples of this formatting?
Yes! Many online resources, such as the Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), provide examples of MLA formatting, including how to format the student information block.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of writing a professor’s name on a paper in MLA style is a small but important step in presenting your academic work professionally. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this guide – using the correct format, including the professor’s title (if applicable), and understanding the context of the student information block – you can ensure your papers look polished and demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence. Remember to always prioritize your professor’s specific instructions and double-check your work for accuracy. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating well-formatted, impressive papers!