Home / Guides / Writing Guides / Parts of a Paper / How to Write an Essay Cover Page

How to Write an Essay Cover Page

What you include in your cover page depends slightly on which citation style you are using, but the rules are generally the same.

Guide Overview

  • APA cover pages
  • MLA cover pages

For APA cover pages:

Include the title of the paper, running head, the author’s name, institutional affiliation, and an author’s note.

Here is an example of a cover page in APA:

APA Cover Page

For MLA cover pages:

Cover pages are not as frequently used in MLA format, as the inclusion of headers is preferred.

A header looks like this:

Header in MLA

Cover pages can include the name of your school, your paper title, your name, your course name, your teacher or professor’s name, and the due date of the paper. If you are unsure of what to include, check with your instructor.

Here is an example of a cover page in MLA format:

Cover page in MLA

For more help making cover or title pages, visit our title page generator   here.

EasyBib Writing Resources

Writing a paper.

  • Academic Essay
  • Argumentative Essay
  • College Admissions Essay
  • Expository Essay
  • Persuasive Essay
  • Research Paper
  • Thesis Statement
  • Writing a Conclusion
  • Writing an Introduction
  • Writing an Outline
  • Writing a Summary

EasyBib Plus Features

  • Citation Generator
  • Essay Checker
  • Expert Check Proofreader
  • Grammar Checker
  • Paraphrasing Tools

Plagiarism Checker

  • Spell Checker

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Grammar and Plagiarism Checkers

Grammar Basics

Plagiarism Basics

Writing Basics

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

How to Make a Cover Page: Illustrative Formatting Examples

Bonnie Adair

Table of contents

  • 1.1 MLA Style Cover Page
  • 1.2 APA Style Cover Page Format
  • 1.3 Chicago Style Cover Page Format
  • 1.4 ASA Style Cover Page
  • 1.5 Harvard Cover Page Format
  • 1.6 Bottom line

A perfect cover page is an essential part of an essay’s presentation. It can make a great first impression on your instructor and set the tone for your essay. First, to write a cover page, understand your assignment’s formatting requirements. This includes the required format for the cover page, which may vary depending on your instructor’s or institution’s guide.

Once you have this information, you can create a title page that looks professional. It should include the title of your essay , your name, the course title, and other pertinent details. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a cover page for an essay. This article will show the following:

  • We’ll describe how a good cover page should look.
  • In the article, we offer you examples of different formats of a cover page, including MLA, APA, and more.
  • You’ll know the measurements you require to position some cover page aspects.

What Does a Paper Cover Page Look Like?

Creating a cover page for an essay in grade school was simple – add your name and date, and it’s done. However, structuring an essay and following grammar rules in university involves multiple steps that may be unfamiliar to you. But knowing how to format an essay can make the process easier. However, it can be overwhelming to determine the appropriate structure and ensure that your essay adheres to grammatical rules.

A well-designed cover page is crucial for an essay’s presentation; many students wonder how to make one. Therefore, we have compiled a guide on creating a title page for the most commonly used citation formats you may come across.

A cover page is a separate page at the beginning of your academic essay. It contains the title and author’s name and may also feature details like page number, course name, instructor name, and more. Remember that it’s essential to format your page consistently with the rest of your essay.

Use these tips when writing your cover page:

  • Keep every margin at 1 inch;
  • Select a font that’s easy to read. We’d recommend Times New Roman and Arial for this;
  • Always keep the font size at 12;
  • Use double-line spacing.

MLA Style Cover Page

The MLA cover page has a vague format for essay pages. Instead, formatting guidelines are based on your teacher’s preferences and standard MLA (Modern Language Association) text formatting. You can follow some best practices to create an MLA essay cover that looks professional. A typical sample MLA cover centers essay titles about one-third of the page’s length. You can also use italics or bold lettering to emphasize important words or phrases.

In our sample MLA format cover, including the necessary MLA heading in the top-left corner is crucial. Follow this guide for proper writing of the cover page template:

  • Instructor’s name;
  • Page number half an inch away from the top;
  • Your name is an inch away from the top;
  • The arrangement of the details is an inch away from the leftmost side of the sheet, while ensuring it’s double-spaced throughout;
  • A half-inch indent in the first paragraph.

MLA cover page

APA Style Cover Page Format

The APA citation format is widely used in the academic and business worlds but has some challenging aspects. For this reason, many busy students order cheap essays to avoid dealing with the nuances of APA essay cover. For your APA cover page, keep your essay’s title brief, under 12 words, and center it. Below the title, include your first, middle, initial, and last names without academic credentials like a PhD. On the following line, indicate your research location, usually your university. Below are the properties of the APA cover page format:

  • The title of the paper, centered at the top of the page.
  • Your name (student’s name), centered below the title.
  • The institutional affiliation (college or university name), centered below your name.
  • Course name and number.
  • You professors’/instructor’s name.
  • Optionally, you can include a running head aligned to the left margin (with the words “Running head:” followed by a shortened version of the title).
  • Finally, include a page number in the top-right corner.

APA style cover page

Chicago Style Cover Page Format

The Chicago page format, commonly called Chicago style paper, is a popular citation format used in the humanities department. The Chicago cover page format typically includes the following:

  • The title of your essay centered on the page and in the title case (i.e., the first letter of each major word is capitalized);
  • Your name is centered below the title;
  • The course title is centered below your name;
  • The instructor’s name is centered below the course title;
  • The due date is centered below the instructor’s name.

Chicago format title page

The page may also include a shortened title at the top and a page number in the header of each subsequent page. It’s essential to follow the specific structuring requirements set by your instructor or institution when creating your Chicago-style cover page. The Chicago and Turabian styles are similar in the following ways:

  • Both styles typically place the title of the paper one-third to halfway down the cover page, centered horizontally;
  • The title is usually in title case; the major words are capitalized;
  • The author’s name is listed below the title and centered horizontally;
  • The name of the institution with which the author is affiliated is often placed below the author’s name on the page;
  • Both styles generally don’t include a page number on the cover page.

Additionally, endeavor to use the same font on your cover page that you use in your paper. Follow proper capitalization rules for essay titles, using uppercase for keywords and lowercase for articles and prepositions unless they begin the title. This ensures consistency and professionalism throughout your research papers; if you have more questions, you can always check PapersOwl’s page for more information.

ASA Style Cover Page

The cover page format of ASA is based on APA and includes a running head. In ASA, keep your header below 60 characters. Another distinction is that ASA mandates the inclusion of a total word count on the cover sheet, encompassing footnotes and references.

Additionally, include your name and course. List them all vertically below your name and course, if you conducted research at several institutions. Apart from these differences, all other elements follow the APA essay format .

It’s worth noting that page numbers start on the title page and must be placed in the bottom-right corner.

ASA Format Cover Page

Harvard Cover Page Format

The Harvard cover page is also known as the Harvard referencing style. It is primarily used in social science and humanities disciplines, including literature, history, and economics.

The Harvard cover page example typically includes the following information, arranged in this order:

  • Title of the research paper;
  • Author’s name (last name, followed by the first initial);
  • Date of submission;
  • Course name and number;
  • Name of instructor.

Harvard Style Cover Page

In addition to the cover page, the Harvard referencing format requires in-text citations and a reference list at the end of the document. The in-text citations include the author’s last name and year of publication, while the reference list provides complete bibliographic information for each source cited in the document.

Bottom line

Although formatting your work according to the requirements of your college might be challenging, it is vital. Undergraduate students, who sometimes take classes in several different areas at once, should be especially concerned about this. However, keep these requirements from obstructing your ability to learn. Use these suggestions to create the ideal cover page, and if you need assistance, we are always here to help. And if your professors require some changes, their instructions hold more weight than the guidelines mentioned here.

Readers also enjoyed

MLA Style Essay Made Easy: Walkthrough of MLA Formatting

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

how do i make a cover page for an essay

  • How to setup your software
  • Sample MLA Paper – normal paper
  • Sample MLA Paper – has cover page
  • Sample APA Paper
  • Sample Chicago Paper
  • Sample CSE Paper
  • APA Format Guidelines
  • MLA Format Cover Page

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not require you to create a cover page when you complete your research paper, but some instructors may require it.

If your instructor requires your paper to have a cover page, here is how to make it (very easy). This cover page should include: your school name, your research paper title, your name, your class, your professor name and your paper due date.

How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

  • This page is double spaced and the letters are centered.
  • Font: Times New Roman
  • Font size: 12
  • The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
  • Type the name of your university or college.
  • Skip to about one-third of the page and type your research paper title, include a subtitle if you have.
  • Skip several lines down and type your name, your course name and number, your instructor name and your paper’s due date.

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

how do i make a cover page for an essay

Sample MLA Format Cover Page

Alternate First Page:

If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page. Here is an example of the first page if a cover page is used. You still need your last name and page number on the first page and every other page.

how do i make a cover page for an essay

Sample MLA Format First Page with Cover Page

how do i make a cover page for an essay

Sample MLA Paper:

Visit here for a sample paper with the cover page. The cover page can vary slightly. This paper also has the outline page for your sample.

If you find this website useful, please share with a friend:

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages.

In word select the header then go to: Header & Footer>Page Number>Format Page Numbers>Page Numbering>Start at page>Set to 0

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages. I am using windows. Also, the page numbers are not working for me either. Please help me.

How should I start the page after my cover page?

https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Thank you so much Stephen !!! Helped a lot in my written assignments 🙂

Great site ! Thank you so much. Just returned to school to complete my bachelors and needed a little refreshing. Has all the information I needed !

Thanks so much for all of the great information! I have not used MLA before and was a little panic stricken. I have found all of my answers here. This is now saved to my favorites so I can use it regularly. Thanks again!

Should the lines on the cover page be double spaced?

Thanks so much for the picture of the cover page it has helped a lot. But, I was wondering do I still need to put my Title at the top of every page after the header?

Hello Lydia. You do not.

After your cover page, your next page’s heading should look like the “Alternate First Page” above.

After the “Alternate First Page” => your next pages should have “The Inner Pages” heading: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Sample paper: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-sample-paper-with-cover-page-and-outline/

hey Lydia you don’t need to but if you want to you can

Thank you so so much. I love the simplicity of the website, very easy to understand. I finally have a cover page for my paper!!

I love this website!! It helped so many times with all my essays. I’m working on a college one and this was very useful. Thank you soo much. And thanks for the examples im a visual person I needed that 🙂

Hi Kaylin, I am glad you find this site useful. Take care!

By the way (sorry i forgot!) for the coverpage, would the text font be 12 times new roman???

You can set everything 12, Times New Roman. Or you can set the Title a little larger than 12, that should work too.

In the example above, I have the title larger than 12.

Here is an example with everything set at 12.

Thank you so much for your help on this useful website! I found it very organized and I’m very glad that I came across this particular article. Thanks!!!!!!!:)

I have a question regarding the cover page and the following pages. If I have a cover page as the example provided, do I still need the heading on the next page? And should the pages after that contain my last name on the top left as the header does on the on the previous pages? or do I not need the header at all if I have the cover page and just my name?

Excellence question, Stella! I have updated this article with information on the first page if a cover page is used. Please see “Alternate First Page” above.

You can omit the main heading but you still need your last name and page number on the first page and all subsequent pages. Take care!

Leave a Comment

Current ye ignore me @r *

Leave this field empty

Next post: MLA Format Heading

Previous post: MLA Format Websites

  • The Format of the Research Paper
  • MLA Format Headings
  • MLA Citations
  • MLA Format Works Cited
  • MLA Format FAQs
  • MLA Format Sample Paper
  • MLA Sample Paper w/ Cover and Outline Pages

HOW TO SETUP YOUR SOFTWARE

  • MLA Format using Google Docs
  • MLA Format Microsoft Word 2016
  • MLA Format using Pages on Mac

Copyright © 2011–2024 • MLA Format • All rights reserved. Currently, MLA is at its 8th edition. This website has no official relationship with the Modern Language Association and is not endorsed by the MLA.

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Forums Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • Happiness Hub
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Job Application Documents
  • Resume Preparation

How to Make a Cover Page

Last Updated: August 18, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amber Rosenberg, PCC . Amber Rosenberg is a Professional Life Coach, Career Coach, and Executive Coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the owner of Pacific Life Coach, she has 20+ years of coaching experience and a background in corporations, tech companies, and nonprofits. Amber trained with the Coaches Training Institute and is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 150,563 times.

Many professional and academic documents will require a cover page, but the information required for a cover page varies depending on the nature of the document. Some cover pages, like those you would send with a resume, are actually letters. Others, like those used for academic essays, are actually title pages. For all cover letters, using a standard font such as Times New Roman, in at least a 12-point size, is recommended.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Resume

Step 1 Keep the letter to one page.

  • You should usually use standard 1-inch (2.5-cm) margins, but you can use margins as small as 0.7 inch (1.8 cm) as long as they are the same on all sides.

Step 2 Include your contact information in the upper left corner.

  • If you have a fax number, you should include it below your phone number and above your e-mail address.

Step 3 Write the full date below your contact information.

  • Write out the full name of the month, rather than abbreviating by using a number. For example, rather than write 1/1/2001, you should write January 1, 2001.
  • Leave a blank line above and below the date.

Step 4 State the name and address of the receiver.

  • Note that you do not need to include an e-mail address, phone number, or fax number for the company.
  • If you do not know the name of a specific contact at the company, skip over that information.

Step 5 Address the receiver by name.

  • When you can determine the gender of the receiver, leave out his or her first name and address the receiver as "Mr." or "Ms." For example, "Dear Ms. Smith" or "Dear Mr. Johnson."
  • If you do not know the gender of the receiver, skip the title and use his or her full name. For example, "Dear Pat Roberts."
  • Leave a blank line before and after you address the receiver.

Step 6 Write an introduction.

  • If you are a student, state the university you attend and your major.
  • Indicate what position you are applying for as well as how or where you heard about the position.
  • You can also mention the name of a professional or academic contact you know who has a positive connection to the reader or company.

Step 7 Highlight your skills in one to three body paragraphs.

  • List any special projects, awards, or accomplishments that have a clear connection to the skill set requested by the employer.

Step 8 Briefly conclude your letter.

  • You can include your phone number and e-mail address, as well, but it is not entirely necessary since this information is included in your header.

Step 9 Close the letter formally.

  • Always use black ink to sign formal documents.

Making a Cover Page For a Fax

Step 1 Provide your name and address in the header.

  • Include your phone number and your fax number beneath your name and address.
  • Leave at least two blank lines below this header and the rest of the document.

Step 2 Format the cover sheet in two columns.

  • It's a good idea to save your document as a template for future fax use, since the general format will remain the same.
  • The most important quality to your fax cover sheet is that it be clear and easy to read.

Step 3 List the date, receiver's name, sender's name, and sender's phone number in the left column.

  • Label the date with "DATE," the receiver's name with "TO," your name with "FROM," and your phone number with "PHONE."
  • In the United States, the date will be written in "Month, Day, Year," while in most other countries, it will be written "Day, Month, Year."

Step 4 List the time, both fax numbers, and your e-mail address in the right column.

  • Label the time with "TIME," the receiver's fax number with "FAX," your fax number with "FAX," and your e-mail address with "EMAIL."
  • Note that the receiver's name and fax number should be placed on the same horizontal line. Likewise, your name and fax number should be placed on a shared horizontal line of their own.

Step 5 Indicate the number of pages.

  • Note that this line does not need to be in all capital letters.

Step 6 Include a brief message.

  • If you had previous contact with the receiver concerning this fax, state that information.
  • Introduce your message with the label "MESSAGE:"
  • Below your message, ask the receiver to verify the receipt of the document by calling the phone number provided or using the e-mail address provided.

Step 7 Write a disclaimer, if necessary.

  • Specific privacy guidelines for transmission of protected confidential information may vary. If you work for a health provider, you may need to follow additional guidelines to protect the privacy of your client.

Formatting a Cover Page For Your Manuscript

Step 1 Include your contact information.

  • Use your real name. If you are submitting the manuscript under a pen name, you can follow your real name with your pen name. Introduce a pen name with "A.K.A." or "(Pen name: John Doe)."
  • If you're submitting your work to a context that will be judged anonymously, you'll include your contact information on the cover page, while omitting your name and contact information from the title page.

Step 2 List the word count.

  • You do not need to use an exact word count. For instance, if your manuscript is 63,472 words, round it off to 63,000 or 63,500.
  • Introduce the word count with "Approximately ______ words."

Step 3 Include the title of your manuscript.

  • Typing the title in all capital letters is a fairly common practice, but it is not necessary.
  • It's not necessary to underline, italicize, or bold the title.

Step 4 Finish with the name of the author.

  • You don't have to include any indication of copyright protection, as your work is automatically protected.
  • Never bind or connect the pages of your manuscript in any way. Your cover letter, like the other pages of your manuscript, should be unbound and placed in an envelope or box.

Using APA Style For Your Cover Page

Step 1 Use a standard font and margin.

  • Introduce the running head with the words "Running head." Follow this label with a colon.
  • The running head itself should be in all capital letters.
  • The running head should be no longer than 50 characters, including spaces and punctuation.

Step 3 Include the page number in the upper right corner.

  • The page number and running head should be evenly aligned horizontally.

Step 4 Center the title.

  • Capitalize the first letter of all major words but not for minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
  • Do not italicize, bold, or underline the title.

Step 5 Include your name below the title.

  • For example, if you are submitting the paper for a class taken at the University of North Carolina at Asheville, you should include this in the line beneath the author's name (i.e. your name, and the names of your co-authors.)
  • Check with your professor for any additional guidelines.

Using MLA Style For Your Cover Page

Step 1 Use a standard font and standard margins.

  • Be aware that cover pages are not standard in MLA format, but some professors do request them.

Step 2 Center the title.

  • Do not bold, italicize, or underline either the title or the subtitle.

Step 3 Write your full name.

  • Your name should be written using the same font and size as the other words on your title page.
  • Don't try to use a cute or clever font for any part of your cover page, as professors don't care for this.

Step 4 List the receiver of your paper.

  • Introduce your instructor as "Dr." when appropriate. If you cannot use this title to address your instructor, at least introduce him or her as "Professor." For example, "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."
  • Include both the course name and number.

Using Chicago Style For Your Cover Page

  • In Chicago style, cover page and title page refer to the same thing.
  • Your professor may have other requirements. Make sure you use the preferred formatting for your course.

Step 2 List the title first.

  • Capitalize the first letter of each major word in your title, but not those belonging to minor words. For example: How to Make a Cover Page
  • Alternatively, some style guides suggest that the title be presented in ALL CAPS.
  • Do not underline, italicize, or bold the title.
  • If you have a subtitle, place a colon following your title and write the subtitle on the following line.

Step 3 Write your full name.

  • Your name should be typed about three quarters of the way down the page.
  • Use the same font and size that you've used throughout the cover page.

Step 4 Specify the subject, instructor, and date in your final section.

  • Include both the name and course number of the subject.
  • Write your professor's full name and title. Use "Dr." only when appropriate. For example: "Dr. John Doe" or "Professor John Doe."

Expert Q&A

Amber Rosenberg, PCC

You Might Also Like

Write a Reflection Paper

  • ↑ https://careercenter.georgetown.edu/major-career-guides/resumes-cover-letters/resume-formatting-tips/
  • ↑ Amber Rosenberg, PCC. Pacific Life Coach. Expert Interview. 8 March 2022.
  • ↑ http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/549/01/
  • ↑ http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/create-edit-fax-cover-page#1TC=windows-7
  • ↑ https://winningwriters.com/resources/manuscript-tips
  • ↑ http://academictips.org/mla-format/mla-format-cover-page/
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/717/02/

About This Article

Amber Rosenberg, PCC

To make a cover page using MLA format, start by setting your margins to 1 inch on all sides and keeping the alignment centered. Next, choose 12 point Times New Roman for your font and place your title roughly one-third of the way down, capitalizing the first letter of every major word in your title. Then, skip several lines below the title and write your full name, as well as any other collaborators. Finally, list the name of your instructor, the name of the class, and the date, making sure to separate each element with a double-spaced line. To learn more, like how to make a cover page using APA or Chicago Style, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Do I Have a Dirty Mind Quiz

Featured Articles

 Make Your Android Screen Black and White or Grayscale

Trending Articles

12 Believable Excuses for Accidental Calls

Watch Articles

Prevent Nail Polish Stains

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

how do i make a cover page for an essay

logo

Essay Cover Page - MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and APA Format Cover Sheet

gradecrest-hero-image

Picture this, you have completed your daily duties and now settling in to complete an essay. What is the worst that would happen? Well, the majority of high school, college, university, and graduate students undervalue the need to format an essay cover page properly. In return, most of them end up with either great essays with a poorly done cover page or a poorly done essay with a poorly formatted cover page.

I don’t know which of the above categories, but mine was worse. It is a great mistake to care less about the proper formatting of a title page for any essay. Sometimes the content in the entire class can be great, and the cover page becomes what separates a good grade from a poor grade. You do not have to leave anything to chance when working to maintain a good GPA, do you?

Why master how to make an essay Cover Sheet?

Your title page informs the reader or the professor what to anticipate in your essay. Sometimes, if they are in a hurry, a catchy topic can entice them to read your essay from introduction to conclusion.

The cover page has your name, title of the essay, institution, instructor, and date. A well-formatted title page is enough a getaway to a strict professor’s marks or grade fountain.

And when you are almost giving up on your cover page, we give you a reason to smile. In this article, we will teach you how to make a cover page for an essay, MLA cover page format, Chicago cover page format, APA cover page format, and Harvard cover page format, with examples.

Why should you learn How to Make a Cover Page for an essay?

Sometimes professors and instructors assume the basic things like formatting a college essay. In the end, students end up losing marks over flimsy mistakes. A common question students ask is “how do you make a cover page for an essay?” or “what is to be included on a title page?”

If you have had these questions or related ones, you are in the right place at the right time. We will take you through cover page essay essentials. But before then, why do we have an essay cover page. Or simply, what is an essay cover page?

An essay cover page is the opening page, sometimes called the title page, and offers a comprehensive description of the essay title, identifies the student, and sometimes bears the date and the instructors’ names.

You will notice that the cover pages for essays differ depending on the specific format you are using. For instance, when creating the MLA essay cover page format, you should only do so if the essay prompt requires you to. If not asked for one, there is never any need to include one. The same applies to Harvard, Chicago, and APA cover page formats.

MLA Essay Cover Page Format with Template/Example

Also known as the Modern Language Association, MLA is a unique essay writing and citation format. It is important to mention that most MLA essays do not require an essay cover page. Nevertheless, some instructors insist on you having a cover page for your MLA paper.

When requested to have an opening or cover page for MLA papers, these are some of the details to include:

  • Author’s Name
  • Instructor’s Name
  • The Due Date

Here is a sample MLA cover page template

MLA Sample essay cover page

Note that the format for MLA research paper cover page is slightly different. It will contain:

  • Name of university
  • Title of the Research Paper
  • The subtitle of the research paper
  • Your Name (Author’s Name)
  • Course Name and Number
  • Instructor/Professor’s Name

Below is a sample MLA research paper cover sheet

MLA research paper title page cover sheet

Some professors or instructors will advise you to use the research paper MLA format title page for your essay.

How do you format an MLA Cover Page?

Formatting an MLA title page is easy!

  • It should be double-spaced.
  • The preferable font is Times New Roman size 12 or a legible font.
  • All the letters must be in Title Case.
  • It should have 1-inch margins throughout the paper.
  • Ensure that the title page is double spaced.
  • Remove any spaces between paragraphs from your Microsoft Word settings page.

See the details in the sample MLA format cover page provided above. Notice the difference between the two and always read the instructor’s essay prompt before deciding on which one to settle for.

APA Cover Page Format with Example/Template

Students have been asking this for a while, and we felt like addressing it would save many of you out there. “How do I make an APA cover sheet?” Well, just like MLA, an APA essay cover page is easy to make.

To begin with, the APA style title page should include:

  • Running head (Left aligned in the header section).
  • Page Number (Right aligned).
  • Title and subtitle of the essay/paper (centered)
  • Name of the author (centered).
  • Institutional Affiliation (centered).
  • Author’s Note (for long research papers, thesis, and dissertations).

An important note, in APA the title should not exceed 50 characters and should be in capital letters. Times New Roman font size 12 is always preferred as well.

For more details, see the example APA title page provided below.

sample APA essay cover page

Note that there are changes to APA 6. In APA 7, there is no "Running head" instead, you will only need a page number situated to the top left of the paper. Here is a sample APA 7 Cover page.

APA 7 sample Cover Page

Chicago Cover Page Format with Example/Template

Even though less common in academic essay writing, understanding the Chicago essay title page is necessary. It can save you some trouble when writing a Chicago style paper, which is the case with most literature and humanities subjects such as history. Thus, after reading this, you should understand how to format a Chicago essay title cover page correctly.

Here are tips when making Chicago format opening page:

  • Chicago title page has no page number or running head in the header section.
  • Using Times New Roman or any legible font of size 12 is preferred.
  • All the text on the cover page is centered.
  • The cover page is double spaced with no spaces between paragraphs

You see, a Chicago style paper opening page is relatively simple to make. A caution, though, when making any type of cover page, your professor’s guidelines are your rule book. Therefore, everything you need to format an essay cover page is always in the prompt.

Chicago style papers are the easiest to handle. However, despite the ease of inserting a title page, it remains a challenge to most students. Sometimes, seeking professional help can be the only option. Our experts can help you craft your Chicago format essays and research papers, talk to us!

Here is a Chicago style format essay cover page.

Harvard Cover Page Format with Example/Template

Harvard formatting has a specific and well-organized cover page.

  • The shortened version of the title of the paper comes in the header section (aligned to the right) and is preceded by the page number).
  • The full title, written in all capital letters , appears halfway through the page.
  • The author’s name (three lines from the title).
  • Then four lines down you will have class name and code, name of the professor, City and State the university is located, and the due date.

Here is an example of the Harvard format Cover Sheet Page.

harvard  essay cover page template

Bottom Line

A cover page for an essay is a critical aspect when undertaking your academic writing tasks. Even though it might seem boring and unnecessary, it can be the only aspect left to differentiate who passes a course and who fails.

When writing an APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago format paper, produce an essay cover page that fits each formatting and citation style. I don’t know about you, but I find it easier to do the cover page as the last part of the essay after writing and proofreading. Yet some in our team prefer setting the cover page for their essays first before they outline the essays . As a ritual, it is my last part to shake hands with the mighty Microsoft Word or Google Document applications.

Check out our article on indenting paragraphs and how to title an article when writing an essay. 

Sometimes, you can ask the instructor or professor how to make a cover page for your essay. We believe no teacher will reprimand you. These are essential basics to keep with you as they will help you understand how to make a cover page for an essay. If you need help writing an essay, our professional writers can always come in handy. Until then, have a happy academic writing session!

gradecrest-logo

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

paypal logo

  • How to Make an Essay Cover Page? and 5 Formats

How to Make an Essay Cover Page? and 5 Formats

When it comes to academic writing, your essay cover page serves as the first impression of your work —a glimpse of the professionalism and attention to detail that lie within. It's not merely a cosmetic addition; it's a vital component of your essay. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of crafting an impeccable essay cover page while exploring five popular formatting styles. Whether you're navigating the requirements of APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, or Harvard styles , we've got you covered.

Your essay cover page sets the stage for your reader, offering a preview of the structured and well-researched content that awaits. It's a reflection of your dedication to presenting your ideas with clarity and precision. Let's embark on this journey together, as we unravel the art of creating an essay cover page that leaves a lasting impression.

We'll explore the fundamental elements that constitute a well-crafted cover page, ensuring that you not only meet the specific style guidelines but also understand the importance of this foundational aspect of academic writing. Join us as we delve into the world of essay cover pages, where every detail, from the format to the title placement, matters.

Basic Elements of an Essay Cover Page

An essay cover page, also known as an essay title page, is your canvas to showcase your attention to detail and adherence to formatting guidelines. To create a cover page that aligns with the required format, it's essential to understand the basic elements that make up this crucial component of your essay.

Cover Page Format:

The format of your essay cover page depends largely on the citation style you are required to follow, such as APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, or Harvard . Each style has its unique requirements for margins, font size and type, alignment, and spacing. Understanding the specific format guidelines is the first step in creating an impeccable cover page.

Essay Title Page:

The title page is where your essay's title is prominently displayed. It should be clear, concise, and reflective of the content of your essay. Depending on the formatting style, the title may be centered, aligned to the left, or placed in a specific location on the page.

Additional Information:

In some cases, your cover page may require additional information, such as your name, course title, instructor's name, and submission date . These details are often specified by your institution or the style guide you're following. Ensure that you include all the necessary information in the correct format.

Page Numbers:

While page numbers are commonly placed in the header or footer of subsequent pages, some styles may require the inclusion of the page number on the cover page as well. Be sure to check the style guidelines to determine whether page numbers are necessary on the cover page.

Spacing and Alignment:

Proper spacing and alignment are crucial for a neat and well-organized cover page. Pay attention to line spacing, paragraph indentation, and overall page alignment as dictated by the formatting style.

Running Head (APA Style):

For those following APA style, a running head—a shortened version of your title—may be required at the top of the page. This element adds a professional touch to your cover page. Mastering the basic elements of an essay cover page ensures that your work meets the specific requirements of your chosen formatting style. It's an essential step in presenting your essay with the professionalism and clarity it deserves.

In the following sections, we'll delve into the nuances of creating cover pages in different styles, including APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, and Harvard. Each style has its unique set of guidelines, and understanding them will empower you to craft cover pages that align perfectly with academic standards.

Formatting Style-Specific Cover Pages

Each citation style, whether it's APA (American Psychological Association), MLA (Modern Language Association), Chicago (CMS - Chicago Manual of Style), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) , or Harvard , comes with its own set of rules and guidelines for creating a cover page. Understanding these style-specific requirements is essential for crafting a cover page that adheres to academic standards.

APA (American Psychological Association) Style Cover Page

In APA style, the cover page is meticulously structured to include essential information such as the title, author's name, institutional affiliation, and author note (if applicable). The title is centered, bold, and written in title case, and the author's name and institutional affiliation are centered below the title. Proper alignment, font size, and spacing are paramount to meet APA guidelines. Additionally, the running head, a shortened title, appears in the header.

MLA (Modern Language Association) Style Cover Page

MLA style emphasizes simplicity and clarity. The cover page typically features the author's name, instructor's name, course title, and date—all aligned to the left. The title, also aligned to the left, is not bolded or underlined. The absence of a separate cover page is a distinctive feature of MLA formatting. Instead, this information is placed on the first page of the essay.

Chicago (CMS - Chicago Manual of Style) Style Cover Page

Chicago style provides flexibility in cover page structure. It often includes the essay title centered at the top, followed by the author's name and class details. Chicago allows for variations in formatting, so you can choose a style that suits your preferences, such as title case or sentence case for the title.

IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Style Cover Page

IEEE style keeps the cover page concise and informative. It typically includes the title centered at the top, followed by the author's name, affiliation, and date—all centered and presented without bold or italics. IEEE places emphasis on clarity and simplicity.

Harvard Style Cover Page

The Harvard style varies somewhat from other citation styles. The cover page may include the title centered at the top, followed by the author's name and date, all centered. Harvard style emphasizes in-text citations within the essay, which distinguishes it from other styles. Mastering the specific guidelines of your chosen citation style is crucial to creating a cover page that aligns perfectly with academic requirements. Whether you're following APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, or Harvard style, attention to detail and adherence to the prescribed format ensure that your cover page reflects your dedication to precision and professionalism.

Essay and Coverpage Help by BridgeText

At BridgeText, we're committed to supporting students on their academic journey, not only with essay writing but also with ensuring that cover pages meet the highest standards of precision and professionalism. Our holistic approach to academic assistance ensures that you have the tools and expertise you need to succeed.

Comprehensive Essay Assistance

Our range of services extends far beyond cover pages. We offer comprehensive essay assistance designed to address every aspect of your academic writing needs. Whether you need guidance on selecting a topic, structuring your essay, conducting research, or refining your writing, our team of experienced writers and editors is here to help.

Tailored Cover Page Support

Crafting a cover page may seem like a small detail, but it's a detail that matters. Our experts understand the significance of cover pages in creating a positive first impression. Whether you're following APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, Harvard, or any other style, our cover page assistance ensures that you adhere to the specific formatting requirements of your institution and style guide.

Collaboration and Communication

One of the strengths of our service is the ability to collaborate directly with your assigned writer or editor. We believe that your involvement in the process is crucial for your academic growth. You can communicate your preferences, provide feedback, and seek clarification at any stage of your project.

Meeting Deadlines with Confidence

We understand the importance of deadlines in the academic world. Whether you have a tight schedule or need a last-minute adjustment, BridgeText can accommodate your needs. Our writers are adept at managing time effectively to ensure that you receive your completed work promptly.

Quality Assurance

Quality is at the heart of everything we do at BridgeText. Every essay, cover page, or academic project undergoes a rigorous quality assurance process. Our team of editors reviews each document to ensure it meets our high standards for clarity, coherence, grammar, and formatting.

A Path to Academic Excellence

BridgeText is not just an academic writing service ; it's a partner on your path to academic excellence. We're dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential as a student and scholar. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed not only in your current coursework but also in your future academic endeavors.

Ready to embark on your journey toward academic success? Connect with BridgeText today, and let us be your guide to mastering the intricacies of academic writing, including crafting impeccable cover pages. Together, we'll ensure that your academic work reflects the precision and professionalism that set you apart.

With BridgeText as your partner, you can approach your academic writing tasks with confidence, knowing that you have a trusted ally by your side. Whether it's essay writing, cover page formatting, or any other aspect of your academic journey, BridgeText is here to support you every step of the way.

Also, in today's digital landscape, AI-generated text is becoming increasingly prevalent. However, maintaining authenticity and achieving a human-like quality are crucial in academic writing. BridgeText specializes in humanizing AI-generated content , providing services to refine and naturalize machine-written text, making it indistinguishable from human writing. This literature review explores the importance of humanizing AI text, the benefits of our AI to human text conversion services, and how BridgeText can assist in overcoming AI detection challenges.

Recent Posts

Why Effect Size Matters in Logistic Regression

Why Effect Size Matters in Logistic Regression

Charting Separate Y Variables in R

Charting Separate Y Variables in R

Understanding ALEKS

Understanding ALEKS

Using a Polar Axis for R Graphics

Using a Polar Axis for R Graphics

Have any questions?

Our support team is ready to answer your questions.

Help Center FAQ  

To mark our first year, we've slashed all our prices in half. Order now to seize this limited opportunity!

                Place Your Order

IMAGES

  1. How to Write an Essay Cover Page

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

  2. How to Write an Essay Cover Page

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

  3. How to Make a Cover Page for an Essay Properly

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

  4. Tips to make a presentable cover page for your essay

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

  5. How to write an essay cover page

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

  6. How to Write the Perfect Cover Page for your Essay (2022 Edition)

    how do i make a cover page for an essay

VIDEO

  1. How to make Cover page in ms word. #trending #tutorial #microsoftsoftware #computerartist

  2. How to Make Cover Page Design in MS Word

  3. how to create cover page of assignment @MUJ

  4. how to make cover Page for school #coverpage #school #howtomake

  5. How to make cover page for economics project on government budget #diy

  6. HOW TO MAKE COVER PAGE DESIGN |IN MS WORD |#26

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write an Essay Cover Page

    Cover pages can include the name of your school, your paper title, your name, your course name, your teacher or professor's name, and the due date of the paper. If you are unsure of what to include, check with your instructor. Here is an example of a cover page in MLA format: For more help making cover or title pages, visit our title page ...

  2. How to Make a Cover Page: APA and MLA Format

    1 On the first line of the page, write the first student's name. 2 If there are other authors, write each name on its own line after the first. 3 On the line after the final author, write the name of the instructor. You don't need to include their full name, but it's best to use their title, such as "Professor Green.".

  3. How to Make a Cover Page: Templates for Different Essay Formats

    The cover page format of ASA is based on APA and includes a running head. In ASA, keep your header below 60 characters. Another distinction is that ASA mandates the inclusion of a total word count on the cover sheet, encompassing footnotes and references. Additionally, include your name and course.

  4. MLA Format Cover Page

    How to Format Your MLA Cover Page: This page is double spaced and the letters are centered. Font: Times New Roman. Font size: 12. The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of ...

  5. PDF Student Paper Setup Guide, APA Style 7th Edition

    Indent the first line of every paragraph of text 0.5 in. using the tab key or the paragraph-formatting function of your word-processing program. Page numbers: Put a page number in the top right corner of every page, including the title page or cover page, which is page 1. Student papers do not require a running head on any page.

  6. How to Make a Cover Page: Formatting Tips for Students

    Place it 3-4 lines from the top of the APA format cover page. Author's name: Beneath the title of your proposal essay, with no titles or degrees (e.g., "James Smooth"). Institutional affiliation: Directly under the author's name, listing the institution (e.g., "University Name").

  7. How to Make a Cover Page: APA, MLA & Chicago

    Download Article. 1. Include your contact information. Type your full name, address, phone number, and e-mail address in the upper left corner of the cover page. While you may choose to include the title of your manuscript on the cover page, this is a separate document from the title page. Use your real name.

  8. Essay Cover Page

    Well, just like MLA, an APA essay cover page is easy to make. To begin with, the APA style title page should include: Running head (Left aligned in the header section). Page Number (Right aligned). Title and subtitle of the essay/paper (centered) Name of the author (centered). Institutional Affiliation (centered).

  9. How to Write the Perfect Essay Cover Page (2019 Edition)

    Don't think you have to use single spacing either. Your essay should be double-spaced and so too should all relevant information on your cover page. Stick to the same rules—1 inch margins, black text, double space, 12 point font, etc.—and your cover page will be good to go. When it comes to cover pages, less is more!

  10. How to Make an Essay Cover Page? and 5 Formats

    The cover page typically features the author's name, instructor's name, course title, and date—all aligned to the left. The title, also aligned to the left, is not bolded or underlined. The absence of a separate cover page is a distinctive feature of MLA formatting. Instead, this information is placed on the first page of the essay.