FAQ: How do I format a table or figure in MLA style?

Please visit the MLA Style This link opens in a new window webpage Formatting a Research Paper This link opens in a new window to see examples of how to format a table or figure in MLA style.

General Rules

See the Tables and Illustrations information This link opens in a new window on the MLA Style website for more information.

• Put them close to the related text and align them on the left.
• Above tables: capitalize the title of the table like other titles and number it (ex. The first table would be Table 1).
• Below the table: give the source of the table and any notes with lower-case letters. Double-space it and use dividing lines.
• Below a figure or illustration: label it as "Figure" or "Fig.", number it (ex. The first figure or illustration would be Figure 1), and add a label and caption.

More Information

• MLA Guide (Shapiro Library)
• MLA Style This link opens in a new window (MLA Style)

Further Help

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to format a table or figure in your class assignments and projects.

Campus Students

To access academic support, visit your Brightspace course and select “Tutoring and Mentoring” from the Academic Support pulldown menu.

Online Students

To access help with citation and more, visit Academic Support via modules in Brightspace:

• The Complete Guide to Using Academic Support via Brightspace This link opens in a new window
• Accessing Writing STEM Help This link opens in a new window