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How to Include Word Count in MLA Format

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How to Include Word Count in MLA Format

This guide shows you exactly where and how to place the word count on an MLA-formatted paper, whether you’re using Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or a Mac. You’ll learn the correct placement (top-right, under your name), the proper format (e.g., “Word Count: 1,245”), and how to get the count automatically. No special software is needed—just your word processor and a few clicks.

What You’ll Need

  • A word processor (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or Apple Pages)
  • Your completed essay or document
  • MLA formatting already applied (Times New Roman 12pt, double-spaced, 1-inch margins)

Step-by-Step

  1. Finish your essay first. Write and edit the entire document. The word count you display must be the final count, so don’t add or remove text after you insert it.
  2. Check your MLA header. In MLA format, the first page has a heading in the top-left: your name, instructor’s name, course, and date (each on a new line). The page number with your last name appears in the top-right. Your word count goes on the first line of that heading, before your name.
  3. Place the cursor at the very beginning of the first line. In most documents, that’s the top-left corner of the first page, before your name. If you already have a header with your last name and page number, that’s fine—the word count goes in the body, not in the header.
  4. Type “Word Count:” followed by the number. For example: Word Count: 1,245. Use a comma for thousands (1,245 not 1245). Do not write “words” after the number—it’s redundant.
  5. Press Enter after the word count. This moves your name to the next line, keeping MLA’s double-spacing intact. If you’re using Google Docs, the line spacing should already be double; if not, highlight the line and set line spacing to 2.0.
  6. Get the exact word count from your word processor. In Microsoft Word, click “Review” → “Word Count” (or look at the bottom-left status bar—it shows “Words: X” while you type). In Google Docs, click “Tools” → “Word Count” or press Ctrl+Shift+C (Cmd+Shift+C on Mac). In Apple Pages, click “View” → “Show Word Count” in the toolbar.
  7. Copy the number into your document. Type the exact number from the word count tool. If your instructor wants the count to include footnotes or endnotes, check the “Include textboxes, footnotes and endnotes” box in Word’s Word Count dialog (Google Docs has a similar checkbox).
  8. Double-check the count after any last-minute changes. If you tweak even one word, update the number. It’s a common oversight that can cost points.

Common Mistakes

  • Putting the word count in the header. The header (top-right) is reserved for your last name and page number. The word count goes in the body, on the first line of your heading.
  • Using the wrong number. Word processors count words differently. For example, “well-being” might count as one or two words depending on the software. Always use the count from the same program you’re submitting in, and be consistent.
  • Forgetting the comma. MLA style uses a comma for thousands: 1,000 not 1000. This is a small detail but easy to miss.
  • Updating the count after editing. If you revise your essay after inserting the word count, the number becomes stale. Always update it at the very end.
  • Including the word count in the header of subsequent pages. It belongs only on the first page, in the heading area.

Tips

  • Use your word processor’s built-in counter. Don’t manually count—it’s error-prone. The tools are accurate and fast.
  • If your instructor didn’t ask for a word count, skip it. Adding unnecessary information can be seen as not following instructions. Only include it when required.
  • For Google Docs, you can pin the word count. Go to “Tools” → “Word count” and check “Display word count while typing.” This shows a small box in the corner that updates live—handy for monitoring length as you write.
  • If you’re using a Mac, the Pages word count is in the toolbar. Click “View” → “Show Word Count” and it appears at the bottom. It updates in real time.
  • When in doubt, ask your instructor. Some professors want the word count in a specific spot (e.g., at the end of the essay). Clarify if the instructions aren’t clear.

Troubleshooting

  • Word count doesn’t match what your instructor sees. This can happen if you used a different word processor or if your instructor counts footnotes differently. Solution: use the same program your instructor uses (usually Word or Google Docs) and check the “include footnotes” option if needed.
  • Your heading gets pushed to the next page. If the word count line makes the heading spill over, it’s likely because you have extra blank lines or spacing. Highlight the heading and ensure line spacing is exactly 2.0 (no extra space before/after).
  • The word count is missing from the status bar in Word. Right-click the status bar and check “Word Count” to enable it. In Google Docs, use the Tools menu instead.
  • You can’t find the word count in Pages. It’s under “View” → “Show Word Count,” not in the Tools menu. If it doesn’t appear, update your Pages version.
  • You need a count that excludes the word count line itself. Some instructors want the count of the essay body only. In that case, select the entire essay (excluding the heading) and check the word count for the selection—most word processors show a count for highlighted text.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does MLA require a word count?
A: No, MLA style itself doesn’t require it, but many instructors do. Always follow your assignment guidelines.

Q: Where exactly does the word count go in MLA?
A: It goes on the first line of your heading, before your name, aligned left. For example: Word Count: 1,245, then your name on the next line.

Q: Should I write “Word Count” in bold or italics?
A: No, plain text is fine. MLA doesn’t specify any formatting for this, so keep it simple.

Q: Does the word count include the title and heading?
A: Usually not. Most instructors want the count of the essay body only. Check your word processor’s count for the selected text (without the heading) to be safe.

Q: What if my word processor counts contractions as one word?
A: That’s standard. MLA doesn’t have a specific rule for contractions; just use whatever your word processor gives.

Q: Can I use a third-party word counter online?
A: Yes, but be aware that different counters may give slightly different results. For consistency, use the one built into your word processor.

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