Choosing a Topic

Researching the Topic

Writing the Paper

Building the Bibliography

Writing for Specific Purposes

Writing the Paper

Formatting

Margins and spacing

The final paper should be typed or word-processed and printed out on one side of the paper only. Use 1-inch margins at left, right, top, and bottom. Indentation for paragraphs, footnotes, and endnotes should be 3/8" and for direct quotes longer than four lines, ¾ inch from the left. Use double spacing except for footnotes or endnotes.

Pagination

Count but do not number the title page if it is separate from the first page of your text. If the title page is also your fist page of text, count and number it as page 1.

Optional pages

Depending on the length of your paper and the style you are using, you may include a title page, preface, outline, appendix, or endnotes. If you are including these elements, they should be included in the final copy in this order:

• Title page
• Preface
• Outline
• Text
• Endnotes (or Contents notes)
• Appendix
• References or Bibliography

Running heads

If you are following MLA style, start your running heads with page 2. The running heads should consist of your last name, space, and page number.

Type style

Use an easily readable type font in 10- or 12-point size. Use roman type except where italics are called for (as in titles, etc.). Times Roman is a good, standard typeface to use.

Paper

Use 8 ½ x 11-inch white paper.