Writing a research paper in a double column format requires some adjustments compared to a traditional single column paper. This type of formatting is commonly used for academic journals and publications where space and page layout are crucial factors. The following steps will guide you through writing and formatting your paper in this style:
Research and Gather Sources
The first step is to thoroughly research your topic and gather credible sources just like you would for a standard research paper. Make sure to focus your research on a narrow aspect of your topic that can be sufficiently covered within the page limit. Having a clear research question or thesis statement to guide your analysis is important. As you research, take detailed notes on the key sources you plan to cite, being sure to record all necessary publication details for references.
Create an Outline
Develop a clear and detailed outline to structure your paper before beginning to write. An outline is essential for organizing a double column paper due to the restricted space. Your outline should divide the content into relevant sections and subsections. Identify the main points and supporting evidence you plan to include in each subsection. Plan for a logical flow between sections that builds your overall argument. Leave space in your outline to insert citations as needed.
Begin Writing
Start writing the paper using your outline as a guide. Focus on crafting clear, concise sentences and paragraphs while ensuring each subsection focuses on one main idea. Cite credible sources using in-text citations in the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). Include relevant quotations, paraphrases and summaries to support your analysis. Ensure your citations match the full reference details listed in your references page.
When composing paragraphs, aim to keep them between 3-5 sentences each so content fits neatly into the columns. Adjust paragraph breaks as needed during editing. Leave ample white space on the page to allow for readability. Consider including section headers to help readers navigate contents. Save frequently as you write to avoid losing work.
Format the Document
Once your paper is complete, format it to the publication’s double column specifications. Common formats include:
Two columns of equal width separated by a gutter space
Font size between 10-12 pt (11-12 pt is most common)
1-inch margins on all sides
Header with title on first page, running header on subsequent pages
Page numbers centered at top or bottom of pages
Double or 1.5 line spacing
Figures, tables placed within column width or spanning both columns
References cited in-text and fully listed on separate references page
The formatting should be aesthetically consistent and follow guidelines provided. Check publication instructions carefully if submitting to an academic journal.
Edit and Proofread
Set your paper aside for at least a day before thoroughly editing and proofreading. Check for errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation and consistency of style. Review citations are correctly formatted and match references page. Evaluate flow, logical structure and clarity of writing and arguments. Trim content as needed to fit within page limit. Ask others to proofread as a second set of eyes often catches small mistakes you may overlook. Revise and refine based on feedback before submitting or publishing.
Add References Page
Create a separate references page at the end listing full publication details of every source cited in-text. The references should be alphabetized and include all necessary elements such as author names, publication date, title, publisher details depending on source type. Stick to the designated citation style formatting guidelines. The references page is not included in page count.
Final Touches
Do one last check that page numbers, running headers and formatting are consistent throughout. Save final document as a PDF if submitting electronically or print double-sided if providing a hard copy. Include a title page with paper title, your name, institution or publisher, course/professor and submission date formatted according to guidelines. Proofread the whole paper a final time. Your double column research paper is now complete and ready to submit! Following these steps will ensure your paper is well-structured, coherent and cleanly presented in the proper style.