Formatting a research paper can feel like a daunting task given the various style guidelines and specifics. Following a standard structure and properly formatting your citations are key to creating a polished paper. This article will outline the basic formatting requirements for research papers including setting up titles, running headers, page numbers, fonts, margins and alignment, creating an abstract, structuring the body with headings and subheadings, in-text citations, endnotes and footnotes, and building a references list.
The first thing you’ll want to do is check with your instructor which formatting style guide they require you to use, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. This will dictate specifics around citations, references list formatting, header information and more. Popular options include APA style for social sciences and MLA for liberal arts and humanities. Regardless of which you use, your research paper structure should include key elements.
Start with a title page that includes the title of the paper, your name, the course name or number and the date. Use a clear, 12 point serif font like Times New Roman for the title and text of your paper. Additionally, set one inch margins on all sides of the page. As for the title itself, center it at the top third of the page and make it concise yet descriptive of your topic.
Beginning on the second page, include a running header in the top right corner containing your last name followed by the page number. Page numbers should be justified to the right margin in the header area and use the same font and size as the rest of your text. The running header allows readers to easily navigate your paper.
After the running header on the second page, start with an abstract. The abstract is a short 150-250 word paragraph that summarizes your paper, including research problem or question, methods, results and conclusions. Center and bold the word “Abstract” at the top of the page. Keep it concise yet comprehensive.
The body of your research paper follows the abstract. Structure it with logically ordered sections featuring clear, boldfaced headings and subheadings as needed. Introduction, literature review, methods, results and discussion and conclusion are common major sections. Here you’ll report and analyze your findings, contextualizing them within existing literature. Use 1 inch margins, 12 point font and double spacing consistently for smooth readability.
Incorporate references and citations as needed within the text. For in-text citations, follow your chosen style guide format which gives credit to authors and allows readers to build the references list. Footnotes or endnotes can also be used for occasional extended notes. Be consistent in formatting these according to style guide rules.
At the end of the document, include a properly formatted references list that organizes full citations for all sources used in the paper. Use a hanging indent and continue page numbers from the prior text. All reference entries should contain accurate and complete publication details so readers can find the original sources. Your references list is the last element.
Throughout the formatting process, proofread carefully, check for grammar and stylistic issues like subject verb agreement, consistent tense and clear phrasing. Request a friend or librarian also review your work with a fresh perspective before final submission. Proper formatting creates a polished, professional impression and allows your ideas and content to shine through clearly for evaluation. Careful thought and effort devoted to structure and style will pay off in a strong finished product.