The PCC Research Paper Format
Portland Community College (PCC) uses a specific format for research papers turned in for classes. Following the PCC research paper format is important as it helps structure the paper in a clear, consistent way that helps both the student write their best work and assists the instructor in evaluating it effectively. While writing styles and formats can vary between different colleges and disciplines, knowing and adhering to PCC’s format will ensure students meet the assignment requirements. This article provides an in-depth look at the key elements of the PCC research paper format.
Title Page
The title page comes first and includes the title of the paper, the student’s name, the course name and number, the instructor’s name, and the date the paper is due. Center this information at the top of the page. An example title page would be:
The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Communities
Jane Doe
ENGL220 – Composition
Professor Smith
December 15, 20XX
All text on the title page should be double-spaced in Times New Roman 12 point font with 1 inch margins on all sides. Page numbers are not used on the title page.
Abstract
The abstract follows the title page and is a single paragraph summary of the entire paper. It previews the topic, thesis, key supporting points, and conclusions. The abstract is not indented and is written in block format. It should be between 150-250 words and focus on summarizing rather than evaluating or extending ideas.
Body
The body of the paper begins on a new page after the abstract. It includes multiple sections that provide context and detail to support the central argument or thesis of the paper. Major sections and their order are:
Introduction – State the topic, provide background context, and clearly communicate the thesis. The thesis should be in the final sentence of the introduction.
Body Paragraphs – Multiple paragraphs that provide evidence and analysis to substantiate points that support the thesis. Topic sentences clearly link each paragraph to the overall argument. Paragraphs may include research citations from qualified sources.
Conclusion – Restate the thesis and summarize key takeaways from evidence and analysis without introducing new information. Provide a sense of closure to the discussion.
Paragraphs are double-spaced and use 1-inch margins, Times New Roman 12 point font.Text is left-aligned, not blocked or justified. Each major section begins on a new page.
In-Text Citations
References to other works are cited in APA style both in the text and on the reference page. In-text citations consist of the author’s last name, year of publication, and page number if a direct quote is used. For example: (Smith, 2020, p. 42). Multiple citations are listed alphabetically and separated by semicolons: (Jones, 2018; Smith, 2020).
Reference Page
A separate reference page follows the body of the paper listing all sources cited in-text. Sources are listed alphabetically by author’s last name in APA 7th edition format. Author’s name, date of publication, title of source, and publication information are included. Reference page text is double-spaced and formatted consistently with other sections.
Title Page
The title page is the first element of a research paper formatted to the PCC standard. It is centered at the top with the title of the paper, student name, course information, instructor name, and due date. No page number is included on the title page. Abstract
The abstract is a single paragraph summary of the paper. It previews the topic, thesis, key points, and conclusions in 150-250 words. Body
The body follows an introduction-body paragraphs-conclusion structure and provides context and substantiating evidence for the thesis or central argument. Paragraphs are formatted consistently in Times New Roman 12 point font with 1-inch margins and double spacing between lines.
Sections begin on new pages and topic sentences clearly link each body paragraph to the thesis. In-text and reference page citations follow APA 7th edition style. Properly formatting a research paper according to the PCC standards helps structure content clearly and meet assignment guidelines. Following sample title pages, abstracts, and in-text examples will help produce a high-quality paper formatted exactly as instructed.