The title page of a research paper written in Chicago style provides important identifying information to the reader. While the content and structure of a Chicago style title page is fairly standardized, there are some key elements that must be included and formatting guidelines that should be followed.
The main elements that must be included on a Chicago style title page include the full paper title, the author’s name, the course name or number if the paper is being submitted for a class, and the date of submission. Optionally, an institutional affiliation or instructor’s name may also be included if required. The title and byline should be centered on the page in headings or large typeface for emphasis.
In terms of formatting, the font used on a Chicago style title page is usually the same as the body text, which is typically Times New Roman 12 point. All text should be left aligned and double spaced. Page numbers are not included on title pages in Chicago style. Margins should follow standard formatting of 1 inch all around.
While brief, the title is one of the most important elements on the title page as it conveys the core focus and subject matter of the paper. As such, the title should be clearly written in headline-style capitalization and bold text for increased emphasis and readability. It is recommended to keep titles relatively short and focus on keywords or phrases that encapsulate the central topic or question addressed in the paper.
Below the title, the author’s name is included. For student papers, this would simply be the student’s full legal name. For published works, additional author details or credentials may be added in subsequent lines if needed. Followed by the author listing, the course name or number should be provided on the next line if the paper is being submitted for a course.
Finally, the date of submission is included on the last line, centered below the other elements. For Chicago style, the full date should be provided using abbreviations for the month in this format: Day Month Year (e.g. 15 April 2021). Including the specific date of submission provides a time reference for when the work was completed.
In addition to the main components above, some additional guidelines are recommended for Chicago style title pages:
Use the same basic title page layout and formatting for any future papers or projects following Chicago style to maintain consistency.
Check the instructions or rubric provided by your instructor—they may specify slightly different title page requirements based on individual preferences or needs of the course.
Do not include page header text, page numbers, or headers/footers that would normally appear at the top or bottom of pages in the body of the paper.
Use consistent formatting such as aligning all text to the left margin and double spacing throughout the title page.
Limit the title page to a single page—do not continue elements onto a second page unless a paper has an exceptionally long or complex title.
The title page is technically not the first page of the paper during submission or publication, so it should not be numbered “Page 1” even though it comes first.
Putting together a well-structured Chicago style title page helps orient the reader by clearly identifying the essential metadata about a research paper up front. Following conventional title page structure and guidelines ensures consistency and readability for those accessing academic works in Chicago style format. Formatting the title page correctly sets the foundation for proper citation use and formatting adherence throughout the rest of the paper as well. With practice, creating an effective title page becomes second nature for students and scholars.
To summarize the key elements expected on a Chicago style title page: center the title of the paper in bold at the top followed by the author’s name, course/class information if applicable, and the date. Stick to Times New Roman 12 point font, left alignment, and one-inch margins. Keep additional text brief and focused on identification. A consistently well-formatted title page creates a professional first impression and signposts adherence to Chicago style guidelines within the paper content that follows.