Texas Tech University requires all research papers submitted to adhere to specific formatting guidelines. Following the TTU research paper format accurately is important to achieve a professional look and earn a positive impression from professors and instructors. This article provides an in-depth overview of the TTU research paper format requirements for main sections, margins, spacing, fonts, page numbering, citations, and references.
General Paper Format
All research papers submitted to TTU, regardless of discipline or course level, must be typed on standard 8.5″ x 11″ white paper using 12-point Times New Roman font. The entire paper, including headings, body text, block quotes, captions, and references, should maintain consistent font formatting. Margins on all four sides of each page should measure 1 inch. Papers should be single spaced throughout with double spacing between paragraphs and sections to improve readability.
Title Page
The title page acts as the cover sheet for the research paper. It should include the title centered in the upper half of the page. Below the centered title, include your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and submission date centered on separate lines. All text on the title page should be in 12-point Times New Roman font. Page numbers are not required on the title page.
Abstract
The abstract, if required, should immediately follow the title page. Center the word “Abstract” at the top of the page without formatting such as bolding or italics. The abstract provides a brief but thorough summary of your paper in 150-250 words. It should identify the topic, aim, main findings or arguments, and conclusions of your paper without going into excessive detail. Maintain the same formatting as the rest of the paper for font and margins on the abstract page.
Body Sections & Headings
The body of the paper follows the abstract page. Use consistent and logical heading levels to segment and organize your paper. The preferred heading style for TTU papers is:
Level 1: Centered, Boldfaced, Title Case Heading
Level 2: Flushed Left, Boldfaced, Title Case Heading
Level 3: Indented, boldfaced, sentence case heading ending with a period.
Headings introduce and transition between ideas and sections. They help readers follow your organization and argument. Include an adequate number of headings to logically guide readers through your content.
In-Text Citations
Properly cite all source material using APA parenthetical or narrative in-text citations. For parenthetical citations of paraphrased material, include the author’s last name and year of publication in parentheses after a quotation or reference, e.g. (Smith, 2020). For direct quotes, also include the page number, e.g. (Smith, 2020, p. 5). Separate multiple citations with semi-colons, e.g. (Smith, 2020; Johnson, 2019). Note that “p.” or “pp.” is abbreviated within parentheses.
Reference Section
Include a reference section at the end of your paper, beginning on a new page with the centered title “References”. List all cited sources alphabetically by author’s last name using hanging indent formatting. Only include sources referenced within the body of your paper. References must follow the formatting guidelines for the selected citation style, for the TTU standard APA style. Consult the official APA Publication Manual or library resources for reference formatting assistance.
Page Numbering
Number each page consecutively in Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc) in the top right or bottom centered of each page, excluding the title page. Use the same font type and size for page numbers as the rest of the paper. Include your last name before the page number in a header or footer on longer papers for easy identification, e.g. “Smith 1”. The page number should be clear but not distracting from the content.
General Writing Format
In addition to the structural formatting, your writing should follow standard TTU essay formatting guidelines. Write in a clear, concise academic style using complete sentences and formal language. Double space between all elements including paragraphs, headings, block quotes, figures, and tables. Stick to the chosen citation style consistently for in-text citations and references. Proofread thoroughly for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors prior to submission.
Following TTU’s established research paper format permits readers to focus on your ideas rather than struggling with inconsistent or unclear presentation. Consult this guide and ask your instructor about any format elements unclear. Properly formatting each section is an essential part of academic writing and will lead to a positive first impression for your paper. Adhering to TTU standards will help your paper be clearly organized and professionally presented for optimal evaluation.