What is a Turabian Style Research Paper?
The Turabian style research paper format was developed by Kate L. Turabian, who compiled and revised the doctoral thesis manual that was first published by the University of Chicago in 1937. This style is frequently used by university students to write research papers, theses/dissertations, book manuscripts, proposals, and other long-form academic works. While similar to Chicago style, there are some key differences in the Turabian guidelines.
The Turabian format provides students with a uniform method for formatting footnotes/endnotes and bibliographies. It is meant to give credit to ideas, concepts, and direct quotes from other sources in an ethical manner while also allowing readers to follow up on the references. The style emphasizes brevity, clarity, and accuracy whenever citing sources within the paper.
General Guidelines for a Turabian Research Paper
Title page: includes the title, author’s name, course name/number, instructor’s name, and submission date.
-Body text: 1-inch margins all around, double-spaced lines, 12-point font like Times New Roman. Page numbers in upper right corner.
-Abstract (optional): a brief 120-200 word summary of the paper’s scope, purpose, conclusions. Appears after title page.
-Headings: use headings and subheadings (font variations or bold/italicized/underlined) to divide sections.
-In-text citations: cite author’s last name and a shortened reference like a page number, needed each time a source is referenced.
-Bibliography or reference list: placed at the end organized alphabetically by author’s last name.
-Footnotes or endnotes: used instead of/along with in-text citations to give credit for direct quotes or ideas. Listed numerically.
Structure of a Turabian Style Research Paper
Title Page
Abstract (optional)
Introduction
Hook the reader with a quote, story, question, fact, etc.
Clearly state the topic and purpose/thesis in a few sentences.
Provide necessary background information in a couple paragraphs.
Body Paragraphs
Begin each paragraph by clearly stating the subtopic or argument.
Support statements with evidence from credible sources using footnotes/citations.
Analysis weaves sources into the discussion while maintaining your own voice.
Conclusion
Restate the main points and argument/answer the original question.
Convey the importance of findings and room for future research if applicable.
Bibliography or References List
Appendices (optional extras like charts, maps, images, poetry excerpts, surveys)
Formatting the Bibliography/References List in Turabian Style
Entries are listed alphabetically by author’s last name (or title if no author given).
Double spaced like rest of paper using hanging indentation for each entry.
Primary sources like books have the standard APA/MLA bibliography format including elements like:
Author’s Name, Title of Book (City of publication: Publisher, Year Published), page range referenced.
Articles and websites include:
Author’s Name “Article Title.” Journal Title Volume, Issue (Year Published): page range or URL.
Examples of book, newspaper, magazine article, website, interview, and more are provided in the Turabian manual.
Like any style, uniformity and accuracy are key when formatting a Turabian research paper or long-form academic writing project. Sticking closely to the guidelines will ensure a polished final product. Students should consult their instructor to clarify any preferences when citing information to back up arguments with credible evidence from research. Adhering to Turabian format makes it easy for readers to follow and verify the sources used throughout the writing.