Formatting Your
Research Paper
When formatting your research paper, always follow your teacher’s requirements. If your teacher does not have specific requirements follow the guidelines listed below.
Spacing Double-space the entire paper including between paragraphs and the list of works cited.
When using Word 2007
-start in the Home tab
-click on the Paragraph arrow
-change After from 10pt to 0pt
-change line spacing from multiple to single
Text
Always choose an easily readable font like Times New Roman and set it to 12 points
When using Word 2007
-change the font type and size before beginning
Margins Leave one inch margins on the top, bottom and both sides of the text (except for page numbers and headings)
Heading/Title A research paper does not need a title page (unless required by your teacher). Instead begin one inch from the top of your page in the left hand corner, type your name, your teacher’s name, the class and the date on separate lines, double-spaced between lines. Double space again and center the title. Double-space again and begin your first paragraph. Do not italicize, underline, bold or quote the title.
Click here for a
visual explanation.
Page Numbers Number all pages consecutively throughout the paper in the upper right-hand corner
one half inch below the top of the page. Include your last name before the page number.
When using Word 2007
-click the Insert tab
-select Page Number
-select Top of Page
-type your last name and a space before the page number