Format requirements and basic writing for the classroom. Some rules you should know.

(Updated 01/12/2010)

Besides the suggestions in my section called "The Writing Center," I have some requirements for papers turned in for credit. These requirements are not an option. I will not accept papers that do not meet these minimum standards for format.

Journals and other weekly papers:        Each journal or reading response should have the following heading in the upper left hand corner of the paper and the heading should be single spaced. If turning in hard copy, the paper must be stapled if more than one page.

First Name Last Name

Date

Journal Number (if required)

Class Name

Section Number

 

SUCH AS:

 

James Stewart

12/05/07

Journal number or title of article(s) for response

Sociology One

4701

 

(Not putting this information on your paper may get it rejected. Late journals or responses get half credit, so it is best to get it right the first time. Thanks.)

I hate air. Air is the empty space on a paper when the student doesn't fill up the minimum space required. If I say one page, then it should run to near the bottom one-inch margin. Margins should not exceed one inch on top, bottom, or right and left. You now know what a page is. The heading should be single spaced so as to save room for the text.

Double spacing is important for me to be able to read you paper. One-and-a-half lines is preferred as it allows for more text. And that brings me to the font. No bold face except for emphasis. Using all bold face wastes ink and paper and will be rejected by me anyway. The type size should be 11 or 12 point.

You are writing as academically and professionally as you can. So be neat. Take this seriously.