FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions with their answers.
► How should I choose between the student and the professional paper template?
Whether you are in college, or even graduate school choosing to set up a paper with the student template would be ideal for class assignments. However, if you are writing a paper that you plan to submit for publication in a journal or book the professional version, which is a little bit different, is the right one to choose.
► What is the word limit for the title of my paper?
There is no word limit on how long a title should be, you need to write one that best reflects your paper. However, it is better if you keep your title simple and consise. Use essential terms and avoid words that do not add meaning. Avoid also using abbreviations, spell out entire words to secure clarity.
►How do I present multiple authors on the title page?
If there are multiple authors, order the names of the authors according to their contribution. Separate each person with a comma, and write out ‘and’ before the final author. Do not include any titles, degrees or certifications that you may have just write your names. And it is okay for author names to go onto a second or third line if you have a bunch or have longer names.
► Should I always include an abstract in a student paper?
Typically, a student paper does not include an abstract. You should include one only if your instructor requires it.
► Should I leave extra spaces between sections headings and paragraphs?
You should not leave extra spaces nor between section headings and paragraphs, neither between paragraphs. Just make sure to double space the entire paper.
This is one reason why making the formatting symbols (¶) visible is useful – you can easily see if you have any extra lines.
► Should I leave extra spaces between reference list entries?
You should not leave extra spaces between reference list entries. Just make sure to double space the entire paper.
This is one reason why making the formatting symbols (¶) visible is useful, you can easily see if you have any extra lines.
► How many spaces should I use after a punctuation mark?
You should always use one space after a punctuation mark, including periods. So at the end of a sentence, just hit the space bar once.
This is one reason why making the formatting symbols (¶) visible is useful, you can easily see if you have any extra spaces.
► Should I start my paper with a section called 'Introduction'?
Don’t use 'Introduction' as your first section. It’s assumed that the beginning of the paper is the introduction.
► How many words should my abstract be?
Typically, abstracts are limited to no more than 250 words. However, if you plan to publish, check your publisher guidelines for authors.
► When should I treat a quotation as a block quotation?
You should treat as a block quotation, a quotation that contains 40 words and more. Do not use quotation marks around it. Start it on a new line and indent the whole block 0.5" (half inch) from the left margin.