English Paper Guidelines

Please check your paper to ensure that it follows these guidelines before you submit a final copy. Papers that do not follow these guidelines may be returned for revision:

For essays and stories:

  • Student name, course/instructor, class period, date and assignment are double spaced and justified on the left hand margin.
  • A centered title is original and suggests to the reader the main purpose for your essay.
  • A clear thesis statement is embedded in the writing.

For formal research papers: (See Sheldon Style Guide)

  • Paper includes a separate title page.
  • Title of paper, name, course, instructor’s name, and date are centered both vertically and horizontally.
  • Spacing between each section is 12 to 15 spaces.

For all written work:

  • Body of paper is double spaced.
  • Spacing is consistent throughout the writing.
  • Size of type is 12.
  • Font is readable—Times New Roman, Calibri, Garamond, etc.
  • No stylized fonts, colors other than black, or all capital letters.
  • Paper has been checked for spelling, punctuation and grammar.
  • Paragraphs are indented one tab space.
  • Writing has an introduction, body and conclusion.
  • Paragraphs focus on a single main idea.
  • Ideas are developed with strong supporting details and incidents related to the topic.
  • Writing contains a voice that expresses your own unique outlook.
  • Paper is turned in on time.