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Formatting an APA title page

The title page is a requirement for all APA papers. The primary role of the title page is to present just that: the title. But that’s only the beginning of what is actually required for a properly formatted APA title page. This is the first chance a writer has to truly engage with the reader.

For students, the title page also lets people know which class, professor, and institution the text was written for. For professional authors, the title page is an opportunity to share any affiliations or conflicts of interest that might be present.

APA Style recognizes two different ways to format a title page. One is for student papers and the other is for professional papers. This guide will examine the difference and provide real-life examples of both.

The information provided below comes from the 7 th edition of the APA’s Publication Manual . You can read more about title page elements in Sections 2.1 – 2.8.

Here’s a run-through of everything this page includes:

The difference between a professional title page and a student title page in APA

Elements of an apa style title page, apa formatting title page example, conclusion: formatting a title page in apa 7.

Both student and professional title pages require a title, author, and an affiliation. Both types of title page also require the same basic formatting, including 1-inch indentations on all sides and a page number in the top right corner.

The primary difference is that professional title pages also require an author note and a running head. However, some professors do ask that you provide some of these elements in student papers. It’s a good idea to know how to format them just in case.

Student title page APA

An APA title page for any paper being submitted for a class, degree, or thesis is all about the basics. Here are the elements that should be included in a student title page :

  • Title of your paper
  • Byline (author or authors)
  • Affiliation (department and university)
  • Course name and course number
  • Instructor name

Page number

Your professor or institution might have their own formatting requirements. When writing a paper for a class, the first rule is to always pay attention to the instructions.

Professional title page APA

A professional title page skips the class info and due date, but it includes:

  • Affiliation (division and/or organization)
  • Author note
  • Running head

The author note and running head are generally only required for professional papers. However, some professors might ask that you include one or both of them. Be sure to check the assignment instructions before submitting.

The title of your paper is really important. This is where the author needs to simultaneously inform and engage the reader without being overly wordy.

An effective title will:

  • Engage the reader
  • Concisely explain the main topic of research
  • Concisely explain any relevant variables or theoretical issues

The paper title should be placed three or four lines down from the top margin of the page. It should be presented in bold, title case, and centered on the page.

Author/Byline

The correct way to display the author’s name is first name, middle initial, and last name. The most important thing is to prevent the possibility of mistaken identity. After all, there are a lot of papers published every year, and it’s possible that someone else has the same name as you do.

For all author bylines in APA, all licenses and degrees are omitted (e.g., Dr., Professor, PhD, RN, etc.).

If your paper has multiple authors, then they should all be listed in the same way, in order of their contributions. All authors should be on the same line, unless more lines are required.

Here’s an example of a properly formatted byline for a paper with two authors:

Cassandra M. Berkman and Wilhelm K. Jackson

Affiliation

The affiliation element is where you identify the place where the work was conducted or who it was conducted for. This is almost always a university or institution. In some cases, there are multiple affiliations for one author, or multiple authors with different affiliations.

Academic affiliations

Academic affiliations include schools, universities, and teaching hospitals. The affiliation line should include the specific department followed by the name of the institution. There is no need to include a location for academic affiliations.

Here is an example of what a basic academic affiliation line should look like:

Department of Psychology, Colorado State University

Non-academic affiliations

Non-academic affiliations are anything that isn’t a school or university, which could be a hospital, laboratory, or just about any type of organization. The affiliation line for a non-academic organization should include the department or division, followed by the name and location of the organization. All elements should be separated by commas.

Here’s how it looks when put to use:

Vidant Health, Greenville, NC, United States

Course number and name (Student only)

Use the course number and course name as they appear on official university materials. Examples:

  • ENG 204: Modern English Literature
  • PSYC 2301: Research Methodology

Instructor name (Student papers only)

It’s important that you display your instructor’s name in their preferred way. With academics who have multiple degrees and positions, this isn’t something that you should guess at.

It is generally safe to use the course syllabus to see how they prefer to be listed. For example, some use the word “Professor” as their prefix, and many will have PhD, RN, or other type of professional designation.

Due date (Student papers only)

The due date should be presented in the day, month, and year format that is standard to your country.

The page number goes at the top right-hand side of the paper. This is one of the only elements that appears on every single page.

You can add running page numbers to your paper by double-clicking the header portion of the document or clicking the “Insert” tab. It will automatically insert page numbers into the rest of the document.

Author note (Professional papers only)

The author note is usually only required for professional papers. This is where additional data, disclaimers, conflicts of interest, and statements about funding are placed. In some cases, the author statement can be several pages long.

The author note is generally split into four paragraphs, including:

  • ORCID iD (a scientific/academic author ID)
  • Changes of Affiliation
  • Disclosures and Acknowledgments
  • Contact Information

Section 2.7 of the Publication Manual has even more information on how to structure these elements for a professional paper.

Running Head (Professional papers only)

While some student papers might require a running head, this is something that is typically only for papers being submitted for publication. This is an abbreviated version of your title that appears at the top of every page to help readers identify it. The running title is particularly useful especially in print versions of journals and publications.

The running head does not have to use the same words as they appear in your title. Instead, try to re-work your paper’s main idea into a shortened form.

For example, if your paper’s title is:

“A Mystery of Style: Exploring the Formatting Mechanics of the Running Head According  to APA Style 7th Edition”

Then your abbreviated title can be something like:

“RUNNING HEAD IN APA 7”

“FORMATTING THE RUNNING HEAD”

The idea is to convey only the most important aspects of your title. The running head should be entered in the page header, flush left against the margin, and presented in all-capital letters.

The APA suggests a maximum length of 50 characters (including spaces and punctuation) for a running head. If your title is already 50 characters and under, then you can use the whole thing as the running head.

Next, let’s have a look at an example of what a real APA title page looks like when it’s all put together.

Student title page formatting example

APA style student title page example

Professional title page formatting example

APA-format-professional-title-page

All papers written according to APA Style should have a properly formatted title page. Making sure that the title page elements are accurate and informative will help people access your work. It is also the first opportunity that you have as the author to establish credibility and engage the reader.

For more information on the basic elements of an APA paper, check out Chapter 2 of the Publication Manual or our guide on APA format .

Published October 28, 2020.

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Block Quotes
  • et al Usage
  • In-text Citations
  • Multiple Authors
  • Paraphrasing
  • Page Numbers
  • Parenthetical Citations
  • Reference Page
  • Sample Paper
  • APA 7 Updates
  • View APA Guide

Citation Examples

  • Book Chapter
  • Journal Article
  • Magazine Article
  • Newspaper Article
  • Website (no author)
  • View all APA Examples

An APA title page provides the details of the paper, such as the title of the paper, author name, and author affiliation. APA title pages have two formats—one for professional papers and one for student papers.

The elements to be added on the title page of a professional paper (in order of appearance) are:

  • Page number and running head: These elements appear in the header section. The page number appears at the top-right corner, whereas the running head appears at the top-left corner. If the title is too long, the running head is shortened to less than 50 characters.
  • Title of the paper: It provides information about the paper. It is aligned center and set in bold.
  • Names of the authors: It gives the names of the contributors to the paper and is aligned center.
  • Affiliations of the authors: It gives the department and university details of the authors.
  • Author note: It gives extra information about the authors.

In a student paper, the following details are included on the title page:

  • Page number: This appears in the top-right corner of the header section.
  • Title of the paper: It gives the reader an idea of the information in the paper. It appears in title case and bold. It is center-aligned.
  • Names of the authors: The names of the contributors are added here. This field is also called the by-line.
  • Affiliations of the authors: It includes the names of the authors’ departments and universities.
  • Name of the course: The name of the course for which the paper is written is included in this field.
  • Name of the instructor: Unlike the professional paper, the instructor’s name is included in a student paper.
  • Due date of the assignment: The due date of the assignment is added here. The format is “Month Day, Year” (e.g., August 22, 2017).

The title page information for APA is different for a professional paper and a student paper. As a student, you need to include the following details in the same order on the title page of your student paper.

  • Page number: This appears in the header section. Set the page number in the top-right corner of the header.
  • Title of the paper: Set it in title case and bold. Align it to the center.
  • Names of the authors: Provide the names of the contributors. This field is also called the by-line.
  • Affiliations of the authors: Include your department and university name.
  • Name of the course: Provide the name of the course and course number for which the paper is written.
  • Name of the instructor: Add the instructor’s name. There is no rigid rule on how to set the instructor’s name. You can set it according to the instructor’s preference.
  • Due date of the assignment: Add the due date of the assignment. The format should be “Month Day, Year” (e.g., August 23, 2021).

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13.1 Formatting a Research Paper

Learning objectives.

  • Identify the major components of a research paper written using American Psychological Association (APA) style.
  • Apply general APA style and formatting conventions in a research paper.

In this chapter, you will learn how to use APA style , the documentation and formatting style followed by the American Psychological Association, as well as MLA style , from the Modern Language Association. There are a few major formatting styles used in academic texts, including AMA, Chicago, and Turabian:

  • AMA (American Medical Association) for medicine, health, and biological sciences
  • APA (American Psychological Association) for education, psychology, and the social sciences
  • Chicago—a common style used in everyday publications like magazines, newspapers, and books
  • MLA (Modern Language Association) for English, literature, arts, and humanities
  • Turabian—another common style designed for its universal application across all subjects and disciplines

While all the formatting and citation styles have their own use and applications, in this chapter we focus our attention on the two styles you are most likely to use in your academic studies: APA and MLA.

If you find that the rules of proper source documentation are difficult to keep straight, you are not alone. Writing a good research paper is, in and of itself, a major intellectual challenge. Having to follow detailed citation and formatting guidelines as well may seem like just one more task to add to an already-too-long list of requirements.

Following these guidelines, however, serves several important purposes. First, it signals to your readers that your paper should be taken seriously as a student’s contribution to a given academic or professional field; it is the literary equivalent of wearing a tailored suit to a job interview. Second, it shows that you respect other people’s work enough to give them proper credit for it. Finally, it helps your reader find additional materials if he or she wishes to learn more about your topic.

Furthermore, producing a letter-perfect APA-style paper need not be burdensome. Yes, it requires careful attention to detail. However, you can simplify the process if you keep these broad guidelines in mind:

  • Work ahead whenever you can. Chapter 11 “Writing from Research: What Will I Learn?” includes tips for keeping track of your sources early in the research process, which will save time later on.
  • Get it right the first time. Apply APA guidelines as you write, so you will not have much to correct during the editing stage. Again, putting in a little extra time early on can save time later.
  • Use the resources available to you. In addition to the guidelines provided in this chapter, you may wish to consult the APA website at http://www.apa.org or the Purdue University Online Writing lab at http://owl.english.purdue.edu , which regularly updates its online style guidelines.

General Formatting Guidelines

This chapter provides detailed guidelines for using the citation and formatting conventions developed by the American Psychological Association, or APA. Writers in disciplines as diverse as astrophysics, biology, psychology, and education follow APA style. The major components of a paper written in APA style are listed in the following box.

These are the major components of an APA-style paper:

Body, which includes the following:

  • Headings and, if necessary, subheadings to organize the content
  • In-text citations of research sources
  • References page

All these components must be saved in one document, not as separate documents.

The title page of your paper includes the following information:

  • Title of the paper
  • Author’s name
  • Name of the institution with which the author is affiliated
  • Header at the top of the page with the paper title (in capital letters) and the page number (If the title is lengthy, you may use a shortened form of it in the header.)

List the first three elements in the order given in the previous list, centered about one third of the way down from the top of the page. Use the headers and footers tool of your word-processing program to add the header, with the title text at the left and the page number in the upper-right corner. Your title page should look like the following example.

Beyond the Hype: Evaluating Low-Carb Diets cover page

The next page of your paper provides an abstract , or brief summary of your findings. An abstract does not need to be provided in every paper, but an abstract should be used in papers that include a hypothesis. A good abstract is concise—about one hundred fifty to two hundred fifty words—and is written in an objective, impersonal style. Your writing voice will not be as apparent here as in the body of your paper. When writing the abstract, take a just-the-facts approach, and summarize your research question and your findings in a few sentences.

In Chapter 12 “Writing a Research Paper” , you read a paper written by a student named Jorge, who researched the effectiveness of low-carbohydrate diets. Read Jorge’s abstract. Note how it sums up the major ideas in his paper without going into excessive detail.

Beyond the Hype: Abstract

Write an abstract summarizing your paper. Briefly introduce the topic, state your findings, and sum up what conclusions you can draw from your research. Use the word count feature of your word-processing program to make sure your abstract does not exceed one hundred fifty words.

Depending on your field of study, you may sometimes write research papers that present extensive primary research, such as your own experiment or survey. In your abstract, summarize your research question and your findings, and briefly indicate how your study relates to prior research in the field.

Margins, Pagination, and Headings

APA style requirements also address specific formatting concerns, such as margins, pagination, and heading styles, within the body of the paper. Review the following APA guidelines.

Use these general guidelines to format the paper:

  • Set the top, bottom, and side margins of your paper at 1 inch.
  • Use double-spaced text throughout your paper.
  • Use a standard font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (10- to 12-point).
  • Use continuous pagination throughout the paper, including the title page and the references section. Page numbers appear flush right within your header.
  • Section headings and subsection headings within the body of your paper use different types of formatting depending on the level of information you are presenting. Additional details from Jorge’s paper are provided.

Cover Page

Begin formatting the final draft of your paper according to APA guidelines. You may work with an existing document or set up a new document if you choose. Include the following:

  • Your title page
  • The abstract you created in Note 13.8 “Exercise 1”
  • Correct headers and page numbers for your title page and abstract

APA style uses section headings to organize information, making it easy for the reader to follow the writer’s train of thought and to know immediately what major topics are covered. Depending on the length and complexity of the paper, its major sections may also be divided into subsections, sub-subsections, and so on. These smaller sections, in turn, use different heading styles to indicate different levels of information. In essence, you are using headings to create a hierarchy of information.

The following heading styles used in APA formatting are listed in order of greatest to least importance:

  • Section headings use centered, boldface type. Headings use title case, with important words in the heading capitalized.
  • Subsection headings use left-aligned, boldface type. Headings use title case.
  • The third level uses left-aligned, indented, boldface type. Headings use a capital letter only for the first word, and they end in a period.
  • The fourth level follows the same style used for the previous level, but the headings are boldfaced and italicized.
  • The fifth level follows the same style used for the previous level, but the headings are italicized and not boldfaced.

Visually, the hierarchy of information is organized as indicated in Table 13.1 “Section Headings” .

Table 13.1 Section Headings

A college research paper may not use all the heading levels shown in Table 13.1 “Section Headings” , but you are likely to encounter them in academic journal articles that use APA style. For a brief paper, you may find that level 1 headings suffice. Longer or more complex papers may need level 2 headings or other lower-level headings to organize information clearly. Use your outline to craft your major section headings and determine whether any subtopics are substantial enough to require additional levels of headings.

Working with the document you developed in Note 13.11 “Exercise 2” , begin setting up the heading structure of the final draft of your research paper according to APA guidelines. Include your title and at least two to three major section headings, and follow the formatting guidelines provided above. If your major sections should be broken into subsections, add those headings as well. Use your outline to help you.

Because Jorge used only level 1 headings, his Exercise 3 would look like the following:

Citation Guidelines

In-text citations.

Throughout the body of your paper, include a citation whenever you quote or paraphrase material from your research sources. As you learned in Chapter 11 “Writing from Research: What Will I Learn?” , the purpose of citations is twofold: to give credit to others for their ideas and to allow your reader to follow up and learn more about the topic if desired. Your in-text citations provide basic information about your source; each source you cite will have a longer entry in the references section that provides more detailed information.

In-text citations must provide the name of the author or authors and the year the source was published. (When a given source does not list an individual author, you may provide the source title or the name of the organization that published the material instead.) When directly quoting a source, it is also required that you include the page number where the quote appears in your citation.

This information may be included within the sentence or in a parenthetical reference at the end of the sentence, as in these examples.

Epstein (2010) points out that “junk food cannot be considered addictive in the same way that we think of psychoactive drugs as addictive” (p. 137).

Here, the writer names the source author when introducing the quote and provides the publication date in parentheses after the author’s name. The page number appears in parentheses after the closing quotation marks and before the period that ends the sentence.

Addiction researchers caution that “junk food cannot be considered addictive in the same way that we think of psychoactive drugs as addictive” (Epstein, 2010, p. 137).

Here, the writer provides a parenthetical citation at the end of the sentence that includes the author’s name, the year of publication, and the page number separated by commas. Again, the parenthetical citation is placed after the closing quotation marks and before the period at the end of the sentence.

As noted in the book Junk Food, Junk Science (Epstein, 2010, p. 137), “junk food cannot be considered addictive in the same way that we think of psychoactive drugs as addictive.”

Here, the writer chose to mention the source title in the sentence (an optional piece of information to include) and followed the title with a parenthetical citation. Note that the parenthetical citation is placed before the comma that signals the end of the introductory phrase.

David Epstein’s book Junk Food, Junk Science (2010) pointed out that “junk food cannot be considered addictive in the same way that we think of psychoactive drugs as addictive” (p. 137).

Another variation is to introduce the author and the source title in your sentence and include the publication date and page number in parentheses within the sentence or at the end of the sentence. As long as you have included the essential information, you can choose the option that works best for that particular sentence and source.

Citing a book with a single author is usually a straightforward task. Of course, your research may require that you cite many other types of sources, such as books or articles with more than one author or sources with no individual author listed. You may also need to cite sources available in both print and online and nonprint sources, such as websites and personal interviews. Chapter 13 “APA and MLA Documentation and Formatting” , Section 13.2 “Citing and Referencing Techniques” and Section 13.3 “Creating a References Section” provide extensive guidelines for citing a variety of source types.

Writing at Work

APA is just one of several different styles with its own guidelines for documentation, formatting, and language usage. Depending on your field of interest, you may be exposed to additional styles, such as the following:

  • MLA style. Determined by the Modern Languages Association and used for papers in literature, languages, and other disciplines in the humanities.
  • Chicago style. Outlined in the Chicago Manual of Style and sometimes used for papers in the humanities and the sciences; many professional organizations use this style for publications as well.
  • Associated Press (AP) style. Used by professional journalists.

References List

The brief citations included in the body of your paper correspond to the more detailed citations provided at the end of the paper in the references section. In-text citations provide basic information—the author’s name, the publication date, and the page number if necessary—while the references section provides more extensive bibliographical information. Again, this information allows your reader to follow up on the sources you cited and do additional reading about the topic if desired.

The specific format of entries in the list of references varies slightly for different source types, but the entries generally include the following information:

  • The name(s) of the author(s) or institution that wrote the source
  • The year of publication and, where applicable, the exact date of publication
  • The full title of the source
  • For books, the city of publication
  • For articles or essays, the name of the periodical or book in which the article or essay appears
  • For magazine and journal articles, the volume number, issue number, and pages where the article appears
  • For sources on the web, the URL where the source is located

The references page is double spaced and lists entries in alphabetical order by the author’s last name. If an entry continues for more than one line, the second line and each subsequent line are indented five spaces. Review the following example. ( Chapter 13 “APA and MLA Documentation and Formatting” , Section 13.3 “Creating a References Section” provides extensive guidelines for formatting reference entries for different types of sources.)

References Section

In APA style, book and article titles are formatted in sentence case, not title case. Sentence case means that only the first word is capitalized, along with any proper nouns.

Key Takeaways

  • Following proper citation and formatting guidelines helps writers ensure that their work will be taken seriously, give proper credit to other authors for their work, and provide valuable information to readers.
  • Working ahead and taking care to cite sources correctly the first time are ways writers can save time during the editing stage of writing a research paper.
  • APA papers usually include an abstract that concisely summarizes the paper.
  • APA papers use a specific headings structure to provide a clear hierarchy of information.
  • In APA papers, in-text citations usually include the name(s) of the author(s) and the year of publication.
  • In-text citations correspond to entries in the references section, which provide detailed bibliographical information about a source.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Table of Contents

Collaboration, information literacy, writing process, apa title page.

  • © 2023 by Jennifer Janechek - IBM Quantum

research paper format title page

What is an APA Title Page?

An APA Title Page refers to

  • a Title Page for a longer document that is formatted according to the conventions prescribed by the American Psychological Association’s Publication Manual .

The title page is comprised of four elements and two optional elements:

Related Concepts: Archive; Scholarly Conversation; Organization

The Title Page appears at the top of the first page of an APA-styled paper.

Like the rest of the paper, the title page should be double-spaced and typed in Times New Roman, 12 pt. The margins are set at 1” on all sides.

Summary of Required & Optional Elements

  • Page number
  • Full title of paper
  • Author byline (aka bio)
  • Affiliated Institution(s) or Organization(s)
  • Running head: The running head became optional in the 7th Edition of the Publication Manual.
  • Author note

Required Components

  • The full title of the paper is centered in the upper half of the page, and the first letter of each major word is capitalized. The paper’s title should be a maximum of 12 words and fill one or two lines; avoid using abbreviations and unnecessary words. Do not format the title with bold, italics, underlining, or quotation marks. The title should be centered in the upper portion of the page, centered, and written in boldface. Make sure to capitalize the major words of the title, such as The Silence of the Lambs . Keep your title as concise as possible! You’ll have plenty of time to be detailed in the body text.
  • The author byline is comprised of the author(s)’ first name(s), middle initial(s), and last name(s); this line follows after the full title of the research paper. Note that two authors are separated by the word and, but more than two authors’ names are separated by commas. Do not include titles, degrees, or honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Mx., etc.).
  • List the institutional affiliation of the author(s) involved with the research paper. Include the name of the college or university you attend, or the name of the organization(s) that provided support for your research.

Optional Components

  • Running head (or shortened title) and label – Optional In accordance with APA 7th Edition updates, student papers typically no longer include a running head. If you are unsure about the need for a running head, be sure to consult with your professor. The running head and label is flush with the upper left-hand corner of the title page, while the page number is flush with the upper right-hand corner of the page. The label “Running head” should only appear on the title page; on all other pages, simply include the shortened title of the paper. All letters of the running head should be capitalized and should not exceed 50 characters, including punctuation, letters, and spaces. Example: EFFECTS OF NUTRITION ON MEMORY
  • If you are a student, check to see whether your professor asked you to add any additional information in the Author note slot. Some professors require further information, including the date of submission, course number or title, or name of the professor. If your instructor requires you to include an author’s note, position it in the lower half of the title page. Follow your instructor’s directives regarding additional lines on the title page.

Example: APA Title Page of a Student Work

When creating the Title Page , professional and student papers have slightly different rules for APA. We’ll cover the rules that apply to both types first.

You’ll need to include the course number and name, the name of the professor, and the date your assignment is due. All of this should be done line by line beneath the name of your school.

research paper format title page

Image courtesy of the APA style guide

Example: APA Title Page of a Professional Work

You’ll need to include an author’s note underneath your institution on the bottom half of the page. There will be a couple of brief paragraphs to write for this note.

  • The first paragraph should have the author’s name and symbol and URL for the ORCID iD. The ORCID iD can be excluded if you don’t have one.
  • The second paragraph should include any changes in the institution or deaths of the authors.
  • The third paragraph should include any disclosures, acknowledgments, or relevant information related to either.
  • The fourth/final paragraph is where you’ll include the contact information for the author.

If any of these paragraphs are irrelevant, there is no need to include them. Simply skip to the next relevant one.

research paper format title page

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How to Make a Title Page for a Research Paper

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Imagine your research paper is a book in a vast library. Amidst thousands of others, what makes someone pick it up? The answer lies in the title page. This seemingly simple page announces the content and character of your research. Crafting a title page is about creating a compelling entrance to your scholarly journey.

In this guide, we’ll navigate through designing a research paper title page that meets academic standards and captures the purpose of your work, ensuring your research doesn’t just blend into the academic landscape but stands out, inviting, and informative.

What is a Research Paper Title?

The title page of a research paper serves as its initial page, prominently displaying the paper’s title or topic. This page previews the content of the research paper, setting the stage for the reader.

Adherence to specific citation and formatting style guidelines is crucial in structuring the title page. For instance, the title page must align with APA guidelines if you use APA format. This principle also applies to other styles, such as MLA, Harvard, and Chicago.

Key elements of the title page include the running head , research paper topic , page number, author’s name and number , and institutional affiliation . While there are several standard formatting styles like MLA, APA, and Chicago, the specific style to be used is typically dictated by the research paper’s instructions or rubric.

Creating a title page is straightforward, but attention to detail is important to ensure it is properly formatted, structured, and edited. Guidelines are often helpful for ensuring accuracy and adherence to the required academic standards.

Format and Features of a Title Page

The title page of a research paper serves as the face of your work and follows specific formatting guidelines that vary depending on the academic style guide (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago) being used. However, there are common elements and a general format that most title pages share. These include:

  • Title of the Paper: Placed prominently at the top, the title should clearly and concisely reflect the paper’s content. It is usually typed in a larger font size than the rest of the text on the page.
  • Author’s Name: This should appear below the title, indicating the paper’s authorship. In cases of multiple authors, their names are listed following the contribution or alphabetical order, depending on the guidelines followed.
  • Affiliation: This refers to the institution or organization with which the author is associated. In academic papers, this usually includes the name of the university or college.
  • Course Name and Number: Particularly relevant for academic assignments, this information helps in identifying the course for which the paper is written.
  • Instructor’s Name: Including the name of the instructor or professor for whom the paper is being submitted is a common practice in academic papers.
  • Submission Date: The paper is submission date is typically placed at the bottom of the title page.
  • Running Head and Page Number: In certain styles, like APA, a running head (a shortened version of the title) and a page number are included in the title page’s header.
  • Additional Information: Depending on the requirements, additional details like a student ID number, department, or university logo might be included.

The title page should have a clean, professional layout with centered text. Margins are usually set at 1 inch on all sides, and the title page is not adorned with images, decorative fonts, or colors unless specifically required by the guidelines or the nature of the paper warrants it. The goal is to present a clear, formal, and easily navigable title page that professionally represents the paper and its author.

Guide on How to Develop a Research Paper Title Page

Creating a title page for your research paper is a crucial step in presenting your academic work. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you develop a well-structured and properly formatted title page:

Answer Key Questions About Your Research Paper

Begin by reflecting on the ‘what,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how’ of your research. What is the main topic or problem you are addressing? Why is this research important or necessary? How did you approach the research? Understanding these elements is vital for formulating a title that accurately represents your study.

Identify Research Study Keywords

Keywords are the core terms that define your topic and are critical for making your paper searchable and accessible. These are the terms that a reader might use to find your work in databases and search engines. Think about the main concepts, theories, and methods involved in your research and list them as potential keywords.

Research Title Writing Using Keywords

Use the identified keywords to construct your title. A good title integrates these keywords in a way that is coherent and reflective of the paper’s content. This makes the title informative and ensures that your paper is easily discoverable in academic searches.

Create a Working Research Paper Title

Start with a draft title early in your research process. This initial title should capture the essence of your study. As your research progresses, revisit and refine this title. The evolution of your research might bring new insights that can lead to a more precise and effective title.

Remove Nonessential Words and Phrases

Review your title and eliminate unnecessary words or phrases. The goal is to keep the title concise without losing its intended meaning. Avoid jargon, acronyms, or any ambiguous terms unless they are well-known in your field and crucial to the title’s clarity.

Rules on Making the Best Research Paper Title

Creating an effective research paper title is an art that combines clarity, precision, and engagement. Here are some key rules to follow for crafting a title that stands out:

  • Clarity is Key: Your title should clearly reflect your research’s main topic and scope. Avoid ambiguity and ensure that even non-experts in your field can understand the focus of your paper.
  • Be Concise: A good title is brief yet informative. Aim to capture the essence of your research without unnecessary words. A concise title is easier to read and more impactful.
  • Incorporate Relevant Keywords: Use specific keywords that define your research area. This improves the searchability of your paper in academic databases and makes it more accessible to the target audience.
  • Avoid Jargon and Technical Terms: Unless necessary, steer clear of jargon and highly technical terms. These can alienate readers who are not specialists in your field.
  • Make It Interesting: While maintaining academic professionalism, try to make your title engaging. A compelling title can spark interest and encourage more readers to delve into your paper.
  • Reflect the Tone of Your Research: Ensure that your title correctly mirrors the nature of your research. For example, a serious, rigorous study should not have a frivolous title.
  • No False Promises: Your title should accurately represent the content of your paper. Avoid misleading readers with a sensational or overpromising title your paper does not fulfill.
  • Adhere to Formatting Guidelines: Follow the specific formatting rules of the style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) required by your institution or publisher. This includes aspects like capitalization, punctuation, and font.
  • Consider the Audience: Tailor your title to your intended audience’s expectations and knowledge level. A title for a specialized academic audience can be different from one intended for a general audience.
  • Seek Feedback: Before finalizing, get feedback on your title from peers or mentors. They can provide insights on clarity, interest, and appropriateness.

APA Research Paper Cover Page Guide

When you’re preparing a research paper in APA format, the title page is an essential element that needs to be formatted correctly. Here’s a guide to help you set up your APA title page:

You need to include these four essential elements in the title page of your APA-style paper:

  • Paper Title: Position your title in the center of the page. It should succinctly reflect the subject of your paper, including key variables or theoretical issues related to the topic. Aim for a title length of about 10-12 words.
  • Author’s Name and Institutional Affiliation: Directly below the title, center your name and the name of the institution where the research was conducted. The institutional affiliation typically refers to the college or university associated with the research.
  • Running Head: This is a shortened version of your title, limited to 50 characters (including spaces and punctuation). It appears at the top of each page of the paper, aligned to the left, followed by the page number.
  • Page Number: The page number should be in the title page’s upper right-hand corner, following the running head. All subsequent pages of the paper should also have consecutive page numbering in the same location.

Research Paper APA Title Page Example

Here’s an example of how a title page for a research paper in APA format might look:

Research Paper APA Title Page Example

Research Paper Title Page MLA

In MLA (Modern Language Association) format, a separate title page is not typically required unless specifically requested by your instructor. Instead, the necessary information is included at the top of the document’s first page. Here’s how you would format it:

  • University Name: At the top of the page, write the name of your university.
  • Paper Title: Skip about one-third of the page down from the university name to place the title. The title should adhere to title capitalization standards: the first word and all major words are capitalized. Avoid underlining, italicizing, or placing quotation marks around the title. However, any in-text citations within the title should follow proper punctuation rules.
  • Your Name: Skip a couple of lines after the title and write your full name (first and last names).
  • Class, Professor’s Name, and Due Date: Skip another couple of lines and then write, on separate lines, the name of your class, your professor’s full name (including the appropriate title), and the due date. Names should be written accurately, and the date should be in European format: day, month, and year.
  • Formatting of the Title Page: Double-space the title page and center-align all text. Ensure uniform formatting for each line and avoid using special formatting like underlining or highlighting.
  • Formatting of the First Page (If a Separate Title Page is Not Required): If a separate title page is not used, the first page of your paper should include the title and your name. Remember to include your last name and page number in the header of each page.

The Correct MLA Format Title Page Example

While MLA style does not require a separate title page and instead includes necessary information on the first page of the document, if your instructor requests a separate title page, it would look like this:

Research Paper MLA Title Page Example

Adding a Research Paper Subtitle

Subtitles in research papers can provide additional context, clarify the scope, or highlight specific aspects of the study. A subtitle is used to give more detail or a specific focus that complements the main title. It can narrow the topic, indicate a specific methodology or geographic region, or provide more clarity.

The subtitle should be placed directly below the main title. It’s typically separated from the title by a colon. Regarding formatting, the subtitle should be in the same font and size as the main title. While the main title is often capitalized (headline style), the subtitle can be in sentence case (only the first word and proper nouns capitalized), depending on your style guide.

Like the main title, the subtitle should be concise and clear. It should enhance the reader’s understanding of the paper’s content without being overly lengthy or complex. The subtitle should be directly aligned with the main title, both conceptually and visually. It should look like an integral part of the title, not an afterthought.

Adding a subtitle to a research paper should provide additional clarity or specific focus to the main title. Here’s how it might look:

Main Title: “Enhancing Patient Safety: Strategies for Reducing Medication Errors”

Subtitle: “A Comparative Analysis of Electronic versus Manual Prescription Methods”

Combined: “Enhancing Patient Safety: Strategies for Reducing Medication Errors: A Comparative Analysis of Electronic versus Manual Prescription Methods”

In this example:

  • The main title, “Enhancing Patient Safety: Strategies for Reducing Medication Errors,” introduces the paper’s general topic, focusing on patient safety and medication errors.
  • The subtitle, “A Comparative Analysis of Electronic versus Manual Prescription Methods,” provides specific details about the approach and scope of the research, indicating that the paper will compare electronic and manual prescription methods.
  • Together, the title and subtitle give a comprehensive overview of the paper’s focus, guiding the reader’s expectations about the study’s content and methodological approach.

Research Paper Title Examples

Crafting the right title for a research paper is crucial, as it is the first point of engagement with the reader and sets the tone for the content. The following examples demonstrate how effective titles can convey the research’s scope, focus, and methodology, making them both informative and appealing.

  • “Bridging the Gap: Innovative Approaches to Dementia Care in Geriatric Nursing”
  • “The Impact of Telehealth Services on Chronic Disease Management in Rural Communities”
  • “Exploring the Role of Nurse Practitioners in Primary Care: Patient Outcomes and Healthcare Efficiency”
  • “Pediatric Pain Management: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions”
  • “Maternal Health Disparities: Analyzing the Effects of Socioeconomic Status on Prenatal Care”
  • “Infection Control in ICU: Strategies for Reducing Hospital-Acquired Infections”
  • “Mental Health Nursing: Addressing the Challenges of Care in Adolescent Populations”
  • “Advancing Palliative Care: The Role of Nursing in End-of-Life Decision Making”
  • “The Efficacy of Continuing Education Programs in Nursing: A Comparative Study”
  • “Technology in Nursing: The Impact of Electronic Health Records on Patient Safety and Care Quality”

Tips on Formulating a Good Research Paper Title

Here are essential tips and strategies to help you craft an effective and engaging title that accurately reflects the content and significance of your research.

  • Ensure your title accurately represents the core idea or findings of your research. It should give a clear indication of what the reader can expect.
  • Avoid overly complex or lengthy titles. Aim for a title that is to the point yet informative enough to convey the key aspects of your research.
  • Incorporate relevant keywords that highlight the main topics or methods of your research. This aids in searchability and helps readers quickly understand the focus of your paper.
  • Use language that is accessible to a broad audience. Technical terms and acronyms might confuse readers not specialized in your field.
  • While maintaining academic appropriateness, choose an engaging title that catches the reader’s attention.
  • A title that is too vague can be misleading or unhelpful. Including specific details like the study’s geographical location, time frame, or specific methodology can be beneficial.
  • Ensure the tone of the title matches the tone of the paper. A serious study, for instance, demands a title that reflects its scholarly rigor.
  • If you need to add more context or specify the focus of your research, consider using a subtitle. This can be especially useful for multidisciplinary studies.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask colleagues, mentors, or peers for their opinions on your title. Sometimes, external perspectives can help refine and improve it.
  • Your title might evolve as your research progresses. Be open to revising it as you gain more insights into your topic.

Writing a title page for your research paper with precision and adherence to academic guidelines is a skill that enhances the professionalism of your work. Applying these straightforward yet effective tips ensures that your research paper makes a strong, scholarly first impression, setting the stage for the valuable insights that follow. Remember, a well-composed title page is your first step towards presenting your research like a pro.

As a college or university student, you can apply these valuable tips to create an impressive and professional title page for your research paper. If time constraints or other commitments make it challenging to complete your research paper, our custom writing service is available to assist you.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering Your Research Paper Title Page Format

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Sam is an editor, ghostwriter and 7x Top Writer on Medium.com

September 11, 2023 • 7 min read

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Are you struggling with your research paper’s title page format? We’ve got your back. In this comprehensive guide, we will equip you with the skills to perfect your research paper’s title page and enhance the overall presentation of your work.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced writer, grasping the significance of a perfectly formatted title page is paramount. It not only lends a refined and scholarly appearance but also conveys vital information about your research, including the title, author’s name, and institutional affiliation.

In this guide, we will simply but meticulously lead you through each step, from selecting the ideal font and font size to precise placement of the title, author’s name, and date. Additionally, we will delve into the indispensable details such as your course title, instructor’s name, and word count.

Don’t allow a poorly formatted title page to dilute the impact of your research paper. Embark on this journey with us, and you will emerge with a flawless title page, leaving an enduring impression on your audience and ensuring the success of your research paper.

Let’s dive in to mastering the art of crafting an impeccable title page format for your research paper.

Contents of this article

Importance of a well-crafted title page, components of a title page, which formatting style to use, title page format for apa style, title page format for mla style, title page format for chicago style, crafting an attention-grabbing title, avoiding common title page pitfalls, simplifying title page creation with tools and templates, wrapping up and perfecting your title page.

A well-crafted title page serves a dual purpose that goes beyond mere formalities. It acts as the first encounter your readers have with your research paper, influencing their initial impression and setting the stage for what follows.

While it may seem like a small detail, the title page plays a crucial role in establishing your paper’s credibility and professionalism. In academic and professional contexts, attention to such details reflects your commitment to quality.

Beyond aesthetics, a properly structured title page provides essential information, including the paper’s title, author’s identity, and institutional affiliation. These details offer a glimpse of the care and precision you’ve put into your work, conveying a sense of trustworthiness to your readers.

In summary, the title page is not just a superficial addition; it’s a functional component that sets the right tone, builds credibility, and invites your audience to engage with your research in a scholarly manner. Its importance, while subtle, should not be underestimated in contributing to the overall success of your paper.

Before delving into the intricacies of title page formatting, let’s first understand the key elements that should be included:

  • Title: Your paper’s title should be concise and accurately represent its content. It should occupy the central position at the top of the page.
  • Author’s Name: Beneath the title, center your full name. If there are multiple authors, list them in the same order they appear in the paper.
  • Institutional Affiliation: Directly below the author’s name, include the name of the institution or organization where the research was conducted. Center this information.
  • Course Name and Number: Beneath the institutional affiliation, center the name and number of the course for which the research paper was prepared.
  • Instructor’s Name: Below the course details, list the name of your instructor or professor.
  • Date: Centered at the bottom of the page, include the date of submission or when the research paper was completed.

These components collectively form a well-structured title page that conveys professionalism and provides vital information about your paper’s context.

There are several style guides governing how to format the title page and you should consult your university or organization to check which style to follow.

If you are unsure of how to capitalize your title and your institution does not specify which capitalization rules to follow, you can use our free online title case converter to capitalize your title.

The American Psychological Association (APA) style is commonly used in the social sciences. Here’s how you should format your title page in APA style:

  • Use Times New Roman or Arial font, size 12.
  • Double-space the entire title page.
  • Align the title, author’s name, and institutional affiliation in the center of the page.
  • Use title case for the title, capitalizing the first letter of each major word.
  • Include the running head, a shortened version of the title, in the upper left corner of the page. It should be no more than 50 characters, including spaces.

The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used in the humanities. Here’s how you should format your title page in MLA style:

  • Use Times New Roman or any other legible font, size 12.
  • Do not include a running head.

The Chicago Manual of Style is commonly used in history, art history, and other humanities disciplines. Here’s how you should format your title page in Chicago style:

  • Place the title one-third of the way down the page, centered.
  • Include the author’s name below the title, centered.
  • Include the course name, instructor’s name, and date on separate lines, aligned to the right side of the page.

Your research paper’s title serves as the reader’s first impression and a critical tool for capturing their interest. To ensure your title accomplishes this, consider the following tips:

  • Conciseness is Key: Keep your title brief and focused. Avoid unnecessary words or jargon that might obscure your main message.
  • Precision Matters: Clearly convey the central theme or focus of your research paper within the title itself. Precision aids in reader understanding.
  • Harness Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords that accurately represent your research paper’s content. This aids discoverability in academic databases and online searches.
  • Infuse Creativity: Where appropriate, utilize engaging language or wordplay to infuse a touch of creativity into your title, making it more memorable.
  • Steer Clear of Generic Titles: Differentiate your paper by avoiding commonplace titles that offer little insight into your research’s essence.
  • Capitalize Effectively: Proper capitalization enhances the professionalism of your title. Consider using a tool like TitleFormat to ensure consistent and correct title case capitalization.

These guidelines, along with precise capitalization, can transform a mundane title into a powerful tool for piquing the reader’s curiosity and setting the stage for your research paper.

When crafting your title page, steer clear of these common missteps that can diminish the professional appearance of your research paper:

  • Font and Size Consistency: Ensure that you adhere to the designated font and size specified by your chosen style guide. Consistency in typography is key.
  • Alignment Harmony: Maintain uniform alignment for all title page components. Consistency in alignment reinforces a polished presentation.
  • Complete Information: Double-check that you’ve included all essential details, such as the course name, instructor’s name, and submission date. Incomplete information can hinder clarity.
  • Brevity and Clarity in Titles: Avoid overly lengthy or overly vague titles. Lengthy titles may confuse or deter readers, while vague titles fail to provide a clear understanding of your research paper’s focus.
  • Proofread Vigilantly: Scrutinize your title page for spelling errors and typographical mistakes. Errors can erode the professionalism of your paper. To ensure accurate capitalization, consider using a tool like TitleFormat .

By steering clear of these common pitfalls and maintaining proper capitalization throughout, you can enhance the overall quality and impact of your title page.

Creating a polished title page need not be a daunting task. Consider these helpful tools and resources to streamline the process:

  • Microsoft Word: Microsoft Word offers ready-to-use templates for various citation styles, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. You can easily select the appropriate template and personalize it with your information.
  • Title Case Converter Tools: Simplify the capitalization of your title with dedicated Title Case Converter tools like TitleFormat . These tools ensure consistent and accurate capitalization, enhancing the professionalism of your title page.
  • Online Generators: Explore online tools and generators like EasyBib, BibMe, and Cite This For Me. These platforms can assist in creating properly formatted title pages and citations.
  • University Resources: Many universities provide comprehensive guidelines and templates for research paper formatting, including title pages. Check your university’s website or library resources for specific instructions tailored to your institution.

By utilizing these resources and incorporating proper capitalization with TitleFormat , you can effortlessly create a professional and error-free title page for your research paper.

Creating an impeccable title page is a vital component of presenting your research paper with professionalism and precision.

By adhering to the guidelines and insights provided in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently craft a title page that not only impresses your professors but also serves as a prelude to the success of your research paper.

Remember to select the appropriate title page format in alignment with your chosen citation style, whether it’s APA, MLA, or Chicago. The devil is in the details, so meticulously attend to factors such as font selection, size, alignment, and the inclusion of essential information.

In the final step, apply a keen eye during proofreading to ensure your title page is free of errors and omissions and your title is properly capitalized.

A flawless title page serves as a testament to the dedication and meticulousness you’ve invested in your research paper, leaving a lasting and favorable impression on your readers.

With mastery of the art of crafting an impeccable title page format, you are well-prepared to create a title page that not only complements but elevates the quality of your research paper.

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MLA Style specifies guidelines for formatting manuscripts and citing research in writing. MLA Style also provides writers with a system for referencing their sources through parenthetical citation in their essays and Works Cited pages. 

Writers who properly use MLA also build their credibility by demonstrating accountability to their source material. Most importantly, the use of MLA style can protect writers from accusations of plagiarism, which is the purposeful or accidental uncredited use of source material produced by other writers. 

If you are asked to use MLA format, be sure to consult the  MLA Handbook  (9th edition). Publishing scholars and graduate students should also consult the  MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing  (3rd edition). The  MLA Handbook  is available in most writing centers and reference libraries. It is also widely available in bookstores, libraries, and at the MLA web site. See the Additional Resources section of this page for a list of helpful books and sites about using MLA Style.

Paper Format

The preparation of papers and manuscripts in MLA Style is covered in part four of the  MLA Style Manual . Below are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in  MLA Style :

General Guidelines

  • Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
  • Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). Whatever font you choose, MLA recommends that the regular and italics type styles contrast enough that they are each distinct from one another. The font size should be 12 pt.
  • Leave only one space after periods or other punctuation marks (unless otherwise prompted by your instructor).
  • Set the margins of your document to 1 inch on all sides.
  • Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. MLA recommends that you use the “Tab” key as opposed to pushing the space bar five times.
  • Create a header that numbers all pages consecutively in the upper right-hand corner, one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor may ask that you omit the number on your first page. Always follow your instructor's guidelines.)
  • Use italics throughout your essay to indicate the titles of longer works and, only when absolutely necessary, provide emphasis.
  • If you have any endnotes, include them on a separate page before your Works Cited page. Entitle the section Notes (centered, unformatted).

Formatting the First Page of Your Paper

  • Do not make a title page for your paper unless specifically requested or the paper is assigned as a group project. In the case of a group project, list all names of the contributors, giving each name its own line in the header, followed by the remaining MLA header requirements as described below. Format the remainder of the page as requested by the instructor.
  • In the upper left-hand corner of the first page, list your name, your instructor's name, the course, and the date. Again, be sure to use double-spaced text.
  • Double space again and center the title. Do not underline, italicize, or place your title in quotation marks. Write the title in Title Case (standard capitalization), not in all capital letters.
  • Use quotation marks and/or italics when referring to other works in your title, just as you would in your text. For example:  Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas  as Morality Play; Human Weariness in "After Apple Picking"
  • Double space between the title and the first line of the text.
  • Create a header in the upper right-hand corner that includes your last name, followed by a space with a page number. Number all pages consecutively with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), one-half inch from the top and flush with the right margin. (Note: Your instructor or other readers may ask that you omit the last name/page number header on your first page. Always follow instructor guidelines.)

Here is a sample of the first page of a paper in MLA style:

This image shows the first page of an MLA paper.

The First Page of an MLA Paper

Section Headings

Writers sometimes use section headings to improve a document’s readability. These sections may include individual chapters or other named parts of a book or essay.

MLA recommends that when dividing an essay into sections you number those sections with an Arabic number and a period followed by a space and the section name.

MLA does not have a prescribed system of headings for books (for more information on headings, please see page 146 in the MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing , 3rd edition). If you are only using one level of headings, meaning that all of the sections are distinct and parallel and have no additional sections that fit within them, MLA recommends that these sections resemble one another grammatically. For instance, if your headings are typically short phrases, make all of the headings short phrases (and not, for example, full sentences). Otherwise, the formatting is up to you. It should, however, be consistent throughout the document.

If you employ multiple levels of headings (some of your sections have sections within sections), you may want to provide a key of your chosen level headings and their formatting to your instructor or editor.

Sample Section Headings

The following sample headings are meant to be used only as a reference. You may employ whatever system of formatting that works best for you so long as it remains consistent throughout the document.

Formatted, unnumbered:

Level 1 Heading: bold, flush left

Level 2 Heading: italics, flush left

Level 3 Heading: centered, bold

Level 4 Heading: centered, italics

Level 5 Heading: underlined, flush left

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AMA Style - 10th edition

  • Title Page & Formatting
  • Text Citations
  • Journal Title Abbreviations
  • Book Chapters
  • Dissertations/Theses
  • Journal Articles
  • Title (capitalize all major words)
  • Author(s) full name(s); if more than one author use semi-colons between names
  • Degrees - highest degree/certification is noted; academic degrees below master's degrees are not noted
  • Author Affliliations with location
  • 12-point font
  • Double-spaced throughout (including title page and references)
  • Page numbers continuing through the references
  • Delineate new paragraphs with indents
  • Title page includes
  • title of manuscript
  • five keywords or descriptive phrases concerning the manuscript's topic
  • word counts for the paper including references
  • author contact information - full names, academic degreens, and affiliations
  • 1-inch margins all around
  • Times New Roman font
  • Double spaced text - including title page and bibliography
  • Title starts approximately 2 inches down from bottom of the top margin
  • Left-justify text
  • Do not hypenate words and the end of the line

Example: Title Page

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How to Format a Turabian/Chicago Style Title Page | Example

Published on October 10, 2019 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on December 5, 2022.

Turabian style , a version of Chicago style designed specifically for writing research papers , theses , and dissertations , provides detailed guidelines for formatting a title page.

A title page is not mandatory; if you haven’t been told to include one, you can just center your title at the top of the first page.

These are the key guidelines for creating a title page in Turabian style:

  • Title and subtitle appear ⅓ of the way down the page.
  • Other information (e.g., your name, the date, class information) appears ⅔ down the page.
  • All text is center-aligned and double-spaced .
  • No page number is included on the title page.

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Table of contents

Chicago title page example, general formatting of the title page, placement and format of the title, placement and format of other information, frequently asked questions about chicago format.

Below is an example of a typical title page following Turabian guidelines:

Chicago Turabian style title page

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The title page is the very first page of your text, appearing before the table of contents , acknowledgements , abstract , etc.

All text on your title page should be presented in the same font you use for the main text, center-aligned and double-spaced. The title page does not feature a page number, but it is included in the page count—that means that the following page should be page 2.

The title appears roughly ⅓ of the way down the page (it’s not important to be precise) in bold. It can also be written in a larger font size than the rest of the text, though this is optional.

Use headline capitalization, which means capitalizing all important words:

  • Summary of results
  • Summary of Results

If you have a subtitle, the main title should be followed by a colon, and the subtitle should appear on the next line. It should also appear in headline capitalization , in bold, and in the same font size as the main title.

Roughly ⅔ of the way down the page, add any other information your instructor or faculty requires you to include. This information should not be in bold, and should be in the same font size as your main text. Each new piece of information appears on a new line.

This might include your name, student number, the course name and number, and/or your instructor’s name, among other things. There’s no standard list of information to include, but you’ll usually be told clearly by your university what needs to be here.

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Turabian style is a version of Chicago style designed specifically for students and researchers. It follows most Chicago conventions, but also adds extra guidelines for formatting research papers , theses and dissertations .

More information can be found in A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate L. Turabian, now in its ninth edition.

Chicago format doesn’t require you to use any specific font, as long as you choose something readable. A good standard choice is 12 pt Times New Roman.

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COMMENTS

  1. Title page setup

    Student title page element. Format. Example. Paper title. Place the title three to four lines down from the top of the title page. Center it and type it in bold font. ... For a professional paper, the affiliation is the institution at which the research was conducted. Include both the name of any department and the name of the college ...

  2. APA Title Page (7th edition)

    The student version of the APA title page should include the following information (double spaced and centered): Paper title. Author name. Department and university name. Course number and name. Instructor name. Due date of the assignment. The professional title page also includes an author note (flushed left), but not a course name, instructor ...

  3. Formatting an APA title page

    As a student, you need to include the following details in the same order on the title page of your student paper. Page number: This appears in the header section. Set the page number in the top-right corner of the header. Title of the paper: Set it in title case and bold. Align it to the center.

  4. 13.1 Formatting a Research Paper

    Set the top, bottom, and side margins of your paper at 1 inch. Use double-spaced text throughout your paper. Use a standard font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (10- to 12-point). Use continuous pagination throughout the paper, including the title page and the references section.

  5. Thesis & Dissertation Title Page

    The title page (or cover page) of your thesis, dissertation, or research paper should contain all the key information about your document. It usually includes: Dissertation or thesis title. Your name. The type of document (e.g., dissertation, research paper) The department and institution. The degree program (e.g., Master of Arts)

  6. APA Title Page

    The paper's title should be a maximum of 12 words and fill one or two lines; avoid using abbreviations and unnecessary words. Do not format the title with bold, italics, underlining, or quotation marks. The title should be centered in the upper portion of the page, centered, and written in boldface. Make sure to capitalize the major words of ...

  7. Research Paper Format

    The main guidelines for formatting a paper in APA Style are as follows: Use a standard font like 12 pt Times New Roman or 11 pt Arial. Set 1 inch page margins. Apply double line spacing. If submitting for publication, insert a APA running head on every page. Indent every new paragraph ½ inch.

  8. How to Create an APA Title Page

    Here's how to create your APA format title as per the specified guidelines: Position your title 4-5 lines from the top of your page. Select your title to centrally align and bold it. Use the title case* while creating your heading. *Capitalize the first letter of each word apart from articles and prepositions. 4.

  9. PDF SAMPLE TITLE PAGE IN APA STYLE (7 ed.)

    Below are step-by-step instructions on how to format a student title page in APA, 7th edition. 1. First, use the Insert Page Number button on the Insert Tab of a Microsoft Word document to insert a plain page number at the right margin of the header. 2. Next, 3 or 4 lines down from your paper's top margin, type your paper's title.

  10. Research Paper Title Page

    Title of the paper: The title should be concise and descriptive, reflecting the main idea or focus of the research paper. The title should be centered on the page and in title case (capitalize the first letter of each major word). Author's name: The author's name should be written below the title, also centered on the page.

  11. How to Make a Title Page for a Research Paper

    Here's an example of how a title page for a research paper in APA format might look: Research Paper Title Page MLA. In MLA (Modern Language Association) format, a separate title page is not typically required unless specifically requested by your instructor. Instead, the necessary information is included at the top of the document's first page.

  12. A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering Your Research Paper Title Page Format

    Here's how you should format your title page in MLA style: Use Times New Roman or any other legible font, size 12. Double-space the entire title page. Align the title, author's name, and institutional affiliation in the center of the page. Use title case for the title, capitalizing the first letter of each major word.

  13. PDF Formatting a Research Paper

    Do not use a period after your title or after any heading in the paper (e.g., Works Cited). Begin your text on a new, double-spaced line after the title, indenting the first line of the paragraph half an inch from the left margin. Fig. 1. The top of the first page of a research paper.

  14. APA Sample Paper

    Note: This page reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual (i.e., APA 7), which released in October 2019. The equivalent resource for the older APA 6 style can be found here. Media Files: APA Sample Student Paper , APA Sample Professional Paper This resource is enhanced by Acrobat PDF files. Download the free Acrobat Reader

  15. MLA Title Page

    To create an MLA format title page, list the following on separate lines, left-aligned at the top of the page: Then leave a few blank lines and list the title of the paper, centered and in title case, halfway down the page. All text should be double-spaced and in the same font as the rest of the paper. Note: If you're using a title page ...

  16. General Format

    The preparation of papers and manuscripts in MLA Style is covered in part four of the MLA Style Manual. Below are some basic guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA Style: General Guidelines. Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper. Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g ...

  17. Title Page & Formatting

    Research Guides; AMA Style - 10th edition; Title Page & Formatting; Search this Guide Search. AMA Style - 10th edition. Examples and information on how to create bibliographies and format student papers in the style of the American Medical Association's Manual of Style. ... Your professor may want you to include different elements in your title ...

  18. APA Title Page (6th edition)

    An APA title page must include: A running head (including page number) The title of your paper (one or two lines long) The full name of the author (s) Your university or institution. Additional information, such as a course number or an author's note, should be placed on a separate line below the institution. APA title page template.

  19. How to Format a Turabian/Chicago Style Title Page

    Turabian style, a version of Chicago style designed specifically for writing research papers, theses, and dissertations, provides detailed guidelines for formatting a title page. A title page is not mandatory; if you haven't been told to include one, you can just center your title at the top of the first page. These are the key guidelines for ...