A Guide to Writing a Rough Draft

When it comes to writing a research paper or report, one of the most daunting tasks is getting started. Many students struggle with formatting and organization, which can make the writing process seem overwhelming. However, by following some simple guidelines, you can create a well-organized and formatted rough draft that will serve as a great foundation for your final product.

Where Should Your Page Numbers Appear?

One of the first things to consider when formatting your paper is where to place page numbers. The standard position is in the upper right corner of each page. This will help you keep track of how many pages your report is and make it easier for your instructor to review.

Should Your Bibliography be Alphabetical?

Another important aspect of formatting is the bibliography, also known as a list of sources. When compiling your bibliography, it's standard practice to list your sources in alphabetical order by last name of author. This will help you quickly find specific sources and make it easier for your instructor to review.

Should Your Bibliography be on a Separate Page?

In addition to organizing your sources alphabetically, another important consideration is where the bibliography appears in your report. In general, it's standard practice to include the bibliography on a separate page at the end of your report. This will help you keep all your sources together and make it easier for your instructor to review.

Other Formatting Considerations

In addition to page numbers and bibliographies, there are several other formatting considerations to keep in mind when writing a rough draft. These include:

* Should You Include a Separate Title Page?

The answer is yes, a separate title page is standard practice. This will help you clearly identify the title of your report and make it easier for your instructor to review.

* How Should You Position Your Heading?

When formatting your heading, it's standard practice to include information such as your name, class, and date. The exact positioning may vary depending on your instructor's guidelines, so be sure to check with them before finalizing your rough draft.

* Should You Include Illustrations?

Illustrations can be a great way to add visual interest and help illustrate complex concepts in your report. However, they are optional and should only be included if they serve a purpose or enhance the overall understanding of your topic.

* How Long Should Your Report Be?

The length of your report will depend on the specific requirements set by your instructor. Check with them for guidance on word count or page limit.

* What Size Should the Margins Be?

Standard margins are 1″ or 1.25″ on each side, which provides a comfortable amount of space for notes and revisions.

What Type Style and Size Should You Use?

When typing your report, it's standard practice to use a 12-point font such as Times New Roman or Arial. This will help ensure that your text is clear and easy to read.

* Should You Double Space or Single Space?

For typed reports, double spacing is generally the norm. This will provide enough space for revisions and notes without making the report look cluttered.

By following these guidelines and considering the main formatting issues, you can create a well-organized and formatted rough draft that will serve as a great foundation for your final product. Remember to check with your instructor if they have any specific guidelines or requirements that you should follow.

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