UPDATED by the Graduate School: 7/27/2015
MICROSOFT OFFICE 365
GRADUATE SCHOOL REFERENCE GUIDE
Please use this checklist to verify your paper prior to submitting it to the Graduate School.
NOTE: Research paper template begins on the next page; delete this checklist before submitting.
Pagination
All page numbers are in Times New Roman 12 pt. and are Arabic numbers (1,2,3...)
The title page is #1 and the number is typed on the upper right hand side of the page.
All pages are counted and listed and the total number is listed in the appropriate space on the
title page.
No title information (aka running header) is included next to the page number.
Title/Submission information/Abstract pages
Use correct spelling and grammar [(particularly possessives, e.g. student’s vs. students’ or
teacher’s vs. teachers’) as well as affect vs. effect)].
Abstract page
Check for misspellings.
200 words in length (or less).
First paragraph does NOT have an indent, but the subsequent paragraphs are indented.
Title is formatted using bold and italics. (Smith, Jane. Title ABC)
Table of Contents (TOC)
Table of Contents heading is centered on the page and formatted in bold.
No entry for Acknowledgements or Table of Contents.
1st level headings are left justified; 2nd level headings are indented 0.5”; 3rd level headings are
indented 1”; 4th level headings are indented 1.5”; and so on.
Entries should be included for List of Tables and/or List of Figures if you have created those.
If 4 or more tables and/or figures appear in the paper, then they get a list; otherwise if 3 or
less tables and/or figures appear in the paper, incorporate them in the TOC; Table
#: Title Here, followed by page # listed directly in the TOC according to where it appears
within the body of the paper.
Each Appendix has a title, e.g. Appendix A: How I Survived Graduate School (should be the
same title used in the paper)
Citations (in-text)
APA format
All in-text citations are listed in the References section except personal communications.
Tables and Figures
List(s) of Tables and/or Figures are used only when the paper contains 4 or more tables
and/or figures.
List(s) of Tables and/or Figures appear on separate pages.
The format for listing tables (or figures) is as follows:
Table (or Figure) #: Title of Table/Figure…….pg #
Margins
Margins should be 1 inch all around the paper;
Body of the Work
“Introduction” should not be a sub-heading.
In Page layout, paragraph spacing before and after needs to be 0pt.
Definitions in Definition of Terms should be formatted like they were 3rd level headings, but
NOT included in TOC (indented 0.5”, bolded, and sentence cased (first letter of first
1
word only is Uppercased or if colon precedes the word; e.g. Third level heading:
Sentence cased followed by a period.)
PROOFREAD (spelling, grammar, style consistency, format consistency) before turning into
Research Adviser AND again before turning into the Graduate School.
Reference List
A-Z order
0.5” Hanging indent format (use ruler or paragraph menu to set, not the TAB key)
Insert one space after each period that separates each part of the reference (be consistent)
Use italics according to APA.
Include digital object identifier (DOI) for reference citations from on-line databases. If no
DOI number exists, find the journal homepage and provide that URL. (See: APA manual p.
198-199)
All web pages appear in black type (not blue). Hint: Web addresses that appear in blue are
“hyperlinked” addresses; once the hyperlink is removed the text will appear in black. (Right
click on the hyperlink and select remove hyperlink)
Appendices
Appendices are titled and paginated (should be the same title used in the TOC)
e.g. Appendix A: Title ABC (If there is only one appendix, then the appendix title
should be—Appendix: Title ABC).
UPDATED by the Graduate School: 7/27/2015
MICROSOFT OFFICE 365
The Following Research Paper Reference Guide is for you, the student, to use and be
informed of what the Graduate School WILL be expecting upon turning in a thesis paper. We
understand that papers may look different depending on the program, but overall the paper
should look very similar to what we have here. Look through the entire Research Paper
Reference Guide because there are tips on formatting different level headings, table of
contents, and writing.
NOTE: This thesis reference guide is meant to guide you in formatting your paper
according to APA (6th ed.). The number of chapters as well as the chapter
headings and sub-headings contained in a research paper will vary depending on
the type of research project. Plan B projects, in particular, vary by discipline and,
depending on the topic and the kind of research project, will use a variety of
appropriate headings and sub-headings; students should work closely with their
advisor when creating the research paper structure for their project.
*Delete this page before submission.*
1
Author:
Title:
Last Name, First Name Middle Initial.
Identification and Classification of Dragonflies: A Sixth-Grade
Environmental Education Curriculum Model
The accompanying research report is submitted to the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Graduate School in partial
completion of the requirements for the
Graduate Degree/ Major:
Research Advisor:
Julia Skimmer, Ph.D.
Submission Term/Year:
Number of Pages:
MS Training and Development
Spring 2011
57
Style Manual Used: American Psychological Association, 6th edition
I have adhered to the Graduate School Research Guide and have proofread my work.
I understand that this research report must be officially approved by the Graduate School.
Additionally, by signing and submitting this form, I (the author(s) or copyright owner) grant the
University of Wisconsin-Stout the non-exclusive right to reproduce, translate, and/or distribute this
submission (including abstract) worldwide in print and electronic format and in any medium,
including but not limited to audio or video. If my research includes proprietary information, an
agreement has been made between myself, the company, and the University to submit a thesis that
meets course-specific learning outcomes and CAN be published. There will be no exceptions to this
permission.
I attest that the research report is my original work (that any copyrightable materials have been
used with the permission of the original authors), and as such, it is automatically protected by the
laws, rules, and regulations of the U.S. Copyright Office.
My research advisor has approved the content and quality of this paper.
STUDENT:
NAME:
DATE:
ADVISOR: (Committee Chair if MS Plan A or EdS Thesis or Field Project/Problem):
NAME:
DATE:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---This section for MS Plan A Thesis or EdS Thesis/Field Project papers only
Committee members (other than your advisor who is listed in the section above)
1. CMTE MEMBER’S NAME:
DATE:
2. CMTE MEMBER’S NAME:
DATE:
3. CMTE MEMBER’S NAME:
DATE:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---This section to be completed by the Graduate School
This final research report has been approved by the Graduate School.
Director, Office of Graduate Studies:
DATE:
2
LastName, FirstName MiddleInitial. Identification and Classification of Dragonflies: A
Sixth-Grade Environmental Education Curriculum Model
Abstract
Note: Do not indent the first paragraph.
A completed abstract page includes preliminary information formatted as above, as well as a
concise summary of the paper. The abstract page is part of the research report (i.e. paper). All
pages are numbered using Arabic numerals (1, 2, etc.) The text is double spaced; margins are 1
inch as in the balance of the paper.
Abstracts should be no longer than 200 words in length, which is different than
what the APA manual states. Please utilize pages 25-27 in the APA manual for tips
regarding the qualities of a good abstract. Close attention should be paid to grammar and
spelling; papers with misspellings and typographical errors will be returned as will
abstracts that do not follow formatting as illustrated in this document.
3
Acknowledgments
Many students like to acknowledge people who have significantly contributed to their
graduate education on this page and are welcome to do so. Remember, however, that
Acknowledgments are not part of the scholarly work; Acknowledgments and its page number are
not listed in the Table of Contents.
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Table of Contents
IMPORTANT: Every heading in TOC should be appropriately capitalized—NO Sentence
casing is allowed, not even for 3rd, 4th, or 5th level headings. This format detail contributes to
the overall look of the professional paper.
Delete this text box before using the Built in Table of Contents.
Abstract ............................................................................................................................................2
List of Tables ...................................................................................................................................8
How to Make a Table in APA Style Using Word 2010 .......................................................9
Tables/Figures as an Appendix ..........................................................................................10
List of Figures ................................................................................................................................13
Figures Listed in the Table of Contents or in a Separate List ............................................15
Chapter I: Introduction ...................................................................................................................17
Statement of the Problem ...................................................................................................17
Purpose of the Study ..........................................................................................................17
Assumptions of the Study ..................................................................................................17
Definition of Terms............................................................................................................17
Limitations of the Study.....................................................................................................18
Methodology ......................................................................................................................18
Chapter II: Literature Review ........................................................................................................19
Viewing Headings with the Navigation View ...................................................................19
Formatting Styled Headings for the Paper .........................................................................19
Formatting Heading 1 ........................................................................................... 20
Heading 1 Font .......................................................................................... 20
Heading 1 Paragraph ................................................................................. 21
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Formatting Heading 2 ........................................................................................... 21
Heading 2 Font .......................................................................................... 22
Heading 2 Paragraph ................................................................................. 22
Formatting Normal Style ...................................................................................... 22
Using Clear All as a Formatting Tool ................................................................... 23
Formatting Multiple Headings .............................................................................. 24
Heading 3 Font .......................................................................................... 24
Heading 3 Paragraph ................................................................................. 24
Heading 4 Font .......................................................................................... 25
Heading 4 Paragraph ................................................................................. 25
Heading 5 Font .......................................................................................... 25
Heading 5 Paragraph ................................................................................. 25
Formatting for the List of Figures/Tables: Inserting Captions ..........................................26
Inserting a Caption for Figures ............................................................................. 26
Inserting a Caption for Tables............................................................................... 27
Viewing Styled Headings in the Paper ..............................................................................28
Implementing Styles Best Practices ...................................................................................29
Implementing Multiple Headings in the Paper for the TOC..............................................30
First Method to Formatting Multiple Headings .................................................... 30
Second Method to Formatting Multiple Headings................................................ 31
Implementing Table of Contents .......................................................................................37
Insert Built-In Table .............................................................................................. 38
Modify TOC Styles ............................................................................................... 38
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Implementing the List of Figures/Tables ...........................................................................40
Summary ............................................................................................................................41
Chapter III: Methodology ..............................................................................................................43
Subject Selection and Description .....................................................................................43
Instrumentation ..................................................................................................................43
Data Collection Procedures................................................................................................43
Data Analysis .....................................................................................................................43
Limitations .........................................................................................................................43
Summary ............................................................................................................................43
Chapter IV: Results ........................................................................................................................44
Item Analysis .....................................................................................................................44
Identifying Appropriate Layout of Information .................................................................44
Chapter V: Discussion, Conclusion and Recommendations..........................................................46
Discussion ..........................................................................................................................46
Conclusions ........................................................................................................................46
Recommendations ..............................................................................................................46
References ......................................................................................................................................47
Appendix A: An Introduction to APA Style and Research Paper FAQs. ......................................50
Appendix B: How to Format APA Headings ................................................................................51
Appendix C: How to Complete a Research Project .......................................................................52
Complete a Research Project? Yes, you can do it! ...........................................................52
Why Complete a Research Project and Write A Research Paper? ....................................52
How to Begin the Project? Read, Question, Take Notes and Record Citations ................53
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How to Begin the Paper .....................................................................................................54
Appendix D: Crediting Sources - Quoting, Paraphrasing and Plagiarism .....................................55
Direct Quotations ...............................................................................................................55
Paraphrasing .......................................................................................................................56
Plagiarism ..........................................................................................................................56
8
List of Tables
Table 1: I Am Equipped with the Computer Technology I Need To Work Efficiently in My
Classroom ..........................................................................................................................10
Table 2: Stats, Stats and More Stats. The Title of This Table is More Than a Single Line; Indent
the Second Line Just Like This ..........................................................................................11
Table 3: Less Than 3 Tables, no Need for a List (See Note 1 below) ...........................................12
Table 4: More Than 3 Tables, Need a List of Tables ....................................................................13
If you’ve constructed 4 or more tables (4, 5, 6, 7…) and plan to place them in the body of
your paper, include a list of them in a List of Tables. List the table number, colon, name and
page on which the table can be found, and all important words appropriately capitalized
(example above).
Note 1: Not all papers will have a List of Tables. If you have 3 or less tables (1, 2, or 3),
include them in the Table of Contents in pagination order.
Note 2: Not all papers will have a List of Figures. If you have 3 or less figures (1, 2, or
3), include them in the Table of Contents in the pagination order. See List of Figures below and
consult the APA manual (6th ed.) beginning on page 150 for more information regarding the use
of figures.
Note 3: Pay close attention to the purpose and format of your tables and figures. Tables
and figures are meant to provide a quick graphical reference to the textual discussion within your
paper; they should be concise. For a quick visual reference for formatting a variety of tables,
consult the APA manual. Below is information about producing tables as well as an example of
APA table format.
9
Note 4: Tables and figures should be in black and white or greyscale, in Times New
Roman font (12pt) and double spaced. Questions, consult APA manual (6th ed.) or the
Graduate School Director.
RECOMMENDATION: Do not copy and paste tables as pictures or graphics because
you can’t modify the picture if there are corrections needed. The only exception is if the table
was correctly formatted before it became a graphic or picture already BUT many times the table
is incorrect when it is copied and pasted as a picture or graphic and hard to read. Instead make
tables and graphs using the tools within your Microsoft Word document.
IMPORTANT: Previously published tables are copyright protected and cannot be used
without permission of the copyright holder. Do not include them in your paper, even if adapted,
without permission.
How to Make a Table in APA Style Using Word 2010
1. Click on the Insert tab, then go to Table and Insert Table.
2. Decide how many rows and columns you need. If you aren’t right the first time, you
can add or delete them later by Right clicking the mouse, Insert, Insert column, row,
etc.
3. Either format the table by Right clicking the mouse and utilizing borders, cell
alignment, table properties, etc. Or utilize Table tools when the table is highlighted.
On the next page you’ll find an example of a properly constructed table. Format tables using
black lines. The lines should be no thicker than 1 inch. Also, the light gray lines or gridlines
will not print out; they are there for your reference.
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Table 1
I Am Equipped with the Computer Technology I Need To Work Efficiently in My Classroom
Response
Frequency (N=143)
Percentage
Disagree
27
18.9%
Neutral
26
18.2%
Agree
89
62.3%
Note. Lines should be no more than 1 in. and black (Formatting Table Notes, p. 138 in APA
Manual (6th ed.)).
UW-Stout Graduate School formatting standard indicates that tables are to be doublespaced. However, if the table is longer than one page double-spaced, please request an
exception from the Graduate School Director. If your material is lengthy, consider including
it in an appendix rather than in the body of the paper. For more formatting details, please see
below; Tables/Figures as an Appendix.
Tables/Figures as an Appendix
If you decide to place a table or figure in an appendix, then the format for both a table
and figure will be different. Instead of a Table/Figure # and title of the table/figure, replace the
Table/Figure # with Appendix A followed by a colon and the title of the table/figure.
11
Example:
Appendix A: I Am Equipped with the Computer Technology I Need To Work Efficiently in
My Classroom
Response
Frequency (N=143)
Percentage
Disagree
27
18.9%
Neutral
26
18.2%
Agree
89
62.3%
Note. Example of a Table as an Appendix.
12
Example:
Appendix B: Surviving Bacterial Count (CFU/g) in Ice Cream with Varying Levels of
insulin (0% control, 1.5% and 3.0% w/w) During 28-Day Storage Period With Repeated
Thaw-Freeze Cycles (-20C/-5C  )
DELETE CHART TITLE
7
6
Log cfu/g
5
4
control thaw-freeze
3
1.5% thaw-freeze
2
3% thaw-freeze
1
0
3 days
6 days 10 days 14 days 21 days 28 days
Time
Note. Example of a figure as an appendix.
13
List of Figures
Figure 1: Example of Heading 1 Style ..........................................................................................21
Figure 2: Modify Style Box With the Properties for Heading 1 ....................................................21
Figure 3: Example of Heading 2 Style ...........................................................................................22
Figure 4: Formatting Normal Style ................................................................................................23
Figure 5: Utilizing Clear All ..........................................................................................................23
Figure 6: Example of Heading 3 Style ...........................................................................................25
Figure 7: Example of Heading 4 Style ...........................................................................................25
Figure 8: Example of Heading 5 Style ...........................................................................................26
Figure 9: Insert Caption Found Under the Reference Tab. ............................................................26
Figure 10: Caption Box Information..............................................................................................27
Figure 11: Where to Find Apply Styles .........................................................................................29
Figure 12: Where to Find the Icon for Apply Styles and What the Icon will Display ..................29
Figure 13: Line and Page Breaks ...................................................................................................30
Figure 14: Toggled Field Codes ....................................................................................................32
Figure 15: Selecting Field Code. ...................................................................................................32
Figure 16: Selecting Options. ........................................................................................................33
Figure 17: Selecting \f From the TC Field List..............................................................................34
Figure 18: Where to Find Quick Parts. ..........................................................................................34
Figure 19: Locating Field...............................................................................................................35
Figure 20: Example of the TC Field Text Entry and Field Options ..............................................36
Figure 21: TC Toggled Coding. .....................................................................................................36
Figure 22: Example Formatting Heading 3 and 4 ..........................................................................37
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Figure 23: Built-In Table Found Under the References Tab .........................................................38
Figure 24: Updating Table of Contents .........................................................................................38
Figure 25: Formatting Tab .............................................................................................................40
Figure 26: Table of Figures............................................................................................................41
Figure 27: Modifying Table of Figures/Tables ..............................................................................41
E.g. Figure 1: Surviving Bacterial Count (CFU/g) in Ice Cream with Varying Levels of Insulin
(0% control, 1.5% and 3.0% w/w) During 28-Day Storage Period with Repeated ThawFreeze Cycles (-20C/-5C  ).............................................................................................40
Figures are graphical representations used to provide a rich visual representation of
information. A figure can be a photograph, bar chart, pie chart, flow chart, line drawing, etc. A
properly constructed figure should stand on its own and convey a salient point to the reader. A
properly formatted figure includes a figure number and a “caption” which also serves as a title of
sorts that explains the figure.
The caption/title is brief, but gives the reader enough information to completely
understand the figure (explains the figure and serves as the figure title). It is placed below the
figure. A legend that explains symbols, abbreviations and terms used in the figure may also be
included. A figure number, caption/title, and legend are formatted to appear below the figure. A
title should not appear within the figure itself. See the example of a correctly formatted figure
below. Not all papers will have figures; consult the APA manual (6th ed.) for more information.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Previously published figures are copyright protected and cannot be used
without permission of the copyright holder. Do not include them in your paper, even if adapted,
without permission.
15
DELETE CHART TITLE
7
6
Log cfu/g
5
4
control thaw-freeze
3
1.5% thaw-freeze
2
3% thaw-freeze
1
0
3 days
6 days 10 days 14 days 21 days 28 days
Time
The following is the Figure #. Caption or title of the figure. This will be included in the TOC.
Figure 12. Surviving bacterial count (CFU/g) in ice cream with varying levels of inulin (0%
control, 1.5% and 3.0% w/w) during 28-day storage period with repeated thaw-freeze cycles
(-20C/-5C ).
The following is the legend or description of the figure. This will not be included in
the TOC.
Boughida, N. (2011). n. p. Reprinted with permission.
Figures Listed in the Table of Contents or in a Separate List
List 1, 2, or 3 figures in the Table of Contents by page number (see example below). If
you include 4 or more figures in your paper, create a List of Figures. List the number, title and
page (same format as for Tables; see example above under List of Figures).
Example:
Chapter IV: Results ........................................................................................................................14
Quantitative Results ...........................................................................................................14
Figure 1: List Title Here ....................................................................................................15
16
Qualitative Results .............................................................................................................16
Figure 2: List Title Here ....................................................................................................17
Figure 3. List Title Here.....................................................................................................18
Note: Not all papers will have a List of Figures; consult the APA manual (6th ed.) beginning on
page 150 for more information regarding the use of figures.
17
Chapter I: Introduction
Introductory information here. When starting a paper, one suggestion to help with
formatting during the writing process is to select the icon
found under the Home tab. This
icon allows for a student to see any formatting that may be present within the paper including
paragraphs, spaces, and inserted heading styles. Another suggestion is to use the Reveal
Formatting pane to see detailed formatting information for the selected part of your paper. To
open the Reveal Formatting pane, hold down the Shift key and the F1 key simultaneously.
Statement of the Problem
Statement of the problem should include the basic difficulty, area of concern, and/or
perceived need for the study.
Purpose of the Study
Discuss the goal - emphasize practical outcomes or products; who, what, when, where,
and how.
Assumptions of the Study
Discuss any assumptions here. A lead in statement before launching bullets, lists, or
terms is recommended. For example: In regards to this study, the following assumptions exist:
1. Assumption
2. Assumption
3. Assumption
Definition of Terms
A lead in statement before launching bullets, lists, or terms is recommended.
Term and its definition here. Only include terms that may not be well understood by a
layperson outside of your field. Information in this section is formatted in paragraphs just like
18
information in any other sub-heading. Usually, the terms will be in alpha order unless another
order is more representative of the subject matter. Also, bold all the terms, but not their
definitions. The use of bold for each term is for emphasis, not to indicate the beginning of a new
subheading. Treat each definition as if you were quoting from a dictionary. For example,
indicate that it is quoted material by adding the page number and putting it into quotation
marks if less than 40 words. Also, terms should be Sentence-cased ending in a period and not a
colon or comma. Be sure to be consistent throughout paper. If there is an ACRONYM, write it
out first and then follow with the acronym in parentheses (as below).
Training and Human Resource Development (THRD). This is a Master of Science
program offered at the University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout).
Term here. Type its definition here. Format each new term just as you would any new
paragraph.
Next term. Definition …
Limitations of the Study
Discuss the study’s limitations here. A lead in statement before launching bullets, lists,
or terms is recommended.
Methodology
Briefly outline the remainder of the paper.
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Chapter II: Literature Review
This example does not have general sub-headings indicated for Chapter II because they
will vary considerably from paper to paper. Introduction is not a sub-heading used in any
chapter. The format of headings and sub-headings depends upon the organization of your
arguments, evidence, deductions, and thoughts via the use of heading levels in your paper. Place
headings in their appropriate spot on the page and use boldface formatting as indicated. For
more information about headings, see the APA manual beginning on page 62 OR Appendix B
for formatting headings. See Appendix D for information about writing an effective literature
review.
The following will be content meant to provide useful tips for formatting headings, table
of contents, inserting captions (figure titles and table titles), list of figures, and list of tables
using the References tab in Microsoft Word (Table of Contents, Insert Captions and Insert Table
of Figures).
Viewing Headings with the Navigation Pane
The Navigation pane can be found under the “View” tab. The purpose of the navigation
pane is for identifying inserted headings when styled headings are implemented. The navigation
pane also provides a preview of what the table of contents (TOC) will look like and a quick link
to various sections of the paper.
Formatting Styled Headings for the Paper
Styled headings can be found under the “Home” tab. There are three styles to modify to
help organize thesis paper formatting requirements: Heading 1, Heading 2, and Normal. Some
students also choose to format 3rd and 4th level headings in a research paper and choose to
include these headings in the TOC, but it is a personal choice. Formatting 3rd and 4th level
20
headings are still necessary, but only in the body of the paper and can be temperamental, so there
are two options when implementing 3rd, 4th and 5th level headings. Each style is modified with
APA formatting in mind. Each style will be discussed in the following paragraphs along with
shorter descriptions in Appendix B describing the formatting of each heading.
Formatting heading 1. Heading 1 should follow these parameters:
1) Centered alignment
2) Times New Roman Font (12pt of course)
3) Bolded
4) Double spaced
5) Paragraph spacing before and after at 0pt
6) All first letters of appropriate words capitalized (excerpt from APA Manual 6th
addition, “Capitalize all words of four letters or more. Capitalize all verbs, nouns,
adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns…Also, capitalize the first word after a colon or
a dash in a title” (p. 101).
Formatting Heading 1 starts with locating the style Heading 1 under Styles found under the
Home tab. The heading will either show in the view window, or continue scrolling to find the
style. Most likely, Word has a preset style for Heading 1 AND aspects of the style are
incorrect for APA, so modifying the preset heading will need to be done. Once the style is
found, right click on Heading 1 and select modify. Locate the Format button on the bottom left
of the box. Start by selecting Font.
Heading 1 font. Change the font to Times New Roman and 12 pt. Be aware of any
other preset formatting and make the appropriate corrections. When the font selection has been
completed, select Paragraph under Format.
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Heading 1 paragraph. Start by changing the Alignment to Center. Then proceed to
Spacing and make sure Before and After are at 0 pt. Finally, change the line spacing to
double. When this action has been completed, click okay and make sure the Properties are
correct at the top of the Modify Style box. Below is an example of how Heading 1 should look:
Heading 1: Formatting Example
Followed by the content that is indented 0.5”.
Figure 1. Example of Heading 1 style.
See Figure 2 for further clarification for the style box. Below is an example of how Heading 1
should look:
Figure 2. Modify Style box with the properties for Heading 1.
Formatting heading 2. The process for formatting style Heading 2 is the same except
for the formatting details required of level Heading 2:
1) Left justify alignment
2) Times New Roman Font (again, 12pt)
3) Bolded
4) Double spaced
5) Paragraph spacing before and after at 0pt
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6) All first letters of appropriate words are capitalized (excerpt from APA Manual 6th
addition, “Capitalize all words of four letters or more. Capitalize all verbs,…, nouns,
adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns…Also, capitalize the first word after a colon or a
dash in a title” (pg. 101).
Formatting Heading 2 starts with locating Heading 2 also found under Styles within the Home
tab.
Heading 2 font. Change the font to Times New Roman and 12 pt. Again, be aware of
any other preset formatting. When this action has been completed, select Paragraph.
Heading 2 paragraph. Change the Alignment to left justify. Then proceed to Spacing
and Line Spacing. Make the appropriate modifications like done for Heading 1. When these
actions are completed, the Modify Box Properties should be the same as Heading 1 except
make sure the Name is now Heading 2. See Figure 1 again for further understanding. Below is
an example of how Heading 2 should look:
Heading 2: Formatting Example
Followed by the content that is indented 0.5”.
Figure 3. Example of Heading 2 style.
Formatting normal style. Normal style would be any format other than the headings.
Sometimes, formatting mistakes are made and a quick fix is to select the section that needs to be
corrected, and then choose the style Normal.
23
Figure 4. Formatting Normal style.
Again, this heading may be preset, so complete the process that was done for Headings 1
and 2. The difference between normal style and Heading 1 and 2 will be no bold or center
justified.
Using “clear all” as a formatting tool. Another helpful style is Clear All. Sometimes,
the styles in Word are temperamental, meaning Microsoft Word changes some formatting rule
and it then becomes more of a hassle than a quick formatting tool. When the styles become
temperamental, it is best to Clear All rather than use Normal and then implement the style again
if necessary.
Figure 5. Utilizing “clear all.”
NOTE: If you decide to write and then want to add these styles later or when making
corrections, do not use Normal if you have tables already formatted within the paper. By
updating Normal, it is possible all tables or anything else formatted with Normal will change.
For example, if the paper requires corrections but the table has been approved, then do not
24
proceed to update the Normal style when making corrections for your tables or the table will be
changed, and many times not the correct way. This is especially important if the table was
approved and has paragraph spacing at 1.5 or font size at 11 pt.
Formatting multiple headings. There are three questions to consider when deciding to
include more than two headings:
1. Is the organization of my headings in my research paper appropriate and will a reader
understand the progression of them?
2. Did I format all the levels correctly?
3. Do I want my next level of headings displayed in my TOC?
The first question should be addressed with a new set of eyes. Have your Research Adviser or a
friend look through the chapters with more than one heading and see if the organization is
appropriate in their opinion.
If YES to the second question only, then please see Appendix B for the short
descriptions of how to format 3rd, 4th, and 5th level headings and continue to read for the longer
version. If YES to both questions 2 and 3, then please read Implementing Multiple Headings
found later in Chapter II because there are two methods to format multiple headings that will be
displayed in the TOC.
Heading 3 font . IT MIGHT BE BEST TO DO THIS MANUALLY AND NOT USE
THE STYLE BAR. Change the font to Times New Roman and 12 pt. Also, bold the title and
make sure the title is sentence-cased and followed by a period. Again, be aware of any other
preset formatting. When this action has been completed, select Paragraph.
Heading 3 paragraph. Change the Alignment to Left justify AND indent to 0.5”.
Then proceed to Spacing and Line Spacing. Make the appropriate modifications like done for
25
Heading 1 and 2. When these actions are completed, the Modify Box Properties should be the
same as Heading 1 except make sure the Name is now Heading 3. See Figure 1 again for
further understanding. Below is an example of how Heading 3 should look:
Heading 3 formatting example. Then content follows the heading.
Figure 6. Example of Heading 3 style.
Heading 4 font . IT MIGHT BE BEST TO DO THIS MANUALLY AND NOT USE
THE STYLE. Change the font to Times New Roman and 12 pt. Also, bold AND italicize the
title. Make sure the title is sentence-cased followed by a period like Heading 3. Again, be aware
of any other preset formatting. When this action has been completed, select Paragraph.
Heading 4 paragraph. Change the Alignment to Left justify AND indent to 0.5”.
Then proceed to Spacing and Line Spacing. Make the appropriate modifications like done for
Heading 1, 2 and 3. When these actions are completed, the Modify Box Properties should be
the same as Heading 1 except make sure the Name is now Heading 3. See Figure 1 again for
further understanding. Below is an example of how Heading 3 should look:
Heading 4 formatting example. Then content follows the heading.
Figure 7. Example of Heading 4 style.
Heading 5 font . IT MIGHT BE BEST TO DO THIS MANUALLY AND NOT USE
THE STYLE. Change the font to Times New Roman and 12 pt. Also, do not bold, BUT
italicize the title. Make sure the title is sentence-cased followed by a period like Heading 3 and
4. Again, be aware of any other preset formatting. When this action has been completed, select
Paragraph.
Heading 5 paragraph. Change the Alignment to Left justify AND indent to 0.5”.
Then proceed to Spacing and Line Spacing. Make the appropriate modifications like done for
26
Heading 1, 2, 3, and 4. When these actions are completed, the Modify Box Properties should
be the same as Heading 1 except make sure the Name is now Heading 5. See Figure 1 again for
further understanding. Below is an example of how Heading 5 should look:
Heading 5 formatting example. Then content follows the heading.
Figure 8. Example of Heading 5 style.
Formatting for the List of Figures/Tables: Inserting Captions
In order to create a built-in List of Figures/Tables like that of a built-in TOC, some
preparation needs to occur. The process is very similar to formatting heading styles, but instead
of utilizing heading styles a student would use the Insert Caption tool found within the
References tab. This method will provide accurate titles for figures/tables in the paper and in
the LOF/LOT as well as accurate page numbers and formatting. This is a two-step process, so
make sure to continue reading Implementing the List of Figures/Tables for the second step.
Inserting a caption for figures. When inserting a new caption for a figure, follow the
instructions below:
a. Under the Reference tab, select Insert Caption.
Figure 9. Insert Caption found under the References tab.
b. Then change the label to Figure if it is not already.
27
Figure 10. Caption box information.
c. Either type in the title of the figure in the caption box (Figure 2. Title of ABC) or just
type the title after you click okay (because the Figure # and title are on the same line,
the information is kept together for the List of Figures…not the case for List of
Tables though).
d. Make sure below is selected since titles are under the figure.
e. Again, there may be a need to update the caption style to the appropriate formatting
guidelines, so see Implementing Styled Headings if you don’t know how or where to
modify the caption style.
Note: There are times where formatting will not be automatic like italicizing Figure X. Make the
appropriate adjustments. See the examples throughout Chapter II for clarification.
Inserting a caption for tables. When inserting a new caption for a table follow the
instructions below:
a. Follow the same steps as above except for a couple of details.
b. Change the label to Table if not already and select Above selected item.
28
i. Typing in the title will not work for the List of Tables when updated because the
titles are on the line below Table X. After “Table X” the information does not
hold when the LOT is inserted. If this is confusing, then it will be understood
after inserting a LOT.
ii. A couple of ideas on addressing this issue:
1. Keep the table title on the same line as the “Table #” and then after the
LOT has been created and is correct go back through the paper and
apply the appropriate format manually (Table # on one line and an
italicized table title on the second line above the table). Please see the
example in How to Make a Table in APA Style for clarification.
2. Keep the two lines separate and then manually type in the table title in
the LOT after it has been created.
This method for preparing for a LOT or LOF is user’s choice. It is not required, but it
does make checking one’s work much easier and less of a headache after you’ve been writing the
paper for weeks or months at a time.
Viewing Styled Headings in the Paper
In order to better view the styles, there are two options: 1) selecting Apply Styles (found
using the dropdown arrow next to styles) and 2) selecting the icon for applying styles in the
Apply Styles box. Each method can allow the user to implement formatting faster and more
accurately, but the use depends on the user. These methods are just different ways to implement
headings. See Figure 11 and Figure 12 for further understanding about implementing headings.
29
Figure 11. Where to find Apply Styles.
Figure 12. Where to find the icon for Apply Styles and what the icon will display.
Implementing Styles Best Practices
Adding heading styles right after typing the heading is not always the best option because
the style could be applied to the text following the headings. Instead follow these steps:
1. Type the heading
2. Press return after 1st or 2nd level headings.
a. For 3rd and 4th level, see Formatting 3rd and 4th level headings (Third level
heading.)
30
3. For 1st or 2nd level headings: Select the heading on the style toolbar and apply the
appropriate style.
a. For 3rd & 4th level, these levels like to be temperamental and if not careful all the
content following the heading will be formatted. (This will bring more headaches
when implementing the TOC if not corrected.) If this happens, modify 3rd & 4th
headings again, then select paragraph under format and Lines and Page Breaks.
Only have the first box checked. This will work some of the time. See Figure 13
for further details about Line and Page Breaks.
Figure 13. Line and page breaks.
Implementing Multiple Headings in the Paper for the TOC
As mentioned earlier, there are two methods when formatting multiple headings. The use
of either method is solely on the user/student formatting multiple headings. Remember, these
methods are only useful when multiple headings are going to be displayed in the TOC.
Otherwise, reread Formatting Multiple Headings found earlier in Chapter II.
First method to formatting multiple headings using Microsoft Office 365. The first
method follows the same steps that were done for Heading 1 and 2. The difference is that
31
WORD can be finicky with formatting Headings 3, 4, etc. because the content of the section
immediately follows the heading on the same line.
When applying 3rd level heading style, the title should be the only content modified; the
rest of the paragraph or content should be normal. Sometimes (not sure why this only occurs
sometimes) formatting that should only affect the title will affect the entire paragraph AND be
present when the TOC is updated. WORD is finicky because this should not happen according
to Microsoft WORD’s helpful guides, but unfortunately it does. The trick then is to allow the
change to the entire paragraph. Then manually correct the content in the paper and when
everything is done update the TOC and manually delete the unnecessary information.
NOTE: If this method is chosen, then remember to use Update page numbers only after
corrections have been made, otherwise you will need to make the same corrections over and over
again. See Figure 24 for more details.
Second method to formatting multiple headings. The second method is a little more
Microsoft WORD savvy. Instead of going through the hassle of deleting unnecessary words or
sentences from the TOC, change the field code of the TOC and insert TC field codes as a 3rd
level or 4th level headings (this method can be less work and less frustrating). The steps are as
follows:
1. To change the field codes of the TOC, place the cursor anywhere in the built-in Table
of Contents. Press Alt+F9.
a. This will toggle or display all field codes in the paper. Below is what you
should be viewing after Alt+F9 is pressed.
32
Figure 14. Toggled field codes.
2. Right click on the toggled field and select Edit Fields.
3. Select Field Codes.
Figure 15. Selecting Field Code.
33
4. Then select Options.
Figure 16. Selecting Options.
5. Finally in the list, select \f for “Builds a table of contents by using TC entries instead
of outline levels.” Select Add to Field and OK.
a. The \f will add to the TOC and not overwrite what has already been
established as can be seen in the complete Field Code: TOC\o “1-4”\h\z\u\f.
34
Figure 17. Selecting \f from the TC Field list.
6. Now, either during the writing of the paper or after, Insert a TC Field Code for the
3rd/4th/5th level heading (the headings which will be displayed in the TOC).
7. Go to INSERT and select Quick Parts.
Figure 18. Where to find Quick Parts.
8. When Quick Parts is selected, locate Field and select it.
35
Figure 19. Locating Field.
9. Once Field has been selected, use the scroll bar and find TC and select it. The list is
in alphabetical order.
10. When TC has been selected, a Text entry box will appear. Type the appropriately
capitalized heading here. Then select Outline level under Field Options AND in the
text box type the correct heading number (e.g. 3, 4, 5). See Figure 20 below for a
visual example.
a. Remember, in the TOC all titles are appropriately capitalized and do not follow
the sentence-cased formatting rules for 3rd, 4th and 5th headings; bolding, and/or
italicized rule for the body of the paper. Make the proper formatting corrections.
36
Figure 20. Example of the TC Field Text Entry and Field Options.
11. When all the steps have been completed click OK. The result should be an inserted
TC field with the heading typed out followed by \f C and the heading level in quotes
with either the appropriate body heading either before or after the TC field. See
Figure 21 for a visual example.
Figure 21. TC toggled coding.
37
a. While the title for the paper will look like this:
Formatting heading 3 and 4. Content will follow like it would normally for 3rd, 4th,
and 5th level headings.
Figure 22. Example formatting heading 3 and 4.
12. If you wish to see the TC formatting, then make sure the paragraph symbol is on,
otherwise the TC fields will not be seen.
13. To make sure everything worked, feel free to update the entire TOC at any point.
When implementing multiple headings, either method will work fine. It is all a matter of
preference when formatting your individual research paper. If you do not want to add more than
two levels to the TOC, then there is no need to worry about these two methods.
Implementing Table of Contents
A benefit to adding styles to a paper is the ease it affords in creating a Table of Contents
with having to worry about wrong page numbers, inaccurate reflection of headings between TOC
and the paper, and quick and easy formatting. The biggest part of formatting the TOC has
already been accomplished with the formatting and implementation of headings. The next step is
choosing a built-in TOC from the References tab. See Figure 23 for further understanding.
Note: It is a personal preference as far as how many levels of headings are displayed in
the TOC. Everyone is required to show 1st and 2nd level headings, but students have also chosen
to display 3rd and 4th level headings. Either way, consistency is necessary. If one chapter has 3rd
level headings displayed in the TOC, then all the chapters’ 3rd levels need to be shown.
38
Figure 23. Built-In table found under the References tab.
Insert built-in table. Use Automatic Table 2 because it is labeled Table of Contents
versus Contents. The Manual Table provides the template, but does not update the headings as
nicely as a built-in table would. Once the table is selected, the TOC will be displayed in the
paper (should be 3rd or 4th page of the thesis). To update the TOC, Right click the table and
choose either update page numbers or entire table.
Figure 24. Updating Table of Contents.
Modify TOC styles. Modifying the TOC headings may need to occur because the TOC
style format is different than the Heading 1 style that was already modified.
Note: Each Heading style is connected to a TOC style:
39

TOC 1 pertains to Heading 1

TOC 2 pertains to Heading 2

TOC 3 pertains to Heading 3

TOC 4 pertains to Heading 4, etc.
All the same steps apply when modifying the TOC 1, TOC 2, and maybe TOC 3/4 styles
as were done for Heading styles except now each heading (not 1st level) will need to be properly
indented and all of the TOCs will need to have the appropriate indent formatted. This can be
done when in Paragraph:

Indent 0.5” for 2nd level headings (or TOC2)

Indent 1” for 3rd level headings (or TOC3)

Indent 1.5” for 4th level headings (or TOC4)
Tab stop formatting. Tab stop formatting helps to keep each line in the Table of
Contents and List of Figures/Tables even with the next, especially when lines are indented. It is
another option of formatting that could be used besides clicking on the period key over and over
again, getting different alignments.
a. When in Paragraph, select Tab on the lower left.
b. Then type in 6.5, select Right, and select 2 with …. Click okay.
c. Do this when you are formatting TOC 1-3 and formatting List of Figures in the style
section.
40
Figure 25. Formatting tab stops.
Implementing the List of Figures/Tables
If you need to create a List of Tables or List of Figures, after all the tables and/or figures
have been added to the paper and formatted using the Insert Caption function, then Inserting
Table of Figures (Tables) is the next step.
a. Click on the References tab.
b. Click on Insert Table of Figures.
c. Depending on what is being inserted (table or figure), change the Caption Label.
See Figure 26 for more details.
d. Uncheck the box that says, “Use hyperlinks instead of page numbers.”
e. Select Modify found in the lower right hand corner of the Table of Figures box. See
Figure 27 for more details.
f. Change the settings if necessary (font, spacing, tab, etc.).
41
Note: Keep in mind that both the figures and tables headings within the LOT or LOF will need to
be formatted correctly and not like what is in the paper. Please see the List of Figures and List of
Tables found at the beginning of this paper for examples.
Figure 26. Table of Figures.
Figure 27. Modifying table of figures/tables.
Summary
The Microsoft Word version of inserting a Table of Contents, List of Figures, and List of
Tables is a suggestion and has been identified as a best practice. Also, remember the formatting
of Figure X and Table X is different between the List and the body of the paper. Both lists
42
require no italics and a colon between the number of the table/figure and the title of the
table/figure. The method can be frustrating at times, but it is rewarding at the end when page
numbers and headings/titles are accurate.
43
Chapter III: Methodology
Begin with an introduction. Some suggestions include reiterating the purpose statement
and briefly discussing what this chapter will include. Sections to be addressed might include
subject selection and description, instrumentation, data collection procedures, data analysis, and
limitations. Headings may be different by program area or adviser/committee preference.
Subject Selection and Description
Discuss the sample and population.
Instrumentation
Talk about the survey used, content, or format if applicable. Was it created for this
purpose or did you find it somewhere? If the instrument was professionally made, talk about its
validity and reliability.
Data Collection Procedures
A 57 question survey was administered…give enough detail so that the process could be
replicated.
Data Analysis
How was the data analyzed? Example: A number of statistical analyses were used in this
study. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences version 10.0 (SPSS, 2002) was used to
analyze the data. Independent T-Test analyses were conducted...
Limitations
Discuss methodological limitations, sample selection, instrument, or procedural
weaknesses.
Summary
This is optional, but make sure it is in the Table of Contents if you use it.
44
Chapter IV: Results
Start with another introduction, you might briefly reiterate the purpose of the study and
how it was conducted, e.g. a survey was given…. Your sub-headings for this chapter also will
vary considerably: some people use each question as a sub-heading and some don’t. If you do
use each question as a sub-heading, write out the question rather than just “Question 1.” The
purpose is to provide the reader with at-a-glance information about the nature and scope of your
paper.
Item Analysis
Use tables when appropriate, but don’t overuse them or discuss the whole table in text.
Discuss the high points in text, providing the table for further details. All tables should conform
to the APA style manual (6th ed.; see pages 125-150). See pages 6 and 7 of this document for
more information about tables as well as an example. Tables are different than figures, name and
refer to them appropriately. Information about figures can be found beginning on page 150 of
the APA manual (6th ed.).
Identifying Appropriate Layout of Information
There are many ways to write the results in this chapter. Some use the 2nd level heading
Data Analysis followed by 3rd level heading Interview question 1: Is… Another option is to
replace Data Analysis with Research Question 1: followed by the actual question, but using 3rd
level heading; Is there a god?....Both methods could work depending on how the topic is
addressed. The object is to organize the information in a way the reader will understand the
progression. If the data is being analyzed, then maybe the 2nd level heading should be Data
Analysis followed by the research question being discussed. Some students have also broken up
the results section based off the type of data: quantitative and qualitative. Note: shorter is
45
better as long as the title conveys meaning, but ultimately the decision is subjective.
Discuss with the research advisor and base the heading organization off the information
provided.
There is no hard rule as to whether a summary at the end of this chapter should be
provided since chapter 5 is often a summary. Discuss this with your advisor.
46
Chapter V: Discussion, Conclusion and Recommendations
Again, start with an introductory paragraph. Summarize what has happened in your
paper so far. This chapter will also vary considerably in headings and organization; what follows
is a suggestion or possibility.
Discussion
State important topics or issues again. This is where you should compare and contrast
what you reported in Chapter II: Literature Review and what your study found in Chapter IV:
Results.
Conclusions
Hit the high points of your findings. There should be a relationship to the literature
review: did your study correlate with previous research or did you find something different?
Recommendations
Recommend some further research or a change in practices. This can be one heading or
several, depending on your preference. Recommendations to the field, to different constituents,
for further research are a couple other heading options past students have utilized. Other topics
discussed in Recommendations include: modify instrument, different sample (size or
demographic), or change procedure.
47
References
Make sure that everything you cite in text is also in the reference list and vice versa. The
APA Manual (6th ed.) describes the correct format for each type of reference. Be especially
careful about how you reference and format on-line sources. Each entry should be in a hanging
indent format. Do not “tab” the indent. Instead use your ruler and indent 0.5”. See examples
of types of references below:
American Psychological Association. (Producer; 2000). Responding therapeutically to patient
expressions of sexual attraction [DVD]. Available from: www.apa.org/videos/
Boughida, N. (2011). Effect of Insulin on the Survival of Lactic Acid and Probiotic Bacteria in
Ice Cream. Retrieved from
http://www2.uwstout.edu/content/lib/thesis/2011/2011boughidan.pdf.
Bormann, C. A., & Stone, M. H. (2001). The effects of eliminating alcohol in a college stadium:
The Folsom Field beer ban [Electronic version]. Journal of American College Health,
50(2), 81-88.
Be consistent throughout the entire reference page. Formatting can be done with spaces
after a period within the name of an author or editor like highlighted above OR…
Crowl, T.K. (1993). Qualitative research methods. In P. Geller & S. Schmidt (Eds.).
Fundamentals of educational research (pp. 432-456). Dubuque, IA: Brown and
Benchmark.
OR where there is no space after the period with the name of an author or editor like
highlighted above. BUT the same method must be done throughout the entire reference section.
Federal initiative supporting school-to-work transition. (2000). Retrieved October 5, 2002, from:
www.transitioninschools.org
48
Herbst-Damm, K. L., & Kulik, J. A. (2005). Volunteer support, marital status, and the survival
times of terminally ill patients. Health Psychology, 24, 225-229. doi:10.1037/02786133.24.2.225
Herculano-Houzel, S., Collins, C. E., Wong, P., Kaas, J. H., & Lent, R. (2008). The basic
nonuniformity of the cerebral cortex. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
105, 12593-12598. doi:10.1073/pnas.0805417105
Liswood, L. A. (1999, March 31). Gender politics and the oval office: Why don't women run for
president? [Electronic version]. Baltimore Sun, A23.
Liu, S. (2005, May). Defending against business crises with the helpf of intelligent agent based
early warning solutions. Paper presented at the Seventh International Conference on
Enterprise Information Systems, Miami, FL. Retrieved from:
www.iceis.org/iceis2005/abstracts_2005.htm
MiddleKid. (2007, January 22). Re: The unfortunate prerequisites and consequences of
partitioning your mind [Web log message]. Retrieved from
http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2007/01/the_unfortunate_prerequisites.php
Pierson, A. (2000). Perceptions of high school faculty of the educational programs held at
libraries. (ERIC Document Reproduction No. ED ### ###)
Rusch, F., Conley, R., & McCaughrin, W. (1993). Benefit-cost analysis of supported
employment in Illinois. Journal of Rehabilitation, 59(2), 31-36.
Silick, T. J., & Schutte, N. S. (2006). Emotional intelligence and self-esteem mediate between
perceived early parental love and adult happiness. E-Journal of Applied Psychology, 2(2),
38-48. Retrieved from http://ojs.lib.swin.edu.au/index.php/ejap
Skrtic, T. M. (1996). Research methods. Menomonie, WI: Plenum Press.
49
Van Nuys, D. (Producer; 2007, December 19). Shrink rap radio [Audio podcast]. Retrieved
from: www.shrinkrapradio.com/
50
Appendix A: An Introduction to APA Style and Research Paper FAQs.
You’ll find helpful resources for producing your paper at the URLs below:
APA Style for UW-Stout Master’s Theses
http://libguides.uwstout.edu/apa_thesis
Research Paper Frequently Asked Questions
http://www.uwstout.edu/grad/faq_paper.cfm
The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/
51
Appendix B: How to Format APA Headings
APA Headings
Level Format
1
Centered, Boldface, Uppercase and Lowercase
Headings
2
Left-aligned, Boldface, Uppercase and Lowercase
Heading
3
Indented (0.5”), boldface, lowercase heading with
a period. Followed by the content.
4
5
Indented (0.5”), boldface, italicized, lowercase
heading with a period. Followed by the content.
Indented (0.5”), italicized, lowercase heading with a
period. Followed by the content.
Purdue Online Writing Lab. (2012). Levels of heading: Sixth edition (3.03). Retrieved from
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/10/
52
Appendix C: How to Complete a Research Project
Complete a Research Project? Yes, you can do it!
So now you’re in graduate school and expected to engage in a culminating research
project and write a paper; you’re beginning to panic. We all know that stepping out of our
comfort zone initiates a growth process and also increases our stress level. So how do you
mitigate the amount of stress associated with the research project process? Here are some tips:

Find comfort in knowing you’re not alone and that scores of people just like you have
successfully completed a research project/paper.

Surround yourself with supportive colleagues – classmates, faculty members, an
advisor with whom you connect. You need a cadre of people to act as sounding
boards, editors, word processing & statistical consultants, etc.

If you’re uncomfortable asking questions, conquer your fear; people become
knowledgeable by asking questions – it’s what a graduate student is supposed to do.
After all, if you knew all the answers, you wouldn’t be in school!
Enough of the “warm, fuzzy” stuff; it’s time to get busy on that project!
______________________________________________________________
Where do you start? First of all, understand WHY you’re writing this paper.
Why Complete a Research Project and Write A Research Paper?
The point of this piece of formalized instruction is to help you to understand how:

knowledge is created

to find sources of “scholarly” information
o (Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not all free and available “on the web.” In
fact, access to many of the most reliable sources of information are available
53
only in electronic databases purchased – for large sums of money - by
libraries for use by faculty, students & staff at that institution)

to evaluate the reliability of information, i.e., whether items reported as facts have
actually been proven to be true

to analyze and interpret literature

to effectively express important ideas utilizing your insight and ability to analyze

to contribute to a body of knowledge through research and presentation
How to Begin the Project? Read, Question, Take Notes and Record Citations
The following are things to think about when starting the research paper process.
1. As you progress through your coursework reading assignments, including those in
your textbook, start paying attention to the topics that pique your interest.
2. Begin to identify principle authors and reference works about that topic, either by
checking out the in-text citations, the references/bibliography section of the text
you’re reading or by using library tools to identify relevant materials. Make
friends with a Reference Librarian! S/he can be helpful in directing you to
relevant materials.
3. As you begin retrieving documents, read the abstracts. They will help you weed
out the articles that are only peripherally related to your interest area.
4. Record the questions that come to you while reading. Read with a critical eye –
don’t be afraid to question the points the researcher is making, the methodology,
etc.
5. Notice how the paper is written. If you find a particularly good article in terms of
style and structure, use it as a model for your own paper.
54
6. After you’ve finished reading the article, make summary notes (in your own
words including agreements/disagreements you might have with the author) and
record all pertinent information for citations!
7. Narrow your focus down to one question. A typical research project answers one
very narrowly focused question.
How to Begin the Paper
The following are some tips and steps to start the writing process for a research paper.
1. Create an outline.
2. Utilize writing guides to help focus your writing and develop your ability to
produce an effective paper.
a. Numerous research paper writing guides are available. A helpful and practical
guide that includes writing tips for all sections of the research paper, including
tips for writing a quality literature review is:
i. Brightwell, G. (1998). Writing up research: The guidebook. Retrieved
July 1, 2011, from http://www.ait.ac.th/education/LanguageCenter/aitwriting-services/guide-book/index.htm
NOTES:
1. The guide referenced above should be used to assist you in writing your paper. As it
does not use APA formatting style for references, it should not be used in lieu of the
UW-Stout Thesis template for formatting your research paper.
2. For instruction in formatting your paper according to UW-Stout guidelines, see the
research paper template at: http://www.uwstout.edu/grad/research.cfm.
55
Appendix D: Crediting Sources - Quoting, Paraphrasing and Plagiarism
Building an accurate knowledge base is a labor-intensive, relatively slow process
that relies on the ethics of each researcher involved. In this electronic era it is easy,
accidently or purposefully, to cut and paste from the work of others and attribute those
ideas to one’s self.
In order to avoid that, every researcher needs to be confident in the methods used
to cite resources, i.e., giving credit to those who helped formulate the ideas outlined in a
paper. Following are excerpts from the American Psychological Association (APA)
Publication Manual (6th ed.; 2010) regarding the use of references starting on page 171.
Direct Quotations
Credit direct quotations of any material “by providing the author, year, and page
number. Many electronic sources do not provide page numbers. If paragraph numbers
are visible, use them in place of page numbers” (APA, 2010, p. 171-172). Use the
abbreviation para or ¶ and the number. E.g. (para. 14) or (¶ 14).
Example of a direct quote from the APA Manual (6th ed.; 2010): Basu and Jones
(2007) went so far as to suggest the need for a new “intellectual framework in which to
consider the nature and from of regulation in cyberspace” (para. 4).
If headings are included in the paper, and neither paragraph nor page numbers are
visible, “cite the heading and the number of the paragraph following it to direct the reader
to the location of the quoted material” (APA, 2010, p. 172).
Example of a direct quote without a heading or page number from APA Manual
(6th ed.; 2010): In their study, Verbunt, Pernot, and Smeets (2008) found that “the level of
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perceived disability in patients with fibromyalgia seemed best explained by their mental
health condition and less by their physical condition” (Discussion section, para. 1).
“In some cases in which no page or paragraph numbers are visible, headings may
be too unwieldy to cite in full. Instead, use a short title enclosed in quotation marks for
the parenthetical citation” (APA, 2010, p. 172).
Example of a direct quote with no page number and with a heading too unwieldy
to cite: “Empirical studies have found mixed results on the efficacy of labels in educating
consumers and chancing consumption behavior: (Golan, Kuchler, & Krissof, 2007,
“Mandatory Labeling Has Targeted,” para. 4).
As a last resort, use n.p. to indicate no page number.
Paraphrasing
“When paraphrasing or referring to an idea contained in another work, you are
encouraged to provide a page or paragraph number, especially when it would help an interested
reader locate the relevant passage in a long of complex text” (APA, 2010, p. 171).
Plagiarism
As cited in APA Manual (6th ed.; 2010), “Authors do not present the work of another as if
it were their own work” (p. 170). “Whether paraphrasing, quoting an author directly, or
describing an idea that influenced your work, you must credit the source. To avoid charges of
plagiarism, take careful notes as you research to keep track of your sources and cite those
sources…” (APA. 2010, p. 170).
According to Dr. Amy Gillett, Interim Director of Graduate Studies, “When in doubt,
cite!”