Turabian Format of a Research Paper

This article is directed towards one of the many formats of a research paper available in modern times. Many guidelines and books exist that focus on the issue and guide the writers through.

Before you start focusing on the basic format and structuring of the Turabian format, you are advised to pay attention on more important things such as, which of the areas that Turabian format caters, why should one use such a format instead of using the other available formats in the market.

Next you should focus on the building structure of the paper. How to use sources effectively in each section of the paper, how the citations should be incorporated in the paper, how footnotes are to be utilized properly, how links to the other electronic sources related to the very topic should be provided in the paper, etc.

The most important question is what types of research fields use Turabian format to present the thoughts and ideas to the world. This style carries a particular charm in it as you may use it in any subject you want to. It is not bound to any particular group of subjects. You can use it freely in the field of natural sciences, business studies, social sciences, humanity research work, etc. Most of the students prefer using this type of format when their instructor does not suggest any particular format for them to write on. However, it is important not to mix different styles in one paper. If you are following one pattern, stick to it through out the paper.

Having an understanding about how to write an academic paper is very essential no matter what format you follow. The basic rules and guidelines do not differ and are considered universal. Like any other format of a research paper, Turabian style follows the same rules too. It is sectored in three main partitions. First is the front section that includes the title page, content tables, acknowledgments, dedications, abstract, introduction, etc. Then comes the body of the paper which actually contains the important ideas and discoveries related to the topic. Double spacing should be strictly followed through out the writing excluding end notes and bibliographies. Page numbers should be present on each page with the exception of the front one. Keeping in mind that the Turabian style allows almost every subject field present in this format; it offers a number of different citation patterns such as citation with corresponding reference, author-date or parenthetical reference. There exists a proper guideline about how to use footnotes appropriately when using Turabian style. Making personal changes or drifting away from the pre-requisites of the format may make your paper look unprofessional and awkward.

If you are willing to achieve command over this writing format, you need to be able to use citation in all formats and more so effectively. You should be able to recognize which citation is appropriate in which subject and use the guidelines accordingly. Turabian style offers vast range of structures and formats with in itself since it incorporates very many fields in it. It is the foremost duty of the writer to understand the demand of his topic and choose the format accordingly. Doing well in Turabian style ensures that you can write an authentic research paper in every subject which is a big plus for any writer in the field of research.