Font
If your instructor does not require a specific font, choose one that is standard and easy to read (such as Times New Roman).
Title page
Center all information on the title page: the title of your paper, your name, the name of the course, and the date.
Pagination
The title page is counted as page 1, although a number does not appear. Number the first page of the text of the paper as page 2. Type a shortened form of the title followed by the page number in the top right corner of each page after the first.
Margins, spacing, and indentation
Leave margins of at least one inch on all sides of the page. Left-align the text.
Double-space throughout the paper. Indent the first line of each paragraph one-half inch. When a quotation is set off from the text, indent the entire quotation one-half inch from the left margin.
Abstract
An abstract is a single paragraph at the beginning of the paper that summarizes the paper and might include your research methods, findings, and conclusions. Do not include citations in the abstract.
Headings
CSE encourages the use of headings to help readers follow the organization of a paper. Common headings for papers reporting research are Introduction, Methods (or Methods and Materials), Results, and Discussion. If you use both headings and subheadings for a long paper, make sure to distinguish clearly between them with your choice of typography.
Visuals
A visual, such as a table, figure, or chart, should be placed as close as possible to the text that discusses it. In general, try to place visuals at the top of a page.
Appendixes
Appendixes may be used for relevant information that is too long to include in the body of the paper. Label each appendix and give it a title (for example, Appendix 1: Methodologies Used by Previous Researchers).
Acknowledgments
An acknowledgments section is common in scientific writing because research is often conducted with help from others. For example, you might give credit to colleagues who reviewed your work, to organizations that funded your work, and to writers who allowed you to cite their unpublished work. Place the acknowledgments at the end of the paper before the reference list.
Sample CSE title page
Johnson/Arnold, “Distribution Pattern of Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) on an Abandoned Golf Course”
Martin, “Hypothermia, the Diving Reflex, and Survival” (CSE)
Related topic:
CSE guidelines, reference list