Begin the endnotes on a new page at the end of the paper. Center the title “Notes” about one inch from the top of the page, and number the pages consecutively with the rest of the paper.

For details about the exact format for specific kinds of sources, consult the Directory to Chicago notes and bibliography entries.

Indenting and numbering

Indent the first line of each note one-half inch from the left margin; do not indent additional lines in the note. Begin the note with the arabic numeral that corresponds to the number in the text. Put a period after the number.

Line spacing

Single-space each note and double-space between notes (unless your instructor prefers double-spacing throughout).

URLs and DOIs

When a URL or a DOI (digital object identifier) must break across lines, do not insert a hyphen or break at a hyphen if the URL or DOI contains one. Instead, break after a colon or a double slash or before any other mark of punctuation.

If your word processing program automatically turns URLs into links (by underlining them and changing the color), usually you should turn off this feature. Some instructors, however, may prefer that you provide live links in papers submitted electronically. Check with your instructor if you are unsure of the requirements in your course.

Sample Chicago endnotes

Bishop, “The Massacre at Fort Pillow: Holding Nathan Bedford Forrest Accountable”

Directory to Chicago notes and bibliography entries

Directory to sample student writing in Chicago style