<p>This is a quick but important question about college papers (I'm a first-year who is still in the high school mindset). I'm in an upper-div class that requires an essay to be turned in as one of the midterms. My question is, are college essays normally double spaced? I've never turned one in before, so I'm not sure. Also, how is the format, generally, in terms of MLA format and other headings?</p>
<p>You should e-mail your professor/GSI/Reader about format. Generally you do double space but who knows, you might have a sadistic reader who wants a complex style. I’m guessing since you’re from the midwest you were brought up with the Chicago style.</p>
<p>Check out owl [Purdue</a> OWL: MLA Formatting and Style Guide](<a href=“Purdue OWL® - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University”>Purdue OWL® - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University)</p>
<p>Usually double-spaced and MLA format. Paragraph headings are okay (Abstract, Introduction, Background, Conclusion). Most professors/GSIs don’t care whether it’s MLA/Chicago/Turabian/APA, as long as you’re consistent in using the same format. I like MLA since I don’t like making footnotes. Though for science research papers it’s usually APA style.</p>
<p>Oh yeah, jstor.org comes in really handy.</p>
<p>Also, it’s helpful to use citationmachine.net to cite your sources using plug and chug.</p>
<p>My CCC English professor always pointed out that MLA suggests the use of paperclips instead of staples. He personally preferred it that way so he could lay multiple pages side-by-side. I believe the handbook allows for staples if the professor requests them, but prefers paperclips. I don’t have my copy handy, though.</p>
<p>Lemoncat, noticed elsewhere you’re taking a history class. For history you can’t go wrong with Turabian (condensed & very understandable Chicago Style). It’s the “gold standard” for the social sciences. But good to ask your GSR or GSI. Yes, double space, one side. Just makes it a lot easier on the reader. Good luck with your paper!</p>