Formatting might seem like a minor detail, but professors notice it. A few minutes spent getting margins, fonts, and spacing right pays off in a polished impression.
Universal essay formatting rules
- Margins: 1 inch on all sides (top, bottom, left, right)
- Font: 12pt, standard font (Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri)
- Spacing: Double-spaced throughout (including references/works cited)
- Page numbers: Usually top right corner
- Alignment: Left-aligned body text
What each style requires differently
MLA: No title page; header block on page 1 with name, instructor, course, date
Chicago: Title page (separate from body); page numbers (skip on title page)
Common formatting errors
Widening margins to make a short essay look longer
Professors check. Use standard 1-inch margins — no exceptions.
Using single spacing to save space
Always double-space unless explicitly told otherwise. Single-space footnotes only (Chicago style).
Inconsistent indentation on paragraphs
Either indent every paragraph (0.5 inch) or use block paragraphs with extra space between them. Pick one, not both.
Inconsistent font or font size
Use the same 12pt font throughout. Headings can be slightly larger, but keep the body consistent.
Quick formatting checklist
- Margins set to 1 inch all sides ✓
- Font 12pt, consistent throughout ✓
- Double spacing applied to full essay ✓
- Page numbers visible (top right for most styles) ✓
- Title page or header block as required ✓
- Paragraphs indented consistently (or block-style) ✓
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Our editors ensure your formatting matches your required style perfectly.
Order formatting helpHow to set up margins in common word processors
Microsoft Word: File → Page Setup → Margins → set all to 1 inch
Google Docs: File → Page Setup → Margins → set all to 1 inch
Apple Pages: Document → Page Setup → adjust margin sliders
FAQ
Stick to your assignment requirements, but Times New Roman or Arial are always safe. Avoid decorative or script fonts.
Use standard formatting (1-inch margins, 12pt, double-spaced) and match the citation style they requested. When in doubt, ask.
No — keep double spacing throughout. If your essay runs long, revise the content, don't cheat on spacing.