Research paper formatting seems to be the most disturbing and boring aspect of completing research papers. All those stupid rules – who invented them?
 
Well, unfortunately, we do not know the exact answer to this question but we know a lot about research paper formatting. By the way, format rules are not a set of stupid requirements.
 
Let us explain you why formatting research papers is really important.
 
First, papers organized according to some standard rules are easy to read and understand.
 
Second, research paper formats include some rules of arranging citations. If you follow them, you will never be accused of plagiarism. See, research paper formatting is not just someone’s whim.
Here are more guidelines for you.

1. MLA and APA are the two most widespread formats. Papers in Humanities and Liberal Arts are organized using MLA format. Research papers using APA format are written for Social Sciences.
2. Formatting research papers presupposes your awareness of numerous requirements. You can find all of them either in APA Formatting and Style Guide or MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers.
3. There are several common rules of formatting research papers using both styles:
   • double space the text of your paper;
   • use 12 pt. Times New Roman font;
   • 1 inch margins should be set on all sides of the document;
   • one space should be left after periods and other punctuation marks.

Actually, formatting a research paper is less frustrating than it seems at a glance. You simply need to be attentive, accurate, and equipped with necessary manuals for formatting research papers.
 
Do you need more tips for formatting research papers? On our blog, you can find an article about MLA research paper layout.