should you indent college essays

How and When to Use Indentation in Academic and Professional Writing

Writing an essay, research paper, and assignments involves coordinating many things simultaneously. You can only achieve good academic writing when you adhere to the correct formatting style of a paper. Often, indenting the paragraphs is an ingredient to paper formatting that most students either ignore or are unaware of. Apart from setting up the right 1-inch margins around the paper, setting the paper in double or single-spacing, having page numbers, and titling your work, you need to ensure that you indent it appropriately. 

In academic writing, which is usually done on Microsoft Word, indentation means formatting the paragraphs so that the first sentence is slightly pushed forward, leaving a space between the margin and the first word. Indenting your paragraph helps in organization and distinguishing a paragraph from the next. You should always indent your topic sentences, conclusion paragraphs, and the first sentence of the introduction paragraph.

If you are wondering "do I need to tab every paragraph", you came to the right place. Let us explore the best practices for indenting an academic or professional paper.

Should you indent every paragraph in your essay or research paper?

You should indent every paragraph when writing an essay, research paper, term paper, thesis, or dissertation. This applies to the APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard writing formats. Ensure that each of the first lines for every new paragraph you are writing is indented 0.5 inches from the left margin.

To indent in a word document, use the tab key or press the space bar five times. Using the tab key is far much accurate because it sets the cursor at the exact place where you need to type your first sentence in the paragraph.

When writing a long research paper or essay that needs an abstract, ensure that you indent the paragraphs of the paper but not the abstract. An abstract is never indented. Instead, when writing an abstract, left-align the entire paragraph so there is no indent. Again, this special formatting technique for the abstract helps to distinguish it from the rest of the paper.

Having answered the most pertinent question, let us have an overview of what this means for the formatting styles such as MLA, APA, Chicago, or Harvard formatting.

Related reading:

• How to write good paragraphs in an essay.

Main formatting Styles and Indentation

In high school, college, or university, essays and other academic assignments and homework are written following academic writing conventions. It is a requirement to stick to a specific formatting and citation style when writing a specific paper. The formatting styles depend on the subject.

For instance, most English papers are written in MLA, APA, Harvard, and Chicago. If you are a nursing student, you will write most papers in APA, ASA, Harvard, or AMA formatting style. Humanities such as religious studies, history, arts, and literature will use the Chicago style. Most social sciences, such as criminology, will use Harvard and APA formatting styles. The list is endless.

Whenever you doubt the style requirements, check out the style guides available online to proceed with writing when you are sure about what to include and what not to include.

MLA Formatting Requirements

When writing a paper in MLA format, you should indent each paragraph in the essay or research paper. Besides, you should also indent the block quotes 0.5 inches and not include quotation marks.

You can indent the paragraphs by pressing the tab key or setting the indentation from the word processor you are using.

The works cited page is left-aligned but set in a hanging indent of 0.5 inches. Everything in the paper is left-aligned and not justified.

APA Formatting Requirements

When writing an essay in APA format, ensure that you indent the lines of all the paragraphs in your essay or paper except for the abstract that is not indented.

You should indent the first lines of the introduction and conclusion paragraphs. Ensure that you press one-tab space in the next line where you are about to begin a new paragraph so that you make a 0.5” indentation.

You can set automatic indentation in a word document and ensure that there are no spaces between paragraphs and that the entire paragraph is left-aligned.

However, for your references in the list of references, ensure they are left-aligned and formatted with a hanging indent. The same applies when writing an annotated bibliography; the reference and the annotation should be in a hanging indent.

When writing a direct quotation, you should also indent it if you are lifting a block quote from a text. This applies if the quote is longer than three lines. Indent the entire quote0.5 inches from the margin and do not include the quotation marks.

Harvard Formatting Style - Indentation

When writing a paper that follows the Harvard Style guideline, ensure that you indent your essay as you type and not after the writing process. It might take a long time to write the paper, but you will complete it with the deserved organization that is easy to follow.

If you are writing a dissertation, thesis, scientific paper, or proposal in Harvard format, waiting until the end to indent the paragraphs will disturb your flow. You will also have a challenge distinguishing the paragraphs.

Note that indentation in Harvard formatting style follows the same conventions as that of APA, which we explained in the previous section. In Harvard formatting, indent all the paragraphs and block quotes but the reference list. Like APA, MLA, Chicago, and Oxford, the reference list has a hanging indent where the first line flashes to the left and the rest of the lines 0.5 inches to the right.

Chicago Formatting Style

In Chicago style formatting, you should double-space your text, including the notes and the bibliography sections. While doing so, ensure that the first line in each new paragraph in your essay or paper is indented. You can achieve this by hitting the tab key.

The footnotes or endnotes in Chicago formatting:

• The paper has a uniform 1-inch margin around the paper
• Use a hanging indent of 0.5 inches on the bibliography entry, and it should be single-spaced but double-space between entries
• Ensure that the block quotations are indented 0.5 inches and double-spaced
• Indent all the paragraphs in the body of the paper
• Indent all the footnotes and the endnotes 0.5 inches from the left margin. The notes are single-spaced
• The introduction and the conclusion must be indented 0.5 inches

Setting Indent in Microsoft Word

If you are using a Microsoft Word processor, select the paragraphs you want to indent , then on the home button, click on the dialog box launcher. Choose the right indent and set the line spacing, and click OK.

Related reading: the standard number of paragraphs in an essay .

Even though indentation is a critical formatting technique in academic writing, most people wonder when to do it. Luckily, we have demystified everything in this article, including how to do it in Microsoft Word.

When writing your next essay or research paper, ensure that you do it right. And as you proofread for errors and style, check if you have indented your paper correctly. Whether you are writing the paper in APA, Harvard, Chicago, or MLA, you are now aware of what to do with indentation.

Indenting your paragraphs in an essay helps break and determine the small paragraphs, and your readers can follow the paragraphs and connect the ideas in them. Now that you know how to indent ensure that you break paragraphs using indentation and write as you indent.

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

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How to Format A College Essay: 15 Expert Tips

College Essays

When you're applying to college, even small decisions can feel high-stakes. This is especially true for the college essay, which often feels like the most personal part of the application. You may agonize over your college application essay format: the font, the margins, even the file format. Or maybe you're agonizing over how to organize your thoughts overall. Should you use a narrative structure? Five paragraphs?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll go over the ins and outs of how to format a college essay on both the micro and macro levels. We'll discuss minor formatting issues like headings and fonts, then discuss broad formatting concerns like whether or not to use a five-paragraph essay, and if you should use a college essay template.

How to Format a College Essay: Font, Margins, Etc.

Some of your formatting concerns will depend on whether you will be cutting and pasting your essay into a text box on an online application form or attaching a formatted document. If you aren't sure which you'll need to do, check the application instructions. Note that the Common Application does currently require you to copy and paste your essay into a text box.

Most schools also allow you to send in a paper application, which theoretically gives you increased control over your essay formatting. However, I generally don't advise sending in a paper application (unless you have no other option) for a couple of reasons:

Most schools state that they prefer to receive online applications. While it typically won't affect your chances of admission, it is wise to comply with institutional preferences in the college application process where possible. It tends to make the whole process go much more smoothly.

Paper applications can get lost in the mail. Certainly there can also be problems with online applications, but you'll be aware of the problem much sooner than if your paper application gets diverted somehow and then mailed back to you. By contrast, online applications let you be confident that your materials were received.

Regardless of how you will end up submitting your essay, you should draft it in a word processor. This will help you keep track of word count, let you use spell check, and so on.

Next, I'll go over some of the concerns you might have about the correct college essay application format, whether you're copying and pasting into a text box or attaching a document, plus a few tips that apply either way.

Formatting Guidelines That Apply No Matter How You End Up Submitting the Essay:

Unless it's specifically requested, you don't need a title. It will just eat into your word count.

Avoid cutesy, overly colloquial formatting choices like ALL CAPS or ~unnecessary symbols~ or, heaven forbid, emoji and #hashtags. Your college essay should be professional, and anything too cutesy or casual will come off as immature.

Mmm, delicious essay...I mean sandwich.

Why College Essay Templates Are a Bad Idea

You might see college essay templates online that offer guidelines on how to structure your essay and what to say in each paragraph. I strongly advise against using a template. It will make your essay sound canned and bland—two of the worst things a college essay can be. It's much better to think about what you want to say, and then talk through how to best structure it with someone else and/or make your own practice outlines before you sit down to write.

You can also find tons of successful sample essays online. Looking at these to get an idea of different styles and topics is fine, but again, I don't advise closely patterning your essay after a sample essay. You will do the best if your essay really reflects your own original voice and the experiences that are most meaningful to you.

College Application Essay Format: Key Takeaways

There are two levels of formatting you might be worried about: the micro (fonts, headings, margins, etc) and the macro (the overall structure of your essay).

Tips for the micro level of your college application essay format:

• Always draft your essay in a word processing software, even if you'll be copy-and-pasting it over into a text box.
• If you are copy-and-pasting it into a text box, make sure your formatting transfers properly, your paragraphs are clearly delineated, and your essay isn't cut off.
• If you are attaching a document, make sure your font is easily readable, your margins are standard 1-inch, your essay is 1.5 or double-spaced, and your file format is compatible with the application specs.
• There's no need for a title unless otherwise specified—it will just eat into your word count.

Tips for the macro level of your college application essay format :

• There is no super-secret college essay format that will guarantee success.
• In terms of structure, it's most important that you have an introduction that makes it clear where you're going and a conclusion that wraps up with a main point. For the middle of your essay, you have lots of freedom, just so long as it flows logically!
• I advise against using an essay template, as it will make your essay sound stilted and unoriginal.

Plus, if you use a college essay template, how will you get rid of these medieval weirdos?

What's Next?

Still feeling lost? Check out our total guide to the personal statement , or see our step-by-step guide to writing the perfect essay .

If you're not sure where to start, consider these tips for attention-grabbing first sentences to college essays!

And be sure to avoid these 10 college essay mistakes .

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Ellen has extensive education mentorship experience and is deeply committed to helping students succeed in all areas of life. She received a BA from Harvard in Folklore and Mythology and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University.

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College essays are an entirely new type of writing for high school seniors. For that reason, many students are confused about proper formatting and essay structure. Should you double-space or single-space? Do you need a title? What kind of narrative style is best-suited for your topic?

In this post, we’ll be going over proper college essay format, traditional and unconventional essay structures (plus sample essays!), and which structure might work best for you. 

General College Essay Formatting Guidelines

How you format your essay will depend on whether you’re submitting in a text box, or attaching a document. We’ll go over the different best practices for both, but regardless of how you’re submitting, here are some general formatting tips:

• There’s no need for a title; it takes up unnecessary space and eats into your word count
• Stay within the word count as much as possible (+/- 10% of the upper limit). For further discussion on college essay length, see our post How Long Should Your College Essay Be?
• Indent or double space to separate paragraphs clearly

If you’re submitting in a text box:

• Avoid italics and bold, since formatting often doesn’t transfer over in text boxes
• Be careful with essays meant to be a certain shape (like a balloon); text boxes will likely not respect that formatting. Beyond that, this technique can also seem gimmicky, so proceed with caution
• Make sure that paragraphs are clearly separated, as text boxes can also undo indents and double spacing

If you’re attaching a document:

• Use a standard font and size like Times New Roman, 12 point
• Make your lines 1.5-spaced or double-spaced
• Use 1-inch margins
• Save as a PDF since it can’t be edited. This also prevents any formatting issues that come with Microsoft Word, since older versions are sometimes incompatible with the newer formatting
• Number each page with your last name in the header or footer (like “Smith 1”)
• Pay extra attention to any word limits, as you won’t be cut off automatically, unlike with most text boxes

Conventional College Essay Structures

Now that we’ve gone over the logistical aspects of your essay, let’s talk about how you should structure your writing. There are three traditional college essay structures. They are:

• In-the-moment narrative
• Narrative told over an extended period of time
• Series of anecdotes, or montage

Let’s go over what each one is exactly, and take a look at some real essays using these structures.

1. In-the-moment narrative

This is where you tell the story one moment at a time, sharing the events as they occur. In the moment narrative is a powerful essay format, as your reader experiences the events, your thoughts, and your emotions with you . This structure is ideal for a specific experience involving extensive internal dialogue, emotions, and reflections.

Here’s an example:

The morning of the Model United Nation conference, I walked into Committee feeling confident about my research. We were simulating the Nuremberg Trials – a series of post-World War II proceedings for war crimes – and my portfolio was of the Soviet Judge Major General Iona Nikitchenko. Until that day, the infamous Nazi regime had only been a chapter in my history textbook; however, the conference’s unveiling of each defendant’s crimes brought those horrors to life. The previous night, I had organized my research, proofread my position paper and gone over Judge Nikitchenko’s pertinent statements. I aimed to find the perfect balance between his stance and my own.

As I walked into committee anticipating a battle of wits, my director abruptly called out to me. “I’m afraid we’ve received a late confirmation from another delegate who will be representing Judge Nikitchenko. You, on the other hand, are now the defense attorney, Otto Stahmer.” Everyone around me buzzed around the room in excitement, coordinating with their allies and developing strategies against their enemies, oblivious to the bomb that had just dropped on me. I felt frozen in my tracks, and it seemed that only rage against the careless delegate who had confirmed her presence so late could pull me out of my trance. After having spent a month painstakingly crafting my verdicts and gathering evidence against the Nazis, I now needed to reverse my stance only three hours before the first session.

Gradually, anger gave way to utter panic. My research was fundamental to my performance, and without it, I knew I could add little to the Trials. But confident in my ability, my director optimistically recommended constructing an impromptu defense. Nervously, I began my research anew. Despite feeling hopeless, as I read through the prosecution’s arguments, I uncovered substantial loopholes. I noticed a lack of conclusive evidence against the defendants and certain inconsistencies in testimonies. My discovery energized me, inspiring me to revisit the historical overview in my conference “Background Guide” and to search the web for other relevant articles. Some Nazi prisoners had been treated as “guilty” before their court dates. While I had brushed this information under the carpet while developing my position as a judge, it now became the focus of my defense. I began scratching out a new argument, centered on the premise that the allied countries had violated the fundamental rule that, a defendant was “not guilty” until proven otherwise.

At the end of the three hours, I felt better prepared. The first session began, and with bravado, I raised my placard to speak. Microphone in hand, I turned to face my audience. “Greetings delegates. I, Otto Stahmer would like to…….” I suddenly blanked. Utter dread permeated my body as I tried to recall my thoughts in vain. “Defence Attorney, Stahmer we’ll come back to you,” my Committee Director broke the silence as I tottered back to my seat, flushed with embarrassment. Despite my shame, I was undeterred. I needed to vindicate my director’s faith in me. I pulled out my notes, refocused, and began outlining my arguments in a more clear and direct manner. Thereafter, I spoke articulately, confidently putting forth my points. I was overjoyed when Secretariat members congratulated me on my fine performance.

Going into the conference, I believed that preparation was the key to success. I wouldn’t say I disagree with that statement now, but I believe adaptability is equally important. My ability to problem-solve in the face of an unforeseen challenge proved advantageous in the art of diplomacy. Not only did this experience transform me into a confident and eloquent delegate at that conference, but it also helped me become a more flexible and creative thinker in a variety of other capacities. Now that I know I can adapt under pressure, I look forward to engaging in activities that will push me to be even quicker on my feet.

This essay is an excellent example of in-the-moment narration. The student openly shares their internal state with us — we feel their anger and panic upon the reversal of roles. We empathize with their emotions of “utter dread” and embarrassment when they’re unable to speak. 

For in-the-moment essays, overloading on descriptions is a common mistake students make. This writer provides just the right amount of background and details to help us understand the situation, however, and balances out the actual event with reflection on the significance of this experience. 

One main area of improvement is that the writer sometimes makes explicit statements that could be better illustrated through their thoughts, actions, and feelings. For instance, they say they “spoke articulately” after recovering from their initial inability to speak, and they also claim that adaptability has helped them in other situations. This is not as engaging as actual examples that convey the same meaning. Still, this essay overall is a strong example of in-the-moment narration, and gives us a relatable look into the writer’s life and personality.

2. Narrative told over an extended period of time

In this essay structure, you share a story that takes place across several different experiences. This narrative style is well-suited for any story arc with multiple parts. If you want to highlight your development over time, you might consider this structure. 

When I was younger, I was adamant that no two foods on my plate touch. As a result, I often used a second plate to prevent such an atrocity. In many ways, I learned to separate different things this way from my older brothers, Nate and Rob. Growing up, I idolized both of them. Nate was a performer, and I insisted on arriving early to his shows to secure front row seats, refusing to budge during intermission for fear of missing anything. Rob was a three-sport athlete, and I attended his games religiously, waving worn-out foam cougar paws and cheering until my voice was hoarse. My brothers were my role models. However, while each was talented, neither was interested in the other’s passion. To me, they represented two contrasting ideals of what I could become: artist or athlete. I believed I had to choose.

And for a long time, I chose athlete. I played soccer, basketball, and lacrosse and viewed myself exclusively as an athlete, believing the arts were not for me. I conveniently overlooked that since the age of five, I had been composing stories for my family for Christmas, gifts that were as much for me as them, as I loved writing. So when in tenth grade, I had the option of taking a creative writing class, I was faced with a question: could I be an athlete and a writer? After much debate, I enrolled in the class, feeling both apprehensive and excited. When I arrived on the first day of school, my teacher, Ms. Jenkins, asked us to write down our expectations for the class. After a few minutes, eraser shavings stubbornly sunbathing on my now-smudged paper, I finally wrote, “I do not expect to become a published writer from this class. I just want this to be a place where I can write freely.”

Although the purpose of the class never changed for me, on the third “submission day,” – our time to submit writing to upcoming contests and literary magazines – I faced a predicament. For the first two submission days, I had passed the time editing earlier pieces, eventually (pretty quickly) resorting to screen snake when hopelessness made the words look like hieroglyphics. I must not have been as subtle as I thought, as on the third of these days, Ms. Jenkins approached me. After shifting from excuse to excuse as to why I did not submit my writing, I finally recognized the real reason I had withheld my work: I was scared. I did not want to be different, and I did not want to challenge not only others’ perceptions of me, but also my own. I yielded to Ms. Jenkin’s pleas and sent one of my pieces to an upcoming contest.

By the time the letter came, I had already forgotten about the contest. When the flimsy white envelope arrived in the mail, I was shocked and ecstatic to learn that I had received 2nd place in a nationwide writing competition. The next morning, however, I discovered Ms. Jenkins would make an announcement to the whole school exposing me as a poet. I decided to own this identity and embrace my friends’ jokes and playful digs, and over time, they have learned to accept and respect this part of me. I have since seen more boys at my school identifying themselves as writers or artists.

I no longer see myself as an athlete and a poet independently, but rather I see these two aspects forming a single inseparable identity – me. Despite their apparent differences, these two disciplines are quite similar, as each requires creativity and devotion. I am still a poet when I am lacing up my cleats for soccer practice and still an athlete when I am building metaphors in the back of my mind – and I have realized ice cream and gummy bears taste pretty good together.

The timeline of this essay spans from the writer’s childhood all the way to sophomore year, but we only see key moments along this journey. First, we get context for why the writer thought he had to choose one identity: his older brothers had very distinct interests. Then, we learn about the student’s 10th grade creative writing class, writing contest, and results of the contest. Finally, the essay covers the writers’ embarrassment of his identity as a poet, to gradual acceptance and pride in that identity. 

This essay is a great example of a narrative told over an extended period of time. It’s highly personal and reflective, as the piece shares the writer’s conflicting feelings, and takes care to get to the root of those feelings. Furthermore, the overarching story is that of a personal transformation and development, so it’s well-suited to this essay structure.

3. Series of anecdotes, or montage

This essay structure allows you to focus on the most important experiences of a single storyline, or it lets you feature multiple (not necessarily related) stories that highlight your personality. Montage is a structure where you piece together separate scenes to form a whole story. This technique is most commonly associated with film. Just envision your favorite movie—it likely is a montage of various scenes that may not even be chronological. 

Night had robbed the academy of its daytime colors, yet there was comfort in the dim lights that cast shadows of our advances against the bare studio walls. Silhouettes of roundhouse kicks, spin crescent kicks, uppercuts and the occasional butterfly kick danced while we sparred. She approached me, eyes narrowed with the trace of a smirk challenging me. “Ready spar!” Her arm began an upward trajectory targeting my shoulder, a common first move. I sidestepped — only to almost collide with another flying fist. Pivoting my right foot, I snapped my left leg, aiming my heel at her midsection. The center judge raised one finger. 

There was no time to celebrate, not in the traditional sense at least. Master Pollard gave a brief command greeted with a unanimous “Yes, sir” and the thud of 20 hands dropping-down-and-giving-him-30, while the “winners” celebrated their victory with laps as usual. 

Three years ago, seven-thirty in the evening meant I was a warrior. It meant standing up straighter, pushing a little harder, “Yes, sir” and “Yes, ma’am”, celebrating birthdays by breaking boards, never pointing your toes, and familiarity. Three years later, seven-thirty in the morning meant I was nervous. 

The room is uncomfortably large. The sprung floor soaks up the checkerboard of sunlight piercing through the colonial windows. The mirrored walls further illuminate the studio and I feel the light scrutinizing my sorry attempts at a pas de bourrée , while capturing the organic fluidity of the dancers around me. “ Chassé en croix, grand battement, pique, pirouette.” I follow the graceful limbs of the woman in front of me, her legs floating ribbons, as she executes what seems to be a perfect ronds de jambes. Each movement remains a negotiation. With admirable patience, Ms. Tan casts me a sympathetic glance.   

There is no time to wallow in the misery that is my right foot. Taekwondo calls for dorsiflexion; pointed toes are synonymous with broken toes. My thoughts drag me into a flashback of the usual response to this painful mistake: “You might as well grab a tutu and head to the ballet studio next door.” Well, here I am Master Pollard, unfortunately still following your orders to never point my toes, but no longer feeling the satisfaction that comes with being a third degree black belt with 5 years of experience quite literally under her belt. It’s like being a white belt again — just in a leotard and ballet slippers. 

But the appetite for new beginnings that brought me here doesn’t falter. It is only reinforced by the classical rendition of “Dancing Queen” that floods the room and the ghost of familiarity that reassures me that this new beginning does not and will not erase the past. After years spent at the top, it’s hard to start over. But surrendering what you are only leads you to what you may become. In Taekwondo, we started each class reciting the tenets: honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, humility, and knowledge, and I have never felt that I embodied those traits more so than when I started ballet. 

The thing about change is that it eventually stops making things so different. After nine different schools, four different countries, three different continents, fluency in Tamil, Norwegian, and English, there are more blurred lines than there are clear fragments. My life has not been a tactfully executed, gold medal-worthy Taekwondo form with each movement defined, nor has it been a series of frappés performed by a prima ballerina with each extension identical and precise, but thankfully it has been like the dynamics of a spinning back kick, fluid, and like my chances of landing a pirouette, unpredictable. 

This essay takes a few different anecdotes and weaves them into a coherent narrative about the writer’s penchant for novel experiences. We’re plunged into her universe, in the middle of her Taekwondo spar, three years before the present day. She then transitions into a scene in a ballet studio, present day. By switching from past tense to present tense, the writer clearly demarcates this shift in time. 

The parallel use of the spoken phrase “Point” in the essay ties these two experiences together. The writer also employs a flashback to Master Pollard’s remark about “grabbing a tutu” and her habit of dorsiflexing her toes, which further cements the connection between these anecdotes. 

While some of the descriptions are a little wordy, the piece is well-executed overall, and is a stellar example of the montage structure. The two anecdotes are seamlessly intertwined, and they both clearly illustrate the student’s determination, dedication, reflectiveness, and adaptability. The writer also concludes the essay with a larger reflection on her life, many moves, and multiple languages. 

Unconventional College Essay Structures

Unconventional essay structures are any that don’t fit into the categories above. These tend to be higher risk, as it’s easier to turn off the admissions officer, but they’re also higher reward if executed correctly. 

There are endless possibilities for unconventional structures, but most fall under one of two categories:

1. Playing with essay format

Instead of choosing a traditional narrative format, you might take a more creative route to showcase your interests, writing your essay:

• As a movie script
• With a creative visual format (such as creating a visual pattern with the spaces between your sentences forming a picture)
• As a two-sided Lincoln-Douglas debate
• As a legal brief
• Using song lyrics

2. Linguistic techniques

You could also play with the actual language and sentence structure of your essay, writing it:

• In iambic pentameter
• Partially in your mother tongue
• In code or a programming language

These linguistic techniques are often hybrid, where you write some of the essay with the linguistic variation, then write more of an explanation in English.

Under no circumstances should you feel pressured to use an unconventional structure. Trying to force something unconventional will only hurt your chances. That being said, if a creative structure comes naturally to you, suits your personality, and works with the content of your essay — go for that structure!

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A step-by-step guide for creating and formatting APA Style student papers

The start of the semester is the perfect time to learn how to create and format APA Style student papers. This article walks through the formatting steps needed to create an APA Style student paper, starting with a basic setup that applies to the entire paper (margins, font, line spacing, paragraph alignment and indentation, and page headers). It then covers formatting for the major sections of a student paper: the title page, the text, tables and figures, and the reference list. Finally, it concludes by describing how to organize student papers and ways to improve their quality and presentation.

The guidelines for student paper setup are described and shown using annotated diagrams in the Student Paper Setup Guide (PDF, 3.40MB) and the A Step-by-Step Guide to APA Style Student Papers webinar . Chapter 1 of the Concise Guide to APA Style and Chapter 2 of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association describe the elements, format, and organization for student papers. Tables and figures are covered in Chapter 7 of both books. Information on paper format and tables and figures and a full sample student paper are also available on the APA Style website.

Basic setup

The guidelines for basic setup apply to the entire paper. Perform these steps when you first open your document, and then you do not have to worry about them again while writing your paper. Because these are general aspects of paper formatting, they apply to all APA Style papers, student or professional. Students should always check with their assigning instructor or institution for specific guidelines for their papers, which may be different than or in addition to APA Style guidelines.

Seventh edition APA Style was designed with modern word-processing programs in mind. Most default settings in programs such as Academic Writer, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs already comply with APA Style. This means that, for most paper elements, you do not have to make any changes to the default settings of your word-processing program. However, you may need to make a few adjustments before you begin writing.

Use 1-in. margins on all sides of the page (top, bottom, left, and right). This is usually how papers are automatically set.

Use a legible font. The default font of your word-processing program is acceptable. Many sans serif and serif fonts can be used in APA Style, including 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, 12-point Times New Roman, and 11-point Georgia. You can also use other fonts described on the font page of the website.

Line spacing

Double-space the entire paper including the title page, block quotations, and the reference list. This is something you usually must set using the paragraph function of your word-processing program. But once you do, you will not have to change the spacing for the entirety of your paper–just double-space everything. Do not add blank lines before or after headings. Do not add extra spacing between paragraphs. For paper sections with different line spacing, see the line spacing page.

Paragraph alignment and indentation

Align all paragraphs of text in the body of your paper to the left margin. Leave the right margin ragged. Do not use full justification. Indent the first line of every paragraph of text 0.5-in. using the tab key or the paragraph-formatting function of your word-processing program. For paper sections with different alignment and indentation, see the paragraph alignment and indentation page.

Page numbers

Put a page number in the top right of every page header , including the title page, starting with page number 1. Use the automatic page-numbering function of your word-processing program to insert the page number in the top right corner; do not type the page numbers manually. The page number is the same font and font size as the text of your paper. Student papers do not require a running head on any page, unless specifically requested by the instructor.

Title page setup

Title page elements.

APA Style has two title page formats: student and professional (for details, see title page setup ). Unless instructed otherwise, students should use the student title page format and include the following elements, in the order listed, on the title page:

• Paper title.
• Name of each author (also known as the byline).
• Affiliation for each author.
• Course number and name.
• Instructor name.
• Assignment due date.
• Page number 1 in the top right corner of the page header.

The format for the byline depends on whether the paper has one author, two authors, or three or more authors.

• When the paper has one author, write the name on its own line (e.g., Jasmine C. Hernandez).
• When the paper has two authors, write the names on the same line and separate them with the word “and” (e.g., Upton J. Wang and Natalia Dominguez).
• When the paper has three or more authors, separate the names with commas and include “and” before the final author’s name (e.g., Malia Mohamed, Jaylen T. Brown, and Nia L. Ball).

Students have an academic affiliation, which identities where they studied when the paper was written. Because students working together on a paper are usually in the same class, they will have one shared affiliation. The affiliation consists of the name of the department and the name of the college or university, separated by a comma (e.g., Department of Psychology, George Mason University). The department is that of the course to which the paper is being submitted, which may be different than the department of the student’s major. Do not include the location unless it is part of the institution’s name.

Write the course number and name and the instructor name as shown on institutional materials (e.g., the syllabus). The course number and name are often separated by a colon (e.g., PST-4510: History and Systems Psychology). Write the assignment due date in the month, date, and year format used in your country (e.g., Sept. 10, 2020).

Title page line spacing

Double-space the whole title page. Place the paper title three or four lines down from the top of the page. Add an extra double-spaced blank like between the paper title and the byline. Then, list the other title page elements on separate lines, without extra lines in between.

Title page alignment

Center all title page elements (except the right-aligned page number in the header).

Title page font

Write the title page using the same font and font size as the rest of your paper. Bold the paper title. Use standard font (i.e., no bold, no italics) for all other title page elements.

Text elements

Repeat the paper title at the top of the first page of text. Begin the paper with an introduction to provide background on the topic, cite related studies, and contextualize the paper. Use descriptive headings to identify other sections as needed (e.g., Method, Results, Discussion for quantitative research papers). Sections and headings vary depending on the paper type and its complexity. Text can include tables and figures, block quotations, headings, and footnotes.

Text line spacing

Double-space all text, including headings and section labels, paragraphs of text, and block quotations.

Text alignment

Center the paper title on the first line of the text. Indent the first line of all paragraphs 0.5-in.

Left-align the text. Leave the right margin ragged.

Block quotation alignment

Indent the whole block quotation 0.5-in. from the left margin. Double-space the block quotation, the same as other body text. Find more information on the quotations page.

Use the same font throughout the entire paper. Write body text in standard (nonbold, nonitalic) font. Bold only headings and section labels. Use italics sparingly, for instance, to highlight a key term on first use (for more information, see the italics page).

Headings format

For detailed guidance on formatting headings, including headings in the introduction of a paper, see the headings page and the headings in sample papers .

• Alignment: Center Level 1 headings. Left-align Level 2 and Level 3 headings. Indent Level 4 and Level 5 headings like a regular paragraph.
• Font: Boldface all headings. Also italicize Level 3 and Level 5 headings. Create heading styles using your word-processing program (built into AcademicWriter, available for Word via the sample papers on the APA Style website).

Tables and figures setup

Tables and figures are only included in student papers if needed for the assignment. Tables and figures share the same elements and layout. See the website for sample tables and sample figures .

Table elements

Tables include the following four elements: 

• Body (rows and columns)
• Note (optional if needed to explain elements in the table)

Figure elements

Figures include the following four elements: 

• Image (chart, graph, etc.)
• Note (optional if needed to explain elements in the figure)

Table line spacing

Double-space the table number and title. Single-, 1.5-, or double-space the table body (adjust as needed for readability). Double-space the table note.

Figure line spacing

Double-space the figure number and title. The default settings for spacing in figure images is usually acceptable (but adjust the spacing as needed for readability). Double-space the figure note.

Table alignment

Left-align the table number and title. Center column headings. Left-align the table itself and left-align the leftmost (stub) column. Center data in the table body if it is short or left-align the data if it is long. Left-align the table note.

Figure alignment

Left-align the figure number and title. Left-align the whole figure image. The default alignment of the program in which you created your figure is usually acceptable for axis titles and data labels. Left-align the figure note.

Bold the table number. Italicize the table title. Use the same font and font size in the table body as the text of your paper. Italicize the word “Note” at the start of the table note. Write the note in the same font and font size as the text of your paper.

Figure font

Bold the figure number. Italicize the figure title. Use a sans serif font (e.g., Calibri, Arial) in the figure image in a size between 8 to 14 points. Italicize the word “Note” at the start of the figure note. Write the note in the same font and font size as the text of your paper.

Placement of tables and figures

There are two options for the placement of tables and figures in an APA Style paper. The first option is to place all tables and figures on separate pages after the reference list. The second option is to embed each table and figure within the text after its first callout. This guide describes options for the placement of tables and figures embedded in the text. If your instructor requires tables and figures to be placed at the end of the paper, see the table and figure guidelines and the sample professional paper .

Call out (mention) the table or figure in the text before embedding it (e.g., write “see Figure 1” or “Table 1 presents”). You can place the table or figure after the callout either at the bottom of the page, at the top of the next page, or by itself on the next page. Avoid placing tables and figures in the middle of the page.

Embedding at the bottom of the page

Include a callout to the table or figure in the text before that table or figure. Add a blank double-spaced line between the text and the table or figure at the bottom of the page.

Embedding at the top of the page

Include a callout to the table in the text on the previous page before that table or figure. The table or figure then appears at the top of the next page. Add a blank double-spaced line between the end of the table or figure and the text that follows.

Embedding on its own page

Embed long tables or large figures on their own page if needed. The text continues on the next page.

Reference list setup

Reference list elements.

The reference list consists of the “References” section label and the alphabetical list of references. View reference examples on the APA Style website. Consult Chapter 10 in both the Concise Guide and Publication Manual for even more examples.

Reference list line spacing

Start the reference list at the top of a new page after the text. Double-space the entire reference list (both within and between entries).

Reference list alignment

Center the “References” label. Apply a hanging indent of 0.5-in. to all reference list entries. Create the hanging indent using your word-processing program; do not manually hit the enter and tab keys.

Reference list font

Bold the “References” label at the top of the first page of references. Use italics within reference list entries on either the title (e.g., webpages, books, reports) or on the source (e.g., journal articles, edited book chapters).

Final checks

Check page order.

• Start each section on a new page.
• Arrange pages in the following order:
• Title page (page 1).
• Text (starts on page 2).
• Reference list (starts on a new page after the text).

Check headings

• Check that headings accurately reflect the content in each section.
• Start each main section with a Level 1 heading.
• Use Level 2 headings for subsections of the introduction.
• Use the same level of heading for sections of equal importance.
• Avoid having only one subsection within a section (have two or more, or none).

Check assignment instructions

• Remember that instructors’ guidelines supersede APA Style.
• Students should check their assignment guidelines or rubric for specific content to include in their papers and to make sure they are meeting assignment requirements.

Tips for better writing

• Ask for feedback on your paper from a classmate, writing center tutor, or instructor.
• Budget time to implement suggestions.
• Use spell-check and grammar-check to identify potential errors, and then manually check those flagged.
• Proofread the paper by reading it slowly and carefully aloud to yourself.
• Consult your university writing center if you need extra help.

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• Writing Tips

A Guide to Indenting Paragraphs

4-minute read

• 9th July 2022

Indentation refers to the gap between the left-hand margin and the beginning of text on the page or screen. Like font choice and line spacing , indentation might seem like a trivial formatting decision, but using indentation effectively makes your writing more professional-looking and easier to read.

In this guide, we’ll summarize the rules for indentation given by three of the most common style guides. Then we’ll explain the simplest way to apply paragraph indentation in Microsoft Word. First though, what are the different types of indentation?

Indentation Options

Microsoft Word offers three choices of indentation style:

●  Standard: Each line of text is indented by a specified amount. This type of indentation is useful for block quotes and other sections of text that you want to set apart.

●  First line: Indentation is applied to the first line of each paragraph. This provides a visual clue to readers that you’re shifting focus or introducing a new idea.

●  Hanging: An indent is applied to the second and subsequent lines of each paragraph. Hanging indentation is most often used in works cited lists and bibliographies, as it enables readers to easily scan the list of authors.

Indentation in APA Style

In APA , you should indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5” (1.27 cm). This rule also applies to the abstract, except for the first line, which should be left aligned.

Standard indentation of 0.5” is applied to block quotations, and if the quote runs to more than one paragraph, you must indent the first line of the second and subsequent paragraphs by a further 0.5”.

The entries in an APA reference list should have a hanging indent of 0.5”.

Indentation in MLA Style

The guidelines for MLA are very similar to those of APA with a slight difference in the formatting of block quotes. In MLA, the first line of the second and subsequent paragraphs of block quotes should be indented by only 0.25”. Moreover, if the beginning of the first paragraph of the block quote begins a paragraph in the source text, it too should be indented by 0.25”.

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Indentation in Associated Press Style

The Associated Press Stylebook says that you should not use indentation to indicate the start of a new paragraph. Instead, you should hit the Enter key twice at the end of a paragraph (like we do in our blog posts). Block quotes should have standard indentation of 0.5”.

How to Apply Indentation in MS Word

One quick way to indent text is to hit the Tab key when the cursor is at the beginning of a line. This will indent the line by 0.5”. Pressing Tab again will increase the indent by a further 0.5” and so on. However, if you want to apply a consistent indentation style throughout a section or an entire document, it’s more efficient to use the options in the Paragraph section of the Home tab.

To automatically apply indentation to the first line of every paragraph, select Paragraph Options on the Home tab, then choose First line from the list of special indentations. Finally, enter the size of indentation you require in centimeters (e.g., 1.27).

Hanging indentations work in much the same way. You simply choose Hanging instead of First line .

For block quotes, you can use the Increase Indent button, which appears on the Home and Layout tabs. Each time you press it, the indent increases by 0.5”. You can then reduce or remove the indent with the Decrease Indent button.

Alternatively, you could create a custom style for block quotes using the Styles feature. To do this, follow these steps:

• Select the relevant text and apply indentation either with the Increase Indent button or by entering the required size in Paragraph Options .
• With the text still selected, click on the Styles Pane and select New Style.
• A Create New Style from Formatting box should appear. Enter a name for your newly created style (e.g., Block quote ).

You will then be able to choose the same style and easily apply it to all of the block quotes in your document.

Flawless Formatting

We hope you now feel confident about when and how to apply indentation in your writing. When you upload a document to us for proofreading , you can add full formatting as an extra option. Or, if your writing has already been checked for errors, we offer a formatting-only service— contact us today for a quote.

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Top Rules to Indent Paragraphs in an Essay

Should you indent every paragraph in your essay? By the end of this text, you will be familiar with rules for indentation in various citation styles. We will also explore indentation in MLA and APA styles.

What is indentation anyway?  Indentation is a style of formatting a paragraph that leaves a blank space between the first word and the beginning of your line of text. An indent in word does more than making your paragraphs appealing. It signals flow of ideas and continuity in an essay.

Do You Indent Every Paragraph in an Essay?

Every first line of a succeeding paragraph should be indented 0.5 inches from the left margin. To indent a paragraph, press Tab key once or 5 spaces using the space key.

Why do you indent a paragraph?

• Reader guidance: First, it organizes the essay into sections that are readable. A reader will easily track whenever the writer is introducing a new concept.
• Aesthetic appeal of the essay: Second, indentation enhances the overall appearance of the essay, giving it a polished and professional look. No one wants to read an entire block of text like a robot.
• Consistency in academic work: In many academic and professional writing contexts , indentation is a standard formatting convention. It makes students’ work recognizable. Adhering to this convention helps to maintain consistency and professionalism in written work.

Indentation Rules for MLA

MLA formatting follows all specific writing guidelines that include a half-inch indentation too.

• Paragraphs:  Indent the first line of each paragraph one-half inch from the left margin (five spaces or a tab).
• Block Quotes:  For quotes longer than four lines, create a block quotation. Indent the entire block quotation one inch from the left margin (ten spaces or two tabs). Don’t use quotation marks for block quotes.

Indentation Rules for APA 7th Edition

• APA format for indentation requires that all lines of your first paragraph except the the abstract.
• The very first line of paragraphs should be indented. This includes the introduction and the conclusion. 
• For reference lists, the APA formatting requires hanging indentation too, but this is done on the second and subsequent lines of the citation.
• The 0.5’’ indentation for the first line begins to the right of the page where the next line starts.

Except for your first line of each paragraph, start all lines of text from the left margin. Indent every line of a new paragraph by pressing Tab button once space. This should be already set to a standard of 1.27 cm or 0.5.

The University of Arizona , Global Campus provides an example of Abstract and best formatting practices.

If you want to up an automatic indentation of the first line of a paragraph, navigate to the Paragraph formatting settings in Microsoft Word, and then under “Indentation,” select “First line.” Proceed under “Special” and set the preferred indentation under “By” to 0.5 in or 1.27 cm.

Unless otherwise instructed by an instructor or the program handbook, double-space “the whole work, including the title page, the abstract, your entire text headings, block quotes, reference list, table notes and figure comments, as well as appendices” (American Psychological Association, 2020, p. 45).

Indenting the Abstract

Unlike the regular essay paragraphs, there is no indentation for the first line of an abstract. Abstracts appear on their own page after the title page and are typically limited to a single paragraph of less than 250 words without indentation.

If you’re writing a long essay or even a research paper that requires an abstract, the rules of indentation remain the same except for the abstract.

The lines in the Abstract should be left aligned but without an indent.

Types of APA indentation

APA style distinguishes two forms of indentation. These are: first line and hanging. The first line of indentation begins to the right of where the next line begins.

APA specifies that most paragraphs use first line indentation. Hanging indentation should place your first line of a paragraph leftward where your next line begins. 

When completing your reference list, APA requires you to use hanging indentation. Writers need to manually adjust the reference point for indents to 0.5 inches from your page’s left margin.

Make sure to double space information that includes tables, headings, direct quotations, and references.

There are variations in the number of indentation spaces depending on the writing style. Formal presentations only need to have a few spaces of indentation, but when writing casual content, you can have more indentation spaces.

Harvard Style   Indentation

The Harvard style guideline encourages indentation as you type rather than indenting after your work is finished. Although this method takes longer, it has a reasoning behind it. 

Writers who use indents while they write structure their text by creating paragraphs. Writers who wait until they have completed a rough draft of their manuscripts frequently struggle to identify the ideal places to divide the content into paragraphs.

How to Indent a Paragraph in Microsoft Word

Technology today makes it easy to format paragraphs and has removed the laborious typing of indentation gaps from the hands of writers. When setting indentations, we now use word processing programs such as Microsoft Word. To set good paragraph indentation in Word, move your cursor in the paragraph you wish to indent or highlight that specific paragraph. Navigate to the Format menu then select the Paragraph option.

While still in the Paragraph dialog box, proceed to enter the appropriate indent width. Select the type of indent you want. Click OK to close the formatting dialog box.

Home » University Of Washington » Should I Indent My College Essay?

Should I Indent My College Essay?

Table of Contents

Should I indent or us paragraph breaks in my college essay? Either. Just be consistent . The exception here is if you’re pasting into a box that screws up your formatting—for example, if, when you copy your essay into the box, your indentations are removed, go with paragraph breaks.

Should I indent my college essay on Common App?

Don’t Format Your Essay in the Text Boxes It should be single-spaced, double-space between paragraphs (two hard returns), and with no indents . Break up line paragraphs into smaller groupings of sentences. The Common App counts words (650), not spaces.

What should you not do in a college essay?

Many essays included things that you should not do in your college admissions essay including:

• Never rehash your academic and extracurricular accomplishments.
• Never write about a “topic”
• Never start with a preamble.
• Never end with a “happily ever after” conclusion.
• Never pontificate.
• Never retreat into your thoughts.

How should I head my college essay?

General College Essay Formatting Guidelines

• There’s no need for a title; it takes up unnecessary space and eats into your word count.
• Stay within the word count as much as possible (+/- 10% of the upper limit).
• Indent or double space to separate paragraphs clearly.

Should I double space my college application essay?

Your essay should always be double-spaced throughout . Indent the first line of paragraphs one half-inch from the margin. Use only one space after all end punctuation. The end punctuation helps define the tone and meaning of a sentence.

How should I format my college essay in Common App?

The Common Application essay text box only has formatting for Bold, Underline and Italics. I would format your essay along MLA guidelines (using italics for things like book titles, foreign words, those types of copyediting rules.), and then make sure they translate or carry over after you upload or copy and paste.

How should I space my Common App essay?

The current version of The Common Application, however, requires you to enter the essay into a text box, and you won’t have any spacing options . The website automatically formats your essay with single-spaced paragraphs with an extra space between paragraphs (a format that doesn’t conform to any standard style guides).

Can you curse in your college essay?

Avoid swearing in a college essay , since admissions officers’ opinions of profanity will vary. In some cases, it might be okay to use a vulgar word, such as in dialogue or quotes that make an important point in your essay. However, it’s safest to try to make the same point without swearing.

Why is it so hard to write a college essay?

First, writing is inherently difficult. Even for the best writers, putting thoughts down on paper in a cogent, coherent way takes a lot of energy, patience and time. Second, as I mentioned earlier, the college essay requires a completely different sort of writing than most high school students are used to .

Should I talk about mental health in my college essay?

If you are going to discuss your depression, anxiety, or other mental condition in your application, do so in a strategic manner for the purpose of illuminating otherwise unexplained inconsistencies in your academic record.

What format should a college essay be?

A college essay format and general rules are pretty standard. Typically, your admission paper should follow a basic 5-paragraph format . This means you will need to include one introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

How many paragraphs is a 650 word essay?

3.25-6.5 paragraphs How Many Paragraphs Is 650 Words? 650 words is about 3.25-6.5 paragraphs for essays or 6-13 for easy reading. A paragraph length typically has 100-200 words and 5-6 sentences.

Do college essays need titles?

You don’t need one . In the vast majority of cases, students we work with don’t use titles. The handful of times they have, they’ve done so because the title allows for a subtle play on words or reframing of the essay as a whole. So don’t feel any pressure to include one—they’re purely optional.

Should I indent paragraphs in a personal statement?

Allow for ample enough margins that the reader isn’t distracted by cramped-looking text. Margins of at least one inch are standard. Single space your text, skipping a line between paragraphs. You can indent paragraph beginnings or not, as long as you’re consistent .

Do you put a space between paragraphs in an essay?

Double space: Your entire essay should be double spaced, with no single spacing anywhere and no extra spacing anywhere. There should not be extra spaces between paragraphs . Margins: According to the MLA, your essay should have a one-inch margin on the top, bottom, left, and right.

Should my UChicago essay be double spaced?

Although there is no set word limit for any of the prompts, InGenius Prep counselor Natalia Ostrowski, who worked as the Assistant Director of Admissions at UChicago, recommends that you limit the first essay (“Why UChicago”) to a page (double spaced in 12 point font) .

How do you indent paragraphs on Common App essay?

About the Common App Platform. It does not allow indenting (tabbing) , so add an empty line between paragraphs to separate them.

How long should my college essay be?

The primary essay for your college application, often called a personal statement, is typically around 400-600 words . The Common App personal statement — which is used as the primary application essay by more than 800 colleges — must be 250-650 words.

Are college papers double-spaced?

As a general rule, all college papers are typed in Times New Roman, a default font that can be found in every word processing application. The font is almost always double-spaced and in 12-pt font because it makes it easier for your instructor to read.

Should you add spaces between paragraphs for Common App?

Instead there will be one line of space between each paragraph. This is normal for all online common applications and cannot be changed .

Can you talk about drugs in a college essay?

Writing about sex, drugs, or any other inappropriate topics in your college essay isn’t edgy, it’s disrespectful , and it shows that you’re someone who is thinking more about getting a reaction than about communicating something truthful and helpful to the admissions officer reading it. Sex: Seriously, avoid it.

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Antonia is a firm believer in the power of education, and she is passionate about helping students reach their full potential. She is also a strong advocate for equal opportunity, and she works tirelessly to ensure that all students have access to quality education regardless of their socioeconomic status or race.

Antonia is a gifted educator, and she is widely respected within the education community. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including being named one of the "Top 10 Educators to Watch" by Education Week magazine.

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Do I indent paragraphs in college essays?

<p>When I paste my essays to text boxes, the paragraph indents usually get lost. Do I have to reinsert them, or is it OK to leave them out?</p>

<p>I just went through this as my son was putting his essay into the common app. The paragraph indents DO get lost, and I read on the common app site that no one should worry about indents. They just don’t matter on common app.</p>

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Indenting for Common app?? HELP

So I copied my common app essay from word and transferred it on the common app website but it did not indent my first paragraph. When I hit the tab button to indent the first paragraph it does not do anything. Do you need to indent your common app essay? Should you leave a space each time you create a paragraph??

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, indentation on the common app essay: how to.

Anyone figured out how to format your essay on the Common App? I’ve been trying to indent my paragraphs but it doesn't seem to work. Could really use some advice or tips on how to make my essay look clean with proper indents. Thanks in advance!

The Common App essay text box does not allow for tab-indented paragraphs. What you can do is use the space bar to create manual indents, but this can lead to inconsistent spacing and is not generally recommended. The best practice is to separate paragraphs with a single blank line. This visual space is enough for the admissions officers to recognize the start of a new paragraph. Also, make sure the rest of your formatting is clean – no bold or italics unless absolutely necessary for understanding the content of your essay.

Admissions officers are focused on the substance of your essay, not fancy formatting, and clear, readable text is always the goal. Lastly, use a simple font like Times New Roman or Arial to ensure that your essay is easily readable when admissions officers review your application. Don't worry too much about indenting; focus on conveying your message in a well-organized and compelling manner.

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.