400words paper

One-Page Paper Format and Checklist

Format

1) Font: Times New Roman or a similar font, at 12 points. 2) Spacing: Single 3) Length: must be exactly between 375 and 400 words; did you include a word count? 4) Includes only the following parts:

a. Thesis statement i. Your thesis statement is a one sentence (may include semicolon)

statement of the position on which you will argue b. Arguments for the thesis

i. NOTE: footnotes are not counted as part of argument paragraphs for the official length and may be used to supplement your arguments or make additional points. Use them wisely.

c. An objection/counterargument and a response i. Typically the objection takes issue with part of your argument and not

simply your thesis statement; you must respond to the objection d. Brief conclusion (may be one sentence, such as “It is reasonable to conclude,

from my arguments, that . . .”)

Checklist

Have you thought about the relative importance of the arguments and claims you want to make in support of the thesis? Will you really need to make point X in order to make the argument? Remember, you don’t have much space to waste on verbosity.

Do you have a one sentence thesis statement? Does the thesis statement make clear to the reader generally how your argument will go (does it provide a “road map” for the argument as a whole)?

Have you written in as succinct, clear, and concise a manner as possible?

Have you written and rewritten and edited the paper to the point where it is exactly 375-400 words long (outside of footnotes)?

Have you had other people read it and make comments for clarity?