| Mechanics | |
| Spelling | Use a spell-checker! Also, watch for words that sound alike but have different spellings.
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| Grammar | Sentences must have verbs. Dependent clauses must be properly placed. Watch for run-on sentences!
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| Punctuation | Don't separate the main noun from the main verb. Punctuation should reflect the logical structure of the sentence
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| Semantics | Choose the right word! Pronouns need clear antecedents. Linking words ("because", "thus", "but", "although", etc.) should be used appropriately
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| Logic | All sentences should be clear. All sentences should make sense. If you don't understand it, the reader won't either.
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| Format | |
| Paragraphs | Double spaced, first line indented.
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| Footnotes | At the bottom of the page, not the end of the paper.
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| References | Numerical pointers to the bibliography are all you need, but other formats are acceptable as long as they are clear and precise.
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| Bibliography | Use a consistent format. Give full data.
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| Paper Organization | |
| Introduction | Should be well-written, state your goals and starting point, and should include a transition to the major portion of the paper
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| Conclusion | Should briefly summarize your conclusions without being repetitive. Should provide closure to the paper
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| Main body | Sections should have clearly-defined subjects. Logical structure of the argument should be clear. Use an outline!
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| Writing Style | |
| Tone | No contractions, appropriate vocabulary.
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| Objectivity | Write objectively. Everything in the paper is, by definition, your opinion, so you need not intrude with "I think" and similar constructs.
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| Precision | Don't confuse someone's opinions with fact, don't cite without a reference, say exactly what you mean, don't go beyond your evidence.
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| Readability | It's your job to make your paper interesting and readable!
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| Substance | |
| Content | Include some real content. Aim for a high level of information. Details should be included only when relevant---deciding which details are relevant is part of your job.
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| Sources | There's no minimal number, but there should be enough sources for what you aim to do. Evaluate your sources!
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| References | Indicate the source for each bit of factual information.
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| Quotes | Are they used to support the argument? Are there too few/too many of them? Do the quotes have a function, or are they just there to look pretty?
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| Argument | Does the paper adequately support its thesis? Have other possibilities been taken into account? Have you thought this through?
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| Mathematics | When you discuss math, are you precise? When you use formulas, are they meaningful?
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| History | Does your paper make a historical argument? History is more than the collection of facts!
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