The Chicago format cover page, also known as the title page, is an essential component of any academic or research paper written in the Chicago style. The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) provides guidelines for the formatting of the cover page, which includes the title of the paper, the author's name, and the institutional affiliation.
Chicago Format Cover Page Guidelines
According to the CMOS, the cover page should be centered and double-spaced, with a one-inch margin on all sides. The title of the paper should be in title case, with major words capitalized, and should be placed about one-third of the way down from the top of the page. The author’s name should be placed below the title, about halfway down from the top of the page, and should be in title case as well.
Chicago Format Cover Page Template
The following is a template for a Chicago format cover page:
| Component | Placement |
|---|---|
| Title | About one-third of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
| Author's Name | About halfway down from the top of the page, centered |
| Institutional Affiliation | About two-thirds of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
| Date | About three-quarters of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
The title should be in a font size that is larger than the rest of the paper, usually 18-point font. The author's name and institutional affiliation should be in a smaller font size, usually 12-point font.
Chicago Format Cover Page Example
The following is an example of a Chicago format cover page:
Title: The Impact of Climate Change on Global Food Systems
Author's Name: Emily J. Smith
Institutional Affiliation: University of Chicago
Date: March 10, 2023
Chicago Format Cover Page for Theses and Dissertations
For theses and dissertations, the cover page should include the title of the paper, the author’s name, the institutional affiliation, and the degree being sought. The title should be in all capital letters, and the author’s name should be in title case.
Chicago Format Cover Page Template for Theses and Dissertations
The following is a template for a Chicago format cover page for theses and dissertations:
| Component | Placement |
|---|---|
| Title | About one-third of the way down from the top of the page, centered, in all capital letters |
| Author's Name | About halfway down from the top of the page, centered, in title case |
| Institutional Affiliation | About two-thirds of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
| Degree Being Sought | About three-quarters of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
| Date | About three-quarters of the way down from the top of the page, centered |
The title should be in a font size that is larger than the rest of the paper, usually 18-point font. The author's name and institutional affiliation should be in a smaller font size, usually 12-point font.
Chicago Format Cover Page Example for Theses and Dissertations
The following is an example of a Chicago format cover page for theses and dissertations:
Title: THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON GLOBAL FOOD SYSTEMS
Author's Name: Emily J. Smith
Institutional Affiliation: University of Chicago
Degree Being Sought: Doctor of Philosophy
Date: March 10, 2023
What is the standard font size for a Chicago format cover page?
+The standard font size for a Chicago format cover page is usually 12-point font for the author’s name and institutional affiliation, and 18-point font for the title.
What information should be included on a Chicago format cover page for theses and dissertations?
+A Chicago format cover page for theses and dissertations should include the title of the paper, the author’s name, the institutional affiliation, the degree being sought, and the date.
Can I use a template for a Chicago format cover page?
+Yes, you can use a template for a Chicago format cover page. However, it’s essential to ensure that the template meets the specific requirements of the instructor or the publication.
What is the difference between a Chicago format cover page for academic papers and theses/dissertations?
+The main difference between a Chicago format cover page for academic papers and theses/dissertations is that the latter includes the degree being sought and may have additional requirements specific to the institution or department.
Can I customize the Chicago format cover page to fit my specific needs?
+Yes, you can customize the Chicago format cover page to fit your specific needs. However, it’s essential to ensure that the customized cover page meets the specific requirements of the instructor or the publication.
