Where Do Page Numbers Go in Chicago Style Footnotes? A Deep Dive (or Shallow Puddle)
Let's talk about the most exciting topic in the world: footnote placement in Chicago style. Yawn. Okay, maybe not the most exciting, but it’s definitely a topic that can make your eyes glaze over faster than a PowerPoint presentation on accounting regulations. But fear not, dear reader, I'm here to make this as painless as possible.
The Basics: Footnotes, Not Endnotes
First things first, we're talking footnotes here, not endnotes. Footnotes are those little numbers at the bottom of the page that lead to even smaller text with all the juicy details about your sources. Endnotes are the exiled cousins who get banished to the end of the document.
The Golden Rule: After the Punctuation
Now, where do those little footnote numbers go? The answer is as simple as it is mind-numbingly obvious: after the punctuation. So, if you're quoting someone, the footnote number goes after the closing quotation mark. If you're ending a sentence, it goes after the period. It's like the punctuation is the VIP and the footnote number is its plus one.
Exceptions to the Rule?
Of course, there are always exceptions. But let's be honest, who wants to remember a bunch of exceptions when you could be binge-watching your favorite show? Just stick with the basic rule and you'll be fine.
What About Page Numbers in the Footnote Itself?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Do you need to include page numbers in your footnotes? The short answer is: sometimes. If you're quoting directly from a specific page, then yes, you should include the page number. But if you're just referencing the overall work, you can usually skip it.
A Quick Recap
- Footnotes go at the bottom of the page.
- The footnote number goes after the punctuation.
- Include page numbers in your footnote if you're quoting directly from a specific page.
And there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to footnote placement in Chicago style. Now go forth and conquer your research papers with confidence.
How-To Questions
- How to format a Chicago style footnote: Include author's name, title of work, publication information, and page number (if necessary).
- How to distinguish between footnotes and endnotes: Footnotes appear at the bottom of the page, while endnotes are gathered at the end of the document.
- How to use ibid. in Chicago style: While still allowed, it's generally discouraged. Use a shortened citation instead.
- How to create footnotes in Microsoft Word: Use the "Insert Footnote" function.
- How to avoid footnote overload: Be selective about what you footnote. Too many footnotes can be distracting.