Where Does That Little Number Go? A Chicago Style Footnote Adventure
So, you're diving into the world of academic writing, and you've stumbled upon the enigmatic Chicago style. Fear not, young scholar! We're here to unravel the mystery of footnote placement, specifically the elusive footnote number.
The Great Footnote Number Placement Debate
Where does that little superscript number belong? Should it be perched atop a word, a phrase, or perhaps even a whole sentence? The answer, dear reader, is a bit more nuanced than you might think.
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
The Classic Chicago Style Rule
Traditionally, Chicago style dictates that footnote numbers should be placed after the punctuation mark. This means that if you're citing a source at the end of a sentence, the number should come after the period. For example:
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
This is a sentence with a citation.1
However, the Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) offers a bit of flexibility. If you have multiple citations within a single sentence, you can place the numbers after each citation, or you can group them together at the end of the sentence.
The Modern Approach: Flexibility and Clarity
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
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In recent years, there's been a growing trend towards more flexible citation styles. While the traditional rule still holds, many writers and editors are adopting a more relaxed approach. The key is to ensure that your citations are clear and consistent.
A Few Tips for Footnote Number Placement:
- Consistency is Key: Once you've chosen a placement style, stick with it throughout your paper.
- Clarity is Paramount: The primary goal of citations is to provide clear and accurate information.
- Consult Your Style Guide: Always refer to the latest edition of the Chicago Manual of Style for the most up-to-date guidelines.
FAQ: Your Footnote Number Questions Answered
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
How to place a footnote number in the middle of a sentence?
- Place the footnote number after the punctuation mark that concludes the cited phrase or clause.
How to cite multiple sources within a single sentence?
- Place a footnote number after each citation, or group them together at the end of the sentence.
How to format a footnote number in a heading?
- Place the footnote number after the heading, but before the period.
How to cite a source without a page number?
- Omit the page number from your in-text citation and footnote.
How to use footnotes effectively?
- Use footnotes to provide additional information, explanations, or references that would disrupt the flow of the main text.
Remember, the goal of citation is to give credit where credit is due and to provide readers with the information they need to verify your claims. By following these guidelines and using footnotes effectively, you can create clear, accurate, and well-cited academic work.
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