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U.S History

Introduction to researching topics in American History

Citation

 

When writing history papers, you will be using the Chicago style format. The SFC library has an in-depth guide on how to use Chicago Style and other citations.

What is Chicago Style?

The Chicago Manual of Style or CMOS was created to develop guidelines that help researchers cite their sources. This style of citation is commonly used by those in the field of the arts, history and literature.
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Why Use Chicago Style?
Chicago Style makes it easier for readers to understand a text by providing a structure that is familiar so that they will be able to follow it. Abiding by CMOS's standards as a writer will allow you to:

  • Provide readers with cues they can use to follow your ideas more efficiently and to locate information of interest.

  • Allow readers to focus more on your ideas by eliminating unfamiliar formatting.

  • Establish your credibility or ethos in the field by demonstrating an awareness of your audience and their needs as fellow researchers.

Formatting and Writing Style

Start by becoming familiar with the general formatting requirements of Chicago Style, as well as the different standards for notation that Chicago Style writers are expected to use. Because Chicago Style is different than other writing styles, you should pay attention to everything from general paper layout to word choice.

 

Video Tutorial

Credit

The information above is from Online Writing Lab at Purdue University.

Video instruction by Librarian, Shay Ramsey.