The essay should be 6 7 pages long, double-spaced, Times New Roman font size 12, with 1 inch
margins.
DO NOT use casual language (e.g., contractions), prose, cute metaphors, or generalities. DO NOT use
unsubstantiated claims (e.g., claims without citations). DO NOT use long quotes.
DO use subtitles and paginate. Always cite other peoples ideas, even when you paraphrase them. Any
plagiarism or academic dishonesty will strictly follow the cheating and plagiarism policy.
An additional page at the end of your paper should contain your works cited (bibliography). A good
bibliography should have at least 3 academic sources (e.g., peer-reviewed, scholarly articles, etc.).
Citations should be in APSA format.
Length
Topic of section Substance of section
1 page Introduction
paragraph
This should contain, in the following order:
A description of the problem
Your thesis statement in BOLD
Signposts
Recall: A thesis statement contains a claim and a rationale.
1 page Explanation of
Theory
Explain the theory you are using. Cite and explain the classic works of this
theory and explain how the theory relates to your argument.
1 page Evidence 1 Evidence 1 that supports your rationale (examples, cases, empirical support
with your reasoning)
1 page Evidence 2 Evidence 2 that supports your rationale (examples, cases, empirical support
with your reasoning)
1 page Evidence 3 Evidence 3 that supports your rationale (examples, cases, empirical support
with your reasoning)
1 page
Weaknesses /
alternative
explanations
Address any weaknesses in your argument, alternative explanations of your
hypothesis, or ideas that may be application to the discussion. Then argue
against those alternative explanations / weaknesses in a manner that indicates
your argument is most applicable.
page Conclusion Reiterate your main points / arguments
APSA citation:
In-text: (AUTHOR YEAR) Example: (Hathaway 2002)
Works Cited page: Example:
Lebovich, James H., and William R. Thompson 2006. An Illusionary or Elusive Relationship? The
Arab-Israel Conflict and Repression in the Middle East. Journal of Politics 68(3): 502-518.