How to make footnotes in a diploma thesis?
The footnote should clearly indicate the source of the information and make it possible to find it. The most common problems result from entering numbers manually, mixing several patterns and not distinguishing between the first and subsequent references to the same publication.
Key information
- ✓Insert footnotes using program functions, not manual numbers.
- ✓The first appeal should include full details required by the university.
- ✓Shorten subsequent references consistently.
- ✓Check compliance of all sources with the bibliography.
Automatic footnotes in Word
Position your cursor after the sentence, select the References tab, and select Insert Footnote. The program will create a number and a place at the bottom of the page, and after adding or removing a reference, it will update the numbering itself.
Do not enter index numbers manually. Such a record is not connected with the content of the footnote and quickly falls apart when editing the document.
The first reference to a book or article
A full footnote to a book usually includes the author's initials and surname, title, place and year of publication, and page. The exact order and punctuation depend on the template adopted at the university.
The article must include the author, title of the text, name of the magazine, year, number and page. A chapter in the book requires information about the collective work and its editors.
Another citation from the same source
The repeated reference can be shortened using a short title or phrases indicated in the instructions. It is important that the reader recognizes the correct position without any doubt.
Avoid mechanically using "ibid" if another source appears between the notes. After major corrections, always check the adjacent footnotes.
Online sources and final check
In the page description, include the author or institution, title of the material, address and date of access, if required by your university. If the document is a report or article, use a template appropriate for this type of publication.
Finally, check the order of numbers, completeness of data, page numbers and compliance with the bibliography. In case of a large number of inconsistent entries, professional technical editing may be helpful.
Summary
Good footnotes are complete, consistent, and technically related to the text. Use Word's automatic function, use one university template and shorten subsequent references according to clearly defined rules. Finally, compare the footnotes with the bibliography, rather than checking each item individually.
Frequently asked questions
Is a footnote placed before or after a period?
It depends on the instructions and the convention adopted. In Polish works, the footnote number is most often placed before the punctuation mark, but the university's pattern should be used.
Does each paragraph require a footnote?
NO. The information, view, data or quote used requires a footnote. There may be several sources in one paragraph, or there may be one reference covering a logical passage.
How to arrange ordering of footnotes?
Submit your thesis file, bibliography and university guidelines. Our website will assess the number and condition of footnotes and propose an appropriate scope of correction.
Need support with your work?
Describe the topic, scope and deadline. We will review the materials, recommend the right support and prepare a clear quote.
