Essay Format

[amitkhetan1]

Hi Stacy,

I am almost ready to submit my applications to Columbia. Just had a few last minute questions on the essay format since nothing specific is mentioned in the website.

Font type: Arial or Times New Roman?
Font Size: 10, 11, 12?
Indent before paras or spacing after paras or both?
Line Spacing: single? double? or 1.5?
Justify or left-aligned?
Margins 1" all around?

Would be great if you could reply soon. Thanks

Amit

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Amit,

You should check the instructions in the application itself as most schools will give specifications. When specifications are given, you need to follow those.

Generally speaking, Times New Roman is an easier font for reading things like essays and you want to try and stay at 11 or 12 pt. Also, spacing of 1.5 or double is nice for the readers as well. Margins should be between 0.5 and 1.0 inches, and left alignment is also easiest on the readers. You can either indent each paragraph or put a blank line between, but I would not do both.

Hope that helps,
Lisa

[amitkhetan1]

Thanks Lisa.

The reason I asked was because there were no specific instructions on formatting for the Columbia application.

Amit