Are footnotes usually a smaller font size than the rest of a paper?
My paper itself is in a 12 point font size. Should the footnotes be of a smaller point size?
You could put the footnotes in a font 10, but I wouldn't let them be any smaller than that. You want to differentiate them from the text, but not make them so small they're unreadable!
Ok, that's what I thought. Thanks!
You're welcome.
In academic writing, footnotes are often set in a smaller font size compared to the main body of the paper. The purpose of using a smaller font size for footnotes is to visually distinguish them from the main text and emphasize their supplemental nature.
To determine the appropriate font size for footnotes, you should review the formatting guidelines provided by the style guide or citation style you are using for your paper. Each style guide may have its own specific recommendations regarding the font size of footnotes.
For example, The Chicago Manual of Style recommends using a smaller font size than the main text. The common practice is to use a font size that is one or two points smaller than the main text. So, if your main text is in a 12-point font size, you might consider using a 10-point or 11-point font size for your footnotes.
It is important to consult the specific requirements of the style guide you are using or follow the guidelines provided by your instructor or institution. These guidelines will take precedence over general recommendations to ensure consistency and adherence to specific academic standards.