SSLW 2008

When writing a research paper or course work it is important that a student makes appropriate use of the various graphic devices open to them. The following is a brief outline of the advice ITS Tutorial Schools English tutors offer students in regard to these devices. For further tips on writing a good research or term paper visit this article: How to write a good research paper, course work or extended essay by considering the rubric requirements.

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Graphic Devices include

• White space
• Bold face
• Bullets
• Underlining
• Capitals

White space

The white space that surrounds the list above makes it stand out. Using plenty of white space (generous margins and breaks between paragraphs) will make your document inviting.

Bold face

Using  bold makes a word or passage more noticeable. Sometimes bold face does not reproduce well. If you are making multiple copies of a document. Do not overuse bold or the effect of the highlight can be lost. Some may prefer to use a different device to emphasize a point ie italics.

Bullets

Bullets (the black dots that precede the listed items above) are used to set off major points that can be expressed briefly. They are widely used in business because they telegraph important information quickly. Bullets should be used sparingly, for if you overuse them, they will lose impact and confuse the reader. He or she may fail to notice important ideas because other less important information is also highlighted by bullets.

The two requirements for the successful use of bullet points is that the bullet points must be both conceptually parallel and grammatically parallel. Conceptually parallel requires bullet points to be discrete, non-overlapping ideas at the same level of specificity. Grammatically parallel requires each point to be written in the same grammatical structure.

Underlining

Underlining can also call the reader’s attention to points that might otherwise be skimmed over. Like with bullets use it sparingly.

Capitals

Single words or short passages may be printed in capital letters for emphasis. Warnings, changes in policy or procedures , a company name etc..

The layout of your document conveys a strong visual message to your reader. Use graphic devices to reinforce your verbal message. HIGHLIGHT ONLY IMPORTANT INFORMATION; otherwise the purpose of using graphic devices will be defeated, your reader will be distracted rather than engaged.

Best of luck in getting that A grade.