Frequently Asked Questions

What is the review process?

The process begins with you having completed at least one chapter of your thesis or dissertation. A complete diagram of the process can be found online.

Is it ok for me to make an appointment before I have one chapter of my thesis or dissertation done?

Questions are always encouraged. Our first priority has to be for those who are meeting a deadline to graduate. Feel free to contact TFO with your questions. You are welcomed to attend one of our open labs or workshops to obtain answers to your questions. During these opportunities, you may have a chance to listen to the thesis format reviewer answer questions for a more advanced student. This will give you a learning opportunity not presented during a one-on-one meeting.

Does the Thesis Format Office deposit my manuscript to the Graduate College for me?

No, the Thesis Format Office will not deposit for you at the Graduate College. Some graduate students are able to depend on a colleague, friend, or family member to take care of this important task. Your other option is to pay a person from our freelance formatters list to deposit for you. Please contact TFO if you're interested in names of freelance formatters.

Will the Thesis Format Office format my manuscript for me?

We are unable to format a thesis or dissertation for any student--performing this duty is considered unethnical and therefore it is against University policy. If you need assistance formatting your manuscript, you may contact a freelance formatter who might be able to assist you for a fee. Please e-email our office if you're interested in names of freelance formatters.

How early should I begin the review process?

The sooner you begin, the better off everyone will be. Be aware that some advisers prefer their Doctoral students to wait until after the Prelim to start a relationship with TFO. Feel free to attend one of our open labs to obtain answers to your questions or attend a workshop.

What formatting styles are acceptable?

The APA (i.e., American Psychological Association) formatting style is widely used at the College of Education. Other formatting styles used are Chicago, Turabian, and MLA. Overall differences to be aware of involve the first page of each section, footnote formatting, and how the reference page is referred. Basic formatting elements will be the same regardless of the style used, such as title page, margins, and page numbering. Check out the Graduate College's basic formatting requirements. If you have specific questions, please contact TFO.

How do I use Microsoft Word's Style and Formatting?

This MS Word feature is a huge time saving tool when creating a large document which needs consistent formatting. Where the Styles and Formatting Task Bar is found depends on which version of MS Word is used. When in doubt of a feature in MS Word, always look to their help menu--note that best results are achieved when you keep your search critia simple. Microsoft Office has online training available on how to use Style and Formatting for their current version . If you look at the Styles and Formatting Task Bar in the College Template, you'll notice that TFO has taken advantage of this handy MS feature.

My line spacing is too wide and no matter what I do, Microsoft Word won't change my text to double spacing. Do you know how to fix this problem?

This is a problem we see in manuscript's from students using a version of the software that is for the Asian market. You need to use your home country's version of Microsoft Word and change the margins and spacing to the following:

Margins: left = 108 points/inch; right, top, and bottom = 72 points/inch

Line spacing = 27 points/inch

Page numbers must be at least 36 points/inch from the papers edge

When does my Assistantship end?

In accordance with Graduate College policy, Assistantships end upon deposit. For more information, see the Graduate College handbook.