Senior Sequence

Writing/Formatting Tips

Thesis Writing Tips:

What makes a good looking paper? Click here for formatting instructions:  Paper_Guidelines.pdf

Proofreading.pdf

Senior Research Project from 2010, with comments: Macmanus_SRP-FoodOutlets.docx

Honors thesis with comments (Feb. 8, 2011): Honors_Thesis_V9_MacManus.pdf

How to Format the Bibliography & Other Frequently Asked Questions

1.  How do I format the bibliography and citations in body of the paper?

All written assignments (style, spelling, usage, references and footnotes) must conform to requirements set forth in the Chicago Manual of Style, fifteenth edition (University of Chicago Press 2003). The Journal of Planning Education and Research (JPER) requires the Chicago Manual of Style. JPER is one of the most respected and authoritative journals in the field of urban and regional planning.

To see a section of the JPER’s guide to authors submitting manuscripts, and other specific examples of how to properly format your bibliography, click here

The Chicago Manual of Style Web site is at:
http://www.press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/cmosfaq/tools.html

2. Can you show me some examples of written work students did in past years?

You can view the work that Senior Sequence students did in teams during past years at:
http://dms-dev.com/sr/view_srtitle.php?year=2008-2009

For some full text exemplary student work: click here

3. How can I frame my study? What is a good way to organize it conceptually?

Below are a few examples of narrative devices (conceptual lenses) you could use to frame your study
(click here for details on a few of the examples listed below). There are many others.

• Integration (knowledge management, transdisciplinarity, epistemic cultures, PSS/ DSS)
• Science communication (research translation, science-society linkages)
• Globalism (grand challenges, transborder comparative frames of reference)
• Diversity and Justice (challenges of multiculturalism, demographic shifts)
• Governance (planning theory re civic engagement, power and democracy)
• Networks and flows (network theory, public policy networks, new forms of social activism)
• Social Change (planning strategies re advocacy, social movements, activist networks)
• Innovation (source of, process, collaborative models)
• Sustainability (the three E’s economics, equity, environment)
• Imagination (role of story/narrative in planning, framing)

4. Are there guides I can use as worksheets to help me get clarity (for research and writing purposes)?

Below are some of the handouts we’ve shared in the Senior Sequence:

• Guide to Critical Thinking and Action for Urban and Regional Studies (click here for pdf )
• Four Traditions of Planning Theory (click here for pdf)
• Research Design and Methods Worksheet (click here for pdf)
• Evidence Worksheet (click here for word doc)
• Conceptual Map for Sustainable City-Region Development (click here for pdf)
• The 3 Es of Sustainable Development (click here for pdf )

5. Can I make reference to myself in the paper (can I use I)?

Use I only sparingly, if at all. It is legitimate to use I when you need to say something about your specific role or credibility. For instance, something like this would be ok.

As a research intern at the Center on Policy Initiatives, I was a participant observer during many of the meetings I analyze in this thesis.

You don’t need to say I conducted interviews with so and so. Instead, weave the interview data into your report.  Here is an example of SRP text using interview data:

Sample SRP text

Several officials mentioned the political climate of SD influences the city’s ability to meet a certain target. Jane Smith, CEO … stated “It has been really hard for us to try to get legislation through because the city council doesn’t like to impose mandates. Instead, they like to go for voluntary compliance” (interview by author, 2.3.08).

Don’t say I think in the paper. That is assumed. Rather than say I think, try saying :  The evidence suggests that….

Think of your ideas as the embodiment of collective knowledge (from your readings and conversation with others).