Word templates and instructions for theses, dissertations, and records of study
Basic template
In the Basic Template, the layout is preformatted, but the student will need to manually enter content into each section. Using the Basic Template with the Walkthrough Guide will assist you in meeting all the formatting requirements and support accessibility upon conversion to PDF.The template follows Texas A&M University’s formatting standards, including spacing, page numbering, margins, heading styles, and 5 PDF accessibility checks. The Template Walkthrough below provides guidance on using the template. A Sample Manuscript that meets the guidelines and accessibility standards is also included to help you review your own document.
You may either type your thesis/dissertation/record of study directly into the template or copy and paste content from another source. Recognize that changes made to the template during the writing process may cause deviations from the formatting requirements, so please review your manuscript prior to submission.
Word Download: Basic Template
Template Walkthrough
The Template Walkthrough offers a clear, step-by-step guide to help you complete the Basic Template. In addition, the Template Walkthrough provides information on the PDF conversion process. Details on running an accessibility check to pass five key checks can be found on our PDF Accessibility Check Guide. We understand that not all graduate students have access to Adobe Acrobat Pro. That’s why our Word Template and Walkthrough provide formatting and step-by-step guidance to ensure accessibility upon conversion to PDF.PDF Download: Template Walkthrough
A LaTeX walkthrough is currently in development, but for now the general guidelines outlined in the Word Template Walkthrough will enable meeting formatting guidelines.
Sample Manuscript
The Sample Manuscript illustrates a properly formatted dissertation, demonstrating how your final document should appear when the Basic Template is followed correctly. The sample manuscript is intended to be used in conjunction with the Template Walkthrough to help you complete the Basic Template more efficiently. Once your manuscript is complete, whether it is a thesis, dissertation, or record of study, its formatting should match the sample dissertation exactly.
Word Download: Sample Manuscript
Using the three resources above will enable students to meet the Grad School's formatting requirements. Also, using these tools will result in a document with greater accessibility. We strongly encourage students to make their documents accessible to reach a broader audience and maximize the impact of their research.