Formal Writing Expectations

The following expectations must be followed for all written work submitted in this course:

1. As a general rule, never write in the first person (“I”, “we”, “our”) or the second person (“you”).

Always write in the third person. The exception would be if you are asked to reflect or provide your

thoughts on a matter.

2. Never ask questions.

3. Never begin a sentence with “Yes”, “No”, “But”, “Because”, “Reason being”, “So”, or “I think”.

4. Do not use short forms, abbreviations or contractions (eg. write out “can’t” as “cannot”, “they’re” as

“they are”).

5. Numbers under 10 should be written out. If a number is at the start of a sentence, it should be written

out in full even if greater than 10.

6. Do not use slang. Police officers are not “cops”.

7. Indent the first line of all new paragraphs one tab (5 spaces).

8. All work must be produced in Times New Roman 12-point font and double spaced as this document

has been written. Use 1-inch margins on all sides and left align. If the assignment requires answers

to specific numbered questions, follow the numbering but do not repeat the question. Number all

pages on the bottom right corner.

9. Information derived from a secondary source (textbook, internet etc.) must be properly referenced in

APA format including both in-text citations and a Works Cited at the end of your document. If

unclear about the format, please visit Library Services in Access Sheridan. Under “Assignment

Resources” click “APA, MLA, etc.”. The library link is also available through SLATE.

10. Legislation, regulations and case law are primary sources and must follow the McGill Law Journal

Canadian Guide to Uniform Legal Citation. They are not “works” and should not be listed in a

“Works Cited”. When citing primary legal sources in your work (such as if you refer to a case), do

not reference the source (ie. I do not want to see an internet URL). Provide the full legal citation
 Formal Writing Expectations

the first time you refer to a case and always note the level of court if not apparent from the

citation as follows:

Jones v. Smith, 2012 ONCA 16

Brown v. Anderson, [2015] OJ No. 2345 (OCA)

Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 SO 2006, Chapter 17 s.12

11. Proofread carefully for spelling and grammatical errors. DO NOT rely on spellcheck.

12. All documents must be submitted with a properly formatted title page (sample attached) and the

rubric attached at the end. Do not use plastic folders or covers.

 Formal Writing Expectations

SAMPLE TITLE PAGE

Title of Assignment

Student(s) Name:
Student(s) Number:
Professor Name:
Date:
Course Code and Title: