When writing academic papers, research topics, or formal documents, the correct use of footnotes can impact both the clarity and professionalism of your work. One common question that arises among students, editors, and even experienced writers is does the footnote go after the period? This question may seem minor, but it reflects important style guidelines and punctuation rules that vary depending on the format you’re following. Understanding the proper placement of footnote references helps maintain consistency, improves readability, and ensures you follow standard academic conventions.
Understanding Footnote Placement
What Is a Footnote?
A footnote is a note placed at the bottom of a page that provides additional information, citations, or commentary related to the main text. It is typically indicated by a superscript number in the body of the text, which corresponds to the note at the bottom of the same page.
Purpose of Footnotes
Footnotes serve various purposes in writing, such as
- Providing source citations
- Giving extra details without interrupting the main text
- Clarifying complex terms or references
Although useful, footnotes must be used correctly to avoid confusion or stylistic errors, especially when deciding their position in relation to punctuation.
General Rule Footnote Placement After the Period
Standard Style Guidance
In most academic and professional writing styles, includingChicago Manual of StyleandOxford Style Manual, the general rule is that the footnote number comes after the punctuation mark, usually after the period.
Example
The results were consistent with previous studies.1
This placement signals to the reader that the entire sentence is being referenced or expanded upon in the footnote. It is considered more formal and is recommended in academic environments.
Why Place the Footnote After the Period?
- It clearly indicates that the footnote refers to the whole sentence.
- It maintains visual clarity and uniformity in formatting.
- It follows accepted style guides used by many universities and publishers.
Exceptions and Alternate Practices
Footnotes Within a Sentence
In some cases, you may need to include a footnote number in the middle of a sentence, especially when the note refers only to a specific part of the sentence or a single term. In these cases, the footnote number typically comes immediately after the word or phrase it references, before any punctuation.
Example
The term biopolitics2was introduced by Michel Foucault in the 1970s.
This placement is accepted as long as it serves clarity and avoids ambiguity. However, it should not be used to replace the general rule of placing the footnote after the period when referencing an entire sentence.
APA and MLA Style Considerations
While footnotes are not commonly used in APA (American Psychological Association) or MLA (Modern Language Association) styles for citations, they may be used for explanatory notes. In such cases, the number also usually appears after the period.
Example (MLA-style explanatory footnote)
Some authors have challenged this interpretation.3
Because both APA and MLA primarily rely on in-text citations, footnote placement in these styles is more flexible and often less standardized compared to Chicago style.
Footnote Placement with Other Punctuation Marks
After Commas or Colons
When a footnote is used in a clause or phrase that ends with a comma or colon, the footnote number typically follows the punctuation mark.
Example
Several theories were presented, including Marxist critiques.4
However, this should be done only if the note refers to the entire clause before the punctuation. If it refers to a single word, place it immediately after that word.
With Quotation Marks
Footnote placement can get tricky with quotation marks. In most cases, the footnote number comes after the closing quotation mark if the note refers to the entire quoted sentence.
Example
He described the result as entirely unexpected.5
If the footnote is specifically related to the quotation itself (not the rest of the sentence), then placing the footnote right after the quote may be more appropriate, but always consult the specific style guide you are following.
Style Guide Recommendations
Chicago Manual of Style
This style clearly states that footnote numbers should be placed after the punctuation, particularly periods and commas.
APA Style
Footnotes are rare in APA formatting but are placed after punctuation when used.
MLA Style
Similar to APA, MLA prefers parenthetical citations, but footnotes for supplementary content follow punctuation marks.
Oxford Style
British English usage, including Oxford style, also recommends placing the footnote number after punctuation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Placing the footnote number before a period (e.g., example6.) unless the footnote only applies to a specific word.
- Using footnotes for citation in APA or MLA when in-text citation is required.
- Using multiple footnotes within one sentence unnecessarily.
These mistakes may not only confuse the reader but also reduce the professional appearance of your writing.
Helpful Tips for Correct Footnote Placement
- Use a consistent style guide throughout your document.
- Double-check whether your institution or publisher has specific requirements.
- When in doubt, place the footnote number after the period to ensure formality and completeness.
- Use footnotes sparingly and only when they enhance understanding or provide essential references.
So, does the footnote go after the period? The answer is yes, in most formal writing styles and academic standards. Placing the footnote number after the period makes it clear that the entire sentence is being referenced. While exceptions exist such as when referring to a single term or phrase following the general rule helps maintain consistency and readability. Whether you’re writing a research paper, thesis, or professional topic, paying attention to small details like footnote placement can make a significant difference in how your work is received. Always consult the relevant style guide, and when uncertain, prioritize clarity and uniform formatting.