Thesis Templates
Templates have been created to work in conjunction with MS Word and The Shortcut. Their purpose is to allow you to concentrate on writing your thesis and not have to worry about spacing, page numbers, or other style details.
Using Templates
Whatever computer you are using (your own personal computer or one on campus), there are two options for using the templates.
- Simply download the one you need from the list below and start writing your paper/thesis. Any time you need a new template, come back to this library web page and download another one.
- Download and save the template you need somewhere on your computer (such as your desktop). Then, open the saved template from the location you saved it to when you are ready to begin writing your paper/thesis. You can open and re-use this same template as many times as you need. There is no need to go to the library web page each time.
What Thesis Templates Will I Need?
Choose the appropriate template for your program or project. The Research Paper Template applies to all degree programs.
Also make sure to download the Help Document which explains how to use the templates, work with page numbers, use section breaks, and generate a table of contents.
Working with Thesis Templates
The templates are based on styles. Please refer to the Help Document (PC or Mac) to make sure you are using and applying the correct styles. If you are using the thesis template correctly:
- Your entire thesis will be in one document.
- Your table of contents will automatically be created.
- You will have one complete bibliography of all your works cited.
- Your page numbers will align correctly for each separate chapter and section of your thesis.
Remember to save your file often! And to develop a workable naming process for your files. Keep track of all versions and revisions as you write your thesis.
Backing Up Your Thesis
Make sure that you have extra copies of your thesis. Back it up EACH time you work on it. Use your space on the Campus H: drive (This is backed up 2 times/day by the Campus network wizards.) and/or keep an extra copy on a flash drive.
To access your H:Drive remotely, use SNAP. Not sure how to use SNAP? Follow these instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I need help?
A: A Help Document (PC or Mac version) detailing which styles are in each template and how to apply the styles is available for download. Or contact Kristin Payne, kpayne001@luthersem.edu or Jennie Bartholomew, jbartholomew001@luthersem.edu.
Q: What if I need the old templates?
A: If you started writing your thesis with the older version of the templates, or are using Word 2003 or older, you can still download the ones you need from the list below.
