Should There Be a Space After Footnotes?
The question of whether or not to put a space after a footnote is a common one, and there's no definitive answer that satisfies everyone. It's a matter of style and convention, with different publications and style guides having their own preferences. Here's a breakdown of the different perspectives and how to make the best choice for your specific situation.
The Traditional View: No Space
Traditionally, footnotes were typeset without a space after the number. This style is still widely followed in academic writing, particularly in disciplines like history and literature. The lack of space creates a visually compact look, emphasizing the connection between the note and the main text.
Example:
"The French Revolution was a pivotal moment in European history."¹
Here, the footnote number is directly attached to the text, creating a seamless flow and preventing the footnote from feeling like an interruption.
The Modern View: Space is Optional
Over time, the use of a space after footnotes has become more prevalent, especially in online publications and creative writing. This shift can be attributed to several factors:
- Increased readability: Some argue that adding a space improves readability, separating the footnote number from the surrounding text and preventing visual clutter.
- Consistency with other punctuation: Using a space aligns with the general practice of adding a space after other punctuation marks like periods, commas, and semicolons.
- Modern typography: Contemporary typography often prioritizes visual clarity and spaciousness, favoring a more open and airy feel.
Example:
"The French Revolution was a pivotal moment in European history." ¹
Here, the space between the note number and the main text provides a subtle visual break, enhancing clarity.
The "Chicago Manual of Style" Recommendation
The renowned Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) offers a practical guideline for footnotes. While they acknowledge the traditional no-space approach, they encourage using a space if it improves the appearance of the text.
Example:
“The French Revolution was a pivotal moment in European history.”¹
In this example, CMOS would likely recommend adding a space due to the potential for visual clutter in the sentence structure.
Ultimately, It’s Up to You
Choosing whether to put a space after footnotes is a matter of personal preference and adhering to the specific style guide you are using. If you are working on an academic paper, research the preferred style of your discipline and the particular journal or publisher you are aiming for. For personal writing or online content, consider the overall look and feel of your piece and what enhances readability for your audience.
Tips for Making a Decision:
- Consider your audience: Academic writing often prioritizes tradition and consistency, while creative writing and online publications might lean towards modern trends.
- Review style guides: Consult relevant style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style or the MLA Handbook, for specific guidance.
- Experiment: Try different styles and see what feels more visually appealing and comfortable for you.
Conclusion
The debate about spaces after footnotes is ongoing, reflecting the dynamic nature of writing and the ever-evolving landscape of typography. While tradition favors the no-space approach, modern trends suggest that adding a space can enhance readability and visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice is yours, guided by your understanding of style, audience, and personal preference.