A Brief Overview...
The Format Advising service of SAS reviews your thesis, dissertation, research paper, bound document, or practicum to ensure that it meets the Format Manual and your chosen style guide requirements.

Need help with the format of your thesis or dissertation? The links below provide information about the process, format guidelines, and how to contact us.

• Format Manual
  Published by the Graduate College, the Format Manual contains formatting guidelines you must follow when writing your document.
• Format Updates & News
• Using Style Guides
  The style guide is discipline-specific and covers different formatting issues than the Format Manual, so both should be used when preparing your document.
  • Recommended Style Guides
  • How to Reference Websites and Other Electronic Services
• Frequently Asked Questions: Theses/Dissertations
• Service Providers
• The Purpose of the Abstract
• Thesis/Dissertation & Graduation Workshop
  There is a Thesis/Dissertation & Graduation Workshop held every fall and spring semester. We recommend attending the workshop as it will help you successfully complete format review.
• Format Approval Sheet
  The Format Approval Sheet must be turned in when you submit your document for format review.

Getting Advice and Contact Information

Format advising is available at (480) 965-3521 or gradformat@asu.edu. However, questions regarding word-processing techniques for a particular software program are best directed to the software program's help menu or technical support team.

Format advising is available via phone, email, or in person. We also offer walk-in advising.

• If you have general questions regarding the format process, we will be happy to help you.
• If you have specific questions, please have an example of what you need help with (either from your completed format review or from the document you plan to submit for format review) so that we may better assist you.
• We will not conduct on-the-spot reviews of entire theses/dissertations because a thorough review needs more time and attention; however, we can answer any specific questions you may have.

Other Helpful Resources

• Student Academic Services (SAS)
• The Graduation Process
  • Graduation Deadlines and Procedures
  • Preparing for Graduation
• ASU Bookstore website
• Binding and Microfilming Your Thesis or Dissertation
• The Writing Center (http://www.asu.edu/duas/wcenter/)
• Instructional Computer Labs (http://www.asu.edu/lrc/)

If you have questions about the information on this page, please contact Format Advising at (480) 965-3521.