If numbered footnotes are excessive, some authors will reset the numbering to one at the beginning of each chapter. However, if footnotes are frequent, as with academic writing, then sequential numbers are used. If footnotes are rare or inconsistent, they are usually denoted by an asterisk (*) or less commonly the dagger (†).

Footnotes are stacked at the bottom of the page in the order their corresponding signals appear in the text. The only exception is the dash (-), in which case the footnote signal comes before, not after.Īt the bottom of the page, that same signal is written, along with the footnote. Footnote signals should come after punctuation and at the end of sentences when possible. Within the text, place a footnote signal directly after the passage that the footnote relates to. The information in footnotes is always supplemental, or “extra.” That means if you have something necessary to say in your writing, put it in the text, not in a footnote.

Displaying a source citation (depending on the style guide).įootnotes are also used for displaying legal disclaimers or copyright information, especially in advertisements.

Sharing additional information or personal commentary about a passage in the text.

In most written works, footnotes provide two main services in a text: These superscript figures in text correspond to a small note at the bottom of the page, known as a footnote. If you’ve seen a small number or asterisk written near the top of a line in text, chances are it was a footnote. Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly What are footnotes?

Footnote meaning