Citation and Formatting Guide

For all assignments, you are required to cite any source you consult. To not cite a consulted source constitutes plagiarism.

Westminster's Citation & Formatting Guide (5th Edition, 2025) (or 'CFG') provides a quick reference on how to properly format your papers and cite your sources.

Note that the CFG includes two different styles, which are particularly useful for Westminster assignments: Turabian and SBL. Please note that Turabian and SBL (Society of Biblical Literature) are the only accepted citation styles (e.g., APA will not be accepted).

Most useful pages

• For proper formatting of footnotes and bibliographies, see pages 7 and 8.
• For a sample course paper (including title page), see page 55.

When to use Turabian or SBL

• Use Turabian for most courses, unless directed otherwise by your instructor.
• Use SBL for biblical studies courses taught in the MDiv/MAR programs (e.g., NT 223, OT 323).

Services from the Center for Theological Writing ('CTW'):

• Make a Drop-In Appointment - Schedule a 30-minute appointment to review your writing or ask questions about formatting guidelines at WTS.

Helpful Links:

• Center for Theological Writing - The Center for Theological Writing exists to equip you with online resources and in-person tutoring to help you write, revise, and edit works of theological writing with confidence, clarity, and excellence.
• Plagiarism Overview - This overview clearly defines plagiarism, identifies how it happens, and provides advice on how you can avoid it.
• Email Address - Feel free to email general writing questions to the Center for Theological Writing at ctw@wts.edu.

• Canvas Page - Our Canvas page contains a variety of helpful resources, including general advice on writing, sample papers, and handouts that guide you through specific types of assignments. If you’d like to join, email ctw@wts.edu and ask to be added to the Canvas page.