Chicago Format
“Chicago format” most often requires choosing between Chicago’s notes-and-bibliography and author-date citation systems. The Chicago Manual of Style directs writers to use the system required by their field, instructor, or publisher and provides separate examples for each; this should not be generalized into one universal paper layout.
Chicago citation uses two main systems: notes and bibliography, or author-date. Use the system required by your instructor, publisher, or field, then follow the current Chicago examples for that system and source type.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
“Chicago format” is not one universal layout rule for every paper. Citation system, manuscript presentation, and publisher/instructor requirements should not be collapsed into a single generic template.
Further guidance
Application
Use notes and bibliography when that system is required, or author-date when that system is required; follow Chicago’s current examples for the source type and check the instructor, publisher, or field requirement before choosing.
Core Rule
Chicago source citation has two principal systems: notes and bibliography, and author-date.
Practical Application
First determine whether the work requires Chicago notes-and-bibliography or Chicago author-date. Then follow current Chicago examples for the exact source type and the publisher/instructor’s local requirements. Do not collapse the two citation systems into one hybrid format.
Reader Check
Has the required Chicago citation system been identified before references and in-text/footnote citations are formatted?
Worked Example
A history paper may use numbered notes plus a bibliography, while a social-science manuscript may use parenthetical author-date citations; both are Chicago systems, but their citation mechanics differ.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Chicago-Style Citation Quick Guide (opens in a new tab)The Chicago Manual of Style · Current first-party Chicago guidance distinguishing notes-and-bibliography from author-date citation systems and directing writers to the required system.