History Research Guide

Appendices

Appendices (singular: Appendix) include copies of archival documents, illustrations, graphs, tables, figures and the like.

The same principle applies to appendices that applies to illustrations: use only if necessary for clarifying your argument. Ask yourself whether copies, graphs, and the like should be included in the body of your text or added as an appendix. Use the following criteria:

  • Relatively concise items that support the development of your main argument should preferably be included in the main text.
  • Items that illustrate a minor point, or that have a bearing on several sections in the body should be appended.

Whatever you decide, always provide clear titles or captions, credits (sources) and proper notes for each of these materials.

Appendices are included at the end of your paper or thesis. Do not forget to include them in your table of contents.