Creative Writing Formatting Guide

Most creative writing works are markedly different in content, style, and structure from a traditional empirical study. Students should consult with their committee chair and members regarding any genre-specific commonalities or requirements to ensure the creative work meets programmatic and disciplinary expectations commensurate with the degree awarded. 

All submissions, including those in Creative Writing, must follow the UTRGV Thesis Formatting Guide, including all standard Preliminary and Supplementary Pages. 

Structure 

First Section: Critical Introduction and/or Methodology 

The first section should include an introduction to the work, including a statement of purpose, rationale, background information, and an overview of the subject matter or content. This section may also include discussion of relevant theoretical constructs and relationships to other works. 

Second Section: The Central Creative Work(s) 

This is the central component of the thesis and typically consists of original creative works such as short stories, poems, a novel (or excerpt), or screenplay. 

Typical length requirements: 

• Fiction/short stories: ~120 pages 
• Poetry: 60–90 pages 
• Screenplay: ~90 pages 

Subsections should be clearly identified with titles or headings. For example, a novel may have chapters, a chronology, or themes, while plays or scripts may be divided into acts. If multiple different works are presented in this section, such as poems or short stories, they also should be clearly identified with appropriate titles or headings and may also be further organized chronologically or thematically using sub headers if desired. 

Most programs or committees require a third section, or additional sections or appendices. 

Third Section: Critical Analysis or Reflection 

Some programs require a critical analysis or reflection component in which the author discusses their creative process, influences, themes, techniques, and any other relevant aspects of their work. This section, if included, should provide insight into the thought process behind the creative piece(s) and demonstrates a deeper understanding of the craft. A conclusion that summarizes the main points discussed in the thesis may also be included and may offer final reflections on the creative work(s) presented. 

Appendices (optional) 

Additional materials such as drafts, outlines, character sketches, or any other supplementary documents that provide context or support for the creative work(s) presented.