How strict are professors about formatting?

[Antonio]

I got a paper back last week and lost 5 points because my font was "too small." FIVE POINTS. For font size. I used 11pt instead of 12pt. Is this really that serious?

The SJSU Writing Center guide says formatting matters because it shows "attention to detail" and "ability to follow instructions" . I get that, but 5 points feels harsh.

What professors typically check:

• Margins — usually 1 inch all around
• Font — Times New Roman or specified font, 12pt
• Spacing — double-spaced (always)
• Page numbers — usually top right corner
• Headers — running heads for APA, last name + page for MLA
• Title page — sometimes required, sometimes not
• Citations — in-text and reference list must match
• References — alphabetized, hanging indent, correct format

A professor told me: "I have to read 50 papers. If yours is hard to read because of formatting, I'm already annoyed before I start. That affects your grade" . So maybe formatting isn't just arbitrary rules — it's about respect for the reader.

Tools that help:

• Microsoft Word templates for APA/MLA papers
• Google Docs has built-in MLA and APA templates
• Zotero for citations
• Purdue OWL for checking rules

My new strategy:

1. Set up the document with correct formatting BEFORE I start writing
2. Use the template so I don't forget
3. Check citations as I go (not at the end)
4. Print and measure margins before submitting

A grad student told me: "Think of formatting as the frame for your painting. Even a masterpiece looks bad in a cheap frame" . I hate that analogy because it's true.

For students who've lost points on formatting: what mistakes did you make? Any tips for avoiding them? I need to never lose 5 points for font size again.