How can a dull list of rules be a quiet machine for trust?
The Quiet Power of a Style Guide
A list of rules about headers, word counts, and file names sounds dull. But every shared standard is a tiny machine that lets many people make one trustworthy thing together.
(last updated 2025-09-20)
Headers & Lists
- Use bold headers for all sections (Introduction, Sidebar, Conclusion, etc.).
- Use bullets only for lists (Sidebar items, Classroom Prompts, Sources).
- No bullets in titles or headers.
File Outputs
- Provide .docx files only for finalized essays.
- RTF files are no longer required, since they can be exported directly from Word if needed.
Formatting Rules
- Minimal spacing: single line breaks between sections/paragraphs, no extra auto-spacing.
- Consistent word count target: ~1,200 words (longer if requested).
- Footer metadata at the end of every essay:
• Word Count
• Finalization Date
• Copyright: © Michael A. Pink
Attribution
- Always include attribution line near the top:
Inspired by “[Article Title]” by [Author], [Publication, Date] OR (HH Original)
Sources
- Full list of all sources used (articles, studies, books) at the end of each essay.
- Abstracts do not require sources unless they directly quote or reference research.
Abstracts
- Each essay has an accompanying 150–200 word abstract for indexing/overview.
- Abstracts follow the same formatting rules but no sources required.
File Naming Convention
- [Essay_Title]_HH_[Inspired_by_or_Original]_[Author_or_Tag]_FINAL_[YYYY-MM-DD].docx
- Include word count in the filename only if requested.
Reflection Moment
Pause and capture an insight. Your reflections are private — saved only in this browser — and they help your curiosity grow.
- ◆What surprised you most?
- ◆What does this change about how you see the world?
- ◆What other questions does this raise?
Now do something real
Write a one-line rule for a chore your household shares, like how to load the dishwasher. Post it, try it for a few days, and notice if the result gets steadier.
Curiosity is worth more when it leaves the screen. Try this, then come back and capture what you noticed.
Where will your curiosity go next?
Pathways branch from here. Follow one, or several — there is no wrong way.
Questions this opens
Curiosity never ends. Each answer is the start of another journey.