apa format citation research paper

• The Complete Guide to APA Format in 2020
• Headings and Subheadings
• Discussion Section
• Websites and Online Sources
• Journals and Periodicals
• Other Print Sources
• Other Non-Print Sources
• In-text Citations
• Footnotes and Endnotes
• Using MyBib Responsibly
• Miscellaneous Questions

APA Format is the official writing style of the American Psychological Association, and is primarily used in subjects such as psychology, education, and the social sciences.

It specifies how to format academic papers and citations for publication in journals, periodicals, and bulletins.

This guide will show you how to prepare and format a document to be fully compliant with APA Format in 2020.

Before You Start Writing...

There are several steps you must take to prepare a new document for APA style before you start writing your paper:

• Make sure the paper size is 8.5" x 11" (known as 'Letter' in most word processors).
• Set the margin size to 1" on all sides (2.54cm).
• Change the line spacing to double-spaced .
• Add page numbers to the top-right corner of every page.
• Add a running head to the top-left corner of every page.

We have a pre-made APA style template document you can download to be sure you are ready to start writing. You can download it below:

When your document is ready, proceed to writing the title page .

APA Style 7th Edition: Citing Your Sources

Apa 7th edition, what is the purpose, quick links.

• In Text Quick View
• Block Quotes
• Books & eBooks
• Thesis/Dissertation
• Audiovisual
• Conference Presentations
• Social Media
• Legal References
• Reports and Gray Literature
• Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
• Additional Resources
• Reference Page

APA Publications in the Library

This guide pertains to the 7th edition of the APA Manual.

This guide is designed to support the citation and reference needs of USC students, staff, and faculty.  The 7th edition of the manual does make distinctions between formatting certain components for academic use over publication.  This guide will distinguish student/academic formatting where applicable. 

This guide is designed as a "quick" reference to common APA citation, reference and formatting criteria.  When in doubt, we encourage users to consult with the APA publication manual or APA website for further clarification as the authority on formatting.

Attribution for guide: Adapted from American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed).  https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

What is the purpose of citations?

Citations help readers locate your sources. They help to continue the scholarly conversation. To learn more about how citations can help you avoid plagiarism, view this interactive tutorial: 

USC Library Lessons: Avoiding Plagiarism through Citations

When considering citations and references for your papers, you can ask yourself, "could someone find this information in the future?"

A client's personal file would not need a citation because your reader cannot go find that information again.  Census statistics would require a citation because your reader could go locate that information again.

APA requires FOUR ELEMENTS of every citation:

• Who- Author of content
• When- Date content was published
• What- Title of content
• Where- Publication information. This can be the website you got it from or the journal or book's publication information.

If any of the elements listed above are unavailable, check out "Missing Reference Information" from APA for more information.

• APA Style Website As part of our Style and Grammar Guidelines, we explain the basics of paper format, grammar, punctuation, in-text citations, references, bias-free language, and more. Much of what you used to find on the sixth edition blog, you can now find on the APA Style website.
• Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper by Robert V. Labaree Last Updated May 15, 2024 675233 views this year
• Owl Purdue 7th Edition Style Guide and Formatting Writing guide from Owl Purdue covering the 7th edition of the APA Manual
• Quick Reference Guide Quick guide on how to identify components to configure a reference for Journal article, book, and chapter from an edited book.
• Annotated Sample Student Paper Sample student paper with formatting annotations.
• Sample student paper
• Annotated Sample Professional Paper Sample professional paper with formatting annotations
• Sample professional paper
• USC Libraries APA Style Quick Guide
• Next: In Text Citations >>
• Last Updated: Apr 22, 2024 9:37 AM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/APA7th

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing
• Research Papers

How to Cite a Research Paper in APA

Last Updated: October 19, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 160,330 times. Learn more...

If you’re citing a research article or paper in APA style, you’ll need to use a specific citation format that varies depending on the source. Assess whether your source is an article or report published in an academic journal or book, or whether it is an unpublished research paper, such as a print-only thesis or dissertation. Either way, your in-text citations will need to include information about the author (if available) and the date when your source was published or written.

Sample Citations

Writing an In-Text Citation

• For example, you may write, “Gardener (2008) notes, ‘There are several factors to consider about lobsters’ (p. 199).”

• For example, you may write, “‘There are several factors to consider about lobsters’ (Gardner, 2008, p. 199).” Or, “The paper claims, ‘The fallen angel trope is common in religious and non-religious texts’ (Meek & Hill, 2015, p.13-14).”
• For articles with 3-5 authors, write out the names of all the authors the first time you cite the source. For example: (Hammett, Wooster, Smith, & Charles, 1928). In subsequent citations, write only the first author’s name, followed by et al.: (Hammett et al., 1928).
• If there are 6 or more authors for the paper, include the last name of the first author listed and then write "et al." to indicate that there are more than 5 authors.
• For example, you may write, "'This is a quote' (Minaj et al., 1997, p. 45)."

• For example, you may write, “‘The risk of cervical cancer in women is rising’ (American Cancer Society, 2012, p. 2).”

• For example, you may write, “‘Shakespeare may have been a woman’ (“Radical English Literature,” 2004, p. 45).” Or, “The paper notes, ‘There is a boom in Virgin Mary imagery’ (“Art History in Italy,” 2011, p. 32).”

• For example, you may write, “‘There are several factors to consider about lobsters’ (Gardner, 2008, p. 199).” Or, “The paper claims, ‘The fallen angel trope is common in religious and non-religious texts’ (“Iconography in Italian Frescos,” 2015, p.13-14).”

• For example, you may write, “‘There are several factors to consider about lobsters’ (Gardner, 2008, p. 199).” Or, “The paper claims, ‘The fallen angel trope is common in religious and non-religious texts’ (“Iconography in Italian Frescos,” 2015, p.145-146).”

• For example, you may write, “‘The effects of food deprivation are long-term’ (Mett, 2005, para. 18).”

Creating a Reference List Citation for a Published Source

• Material on websites is also considered “published,” even if it’s not peer-reviewed or associated with a formal publishing company.
• While academic dissertations or theses that are print-only are considered unpublished, these types of documents are considered published if they’re included in an online database (such as ProQuest) or incorporated into an institutional repository.

• For example, you may write, “Gardner, L. M.” Or, “Meek, P. Q., Kendrick, L. H., & Hill, R. W.”
• If there is no author, you can list the name of the organization that published the research paper. For example, you may write, “American Cancer Society” or “The Reading Room.”
• Formally published documents that don’t list an author or that have a corporate author are typically reports or white papers .

• For example, you may write, “Gardner, L. M. (2008).” Or, “American Cancer Society. (2015).”

• For example, you may write, “Gardner, L. M. (2008). Crustaceans: Research and data.” Or, “American Cancer Society. (2015). Cervical cancer rates in women ages 20-45.”

• For example, for a journal article, you may write, “Gardner, L. M. (2008). Crustaceans: Research and data. Modern Journal of Malacostracan Research, 25, 150-305.”
• For a book chapter, you could write: “Wooster, B. W. (1937). A comparative study of modern Dutch cow creamers. In T. E. Travers (Ed.), A Detailed History of Tea Serviceware (pp. 127-155). London: Wimble Press."

• For example, you may write, “Kotb, M. A., Kamal, A. M., Aldossary, N. M., & Bedewi, M. A. (2019). Effect of vitamin D replacement on depression in multiple sclerosis patients. Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 29, 111-117. Retrieved from PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30708308.
• If you’re citing a paper or article that was published online but did not come from an academic journal or database, provide information about the author (if known), the date of publication (if available), and the website where you found the article. For example: “Hill, M. (n.d.). Egypt in the Ptolemaic Period. Retrieved from https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/ptol/hd_ptol.htm”

Citing Unpublished Sources in Your Reference List

• Print-only dissertations or theses.
• Articles or book chapters that are in press or have been recently prepared or submitted for publication.
• Papers that have been rejected for publication or were never intended for publication (such as student research papers or unpublished conference papers).

• If the paper is currently being prepared for publication, include the author’s name, the year when the current draft was completed, and the title of the article in italics, followed by “Manuscript in preparation.” For example: Wooster, B. W. (1932). What the well-dressed man is wearing. Manuscript in preparation.
• If the paper has been submitted for publication, format the citation the same way as if it were in preparation, but instead follow the title with “Manuscript submitted for publication.” For example: Wooster, B. W. (1932). What the well-dressed man is wearing. Manuscript submitted for publication.
• If the paper has been accepted for publication but is not yet published, replace the date with “in press.” Do not italicize the paper title, but do include the title of the periodical or book in which it will be published and italicize that. For example: Wooster, B. W. (in press). What the well-dressed man is wearing. Milady’s Boudoir.

• If the paper was written for a conference but never published, your citation should look like this: Riker, W. T. (2019, March). Traditional methods for the preparation of spiny lobe-fish. Paper presented at the 325th Annual Intergalactic Culinary Conference, San Francisco, CA.
• For an unpublished paper written by a student for a class, include details about the institution where the paper was written. For example: Crusher, B. H. (2019). A typology of Cardassian skin diseases. Unpublished manuscript, Department of External Medicine, Starfleet Academy, San Francisco, CA.

• For example, you may write, “Pendlebottom, R. H. (2011). Iconography in Italian Frescos (Unpublished doctoral dissertation). New York University, New York, United States.”

Community Q&A

• If you want certain information to stand out in the research paper, then you can consider using a block quote. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://libraryguides.vu.edu.au/apa-referencing/7JournalArticles
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_author_authors.html
• ↑ https://bowvalleycollege.libguides.com/c.php?g=714519&p=5093747
• ↑ https://guides.libraries.psu.edu/apaquickguide/intext
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_the_basics.html
• ↑ https://libguides.southernct.edu/c.php?g=7125&p=34582#1951239
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/reference_list_electronic_sources.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/reference_list_articles_in_periodicals.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/reference_list_books.html
• ↑ https://morlingcollege.libguides.com/apareferencing/unpublished-or-informally-published-work
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/general_apa_faqs.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/reference_list_other_print_sources.html

About This Article

To cite a research paper in-text in APA, name the author in the text to introduce the quote and put the publication date for the text in parentheses. At the end of your quote, put the page number in parentheses. If you don’t mention the author in your prose, include them in the citation. Start the citation, which should come at the end of the quote, by listing the author’s last name, the year of publication, and the page number. Make sure to put all of this information in parentheses. If there’s no author, use the name of the organization that published the paper or the first few words from the title. To learn how to cite published and unpublished sources in your reference list, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format

APA Format for Students & Researchers

In this guide, students and researchers can learn the basics of creating a properly formatted research paper according to APA guidelines.

It includes information on how to conceptualize, outline, and format the basic structure of your paper, as well as practical tips on spelling, abbreviation, punctuation, and more. The guide concludes with a complete sample paper as well as a final checklist that writers can use to prepare their work for submission.

APA Paper Formatting Basics

• All text should be double-spaced
• Use one-inch margins on all sides
• All paragraphs in the body are indented
• Make sure that the title is centered on the page with your name and school/institution underneath
• Use 12-point font throughout
• All pages should be numbered in the upper right hand corner
• The manual recommends using one space after most punctuation marks
• A shortened version of the title (“running head”) should be placed in the upper left hand corner

Table of Contents

Here’s a quick rundown of the contents of this guide on how to do APA format.

Information related to writing and organizing your paper:

• Paper and essay categories

General paper length

• Margin sizes
• Title pages
• Running Heads
• APA Outline
• APA Abstract
• The body of papers
• APA headings and subheadings
• Use of graphics (tables and figures)

Writing style tips:

Proper tone.

• Reducing bias and labels
• Abbreviation do’s and don’ts
• Punctuation
• Number rules

Citing Your Sources:

• Citing Sources
• In-text Citations
• Reference Page

Proofing Your Paper:

• Final checklist
• Submitting your project

APA Information:

• What is APA
• APA 7 Updates

What you won’t find in this guide: This guide provides information related to the formatting of your paper, as in guidelines related to spacing, margins, word choice, etc. While it provides a general overview of APA references, it does not provide instructions for how to cite in APA format.

For step-by-step instructions for citing books, journals, how to cite a website in APA format, information on an APA format bibliography, and more, refer to these other EasyBib guides:

• APA citation (general reference guide)
• APA In-text citation
• APA article citation
• APA book citation
• APA citation website

Or, you can use our automatic generator. Our APA formatter helps to build your references for you. Yep, you read that correctly.

Writing and Organizing Your APA Paper in an Effective Way

This section of our guide focuses on proper paper length, how to format headings, spacing, and more! This information can be found in Chapter 2 of the official manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, pp. 29-67).

Categories of papers

Before getting into the nitty-gritty details related to APA research paper format, first determine the type of paper you’re about to embark on creating:

Empirical studies

Empirical studies take data from observations and experiments to generate research reports. It is different from other types of studies in that it isn’t based on theories or ideas, but on actual data.

Literature reviews

These papers analyze another individual’s work or a group of works. The purpose is to gather information about a current issue or problem and to communicate where we are today. It sheds light on issues and attempts to fill those gaps with suggestions for future research and methods.

Theoretical articles

These papers are somewhat similar to a literature reviews in that the author collects, examines, and shares information about a current issue or problem, by using others’ research. It is different from literature reviews in that it attempts to explain or solve a problem by coming up with a new theory. This theory is justified with valid evidence.

Methodological articles

These articles showcase new advances, or modifications to an existing practice, in a scientific method or procedure. The author has data or documentation to prove that their new method, or improvement to a method, is valid. Plenty of evidence is included in this type of article. In addition, the author explains the current method being used in addition to their own findings, in order to allow the reader to understand and modify their own current practices.

Case studies

Case studies present information related an individual, group, or larger set of individuals. These subjects are analyzed for a specific reason and the author reports on the method and conclusions from their study. The author may also make suggestions for future research, create possible theories, and/or determine a solution to a problem.

Since APA style format is used often in science fields, the belief is “less is more.” Make sure you’re able to get your points across in a clear and brief way. Be direct, clear, and professional. Try not to add fluff and unnecessary details into your paper or writing.  This will keep the paper length shorter and more concise.

Margin sizes in APA Format

When it comes to margins, keep them consistent across the left, right, top, and bottom of the page. All four sides should be the same distance from the edge of the paper. It’s recommended to use at least one-inch margins around each side. It’s acceptable to use larger margins, but the margins should never be smaller than an inch.

Title pages in APA Format

The title page, or APA format cover page, is the first page of a paper or essay. Some teachers and professors do not require a title page, but some do. If you’re not sure if you should include one or not, ask your teacher. Some appreciate the page, which clearly displays the writer’s name and the title of the paper.

The APA format title page for student papers includes six main components:

• the title of the APA format paper
• names of all authors
• institutional affiliation
• course number and title
• instructor’s name

Title pages for professional papers  also require a running head; student papers do not.

Some instructors and professional publications also ask for an author’s note. If you’re required or would like to include an author’s note, place it below the institutional affiliation. Examples of information included in an author’s note include an ORCID iD number, a disclosure, and an acknowledgement.

Here are key guidelines to developing your title page:

• The title of the paper should capture the main idea of the essay, but should not contain abbreviations or words that serve no purpose. For example, instead of using the title “A Look at Amphibians From the Past,” title the paper “Amphibians From the Past.” Delete the unnecessary fluff!
• Center the title on the page and place it about 3-4 lines from the top.
• The title should be bolded, in title case, and the same font size as your other page text. Do not underline or italicize the title. Other text on the page should be plain (not bolded , underlined, or italicized ). 
• All text on the title page should be double-spaced. The APA format examples paper below displays proper spacing, so go take a look!
• Do not include any titles in the author’s name such as Dr. or Ms. In contrast, for your instructor’s name, use the form they prefer (e.g., Sagar Parekh, PhD; Dr. Minako Asato; Professor Nathan Ian Brown; etc.).
• The institutional affiliation is the school the author attends or the location where the author conducted the research.

In a hurry? Try the  EasyBib title page maker to easily create a title page for free.

Sample of an APA format title page for a student paper:

Sample of title page for a professional paper:

Running heads in APA Format

The 7th edition of the American Psychological Association Publication Manual (p. 37) states that running heads are not required for student papers unless requested by the instructor. Student papers still need a page number included in the upper right-hand corner of every page. The 6th edition required a running head for student papers, so be sure to confirm with your instructor which edition you should follow. Of note, this guide follows the 7th edition.

Running heads are required for professional papers (e.g., manuscripts submitted for publication). Read on for instructions on how to create them.

Are you wondering what is a “running head”? It’s basically a page header at the top of every page. To make this process easier, set your word processor to automatically add these components onto each page. You may want to look for “Header” in the features.

A running head/page header includes two pieces:

• the title of the paper
• page numbers.

Insert page numbers justified to the right-hand side of the APA format paper (do not put p. or pg. in front of the page numbers).

For all pages of the paper, including the APA format title page, include the “TITLE OF YOUR PAPER” justified to the left in capital letters (i.e., the running head). If your full title is long (over 50 characters), the running head title should be a shortened version.

Preparing outlines in APA Format

Outlines are extremely beneficial as they help writers stay organized, determine the scope of the research that needs to be included, and establish headings and subheadings.

There isn’t an official or recommended “APA format for outline” structure. It is up to the writer (if they choose to make use of an outline) to determine how to organize it and the characters to include. Some writers use a mix of roman numerals, numbers, and uppercase and lowercase letters.

Even though there isn’t a required or recommended APA format for an outline, we encourage writers to make use of one. Who wouldn’t want to put together a rough outline of their project? We promise you, an outline will help you stay on track.

Here’s our version of how APA format for outlines could look:

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for information on APA citation format and other related topics, check out our other comprehensive guides.

How to form an abstract in APA

An APA format abstract (p. 38) is a summary of a scholarly article or scientific study. Scholarly articles and studies are rather lengthy documents, and abstracts allow readers to first determine if they’d like to read an article in its entirety or not.

You may come across abstracts while researching a topic. Many databases display abstracts in the search results and often display them before showing the full text of an article or scientific study. It is important to create a high quality abstract that accurately communicates the purpose and goal of your paper, as readers will determine if it is worthy to continue reading or not.

Are you wondering if you need to create an abstract for your assignment? Usually, student papers do not require an abstract. Abstracts are not typically seen in class assignments, and are usually only included when submitting a paper for publication. Unless your teacher or professor asked for it, you probably don’t need to have one for your class assignment.

If you’re planning on submitting your paper to a journal for publication, first check the journal’s website to learn about abstract and APA paper format requirements.

Here are some helpful suggestions to create a dynamic abstract:

• Abstracts are found on their own page, directly after the title or cover page.
• Professional papers only (not student papers): Include the running head on the top of the page.
• On the first line of the page, center the word “Abstract” (but do not include quotation marks).
• On the following line, write a summary of the key points of your research. Your abstract summary is a way to introduce readers to your research topic, the questions that will be answered, the process you took, and any findings or conclusions you drew. Use concise, brief, informative language. You only have a few sentences to share the summary of your entire document, so be direct with your wording.
• This summary should not be indented, but should be double-spaced and less than 250 words.
• If applicable, help researchers find your work in databases by listing keywords from your paper after your summary. To do this, indent and type Keywords : in italics.  Then list your keywords that stand out in your research. You can also include keyword strings that you think readers will type into the search box.
• Active voice: The subjects reacted to the medication.
• Passive voice: There was a reaction from the subjects taking the medication.
• Instead of evaluating your project in the abstract, simply report what it contains.
• If a large portion of your work includes the extension of someone else’s research, share this in the abstract and include the author’s last name and the year their work was released.

APA format example page:

Here’s an example of an abstract:

Visual design is a critical aspect of any web page or user interface, and its impact on a user’s experience has been studied extensively. Research has shown a positive correlation between a user’s perceived usability and a user’s assessment of visual design. Additionally, perceived web quality, which encompasses visual design, has a positive relationship with both initial and continued consumer purchase intention. However, visual design is often assessed using self-report scale, which are vulnerable to a few pitfalls. Because self-report questionnaires are often reliant on introspection and honesty, it is difficult to confidently rely on self-report questionnaires to make important decisions. This study aims to ensure the validity of a visual design assessment instrument (Visual Aesthetics of Websites Inventory: Short version) by examining its relationship with biometric (variables), like galvanic skin response, pupillometry, and fixation information. Our study looked at participants assessment of a webpage’s visual design, and compared it to their biometric responses while viewing the webpage. Overall, we found that both average fixation duration and pupil dilation differed when participants viewed web pages with lower visual design ratings compared to web pages with a higher visual design rating.

Keywords : usability, visual design, websites, eye tracking, pupillometry, self-report, VisAWI

The body of an APA paper

On the page after the title page (if a student paper) or the abstract (if a professional paper), begin with the body of the paper.

Most papers follow this format:

• At the top of the page, add the page number in the upper right corner of all pages, including the title page.
• On the next line write the title in bold font and center it. Do not underline or italicize it.
• Begin with the introduction and indent the first line of the paragraph. All paragraphs in the body are indented.

Sample body for a student paper:

Most scientific or professional papers have additional sections and guidelines:

• Start with the running head (title + page number). The heading title should be in capital letters. The abstract page should be page 2.
• The introduction presents the problem and premise upon which the research was based. It goes into more detail about this problem than the abstract.
• Begin a new section with the Method and use this word as the subtitle. Bold and center this subtitle. The Method section shows how the study was run and conducted. Be sure to describe the methods through which data was collected.
• Begin a new section with the Results . Bold and center this subtitle. The Results section summarizes your data. Use charts and graphs to display this data.
• Draw conclusions and support how your data led to these conclusions.
• Discuss whether or not your hypothesis was confirmed or not supported by your results.
• Determine the limitations of the study and next steps to improve research for future studies.

Sample body for a professional paper:

Keep in mind, APA citation format is much easier than you think, thanks to EasyBib.com. Try our automatic generator and watch how we create APA citation format references for you in just a few clicks. While you’re at it, take a peek at our other helpful guides, such as our APA reference page guide, to make sure you’re on track with your research papers.

Proper usage of headings & subheadings in APA Format

Headings (p. 47) serve an important purpose in research papers — they organize your paper and make it simple to locate different pieces of information. In addition, headings provide readers with a glimpse to the main idea, or content, they are about to read.

In APA format, there are five levels of headings, each with a different formatting:

• This is the title of your paper
• The title should be centered in the middle of the page
• The title should be bolded
• Use uppercase and lowercase letters where necessary (called title capitalization)
• Place this heading against the left margin
• Use bold letters
• Use uppercase and lowercase letters where necessary
• Place this heading against the left side margin
• End the heading with a period
• Indented in from the left margin

Following general formatting rules, all headings are double spaced and there are no extra lines or spaces between sections.

Here is a visual APA format template for levels of headings:

Use of graphics (tables and figures) in APA Format

If you’re looking to jazz up your project with any charts, tables, drawings, or images, there are certain APA format rules (pp. 195-250) to follow.

First and foremost, the only reason why any graphics should be added is to provide the reader with an easier way to see or read information, rather than typing it all out in the text.

Lots of numbers to discuss? Try organizing your information into a chart or table. Pie charts, bar graphs, coordinate planes, and line graphs are just a few ways to show numerical data, relationships between numbers, and many other types of information.

Instead of typing out long, drawn out descriptions, create a drawing or image. Many visual learners would appreciate the ability to look at an image to make sense of information.

Before you go ahead and place that graphic in your paper, here are a few key guidelines:

• Follow them in the appropriate numerical order in which they appear in the text of your paper. Example : Figure 1, Figure 2, Table 1, Figure 3.
• Example: Figure 1, Figure 2, Table 1, Figure 3
• Only use graphics if they will supplement the material in your text. If they reinstate what you already have in your text, then it is not necessary to include a graphic.
• Include enough wording in the graphic so that the reader is able to understand its meaning, even if it is isolated from the corresponding text. However, do not go overboard with adding a ton of wording in your graphic.
• Left align tables and figures

In our APA format sample paper , you’ll find examples of tables after the references. You may also place tables and figures within the text just after it is mentioned.

Is there anything better than seeing a neatly organized data table? We think not! If you have tons of numbers or data to share, consider creating a table instead of typing out a wordy paragraph. Tables are pretty easy to whip up on Google Docs or Microsoft Word.

General format of a table should be:

• Table number
• Choose to type out your data OR create a table. As stated above, in APA format, you shouldn’t have the information typed out in your paper and also have a table showing the same exact information. Choose one or the other.
• If you choose to create a table, discuss it very briefly in the text. Say something along the lines of, “Table 1 displays the amount of money used towards fighting Malaria.” Or, “Stomach cancer rates are displayed in Table 4.”
• If you’re submitting your project for a class, place your table close to the text where it’s mentioned. If you’re submitting it to be published in a journal, most publishers prefer tables to be placed in the back. If you’re unsure where to place your tables, ask!
• Include the table number first and at the top. Table 1 is the first table discussed in the paper. Table 2 is the next table mentioned, and so on. This should be in bold.
• Add a title under the number. Create a brief, descriptive title. Capitalize the first letter for each important word. Italicize the title and place it under the table number.
• Only use horizontal lines.
• Limit use of cell shading.
• Keep the font at 12-point size and use single or double spacing. If you use single spacing in one table, make sure all of the others use single spaces as well. Keep it consistent.
• All headings should be centered.
• In the first column (called the stub), center the heading, left-align the information underneath it (indent 0.15 inches if info is more than one line).
• Information in other columns should be centered.
• General . Information about the whole table.
• Specific . Information targeted for a specific column, row, or cell.
• Probability . Explains what certain table symbols mean. For example, asterisks,  p values, etc.

Here’s an APA format example of a table:

We know putting together a table is pretty tricky. That’s why we’ve included not one, but a few tables on this page. Scroll down and look at the additional tables in the essay in APA format example found below.

Figures represent information in a visual way. They differ from tables in that they are visually appealing. Sure, tables, like the one above, can be visually appealing, but it’s the color, circles, arrows, boxes, or icons included that make a figure a “figure.”

There are many commonly used figures in papers. Examples APA Format:

• Photographs
• Hierarchy charts

General format of a figure is the same as tables. This means each should include:

• Figure number

Use the same formatting tables use for the number, title, and note.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind when it comes to APA format for figures:

• Only include a figure if it adds value to your paper. If it will truly help with understanding, include it!
• Either include a figure OR write it all out in the text. Do not include the same information twice.
• If a note is added, it should clearly explain the content of the figure. Include any reference information if it’s reproduced or adapted.

APA format sample of a figure:

Photographs:

We live in a world where we have tons of photographs available at our fingertips.

Photographs found through Google Images, social media, stock photos made available from subscription sites, and tons of other various online sources make obtaining photographs a breeze. We can even pull out our cell phones, and in just a few seconds, take pictures with our cameras.

Photographs are simple to find, and because of this, many students enjoy using them in their papers.

If you have a photograph you would like to include in your project, here are some guidelines from the American Psychological Association.

• Create a reference for the photograph. Follow the guidelines under the table and figure sections above.
• Do not use color photos. It is recommended to use black and white. Colors can change depending on the reader’s screen resolution. Using black and white ensures the reader will be able to view the image clearly. The only time it is recommended to use color photos is if you’re writing about color-specific things. For example, if you’re discussing the various shades of leaf coloration, you may want to include a few photographs of colorful leaves.
• If there are sections of the photograph that are not related to your work, it is acceptable to crop them out. Cropping is also beneficial in that it helps the reader focus on the main item you’re discussing.
• If you choose to include an image of a person you know, it would be respectful if you ask their permission before automatically including their photo in your paper.  Some schools and universities post research papers online and some people prefer that their photos and information stay off the Internet.

B. Writing Style Tips

Writing a paper for scientific topics is much different than writing for English, literature, and other composition classes. Science papers are much more direct, clear, and concise. This section includes key suggestions, explains how to write in APA format, and includes other tidbits to keep in mind while formulating your research paper.

Verb usage in APA

Research experiments and observations rely on the creation and analysis of data to test hypotheses and come to conclusions. While sharing and explaining the methods and results of studies, science writers often use verbs.

When using verbs in writing, make sure that you continue to use them in the same tense throughout the section you’re writing. Further details are in the publication manual (p. 117).

Here’s an APA format example:

We tested the solution to identify the possible contaminants.

It wouldn’t make sense to add this sentence after the one above:

We tested the solution to identify the possible contaminants. Researchers often test solutions by placing them under a microscope.

Notice that the first sentence is in the past tense while the second sentence is in the present tense. This can be confusing for readers.

For verbs in scientific papers, the APA manual recommends using:

• Past tense or present perfect tense for the explantation of the procedure
• Past tense for the explanation of the results
• Present tense for the explanation of the conclusion and future implications

If this is all a bit much, and you’re simply looking for help with your references, try the EasyBib.com APA format generator . Our APA formatter creates your references in just a few clicks. APA citation format is easier than you think thanks to our innovative, automatic tool.

Even though your writing will not have the same fluff and detail as other forms of writing, it should not be boring or dull to read. The Publication Manual suggests thinking about who will be the main reader of your work and to write in a way that educates them.

How to reduce bias & labels

The American Psychological Association strongly objects to any bias towards gender, racial groups, ages of individuals or subjects, disabilities, and sexual orientation (pp. 131-149). If you’re unsure whether your writing is free of bias and labels or not, have a few individuals read your work to determine if it’s acceptable.

Here are a few guidelines that the American Psychological Association suggests :

• Only include information about an individual’s orientation or characteristic if it is important to the topic or study. Do not include information about individuals or labels if it is not necessary.
• If writing about an individual’s characteristic or orientation, for essay APA format, make sure to put the person first. Instead of saying, “Diabetic patients,” say, “Patients who are diabetic.”
• Instead of using narrow terms such as, “adolescents,” or “the elderly,” try to use broader terms such as, “participants,” and “subjects.”
• “They” or “their” are acceptable gender-neutral pronouns to use.
• Be mindful when using terms that end with “man” or “men” if they involve subjects who are female. For example, instead of using “Firemen,” use the term, “Firefighter.” In general, avoid ambiguity.
• When referring to someone’s racial or ethnic identity, use the census category terms and capitalize the first letter. Also, avoid using the word, “minority,” as it can be interpreted as meaning less than or deficient. Instead, say “people of color” or “underrepresented groups.”
• When describing subjects in APA format, use the words “girls” and “boys” for children who are under the age of 12. The terms, “young woman,” “young man,” “female adolescent,” and “male adolescent” are appropriate for subjects between 13-17 years old; “Men,” and “women,” for those older than 18. Use the term, “older adults.” for individuals who are older. “Elderly,” and “senior,” are not acceptable if used only as nouns. It is acceptable to use these terms if they’re used as adjectives.

Read through our example essay in APA format, found in section D, to see how we’ve reduced bias and labels.

Spelling in APA Format

• In APA formatting, use the same spelling as words found in Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (American English) (p. 161).
• If the word you’re trying to spell is not found in Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, a second resource is Webster’s Third New International Dictionary .
• If attempting to properly spell words in the psychology field, consult the American Psychological Association’s Dictionary of Psychology

Thanks to helpful tools and features, such as the spell checker, in word processing programs, most of us think we have everything we need right in our document. However, quite a few helpful features are found elsewhere.

Where can you find a full grammar editor? Right here, on EasyBib.com. The EasyBib Plus paper checker scans your paper for spelling, but also for any conjunction , determiner, or adverb out of place. Try it out and unlock the magic of an edited paper.

Abbreviation do’s and don’ts in APA Format

Abbreviations can be tricky. You may be asking yourself, “Do I include periods between the letters?” “Are all letters capitalized?” “Do I need to write out the full name each and every time?” Not to worry, we’re breaking down the publication manual’s abbreviations (p. 172) for you here.

First and foremost, use abbreviations sparingly.

Too many and you’re left with a paper littered with capital letters mashed together. Plus, they don’t lend themselves to smooth and easy reading. Readers need to pause and comprehend the meaning of abbreviations and quite often stumble over them.

• If the abbreviation is used less than three times in the paper, type it out each time. It would be pretty difficult to remember what an abbreviation or acronym stands for if you’re writing a lengthy paper.
• If you decide to sprinkle in abbreviations,  it is not necessary to include periods between the letters.
• Example: While it may not affect a patient’s short-term memory (STM), it may affect their ability to comprehend new terms. Patients who experience STM loss while using the medication should discuss it with their doctor.
• Example : AIDS
• The weight in pounds exceeded what we previously thought.

Punctuation in APA Format

One space after most punctuation marks.

The manual recommends using one space after most punctuation marks, including punctuation at the end of a sentence (p. 154). It doesn’t hurt to double check with your teacher or professor to ask their preference since this rule was changed recently (in 2020).

The official APA format book was primarily created to aid individuals with submitting their paper for publication in a professional journal. Many schools adopt certain parts of the handbook and modify sections to match their preference. To see an example of an APA format research paper, with the spacing we believe is most commonly and acceptable to use, scroll down and see section D.

For more information related to the handbook, including frequently asked questions, and more, here’s further reading on the style

It’s often a heated debate among writers whether or not to use an Oxford comma (p. 155), but for this style, always use an Oxford comma. This type of comma is placed before the words AND and OR or in a series of three items.

Example of APA format for commas: The medication caused drowsiness, upset stomach, and fatigue.

Here’s another example: The subjects chose between cold, room temperature, or warm water.

Apostrophes

When writing a possessive singular noun, you should place the apostrophe before the s. For possessive plural nouns, the apostrophe is placed after the s.

• Singular : Linda Morris’s jacket
• Plural : The Morris’ house

Em dashes (long dash) are used to bring focus to a particular point or an aside. There are no spaces after these dashes (p. 157).

Use en dashes (short dash) in compound adjectives. Do not place a space before or after the dash. Here are a few examples:

• custom-built
• 12-year-old

Number rules in APA Format

Science papers often include the use of numbers, usually displayed in data, tables, and experiment information. The golden rule to keep in mind is that numbers less than 10 are written out in text. If the number is more than 10, use numerals.

APA format examples:

• 14 kilograms
• seven individuals
• 83 years old
• Fourth grade

The golden rule for numbers has exceptions.

In APA formatting, use numerals if you are:

• Showing numbers in a table or graph
• 4 divided by 2
• 6-month-olds

Use numbers written out as words if you are:

• Ninety-two percent of teachers feel as though….
• Hundred Years’ War
• One-sixth of the students

Other APA formatting number rules to keep in mind:

• World War II
• Super Bowl LII
• It’s 1980s, not 1980’s!

Additional number rules can be found in the publication manual (p. 178)

Need help with other writing topics? Our plagiarism checker is a great resource for anyone looking for writing help. Say goodbye to an out of place noun , preposition , or adjective, and hello to a fully edited paper.

Overview of APA references

While writing a research paper, it is always important to give credit and cite your sources; this lets you acknowledge others’ ideas and research you’ve used in your own work. Not doing so can be considered plagiarism , possibly leading to a failed grade or loss of a job.

APA style is one of the most commonly used citation styles used to prevent plagiarism. Here’s more on crediting sources . Let’s get this statement out of the way before you become confused: An APA format reference and an APA format citation are two different things! We understand that many teachers and professors use the terms as if they’re synonyms, but according to this specific style, they are two separate things, with different purposes, and styled differently.

A reference displays all of the information about the source — the title, the author’s name, the year it was published, the URL, all of it! References are placed on the final page of a research project.

Here’s an example of a reference:

Wynne-Jones, T. (2015). The emperor of any place . Candlewick Press.

An APA format citation is an APA format in-text citation. These are found within your paper, anytime a quote or paraphrase is included. They usually only include the name of the author and the date the source was published.

Here’s an example of one:

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is even discussed in the book, The Emperor of Any Place . The main character, Evan, finds a mysterious diary on his father’s desk (the same desk his father died on, after suffering from a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy attack). Evan unlocks the truth to his father and grandfather’s past (Wynne-Jones, 2015).

Both of the ways to credit another individual’s work — in the text of a paper and also on the final page — are key to preventing plagiarism. A writer must use both types in a paper. If you cite something in the text, it must have a full reference on the final page of the project. Where there is one, there must be the other!

Now that you understand that, here’s some basic info regarding APA format references (pp. 281-309).

• Each reference is organized, or structured, differently. It all depends on the source type. A book reference is structured one way, an APA journal is structured a different way, a newspaper article is another way. Yes, it’s probably frustrating that not all references are created equal and set up the same way. MLA works cited pages are unique in that every source type is formatted the same way. Unfortunately, this style is quite different.
• Most references follow this general format:

Author’s Last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year published). Title of source . URL.

Again, as stated in the above paragraph, you must look up the specific source type you’re using to find out the placement of the title, author’s name, year published, etc.

For more information on APA format for sources and how to reference specific types of sources, use the other guides on EasyBib.com. Here’s another useful site .

Looking for a full visual of a page of references? Scroll down and take a peek at our APA format essay example towards the bottom of this page. You’ll see a list of references and you can gain a sense of how they look.

Bonus: here’s a link to more about the fundamentals related to this particular style. If you want to brush up or catch up on the Modern Language Association’s style, here’s a great resource on how to cite websites in MLA .

In-text APA citation format

Did you find the perfect quote or piece of information to include in your project? Way to go! It’s always a nice feeling when we find that magical piece of data or info to include in our writing. You probably already know that you can’t just copy and paste it into your project, or type it in, without also providing credit to the original author.

Displaying where the original information came from is much easier than you think.Directly next to the quote or information you included, place the author’s name and the year nearby. This allows the reader of your work to see where the information originated.

APA allows for the use of two different forms of in-text citation, parenthetical and narrative Both forms of citation require two elements:

• author’s name
• year of publication

The only difference is the way that this information is presented to the reader.

Parenthetical citations are the more commonly seen form of in-text citations for academic work, in which both required reference elements are presented at the end of the sentence in parentheses. Example:

Harlem had many artists and musicians in the late 1920s (Belafonte, 2008).

Narrative citations allow the author to present one or both of the required reference elements inside of the running sentence, which prevents the text from being too repetitive or burdensome. When only one of the two reference elements is included in the sentence, the other is provided parenthetically. Example:

According to Belafonte (2008), Harlem was full of artists and musicians in the late 1920s.

If there are two authors listed in the source entry, then the parenthetical reference must list them both:

(Smith & Belafonte, 2008)

If there are three or more authors listed in the source entry, then the parenthetical reference can abbreviate with “et al.”, the latin abbreviation for “and others”:

(Smith et al., 2008)

The author’s names are structured differently if there is more than one author. Things will also look different if there isn’t an author at all (which is sometimes the case with website pages). For more information on APA citation format, check out this page on the topic: APA parenthetical citation and APA in-text citation . There is also more information in the official manual in chapter 8.

If it’s MLA in-text and parenthetical citations you’re looking for, we’ve got your covered there too! You might want to also check out his guide on parenthetical citing .

Would you benefit from having a tool that helps you easily generate citations that are in the text? Check out EasyBib Plus!

References page in APA Format

An APA format reference page is easier to create than you probably think. We go into detail on how to create this page on our APA reference page . We also have a guide for how to create an annotated bibliography in APA . But, if you’re simply looking for a brief overview of the reference page, we’ve got you covered here.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind when it comes to the references page in APA format:

• This VIP page has its very own page. Start on a fresh, clean document (p. 303).
• Center and bold the title “References” (do not include quotation marks, underline, or italicize this title).
• Alphabetize and double-space ALL entries.
• Use a readable font, such as Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, or Lucida (p. 44).
• Every quote or piece of outside information included in the paper should be referenced and have an entry.
• Even though it’s called a “reference page,” it can be longer than one page. If your references flow onto the next page, then that’s a-okay.
• Only include the running head if it is required by your teacher or you’re writing a professional paper.

Sample reference page for a student paper:

Here’s another friendly reminder to use the EasyBib APA format generator (that comes with EasyBib Plus) to quickly and easily develop every single one of your references for you. Try it out! Our APA formatter is easy to use and ready to use 24/7.

Final APA Format Checklist

Prior to submitting your paper, check to make sure you have everything you need and everything in its place:

• Did you credit all of the information and quotes you used in the body of your paper and show a matching full reference at the end of the paper? Remember, you need both! Need more information on how to credit other authors and sources? Check out our other guides, or use the EasyBib APA format generator to credit your sources quickly and easily. EasyBib.com also has more styles than just the one this page focuses on.
• 12-pt. Times New Roman
• 11-pt. Calibri, Arial, Georgia
• 10-pt. Lucida, Sans Unicode, Computer Modern
• If you created an abstract, is it directly after the title page? Some teachers and professors do not require an abstract, so before you go ahead and include it, make sure it’s something he or she is expecting.
• Professional paper — Did you include a running head on every single page of your project?
• Student paper — Did you include page numbers in the upper right-hand corner of all your pages?
• Are all headings, as in section or chapter titles, properly formatted? If you’re not sure, check section number 9.
• Are all tables and figures aligned properly? Did you include notes and other important information directly below the table or figure? Include any information that will help the reader completely understand everything in the table or figure if it were to stand alone.
• Are abbreviations used sparingly? Did you format them properly?
• Is the entire document double spaced?
• Are all numbers formatted properly? Check section 17, which is APA writing format for numbers.
• Did you glance at the sample paper? Is your assignment structured similarly? Are all of the margins uniform?

Submitting Your APA Paper

Congratulations for making it this far! You’ve put a lot of effort into writing your paper and making sure the t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted. If you’re planning to submit your paper for a school assignment, make sure you review your teacher or professor’s procedures.

If you’re submitting your paper to a journal, you probably need to include a cover letter.

Most cover letters ask you to include:

• The author’s contact information.
• A statement to the editor that the paper is original.
• If a similar paper exists elsewhere, notify the editor in the cover letter.

Once again, review the specific journal’s website for exact specifications for submission.

Okay, so you’re probably thinking you’re ready to hit send or print and submit your assignment. Can we offer one last suggestion? We promise it will only take a minute.

Consider running your paper through our handy dandy paper checker. It’s pretty simple.

Copy and paste or upload your paper into our checker. Within a minute, we’ll provide feedback on your spelling and grammar. If there’s a pronoun , interjection , or verb out of place, we’ll highlight it and offer suggestions for improvement. We’ll even take it a step further and point out any instances of possible plagiarism.

If it sounds too good to be true, then head on over to our innovative tool and give it a whirl. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

What is APA Format?

APA stands for the American Psychological Association . In this guide, you’ll find information related to “What is APA format?” in relation to writing and organizing your paper according to the American Psychological Association’s standards. Information on how to cite sources can be found on our APA citation page. The official American Psychological Association handbook was used as a reference for our guide and we’ve included page numbers from the manual throughout. However, this page is not associated with the association.

You’ll most likely use APA format if your paper is on a scientific topic. Many behavioral and social sciences use this organization’s standards and guidelines.

What are behavioral sciences? Behavioral sciences study human and animal behavior. They can include:

• Cognitive Science
• Neuroscience

What are social sciences? Social sciences focus on one specific aspect of human behavior, specifically social and cultural relationships. Social sciences can include:

• Anthropology
• Political Science
• Human Geography
• Archaeology
• Linguistics

What’s New in the 7th Edition?

This citation style was created by the American Psychological Association. Its rules and guidelines can be found in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association . The information provided in the guide above follows the 6th edition (2009) of the manual. The 7th edition was published in 2020 and is the most recent version.

The 7th edition of the Publication Manual is in full color and includes 12 sections (compared to 8 sections in the 6th edition). In general, this new edition differentiates between professional and student papers, includes guidance with accessibility in mind, provides new examples to follow, and has updated guidelines.We’ve selected a few notable updates below, but for a full view of all of the 7th edition changes visit the style’s website linked here .

• Paper title
• Student name
• Affiliation (e.g., school, department, etc.)
• Course number and title
• Course instructor
• 6th edition – Running head: SMARTPHONE EFFECTS ON ADOLESCENT SOCIALIZATION
• 7th edition – SMARTPHONE EFFECTS ON ADOLESCENT SOCIALIZATION
• Pronouns . “They” can be used as a gender-neutral pronoun.
• Bias-free language guidelines . There are updated and new sections on guidelines for this section. New sections address participation in research, socioeconomic status, and intersectionality.
• Spacing after sentences. Add only a single space after end punctuation.
• Tables and figures . The citing format is now streamlined so that both tables and figures should include a name and number above the table/figure, and a note underneath the table/figure.
• 6th ed. – (Ikemoto, Richardson, Murphy, Yoshida 2016)
• 7th ed. – (Ikemoto et al., 2016)
• Citing books. The location of the publisher can be omitted. Also, e-books no longer need to mention the format (e.g., Kindle, etc.)
• Example: https://doi.org/10.1038/s42255-019-0153-5
• Using URLs. URLs no longer need to be prefaced by the words “Retrieved from.”

New citing information . There is new guidance on citing classroom or intranet resources, and oral traditions or traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples.

Visit our EasyBib Twitter feed to discover more citing tips, fun grammar facts, and the latest product updates.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.) (2020). American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

Published October 31, 2011. Updated May 14, 2020.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

• Annotated Bibliography
• Block Quotes
• et al Usage
• Multiple Authors
• Paraphrasing
• Page Numbers
• Parenthetical Citations
• Sample Paper
• View APA Guide

Citation Examples

• Book Chapter
• Journal Article
• Magazine Article
• Newspaper Article
• Website (no author)
• View all APA Examples

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

We should not use “et al.” in APA reference list entries. If the number of authors in the source is up to and including 20, list all author names and use an ampersand (&) before the final author’s name. If the number of authors is more than 20, list the first 19 authors’ names followed by an ellipsis (but no ampersand), and then add the final author’s name. An example of author names in a reference entry having more than 20 authors is given below:

Author Surname1, F. M., Author Surname2, F. M., Author Surname3, F. M., Author Surname4, F. M., Author Surname5, F. M., Author Surname6, F. M., Author Surname7, F. M., Author Surname8, F. M., Author Surname9, F. M., Author Surname10, F. M., Author Surname11, F. M., Author Surname12, F. M., Author Surname13, F. M., Author Surname14, F. M., Author Surname15, F. M., Author Surname16, F. M., Author Surname17, F. M., Author Surname18, F. M., Author Surname19, F. M., . . .  Last Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year).

Alvarez, L. D., Peach, J. L., Rodriguez, J. F., Donald, L., Thomas, M., Aruck, A., Samy, K., Anthony, K., Ajey, M., Rodriguez, K. L., Katherine, K., Vincent, A., Pater, F., Somu, P., Pander, L., Berd, R., Fox, L., Anders, A., Kamala, W., . . . Nicole Jones, K. (2019).

Note that, unlike references with 2 to 20 author names, the symbol “&” is not used here before the last author’s name.

APA 7, released in October 2019, has some new updates. Here is a brief description of the updates made in APA 7.

Different types of papers and best practices are given in detail in Chapter 1.

How to format a student title page is explained in Chapter 2. Examples of a professional paper and a student paper are included.

Chapter 3 provides additional information on qualitative and mixed methods of research.

An update on writing style is included in Chapter 4.

In chapter 5, some best practices for writing with bias-free language are included.

Chapter 6 gives some updates on style elements including using a single space after a period, including a citation with an abbreviation, the treatment of numbers in abstracts, treatment for different types of lists, and the formatting of gene and protein names.

In Chapter 7, additional examples are given for tables and figures for different types of publications.

In Chapter 8, how to format quotations and how to paraphrase text are covered with additional examples. A simplified version of in-text citations is clearly illustrated.

Chapter 9 has many updates: listing all author names up to 20 authors, standardizing DOIs and URLs, and the formatting of an annotated bibliography.

Chapter 10 includes many examples with templates for all reference types. New rules covering the inclusion of the issue number for journals and the omission of publisher location from book references are provided. Explanations of how to cite YouTube videos, power point slides, and TED talks are included.

Chapter 11 includes many legal references for easy understanding.

Chapter 12 provides advice for authors on how to promote their papers.

For more information on some of the changes found in APA 7, check out this EasyBib article .

APA Citation Examples

Writing Tools

Citation Generators

Other Citation Styles

Plagiarism Checker

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

APA Style (7th ed.)

• Cite: Why? When?
• Book, eBook, Dissertation
• Article or Report
• Business Sources
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools
• In-Text Citation
• Format Your Paper

Format Your Paper

Download and use the editable templates for student papers below: .

• APA 7th ed. Template Document This is an APA format template document in Google Docs. Click on the link -- it will ask for you to make a new copy of the document, which you can save in your own Google Drive with your preferred privacy settings.
• APA 7th ed. Template Document A Microsoft Word document formatted correctly according to APA 7th edition.
• APA 7th ed. Annotated Bibliography template A Microsoft Word document formatted correctly for an annotated bibliography.

Or, view the directions for specific sections below:

Order of sections (section 2.17).

• Title page including Title, Author, University and Department, Class, Instructor, and Date
• Body (including introduction, literature review or background, discussion, and conclusion)
• Appendices (including tables & figures)

Margins & Page Numbers (sections 2.22-2.24)

• 1 inch at top, bottom, and both sides
• Left aligned paragraphs and leave the right edge ragged (not "right justified")
• Indent first line of each paragraph 1/2 inch from left margin
• Use page numbers, including on the title page, 1/2 inch from top and flush with right margin

Text Format (section 2.19)

• Times New Roman, 12 point
• Calibri, 11 point
• Arial, 11 point
• Lucinda Sans Unicode, 10 point
• Georgia, 11 point
• Double-space and align text to the left
• Use active voice
• Don't overuse technical jargon
• No periods after a web address or DOI in the References list.

Tables and Figures In-Text (chapter 7)

• Label tables and figures numerically (ex. Table 1)
• Give each table column a heading and use separating lines only when necessary
• Design the table and figure so that it can be understood on its own, i.e. it does not require reference to the surrounding text to understand it
• Notes go below tables and figures

Title Page (section 2.3)

• Include the title, your name,  the class name , and  the college's name
• Title should be 12 words or less and summarize the paper's main idea
• No periods or abbreviations
• Do not italicize or underline
• No quotation marks, all capital letters, or bold
• Center horizontally in upper half of the page

Body (section 2.11)

• Align the text to the left with a 1/2-inch left indent on the first line
• Double-space
• As long as there is no Abstract, at the top of the first page, type the title of the paper, centered, in bold , and in Sentence Case Capitalization
• Usually, include sections like these:  introduction, literature review or background,  discussion, and conclusion -- but the specific organization will depend on the paper type
• Spell out long organization names and add the abbreviation in parenthesis, then just use the abbreviation
• Spell out numbers one through nine and use a number for 10 or more
• Use a number for units of measurement, in tables, to represent statistical or math functions, and dates or times

Headings (section 2.26-2.27)

• Level 1: Center, bold , Title Case 
• Level 2: Align left, bold , Title Case
• Level 3: Alight left, bold italics , Title Case
• Level 4: Indented 1/2", bold , Title Case, end with a period. Follow with text. 
• Level 5: Indented 1/2", bold italics , Title Case, end with a period. Follow with text. 

Quotations (sections 8.26-8.33)

• Include short quotations (40 words or less) in-text with quotation marks
• For quotes more than 40 words, indent the entire quote a half inch from the left margin and double-space it with no quotation marks
• When quoting two or more paragraphs from an original source, indent the first line of each paragraph a half inch from the left margin
• Use ellipsis (...) when omitting sections from a quote and use four periods (....) if omitting the end section of a quote

References (section 2.12)

Begins on a new page following the text of your paper and includes complete citations for the resources you've used in your writing.

• References should be centered and bolded at the top of a new page
• Double-space and use hanging indents (where the first line is on the left margin and the following lines are indented a half inch from the left)
• List authors' last name first followed by the first and middle initials (ex. Skinner, B. F.)
• Alphabetize the list by the first author's last name of of each citation (see sections 9.44-9.49)
• Capitalize only the first word, the first after a colon or em dash, and proper nouns
• Don't capitalize the second word of a hyphenated compound
• No quotation marks around titles of articles

Appendices with Tables, Figures, & Illustrations (section 2.14, and chapter 7)

• Include appendices only to help the reader understand, evaluate, or replicate the study or argument
• Put each appendix on a separate page and align left
• For text, do not indent the first paragraph, but do indent the rest
• If you have only one appendix, label it "Appendix"
• If you have two or more appendices, label them "Appendix A", "Appendix B" and so forth as they appear in the body of your paper
• Label tables and figures numerically (ex. Table 1, or Table B1 and Table B2 if Appendix B has two tables) and describe them within the text of the appendix
• Notes go below tables and figures (see samples on p. 210-226)

Annotated Bibliography

Double-space the entire bibliography. give each entry a hanging indent. in the following annotation, indent the entire paragraph a half inch from the left margin and give the first line of each paragraph a half inch indent. see the template document at the top of this page..

• Check with your professor for the length of the annotation and which elements you should evaluate.

These elements are optional, if your professor or field requires them, but they are  not required for student papers: 

Abstract (section 2.9).

• Abstract gets its own page
• Center "Abstract" heading and do not indent the first line of the text
• Summarize the main points and purpose of the paper in 150-250 words maximum
• Define abbreviations and acronyms used in the paper

Running Head (section 2.8 )

• Shorten title to 50 characters or less (counting spaces and punctuation) for the running head
• In the top margin, the running head is aligned left, with the page number aligned on the right
• On every page, put (without the brackets): [SHORTENED TITLE OF YOUR PAPER IN ALL CAPS] [page number] 

More questions? Check out the authoritative source: APA style blog

• << Previous: In-Text Citation
• Last Updated: May 21, 2024 11:32 AM
• URL: https://libguides.uww.edu/apa

APA Formatting and Style (7th ed.) for Student Papers

• What's New in the 7th ed.?
• Principles of Plagiarism: An Overview
• Basic Paper Formatting
• Basic Paper Elements
• Punctuation, Capitalization, Abbreviations, Apostrophes, Numbers, Plurals
• Tables and Figures
• Powerpoint Presentations
• Reference Page Format
• Periodicals (Journals, Magazines, Newspapers)
• Books and Reference Works
• Webpage on a Website
• Discussion Post
• Company Information & SWOT Analyses
• Dissertations or Theses
• ChatGPT and other AI Large Language Models
• Online Images
• Online Video
• Computer Software and Mobile Apps
• Missing Information
• Two Authors
• Three or More Authors
• Group Authors
• Missing Author
• Chat GPT and other AI Large Language Models
• Secondary Sources
• Block Quotations
• Fillable Template and Sample Paper
• Government Documents and Legal Materials
• APA Style 7th ed. Tutorials
• Additional APA 7th Resources
• Grammarly - your writing assistant
• Writing Center - Writing Skills This link opens in a new window
• Brainfuse Online Tutoring

APA 7th ed. Fillable Word Template and Sample Paper

• APA 7th ed. Template Download this Word document, fill out the title page and get writing!
• Sample Paper APA 7th ed. Our APA sample paper shows you how to format the main parts of a basic research paper.
• APA 7th Sample Papers from Purdue Owl
• << Previous: Block Quotations
• Next: Government Documents and Legal Materials >>
• Last Updated: May 3, 2024 2:22 PM
• URL: https://national.libguides.com/apa_7th

• Research Papers
• Hanging Indents
• Annotated Bibliographies
• APA Papers - Templates & Guidelines
• Reference List
• MLA Papers - Templates & Guidelines
• MLA Papers - Further Information
• Works Cited
• NoodleTools
• Sources with Authors
• Sources with Group Authors
• Sources without Authors

There are two components of an APA style citation: the in-text citation (parenthetical or narrative), as well as the full Reference List entry at the end of the paper. Both components provide the information necessary for the reader to locate and retrieve the source(s) used to inform a paper. Each cited source in the text of your paper (in-text citation), must also appear in the Reference List. The following tabs contain examples of both parts of an APA citation.

Complete Citation

Your complete citation should include the name of the author, date of publication, the title of the source, the title of the journal/website, identifying information such as volume, issue, and page numbers, and either a DOI or a URL if available. This gets alphabetized and placed in the References section at the end of your paper. 

Hanauer, N. (2019, July). Education isn't enough.  Atlantic ,  324 (1), 19-22.

In-Text Citation

Your in-text citation contains the last name of the author, the publication year, and page number (for direct quotes only), and is placed in the text of the sentence to which it relates. There are a few ways to do this, parenthetically, narratively, and using a direct quote. Parenthetical citations place the relevant information at the end of your sentence in parentheses, while narrative citations allow for the relevant information to be conveyed in the body of your sentence. As for direct quotes, there are a variety of ways to use them in your paper. APA style prefers that you frame them using your own words rather than simply dropping a quote in as its own sentence. See below for examples of each.

Parenthetical Citation Example:

The percentage of Americans with high-school diplomas has increased from approximately 50% in 1970 to 90% today (Hanauer, 2019).

Narrative Citation Example:

Hanauer (2019) found that the percentage of Americans with high-school diplomas has increased from approximately 50% in 1970 to 90% today.

Direct Quote Example:

One way to increase the quality of public schools is to “pay people enough to afford dignified middle-class lives” (Hanauer, 2019, p. 20).

Citing Multiple Works When citing two or more sources in the same parentheses, alphabetize the citations, and separate each with a semicolon.

Example: (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.; Everly & Lating, 2017; Shukman, 2019)

In-text citations can change based upon the number of authors that a source has. Follow the examples below for creating accurate in-text citations for your references.

*If there are 21 or more authors, consult section 9.8 of the  Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , 7th Edition.

Some sources will not have individual authors, but rather group authors. In these instances, you will still need to cite the item as you would any source with an author. Follow the example below for an accurate in-text citation of a source with a group author.

It is important to note that you should always define the abbreviation for a group author only once in the text. Thereafter, use the abbreviation for all mentions of the group in the text. See sections 8.21 and 9.11 of the  Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , 7th Edition for more information.

At times you will come across sources where there is no author listed. If this happens, use a shortened version of the title in your in-text citation. If the title is italicized in the reference entry, italicize it in your in-text citation. If the title is not italicized in the reference entry, place it in quotation marks. See section 8.14 of the  Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , 7th Edition for more information.

There are different ways to format quotes when they are used in your paper. Follow the guidelines below for proper formatting.

Short Quotations (Fewer than 40 words)

Include the quotation in the regular text of your paper. Be sure to use quotation marks and add an in-text citation with a page number (if applicable).

She stated, "Students often had difficulty using APA style," (Jones, 1998, p. 199), but she did not offer an explanation as to why.

Block Quotations (40 words or more)

If a quote has 40 or more words, treat it as a block quote. Start the block quote on its own line and indent the entire quote 0.5” from the left margin, be sure that it is also double-spaced, with no extra spaces before or after it. Do not use quotation marks for block quotes.

Use a parenthetical citation after the closing punctuation for the sentence or use the author and year in a narrative introduction before the quote. If you choose to use a narrative introduction, be sure to include the page number of the quote after the final punctuation.

Example 1 :

There are a variety of barriers to student success when working on research assignments. An example of these barriers is citation style and formatting. Jones (1998) argues the following based on her experience as an instructor:

Students often had difficulty using APA style, especially when it was their first time citing sources. This difficulty could be attributed to the fact that many students failed to purchase a style manual or to ask their teacher for help. (p. 199)

Example 2 :

There are a variety of barriers to student success when working on research assignments. An example of these barriers is citation style and formatting. Based on their experiences, some instructors found that:

Students often had difficulty using APA style, especially when it was their first time citing sources. This difficulty could be attributed to the fact that many students failed to purchase a style manual or to ask their teacher for help (Jones, 1998, p. 199).

• << Previous: Reference List
• Next: MLA Papers - Basics >>
• Last Updated: May 21, 2024 4:06 PM
• URL: https://library.umpqua.edu/formatting

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

In-Text Citations: The Basics

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Note:  This page reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual (i.e., APA 7), which released in October 2019. The equivalent resource for the older APA 6 style  can be found here .

Reference citations in text are covered on pages 261-268 of the Publication Manual. What follows are some general guidelines for referring to the works of others in your essay.

Note:  On pages 117-118, the Publication Manual suggests that authors of research papers should use the past tense or present perfect tense for signal phrases that occur in the literature review and procedure descriptions (for example, Jones (1998)  found  or Jones (1998)  has found ...). Contexts other than traditionally-structured research writing may permit the simple present tense (for example, Jones (1998)  finds ).

APA Citation Basics

When using APA format, follow the author-date method of in-text citation. This means that the author's last name and the year of publication for the source should appear in the text, like, for example, (Jones, 1998). One complete reference for each source should appear in the reference list at the end of the paper.

If you are referring to an idea from another work but  NOT  directly quoting the material, or making reference to an entire book, article or other work, you only have to make reference to the author and year of publication and not the page number in your in-text reference.

On the other hand, if you are directly quoting or borrowing from another work, you should include the page number at the end of the parenthetical citation. Use the abbreviation “p.” (for one page) or “pp.” (for multiple pages) before listing the page number(s). Use an en dash for page ranges. For example, you might write (Jones, 1998, p. 199) or (Jones, 1998, pp. 199–201). This information is reiterated below.

Regardless of how they are referenced, all sources that are cited in the text must appear in the reference list at the end of the paper.

In-text citation capitalization, quotes, and italics/underlining

• Always capitalize proper nouns, including author names and initials: D. Jones.
• If you refer to the title of a source within your paper, capitalize all words that are four letters long or greater within the title of a source:  Permanence and Change . Exceptions apply to short words that are verbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, and adverbs:  Writing New Media ,  There Is Nothing Left to Lose .

( Note:  in your References list, only the first word of a title will be capitalized:  Writing new media .)

• When capitalizing titles, capitalize both words in a hyphenated compound word:  Natural-Born Cyborgs .
• Capitalize the first word after a dash or colon: "Defining Film Rhetoric: The Case of Hitchcock's  Vertigo ."
• If the title of the work is italicized in your reference list, italicize it and use title case capitalization in the text:  The Closing of the American Mind ;  The Wizard of Oz ;  Friends .
• If the title of the work is not italicized in your reference list, use double quotation marks and title case capitalization (even though the reference list uses sentence case): "Multimedia Narration: Constructing Possible Worlds;" "The One Where Chandler Can't Cry."

Short quotations

If you are directly quoting from a work, you will need to include the author, year of publication, and page number for the reference (preceded by "p." for a single page and “pp.” for a span of multiple pages, with the page numbers separated by an en dash).

You can introduce the quotation with a signal phrase that includes the author's last name followed by the date of publication in parentheses.

If you do not include the author’s name in the text of the sentence, place the author's last name, the year of publication, and the page number in parentheses after the quotation.

Long quotations

Place direct quotations that are 40 words or longer in a free-standing block of typewritten lines and omit quotation marks. Start the quotation on a new line, indented 1/2 inch from the left margin, i.e., in the same place you would begin a new paragraph. Type the entire quotation on the new margin, and indent the first line of any subsequent paragraph within the quotation 1/2 inch from the new margin. Maintain double-spacing throughout, but do not add an extra blank line before or after it. The parenthetical citation should come after the closing punctuation mark.

Because block quotation formatting is difficult for us to replicate in the OWL's content management system, we have simply provided a screenshot of a generic example below.

Formatting example for block quotations in APA 7 style.

Quotations from sources without pages

Direct quotations from sources that do not contain pages should not reference a page number. Instead, you may reference another logical identifying element: a paragraph, a chapter number, a section number, a table number, or something else. Older works (like religious texts) can also incorporate special location identifiers like verse numbers. In short: pick a substitute for page numbers that makes sense for your source.

Summary or paraphrase

If you are paraphrasing an idea from another work, you only have to make reference to the author and year of publication in your in-text reference and may omit the page numbers. APA guidelines, however, do encourage including a page range for a summary or paraphrase when it will help the reader find the information in a longer work. 

AI Generator

The APA format is a widely used style for writing academic papers, developed by the American Psychological Association. It provides guidelines for formatting documents , citing sources, and structuring content. APA format is commonly used in the social sciences, education, and psychology. Key features include in-text citations , a reference list, and specific rules for headings, margins, and font. It ensures clarity and uniformity in scholarly writing.

What is APA Format?

APA format is a writing style and format for academic documents such as scholarly journal articles and books. It is commonly used for citing sources within the field of social sciences. The APA guidelines include specifics on structure, formatting, in-text citations, and references, ensuring a uniform presentation and citation style.

APA Format Examples

Book citation.

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Year.
• Example: Smith, John. The Art of Writing . Penguin Books, 2020.

Journal Article Citation

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Article.” Title of Journal, vol. number, no. number, Year, pages.
• Example : Doe, Jane. “Exploring Modern Literature.” Journal of Contemporary Writing , vol. 5, no. 2, 2019, pp. 34-56.

Website Citation

• Format : Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Web Page.” Title of Website, Publisher, Date Published, URL. Accessed Date.
• Example: Brown, Lisa. “Climate Change Facts.” Environment Today , Green Earth, 22 Apr. 2020, www.environmenttoday.org/climate-change-facts . Accessed 18 May 2024.

Edited Book

• Format: Editor’s Last Name, First Name, editor. Title of Book. Publisher, Publication Year.
• Example: Lee, Susan, editor. Art in the 21st Century . Creative Press, 2018.

Book Chapter Citation

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Chapter.” Title of Book, edited by Editor’s First Name Last Name, Publisher, Year, pages.
• Example: Adams, Michael. “Modern Art Techniques.” Art in the 21st Century , edited by Susan Lee, Creative Press, 2018, pp. 45-67.

Conference Paper

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Paper.” Title of Conference Proceedings, edited by Editor’s First Name Last Name, Publisher, Year, pages.
• Example: Johnson, Emily. “Advances in Renewable Energy.” Proceedings of the International Conference on Renewable Energy , edited by Mark Green, Energy Press, 2022, pp. 123-134.

Dissertation/Thesis

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Dissertation/Thesis.” Degree, Institution, Year.
• Example: Miller, Sarah. “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Erosion.” PhD dissertation, University of California, 2021.

Newspaper Article

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Article.” Title of Newspaper , Date, pages.
• Example: Johnson, Mark. “New Tech Innovations.” The Daily Times , 15 Mar. 2021, p. A1.

Magazine Article

• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Article.” Title of Magazine , Date, pages.
• Example: Taylor, Jessica. “The Future of Space Travel.” Science Monthly , June 2020, pp. 56-63.
• Format: Author’s Last Name, First Name or Username. “Title of Post.” Title of Blog, Blog Network/Publisher, Date Posted, URL. Accessed Date.
• Example: Green, Sarah. “How to Plant a Garden.” Gardening Tips , Green Earth Network, 10 June 2021, www.greenearthnetwork.org/gardening-tips/how-to-plant-a-garden . Accessed 18 May 2024.

When to use APA Format

APA format is primarily used in academic writing within the social sciences. Here are specific instances when APA format should be used:

• Psychology Papers : Research articles, literature reviews, and case studies.
• Education Research : Studies on educational methods, learning theories, and classroom practices.
• Social Sciences : Sociology, anthropology, and political science papers.
• Business : Articles on management, marketing, and organizational behavior.
• Nursing and Health Sciences : Research on patient care, health policies, and medical studies.
• Criminology : Papers on criminal behavior, justice system studies, and forensic psychology.
• Communications : Studies on media, journalism, and communication theories.

Why Use APA Format?

• Consistency : Ensures uniformity in citation and formatting across documents.
• Credibility : Proper citations give credit to original authors, enhancing the paper’s credibility.
• Clarity : Structured format helps readers follow the argument and locate sources.
• Professionalism : Presents work in a polished and scholarly manner.

General APA Format Guidelines

When writing a paper in APA format, adhering to specific guidelines ensures clarity, consistency, and professionalism. Here are the key components:

1. General Document Guidelines

• Font : Use a readable font such as 12-pt Times New Roman, 11-pt Arial, or 11-pt Calibri.
• Margins : Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.
• Line Spacing : Double-space all text, including the abstract, body, and references.
• Indentation : Indent the first line of every paragraph by 0.5 inches.

2. Title Page

• Title : Centered, bold, and in title case (capitalize major words).
• Author’s Name : Centered, below the title.
• Institutional Affiliation : Centered, below the author’s name.
• Course Number and Name : Centered, below the institutional affiliation.
• Instructor’s Name : Centered, below the course number and name.
• Due Date : Centered, below the instructor’s name.

3. Abstract

• Start on a new page.
• Center the word “Abstract” (bold) at the top.
• Write a concise summary of the key points of your paper (150-250 words).
• Do not indent the first line of the abstract.

4. Main Body

• Level 1: Centered, bold, title case (e.g., “Methods”).
• Level 2: Left-aligned, bold, title case (e.g., “Participants”).
• Level 3: Left-aligned, bold, italic, title case.
• Level 4: Indented, bold, title case, ends with a period.
• Level 5: Indented, bold, italic, title case, ends with a period.
• In-Text Citations : Use the author-date method (e.g., Smith, 2020). For direct quotes, include the page number (e.g., Smith, 2020, p. 23).

5. References Page

• Center the word “References” (bold) at the top.
• Use a hanging indent for each reference (first line flush left, subsequent lines indented 0.5 inches).
• List all sources alphabetically by the author’s last name.

6. Running Head and Page Numbers

• Include a running head on every page (a shortened version of the title, all in uppercase) aligned to the left.
• Page numbers aligned to the right.

Full Sample Paper in APA Format:

Running Head and Title Page

Running head: UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOLOGY 1 Understanding Psychology: A Guide for Students John A. Smith University of Academic Studies PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology Professor Jane Doe May 15, 2024

This paper explores the fundamental principles of psychology, examining key theories and research findings in the field. It discusses cognitive development, behavioral analysis, and the impact of social media on mental health. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of psychology’s role in everyday life and its applications in various professional contexts. Future research directions and practical implications are also considered. Keywords: psychology, cognitive development, behavioral analysis, mental health

Understanding Psychology: A Guide for Students Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including cognitive development, behavioral analysis, and mental health. This paper aims to provide an overview of these key areas and their implications for everyday life. Cognitive Development Cognitive development refers to the progression of thinking, problem-solving, and information processing abilities. Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development is one of the most influential theories in this field. Piaget proposed that children progress through four stages of cognitive development: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational (Smith, 2020). Behavioral Analysis Behavioral analysis focuses on the study of observable behaviors and the environmental factors that influence them. B.F. Skinner’s operant conditioning theory is a cornerstone of behavioral analysis. According to Skinner, behavior is shaped by positive and negative reinforcements (Johnson, 2019). Understanding these principles can help in modifying behaviors in various settings, including education and therapy. The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health The rise of social media has significant implications for mental health. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Johnson (2019) found that individuals who spend more than three hours per day on social media are more likely to experience mental health problems. Future Directions and Practical Implications Future research should explore the long-term effects of social media on mental health and develop interventions to mitigate negative impacts. Practical applications of psychological principles can improve educational practices, enhance workplace productivity, and promote overall well-being. Conclusion In summary, psychology provides valuable insights into human behavior and mental processes. By understanding cognitive development, behavioral analysis, and the impact of social media on mental health, we can apply psychological principles to enhance various aspects of life. Continued research and practical applications will further advance the field and its contributions to society.

References Page

References Brown, R. (2018). Cognitive development in children. In M. Green (Ed.), Child Psychology Today (pp. 45-67). Educational Press. Doe, J. (2021, March 15). How to study effectively. Learning Hub. https://www.learninghub.com/study-tips Johnson, L. M. (2019). The impact of social media on mental health. Journal of Social Research, 45(2), 123-134. Smith, J. A. (2020). Understanding psychology: A guide for students. Academic Press. Taylor, K. R. (2016). The effects of sleep on academic performance (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (UMI No. 1234567)

APA Format Title Page

The title page in APA format should include the title of the paper, the author’s name, institutional affiliation, course number and name, instructor’s name, and the due date. Here’s how to set it up:

Detailed Guidelines for Each Element:

• Include a shortened version of your paper’s title (no more than 50 characters, including spaces).
• Align it to the left margin.
• Precede it with the words “Running head:” (for student papers, “Running head:” is omitted).
• Insert the page number in the header, aligned to the right margin.
• Place the title three to four lines down from the top of the page.
• Center the title.
• Use bold font.
• Capitalize major words (Title Case).
• Centered, below the title.
• Include your full name (first name, middle initial(s), and last name).
• Centered, below the author’s name.
• Name of the institution where the work was conducted.
• Centered, below the institutional affiliation.
• Include the course number and full course name.
• Centered, below the course number and name.
• Include the full name of the instructor.
• Centered, below the instructor’s name.
• Format the date as Month Day, Year (e.g., May 15, 2024).

Visual Layout:

Apa format abstract.

An abstract in APA format provides a concise summary of the key points of your research paper. It should include the main topic, research questions, methods, results, and conclusions. The abstract is typically 150-250 words long and is placed on a separate page immediately after the title page.

Guidelines for the Abstract:

• Center the word “Abstract” at the top of the page. Use bold font.
• Begin the abstract text on the next line, without indentation.
• Write a single paragraph in block format (i.e., do not indent the first line).
• Summarize the main topic, research questions, methods, results, and conclusions of your paper.
• After the abstract, you can include a list of keywords to help others find your work in databases.
• Indent and italicize the word “Keywords:” followed by a list of keywords separated by commas.

Example of an APA Format Abstract:

Abstract This paper explores the fundamental principles of psychology, examining key theories and research findings in the field. It discusses cognitive development, behavioral analysis, and the impact of social media on mental health. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of psychology’s role in everyday life and its applications in various professional contexts. Future research directions and practical implications are also considered. Keywords: psychology, cognitive development, behavioral analysis, mental health

Tables in APA Format

Tables in APA format are used to present quantitative data, making it easier for readers to understand complex information at a glance. Here are the key guidelines for creating tables in APA format:

General Guidelines:

• Label and Title : Place the table label (e.g., “Table 1”) above the table, in bold, and flush left. Below the label, provide a brief but descriptive title in italics and title case.
• Table Number : Each table should have a unique number, assigned in the order they are first mentioned in the text.
• Headings : Include clear, concise headings for each column, including a heading for the first column (stub column).
• Body : Present the data in the body of the table in a clear and organized manner.
• Notes : Provide notes below the table as needed, including explanations of abbreviations, symbols, and any additional information necessary to understand the table.

Formatting:

• Font : Use the same font as the rest of your paper (e.g., 12-pt Times New Roman).
• Spacing : Tables can be single- or double-spaced, but consistency throughout the document is key.
• Borders : Only horizontal lines should be used to separate information and clarify the structure.

Example Table:

Below is an example of how to format a table in APA style.

Note. N = Number of participants.

Reference Pages in APA Format

The references page in APA format provides a detailed list of all the sources cited in your paper. It is placed at the end of your document and should follow specific guidelines to ensure consistency and proper citation. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

• Title : Center the word “References” at the top of the page. Use bold font.
• Spacing : Double-space all entries.
• Alphabetical Order : List references alphabetically by the author’s last name.
• Hanging Indent : Use a hanging indent for each reference (the first line is flush left, and subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches).

Example References Page:

References Brown, R. (2018). Cognitive development in children. In M. Green (Ed.), Child Psychology Today (pp. 45-67). Educational Press. Clark, D. (2020, November 5). Innovations in technology. Tech World, 15(4), 58-62. Davis, P. K. (Ed.). (2020). Modern theories of learning. Knowledge Press. Doe, J. (2021, March 15). How to study effectively. Learning Hub. https://www.learninghub.com/study-tips Green, M. (2018, June 10). The rise of online education. The Daily Times, pp. A1, A4. Johnson, L. M. (2019). The impact of social media on mental health. Journal of Social Research, 45(2), 123-134. Lee, S. T. (2017, April). Advances in behavioral science. In G. H. Collins (Chair), Annual Conference on Behavioral Research. Symposium conducted at the meeting of the National Behavioral Association, Chicago, IL. Nelson, B. (2021, January 10). How to manage time effectively. Time Management Blog. https://www.timemanagementblog.com/effective-tips Smith, J. A. (2020). Understanding psychology: A guide for students. Academic Press. Taylor, K. R. (2016). The effects of sleep on academic performance (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (UMI No. 1234567)

APA format in-text citation

In-text citations in APA format are used to give credit to the sources you use within the body of your paper. They are brief references that direct readers to the full citation in your reference list. Here’s a guide on how to format in-text citations in APA style:

• Author-Date Method : APA uses the author-date method for in-text citations.
• Parenthetical Citation : Includes the author’s last name and the year of publication, separated by a comma.
• Narrative Citation : Includes the author’s name in the text and the year of publication in parentheses.
• Page Number for Direct Quotes : When quoting directly, include the page number(s).
• Parenthetical : (Smith, 2020)
• Narrative : Smith (2020)
• Two Authors
• Parenthetical : (Johnson & Lee, 2019)
• Narrative : Johnson and Lee (2019)
• Three or More Authors
• Parenthetical : (Brown et al., 2018)
• Narrative : Brown et al. (2018)
• Direct Quote
• Parenthetical : (Doe, 2021, p. 15)
• Narrative : Doe (2021) stated, “…” (p. 15).
• Organization as Author
• Parenthetical : (American Psychological Association, 2020)
• Narrative : American Psychological Association (2020)

APA Format Example in Research

Below is an example of how to format a research paper using APA guidelines. This includes the title page, abstract, in-text citations, and references.

Running head: EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH 1

Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

University of Example

This study examines the relationship between social media usage and mental health among adolescents. Using a sample of 500 high school students, the study found a significant correlation between high social media use and increased levels of anxiety and depression. The implications of these findings suggest the need for awareness and interventions to mitigate the negative impacts of social media on young people’s mental health.

Keywords: social media, mental health, adolescents, anxiety, depression

Introduction

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, particularly among adolescents. While it offers numerous benefits, such as connecting with peers and accessing information, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on mental health. This study aims to explore the effects of social media usage on mental health among high school students.

Participants

The study involved 500 high school students aged 14-18 from various schools in the metropolitan area.

Participants completed an online survey assessing their social media usage and mental health status. The survey included questions about the frequency and duration of social media use, as well as standardized measures of anxiety and depression.

The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between high social media usage and increased levels of anxiety (r = .45, p < .01) and depression (r = .50, p < .01).

The findings indicate that excessive social media use is associated with negative mental health outcomes among adolescents. These results underscore the need for interventions aimed at reducing the adverse effects of social media on young people’s well-being.

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of addressing the mental health implications of social media use among adolescents. Further research is needed to develop effective strategies for mitigating these negative impacts.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.

Chou, H. T. G., & Edge, N. (2012). “They are happier and having better lives than I am”: The impact of using Facebook on perceptions of others’ lives. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 15(2), 117-121. https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2011.0324

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive Medicine Reports, 12, 271-283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.10.003

What is APA format?

APA format is a style guide used for academic writing in the social sciences, providing guidelines for formatting, in-text citations, and references.

How do you cite a book in APA format?

Include the author’s name, year of publication, title in italics, and publisher: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of work . Publisher.

How do you format in-text citations in APA?

Use the author-date method: (Author’s Last Name, Year). For direct quotes, include the page number: (Author’s Last Name, Year, p. Page Number).

How is the references page formatted?

The references page is double-spaced, with entries in alphabetical order by the author’s last name, using a hanging indent for each reference.

What font and size are recommended in APA?

Use a readable font such as 12-pt Times New Roman, 11-pt Arial, or 11-pt Calibri.

How do you format a title page in APA?

Include the title, author’s name, institutional affiliation, course number and name, instructor’s name, and due date, centered and double-spaced.

How do you cite a journal article in APA format?

Include the author’s name, year, title of the article, title of the journal in italics, volume number, issue number, and page range: Author, A. A. (Year). Title. Journal Name, Volume (Issue), pages.

How do you format an abstract in APA?

Center the word “Abstract” (bold) at the top. Write a 150-250 word summary without indentation, and include keywords at the end.

How do you cite a website in APA format?

Include the author, date, title of the web page, website name, and URL: Author, A. A. (Year, Month Date). Title of web page. Website Name . URL

How are headings formatted in APA?

Use a five-level heading structure: Level 1: Centered, bold; Level 2: Left-aligned, bold; Level 3: Left-aligned, bold, italic; Level 4: Indented, bold, ends with a period; Level 5: Indented, bold, italic, ends with a period.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to content

• Home – AI for Research

How to Cite Research Papers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Welcome to the comprehensive guide on how to cite research papers.

Properly citing sources is crucial in academic and professional writing to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore the importance of citations, different citation styles such as. APA ,. MLA , and. Chicago , and provide practical examples to help you master the art of citing research papers effectively. Whether you are a student, researcher, or writer, understanding how to cite sources correctly is a valuable skill that enhances the credibility of your work. By the end of this guide, you will have the knowledge and tools to create accurate and consistent citations for your research papers. Let’s dive into the world of academic integrity and learn how to acknowledge the contributions of other scholars through proper citation practices.

Popular Citation Styles and Their Characteristics

When it comes to academic writing, proper citation is crucial to give credit to the original sources and to avoid plagiarism. Different disciplines and institutions may follow specific citation styles. Here are some of the most popular citation styles and their characteristics:.

• Developed by the American Psychological Association, APA Style is commonly used in social sciences. It features in-text citations with an author-date format and a reference list at the end of the document. APA Style also provides guidelines for formatting papers, citing sources, and creating a reference page.
• MLA Style:.
• The Modern Language Association created MLA Style, which is often used in humanities disciplines. MLA uses parenthetical citations in the text and includes a Works Cited page. In addition to citation rules, MLA Style covers various aspects of academic writing, such as paper formatting, headings, and abbreviations.
• Chicago/Turabian Style:.
• Chicago Style has two variations: Notes and Bibliography and Author-Date. It is widely used in history and some social science disciplines. Turabian Style, based on Chicago Style, is a simpler version often used by students. Chicago/Turabian Style provides detailed guidelines for citing different types of sources, creating footnotes or endnotes, and formatting the bibliography.
• IEEE Style:.
• The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) developed this style for technical fields like engineering and computer science. IEEE uses numbered citations in square brackets and includes a reference list with full bibliographic details. Apart from citation rules, IEEE Style addresses aspects like equations, tables, and figures in technical documents.

Each citation style has its own rules for formatting citations, references, and bibliographies. Writers should pay attention to details such as punctuation, capitalization, and italics when applying a specific style. Understanding the nuances of each citation style is essential for researchers, students, and academics to communicate their ideas effectively and ethically in scholarly writing.

Additional Information:

Harvard Style

• The Harvard referencing style is widely used in the UK and Australia. It utilizes an author-date system for in-text citations and a bibliography at the end of the document. Harvard Style emphasizes the importance of providing detailed information about all sources cited, including page numbers for direct quotes.
• Vancouver Style:.
• Commonly used in biomedical sciences, the Vancouver Style uses a numerical citation system. In-text citations are indicated by numbers in square brackets, and a numbered reference list is included at the end of the document. Vancouver Style is known for its simplicity and ease of use in scientific writing.
• AMA Style:.
• The American Medical Association Style is predominantly used in medical and biological sciences. AMA Style features numbered citations in superscript in the text and a corresponding numbered reference list. This style also includes specific guidelines for citing medical literature, clinical studies, and online resources.
• Bluebook Style:.
• Primarily used in legal writing, the Bluebook Style provides rules for citing legal documents, court cases, statutes, and other legal sources. Bluebook citations include abbreviations for legal terms and specific formatting requirements for legal citations.

By familiarizing themselves with various citation styles, writers can adapt their writing to meet the standards of different disciplines and publications. Choosing the appropriate citation style enhances the credibility and professionalism of academic and research papers.

Guidelines for Citing Research Papers

When citing research papers, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to give proper credit to the original authors and sources. Here are some key points to consider:.

• Formatting Author Names and Titles: When citing research papers, ensure that you accurately format the author names and titles. Follow the required citation style guide, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, to correctly present this information. Include the author’s full name when possible, and if there are multiple authors, list them in the order they appear on the paper.
• Incorporating Citations in the Body of the Paper: Integrate citations smoothly within the body of your paper to support your arguments or provide evidence for your statements. Make sure to include the author’s name and the publication year when citing within the text. Additionally, consider using signal phrases to introduce citations effectively, such as ‘According to’ or ‘As stated by.’ This helps seamlessly integrate the citation into your writing.
• Creating a Reference Section: At the end of your research paper, compile a reference section listing all the sources you cited in your paper. Organize the references alphabetically by the author’s last name or by the title if no author is provided. Include all the necessary publication details for each source, such as the title of the work, the name(s) of the author(s), the publication date, and the source (e.g., journal, book, website).
• Avoiding Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a serious academic offense that can have severe consequences. Always properly cite the sources you use in your research paper to avoid plagiarism. If you directly quote a source, use quotation marks and provide the page number in your citation. Paraphrased information also requires citation to give credit to the original author.
• Using Citation Management Tools: Consider using citation management tools like Zotero, EndNote, or Mendeley to organize your references and generate citations automatically. These tools can save you time and ensure accuracy in your citations and reference list.

By following these comprehensive guidelines for citing research papers, you not only demonstrate academic integrity but also contribute to the scholarly conversation in your field. Proper citation practices help build a foundation of knowledge and acknowledge the work of others, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration in academia.

Avoiding Plagiarism and Ethical Considerations

Plagiarism is a serious offense in the academic and professional world, and it can have severe consequences. To maintain academic integrity and uphold ethical standards, it is crucial to understand the importance of citing resources properly. When writing any form of content, whether it’s an essay, research paper, article, or even a blog post, it is essential to give credit to the original sources.

Importance of Citing Resources to Avoid Plagiarism:

• Acknowledgment of Intellectual Property: Citing sources gives credit to the original creators of ideas, research, or work. It acknowledges their intellectual property rights and contributions.
• Building Credibility: Proper citations add credibility to your own work by showing that your arguments and ideas are supported by reputable sources.
• Avoiding Plagiarism Allegations: By citing sources correctly, you demonstrate that you have done your research and are not trying to pass off someone else’s work as your own.

When and How to Properly Cite Sources:

• Direct Quotes: Whenever you directly quote a source, use quotation marks and provide a citation indicating the source.
• Paraphrasing: When you paraphrase someone else’s ideas or work, even if you are not using their exact words, you still need to cite the original source.
• Common Knowledge: Information that is considered common knowledge does not require citation. However, if in doubt, it is better to provide a reference.
• Citation Styles: Different academic disciplines use specific citation styles such as APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard. Make sure to follow the appropriate style guide for your field.

Additional Considerations:

• Self-Plagiarism: It is also important to note that self-plagiarism, which involves reusing your own previously published work without proper citation, is considered unethical in many academic settings. Always cite your own work if you are incorporating it into a new piece.
• Online Sources: With the proliferation of online content, it is crucial to properly cite digital sources, including websites, online articles, and social media posts. Be sure to include URLs and access dates when referencing online material.
• Plagiarism Detection Tools: Utilize plagiarism detection software to check your work before submission. These tools can help identify unintentional instances of plagiarism and ensure that your writing is original.

By understanding the importance of citing resources and following ethical guidelines, you can avoid plagiarism and contribute to a culture of academic honesty and integrity.

Mastering the art of citing research papers is a fundamental skill for any academic or researcher. By following a step-by-step guide, individuals can ensure that they give proper credit to the original authors and sources, thereby upholding academic integrity. Additionally, learning how to write a scientific abstract is equally crucial, as it serves as a concise summary of the research study. The webpage at Avidnote offers valuable insights and tips on crafting effective scientific abstracts, which can greatly benefit PhD students and researchers. By honing these skills through practice and repetition, individuals can enhance their academic writing abilities and effectively communicate their research findings to a broader audience. Visit the provided link to delve deeper into the art of writing a compelling scientific abstract.

Privacy Overview

Adding {{itemName}} to cart

Added {{itemName}} to cart

• Incorporating Headings & Subheadings

by acburton | May 18, 2024 | Resources for Students , Writing Resources

Think about the last time you read a really long academic article or publication for a class. When the text just seemed to drone on and on to no end, think back – weren’t you really grateful for those headings (and sometimes subheadings) that broke up the longer text, switched or elaborated on a topic, stimulated your eyesight, and gave your noggin a much needed break? I bet you were! Headings and subheadings enable longer texts and differing topics and subtopics to be clearly differentiated for your reader, yet linked in a way that can be clearly understood and appreciated. Let’s go through a few other benefits to using headings and subheadings in your writing!

Incorporating headings and subheadings into your longer pieces of writing;

• Enhances the readability of your work by organizing the content in your essay and guiding your reader.
• Delineates subsections of a topic and provides an avenue to expanding on more complex ideas within a main idea.
• Demonstrates your understanding of a particular citation style.

While headings and subheadings don’t replace the use of effective transitions , they can be used in tandem to further organize your paper, guiding your reader through your topic of choice. To use headings and subheadings appropriately, you’ll want to keep in mind three very important considerations:

• the hierarchy of a heading versus a subheading (and everything that may come after)
• the format (i.e., which citation style you are aiming to follow, and
• accessibility, to be sure that your paper is intelligible to all readers.

The Hierarchy

Headings and subheadings are represented in the form of a hierarchy, or a ranking that clearly characterizes your main topic from your subtopic or issue. The prefix “sub” in “subheading” means under or beneath so your subheading (or subissue) will always be placed underneath your heading. Use a heading whenever you are switching subjects and want to outline the main idea of a section and use subheadings to delineate the varying subsections underneath the main idea. Think of it like a pyramid structure, not in shape, but with your heading on the very top, subheading just beneath, and so on and so forth, going “deeper” into your research until you begin a new section.

Citation styles, including APA format, utilize a system of “Levels” to distinguish the format of headings and subheadings as they move throughout your essay. The number of headings to use in a paper depends on the length and complexity of the work (APAStyle).

In APA format, headings and subheadings are delineated into five possible levels:  Level 1 is the highest or main level of heading, Level 2 is a subheading of Level 1, Level 3 is a subheading of Level 2, and so on through Levels 4 and 5 (APAStyle). Most students utilize Levels 1-3 for their work. If only one heading is needed for your assignment, use Level 1. If two levels are needed, use Levels 1 and 2 (and so on.) (APAStyle). The first image below provides a visualization of the APA heading format; the second image is an example of APA headings in a research paper from the field of education (APAStyle).

MLA in contrast emphasizes consistency over a specific style. Purdue Owl offers two examples of how to structure your essay using section headings and subheadings, although it is important to remember that while these can be used as a reference, they are by no means the rule . Remember, the goal is consistency throughout your paper.

Note: Although MLA does not have specific style for headings within your paper, there is a general format used for the first page of your paper. See Purdue Owl for more information.

Below, you can see two examples of acceptable headings for a paper that requires MLA formatting. The first follows a system of Levels, like what is used for APA format. The second example uses a format that numbers different sections and subsections. According to this example, Erosion and Terracing are examples of Soil Conservation, while Water Conservation and Energy Conservation require their own, main headings.

Accessibility

While the use of headings and subheadings work to enhance the readability of your work, without keeping accessibility in mind, your headings and subheadings can seem thorough and conducive to you, while being inaccessible and confusing to someone else. Check out these accessibility guidelines suggested by West Virginia University;

• Make sure your headings and subheadings always follow a consecutive hierarchy.
• Particularly when following APA format, do not skip a header for stylistic reasons.
• While using bold or italics may be unavoidable, do not use all caps. Doing so may cause some assistive technology to substitute full words for individual letters.
• Avoid using abbreviations.
• Aim to avoid language that can be confusing to non-native speakers of English (e.g., puns, a play on words).

Note: Visit the Writing Center for additional help on how to format with accessibility in mind!

Streefkerk, Raimo. “APA Headings and Subheadings | With Sample Paper.” Scribber, https://www.scribbr.com/apa-style/apa-headings/ . Accessed 18 May 2024.

Our Newest Resources!

• Best Practices for Emailing Instructors and Professors
• Revision vs. Proofreading
• Engaging With Sources Effectively
• The Dos and Don’ts of Using Tables and Figures in Your Writing

Additional Resources

• Graduate Writing Consultants
• Instructor Resources
• Student Resources
• Quick Guides and Handouts
• Self-Guided and Directed Learning Activities

• Finding Articles
• Finding Books

Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)

Apa style (7th edition) resources, social sciences & data literacy librarian.

The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) offers detailed information about the most common citation formats:  APA ,  MLA , and  Chicago Manual of Style . These links will take you to general format information. Use the left sidebar on the Purdue OWL page to find more specific information about citation styles for different types of sources.

• APA Style Help

APA Style guidelines  for citing ChatGPT.

Much like the policies on using Generative AI, like ChatGPT, the citation requirements for GenAI will vary from course to course. Always check with your professor for their AI citation expectations.

• << Previous: Finding Books
• Last Updated: May 22, 2024 1:49 PM
• URL: https://libguides.oxy.edu/education

How To Cite A TED Talk: APA, MLA and Other Formats

Citing a TED Talk can enhance your research paper by providing unique insights and expert opinions. Whether you’re using APA, MLA, or Chicago style, it’s crucial to format your citations correctly to ensure proper attribution and maintain academic integrity.

This guide will help you navigate the specific citation requirements for TED Talks from different platforms, ensuring you can seamlessly integrate these valuable resources into your work.

Learn how to cite TED Talks accurately in various citation styles with examples and templates.

How To Cite A TED Talk

What’s a ted talk.

TED Talks are a remarkable way to access and share innovative ideas and perspectives from thought leaders around the world. Organised by the non-profit organization TED, these talks cover a wide range of topics, like:

• technology and science,
• social issues.

Twice a year, TED holds conferences where speakers present their insights in captivating and often inspiring talks. These talks are then made available online for free, allowing anyone with internet access to benefit from them.

Volunteers translate the videos, further broadening their reach and making it possible for people around the globe to be inspired regardless of language barriers.

 TED Talks are not just limited to the main TED conferences. Through TEDx, individuals and communities can organize their own TED-style events, focusing on issues that matter locally, free from:

• political, or
• religious agendas.

TED Talks have democratized access to great ideas, ensuring that they are no longer reserved for the literate, educated, rich, or male. They are a powerful tool for education and inspiration, embodying the slogan “Ideas worth spreading.”

Why Do People Cite TED Talks In Research Papers?

There are many reasons authors cite TED talks in their research paper, thesis or dissertation. These include, but not limited to:

• Leveraging the credibility of the speakers
• Leveraging firsthand experiences of the speakers
• Diverse topics
• Multimedia-based evidence

Credibility Of The Speakers

One reason people cite TED Talks in research papers is the credibility of the speakers. TED Talks feature experts and thought leaders who present well-researched and innovative ideas.

If you cite Brené Brown’s TED Talk on vulnerability, you can add substantial weight to a paper on psychology or leadership. 

Leveraging Firsthand Experiences

Access to unique insights and firsthand experiences is another reason. TED speakers often share personal stories and case studies that are not available elsewhere.

If you cite a TED Talk by Jane Goodall, you can provide firsthand insights into primatology and conservation efforts. 

Diverse Topics

The diverse range of topics covered by TED Talks makes them valuable resources for various fields of study. Whether you’re researching:

• technology,
• social issues, or

you can find a TED Talk that fits your topic. 

Multimedia-Based Evidence

Citing TED Talks also provides multimedia evidence that can enhance your paper. Including a specific quote or timestamp from a TED video can support your arguments with engaging and authoritative content.

Whether you’re using a talk from the TED website or YouTube, ensuring accurate references in your bibliography is crucial for credibility and scholarly rigor.

How To Cite A TED Talk In APA Style?

When you cite a TED Talk in APA style, the format depends on whether you watched it on YouTube or directly from the TED website. Each platform affects the citation details, but both require accuracy to ensure proper referencing.

For a TED Talk from YouTube

TED is considered the author since they uploaded the video. Here’s an example template for your reference:

Reference List: TED. (Year, Month Date). Title of the TED Talk [Video]. YouTube. URL

For instance, if you’re citing Brené Brown’s popular TED Talk, your reference would look like this:

TED. (2012, March 16).  The power of vulnerability [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o

In-Text: In-text citations are concise. Use the parenthetical format like this: (TED, 2012).

For a TED Talk from the TED website

If you are citing a TED talk from the TED website, the speaker is the author. The reference format changes slightly:

Reference List: Last name, First initial. (Year, Month Date). Title of the TED Talk [Video]. TED Conferences. URL

For example, citing the same talk by Brené Brown directly from TED’s website, your reference would be: Brown, B. (2010, June). The power of vulnerability [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability.

In-Text: In-text citation would be (Brown, 2010).

When you use a direct quote, include a timestamp in your in-text citation. For example, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change” (Brown, 2010, 5:20).

How To Cite A TED Talk In MLA Style?

When you want to cite a TED Talk in MLA style, the format is straightforward but varies slightly depending on whether you accessed it directly from the TED website or from YouTube.

For a TED Talk on YouTube

When citing a TED Talk from a YouTube video, the format is slightly different. You still list the name of the speaker as the author but need to indicate that the talk is a video and list the publisher as TED Conferences. Here’s the template:

Reference List: Speaker’s Last Name, First Name. “Talk Title.” TED Conferences , Month Year, Video, URL.

For example, citing the same talk from YouTube would be:

Brown, Brené. “The Power of Vulnerability.”  TED Conferences , June 2010, Video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o.

In-text citations: You only need the speaker’s last name and the timestamp if you’re quoting a specific part of the talk. For example, a quote from Brown’s talk would be cited in-text as (Brown 5:20).

To cite a TED Talk from the TED website, list the speaker as the author, followed by the talk title in quotation marks. Then, include the site name (TED), the month and year of the talk, and the URL. Here’s a template to follow:

Reference List: Speaker’s Last Name, First Name. “Talk Title.” TED , Month Year, URL.

For example, if you want to cite Brené Brown’s TED Talk on vulnerability, your reference would look like this:

Brown, Brené. “The Power of Vulnerability.”  TED , June 2010, https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability.

Citation For A TED Talk In Chicago Style

Citing a TED Talk in Chicago style involves a specific format that depends on where you accessed the talk.

Whether you watched it on YouTube or directly from the TED website, it’s crucial to get the details right for both in-text citations and the reference list.

For a TED Talk from the TED website, list the speaker as the author, followed by the title of the talk in quotation marks. Then, include the phrase “TED video,” the month and year of the talk, and the URL. Here’s a template for your reference:

Bibliography: Speaker’s Last Name, First Name. “Talk Title.” TED video, Month Year. URL.

For example, citing Brené Brown’s TED Talk on vulnerability from the TED website would look like this:

Brown, Brené. “The Power of Vulnerability.” TED video, June 2010. https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability.

In-text citations: This can be either parenthetical or as footnotes. For a parenthetical citation, you would write (Brown, “The Power of Vulnerability”). For a footnote, it would look like this:

• Brené Brown, “The Power of Vulnerability,” TED video, June 2010, https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability.

If you accessed the TED Talk on YouTube, the format is slightly different. You must include “YouTube video” in the reference and list TED Conferences as the publisher. Here’s how you should format it:

Bibliography: Speaker’s Last Name, First Name. “Talk Title.” TED Conferences, Month Year. YouTube video. URL.

For example, citing the same talk from YouTube:

Brown, Brené. “The Power of Vulnerability.” TED Conferences, June 2010. YouTube video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o.

In-text citations:  In-text citations would follow the same parenthetical or footnote format, adjusting only for the access point. Use (Brown, “The Power of Vulnerability,” YouTube) for parenthetical citations or:

• Brené Brown, “The Power of Vulnerability,” TED Conferences, June 2010, YouTube video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o.

TED Talk References & In-Text Citation 

Accurately citing TED Talks in your research is essential for credibility and avoiding plagiarism.

Whether using APA, Chicago or MLA format, understanding the correct format for each ensures your references in your research papers are precise and professional. 

By following these guidelines and templates, you can confidently include TED Talks in your work, enriching your research with diverse perspectives and expert insights.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.

We are here to help you navigate Academia as painlessly as possible. We are supported by our readers and by visiting you are helping us earn a small amount through ads and affiliate revenue - Thank you!

2024 © Academia Insider

Research Paper Writing Guides

Research Paper Title Page

Last updated on: May 20, 2024

Formatting Research Paper Title Page in APA, MLA & Chicago

By: Emily Carter

Reviewed By:

Published on: May 20, 2024

If you’re on the lookout for guidelines to format your research paper title page, this blog should be your go-to solution.

The importance of the title page in research papers cannot be overstated. It is a must-have part of the paper and the first thing your reader will see. A well-made title page shows professionalism and helps organize your paper.

In this guide, we will explore what to include and how to format title pages in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats. You’ll also benefit from examples throughout the blog. 

Let’s start!

On this Page

What Does a Research Paper Title Page Include?

Regardless of a specific research paper format , when you start the research paper , you will include the following on your cover page:

• A good research title
• Author’s/Authors’ information
• Name of instructor
• Course information
• Submission date or date of completion

The format and inclusion criteria vary for different research paper types and formats. As mentioned above, we’ll explore title page formatting in 3 of the most common research paper formats in a minute. 

No matter which format you are using, remember that the cove page is always created on a separate page. 

Research Paper Title Page in APA Format

When creating the title page for your research paper in APA format, you'll need to make sure it follows specific guidelines to meet the requirements. 

What To Include In The Title Page

Include the following information in your APA cover page:

• Title of the Research Paper
• Institutional Affiliation(s)
• Author Note (Optional)
• Running Head
• Page Number

How To Format The Title Page

Here's how you should format your APA cover page (7th edition):

• Font: Use a 12-point Times New Roman font throughout your page.
• Spacing: Maintain double-spacing between all lines of text.
• Alignment: Center-align your title, author(s), and institutional affiliation(s). Align the author's note to the left.
• Margins: Keep consistent 1-inch margins on all sides of your page.
• Order: Arrange your title page in this order: title, author(s), institutional affiliation(s), author note (if applicable), running head, and page number.

Here is an APA research paper title page example for a better understanding: 

Research Paper Title Page in MLA Format

In MLA format , creating a separate title page is typically not necessarily required. Instead, the general practice is to include the necessary information on the first page of the paper itself. The first page of an MLA-formatted research paper usually includes:

• Your instructor's name
• The course title
• The date (day, month, year)
• The title of your paper (centered)

This information is typically positioned in the upper left-hand corner of the first page, with the title centered below it.

Here is an example of how it would look like:

If your instructor specifically asks for one, here's how you should format it:

• Your Name: On the top left, include your name and the names of co-authors if it’s a group project.
• Instructor's Name: Below your name, type the name of your instructor.
• Course Information: Below your instructor's name, type the course information, including the course title and section number (if applicable).
• Date: Under the course information, type the date. The date should be written in the day-month-year format.
• Title: After a few blank lines, include the title of your research paper. It should be centered and, in title case, midday down the page. 

Remember to double-space your MLA format research paper title page. 

See this sample MLA front page for a practical understanding:

Research Paper Title Page in Chicago Style

The Chicago-style paper format doesn’t require you to include a title page. It’s enough to just center the title at the top of the first page. But, if you’re required to include one, the Turabian style provides guidelines for formatting the opening page. 

The Turabian style is a version of the Chicago style used for formatting research papers, theses, and dissertation documents. 

What to Include in Chicago Format Title Page

Following are the components you will include in your research paper title page:

• Instructor's Name
• Course Information

How to Format the Title Page

Follow these guidelines to format your research paper title page in Chicago style:

• Title: You'll center your paper's title about 1/2 of the way down the page. Make sure it's in bold and in headline capitalization.
• Subtitle (if applicable): If your paper has a subtitle, it follows the main title on the next line, also in bold.
• Your Information: About 2/3 down the page, include your name, student code (if required), course name and code, and the date. Each piece of information should appear on a new line.

Remember, all text on the title page should be center-aligned and double-spaced, using the same font as the rest of your paper. Also, don't include a page number in the title page, but count it in your total page count, starting the page numbering from page 2.

Here is an example:

Research Paper Title Page Examples

Check out these easy-to-follow examples of research paper title pages, made just right for APA format.

High School Research Paper Title Page

History Research Paper Title Page

In wrapping up, 

This blog explored the importance of properly formatting a research paper title page in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles. By following these guidelines, you can create a professional-looking cover page that sets the tone for your paper. 

So, whether you're a student or a researcher, learning how to format the title page properly can elevate the quality of your work. But, if you need help with formatting the cover page or any other part of your research paper, worry not!

SharkPapers.com is a trusty and reliable companion when it comes to research paper writing help. With our custom research paper service , you can enjoy professional assistance from certified research writing specialists. 

Just visit our paper writing service online , tell us what can we do for your research papers, and our expert writers will handle the rest!

Emily Carter

Academic Writing

With a Master's in English from Stanford, Emily brings precision to research paper editing. Her keen eye for detail and academic expertise have assisted numerous students in achieving top-notch papers.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• Learning How to Write a Research Paper: Step-by-Step Guide

• Best 300+ Ideas For Research Paper Topics in 2024

• A Complete Guide to Help You Write a Research Proposal

• The Definitive Guide on How to Start a Research Paper

• How To Write An Introduction For A Research Paper - A Complete Guide

• Learn How To Write An Abstract For A Research Paper with Examples and Tips

• How to Write a Literature Review for a Research Paper | A Complete Guide

• How To Write The Methods Section of A Research Paper

• How to Write a Research Paper Thesis: A Detailed Guide

• How to Write a Research Paper Title That Stands Out

• A Detailed Guide on How To Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper

• How To Write The Results Section of A Research Paper | Steps & Tips

• How to Write a Problem Statement for a Research Paper: An Easy Guide

• How to Find Credible Sources for a Research Paper

• A Detailed Guide: How to Write a Discussion for a Research Paper

• How To Write A Hypothesis In A Research Paper - A Simple Guide

• Learn How To Cite A Research Paper in Different Formats: The Basics

• The Ultimate List of Ethical Research Paper Topics in 2024

• 150+ Controversial Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

• How to Edit Research Papers With Precision: A Detailed Guide

• A Comprehensive List of Argumentative Research Paper Topics

• A Detailed List of Amazing Art Research Paper Topics

• Diverse Biology Research Paper Topics for Students: A Comprehensive List

• 230 Interesting and Unique History Research Paper Topics

• 190 Best Business Research Paper Topics

• 200+ Engaging and Novel Literature Research Paper Topics

• A Guide on How to Write a Social Science Research Paper

• Sociology Research Papers: Format, Outline, and Topics

• Understanding the Basics of Biology Research Papers

• How to Write a Psychology Research Paper: Guide with Easy Steps

• Exploring the Different Types of Research Papers: A Guide

• Scientific Research Paper: Types, Formats, Structure & Writing Process

• Argumentative Research Paper | A Step-by-Step Guide

• Analytical Research Papers: A Detailed Walkthrough

• Experimental Research Paper Explained Comprehensively

• An In-Depth Look at Psychology Research Paper Examples

• 15+ Research Paper Examples for Different Types and Formats

• Free Argumentative Research Paper Examples

• Refine Your Literary Skills with Literature Research Paper Examples

• Get Inspired by 10+ Biology Research Paper Examples

• A Comprehensive Guide to History Research Paper Examples

• An Extensive List of Business Research Paper Examples

• 10+ Best APA Research Paper Examples for Effective Writing

• 10+ Expertly Crafted MLA Research Paper Examples

• Explore 8+ Chicago Research Paper Examples for Academic Excellence

• 15+ Examples of Abstracts for Research Papers

• Exploring IEEE Research Paper Examples: A Practical Guide

• Exploring Research Paper Thesis Examples: A Beginner's Guide

• 10 Free Research Paper Proposal Examples

• A Look at 10 Interesting Art Research Paper Examples

• Survey Research Papers: Types, Format, Writing & Examples

• A Closer Look Into Research Paper Format: APA, MLA, Chicago & IEEE

• APA Research Paper Format 7th Edition: Guide with Examples

• MLA Research Paper Format Made Easy: Step-by-Step Guide

• Crafting the Perfect Research Paper Outline | Steps & Examples

• A Detailed Guide to Chicago Research Paper Format

• An Easy Guide to IEEE Research Paper Format

• 12+ Practical Research Paper Outline Examples for Structuring Your Thoughts

• Engaging Psychology Research Paper Topics for Your Next Project

People Also Read

• graduation speech
• research proposal
• transition words for essays

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

© 2024 - All rights reserved

2000+ SATISFIED STUDENTS

95% Satisfaction RATE

30 Days Money Back GUARANTEE

95% Success RATE

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Contact Us

© 2021 SharkPapers.com(Powered By sharkpapers.com). All rights reserved.

© 2022 Sharkpapers.com. All rights reserved.

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT

SIGN UP TO YOUR ACCOUNT

• Your phone no.
• Confirm Password
•    I have read Privacy Policy and agree to the Terms and Conditions .

FORGOT PASSWORD

• SEND PASSWORD