Do You Write a Running Head on an APA Paper? A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the nuances of formatting, especially when it comes to academic papers, can be a minefield. One of the most common sources of confusion revolves around the running head in APA (American Psychological Association) style. Let’s clear up the confusion: Yes, you do write a running head on an APA paper. But the specifics depend on whether you’re submitting a professional manuscript or a student paper. This article will walk you through everything you need to know.
The Purpose of a Running Head: Beyond the Obvious
Why even bother with a running head? It’s more than just an arbitrary formatting requirement. The primary purpose of a running head is to identify your paper quickly and efficiently when it’s being reviewed or published. Imagine a stack of papers on a desk; the running head allows reviewers and editors to instantly recognize your work, especially if multiple papers are being considered simultaneously. This is particularly crucial in the professional world, where manuscripts are often handled by many individuals.
Running Head for Student Papers: Simplicity is Key
The rules differ slightly for student papers versus professional manuscripts. The good news is that the requirements for student papers are generally simpler. Here’s what you need to know:
The Format for Student Papers
For student papers, the running head consists of the words “Running head:” followed by a shortened title of your paper, all in title case. This information is placed in the upper-left corner of the header on every page, including the title page. The page number, right-aligned, appears in the upper-right corner.
Example of a Student Paper Running Head
Let’s say your paper title is “The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health.” Your running head would look like this on the title page:
Running head: SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADOLESCENT HEALTH
And on subsequent pages:
SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADOLESCENT HEALTH 1 (or the relevant page number)
Note that the “Running head:” label only appears on the title page of student papers.
Running Head for Professional Manuscripts: A More Refined Approach
Professional manuscripts follow a slightly different format, reflecting the higher standards of publication.
The Format for Professional Manuscripts
For professional manuscripts, the label “Running head:” is omitted. The shortened title, in all caps, appears in the upper-left corner of the header on every page, including the title page. The page number, right-aligned, remains in the upper-right corner.
Example of a Professional Manuscript Running Head
Using the same paper title as before, “The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health,” the running head would appear as:
SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADOLESCENT HEALTH 1 (or the relevant page number)
Notice the absence of “Running head:” on all pages, including the title page. This is the key difference between student and professional papers.
Where Does the Running Head Go? The Header Explained
The running head is always placed in the header of your document. The header is the area at the top of each page, above the main body of text. Most word processing programs, like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, provide a simple way to access and edit the header.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Running Head in Word
- Double-click at the top of the page to activate the header.
- Type your running head (the shortened title) in the upper-left corner. Remember the specific format for student versus professional papers.
- Insert the page number in the upper-right corner. In Word, you can typically find this option under the “Insert” tab, then “Page Number.” Choose “Top of Page” and select the right alignment.
- Close the header by double-clicking anywhere in the main body of the document.
These steps are similar across different word processors, although the exact location of the menu options may vary.
Shortening Your Title: The Art of Brevity
Choosing the right shortened title is crucial. It should be a concise representation of your paper’s main topic. Aim for no more than 50 characters, including spaces. This length constraint ensures that the running head fits neatly within the margins of your document.
Tips for Effective Title Shortening
- Prioritize Keywords: Include the most important keywords from your full title.
- Eliminate Unnecessary Words: Cut out articles (a, an, the) and other words that don’t contribute to the core meaning.
- Focus on Clarity: Ensure that the shortened title is still understandable and accurately reflects the paper’s subject.
- Test It Out: View the running head on your document to ensure it looks clean and professional.
Formatting the Title Page: A Separate Consideration
The title page is a critical component of any APA paper. While the running head is included on the title page, it’s important to remember that the title page has its own specific formatting requirements. These include:
- The full title of your paper (centered and near the top of the page)
- Your name
- Your institution (e.g., university or college)
- The course name and number (if applicable)
- The instructor’s name
- The date
The title page should also adhere to the standard APA formatting guidelines, including margins, font, and spacing.
Avoiding Common Running Head Mistakes
Even experienced writers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Incorrect Formatting
Failing to use the correct format for student versus professional papers is a frequent error. Double-check the formatting guidelines before submitting your paper.
Exceeding the Character Limit
Going over the 50-character limit can result in a running head that is too long and may not fit properly on the page.
Inconsistent Formatting
Inconsistent formatting across different pages can make your paper look unprofessional. Ensure the running head and page numbers are correctly formatted on every page.
Forgetting the Page Number
Omitting the page number is a significant error. Page numbers are essential for easy navigation and referencing.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Considerations
While the core principles of the running head are relatively straightforward, a few advanced considerations can help you refine your approach.
Using Different Headers for Different Sections (Professional Manuscripts Only)
In some professional publications, different sections of a manuscript (e.g., the abstract, the main text, the references) may have slightly different header formats. Always follow the specific guidelines provided by the journal or publisher.
Accessibility Considerations
Consider the accessibility of your document. Ensure that the running head and page numbers are easily readable for individuals with visual impairments. Use a clear, legible font and sufficient contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Heads
Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify any lingering confusion:
What happens if I forget the running head?
Missing the running head, particularly in a professional manuscript, can be a significant oversight. It can lead to your paper being rejected or returned for revisions. Always double-check your formatting before submitting.
Is the running head the same as the title of my paper?
No, the running head is a shortened version of your paper’s title.
Can I use abbreviations in the running head?
Yes, abbreviations can be used to make the running head shorter, but ensure the abbreviations are clear and easily understood.
What if I am unsure whether to use the student or professional version?
If you are unsure, always clarify with your instructor or the publication guidelines. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Does the running head count towards my word count?
No, the running head is not considered part of the main body of your text and does not contribute to your word count.
Conclusion: Mastering the Running Head for APA Success
In summary, yes, you absolutely include a running head in your APA paper. The specific format, however, changes depending on the context: “Running head:” for student papers and a shortened title only for professional manuscripts. Remember to keep your shortened title concise and accurate. By following these guidelines and understanding the purpose of the running head, you can ensure that your APA papers are formatted correctly, professional-looking, and ready for submission. The running head, while seemingly small, is a crucial element of APA formatting; mastering it demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to academic rigor.