How To Write A APA Style Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

Writing a paper in American Psychological Association (APA) style can seem daunting at first. With its specific formatting guidelines, citation methods, and overall structure, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry! This guide breaks down the process step-by-step, helping you master the art of APA style writing. We’ll cover everything from the basics of formatting to the intricacies of citing sources, ensuring your paper is not only well-written but also adheres to the rigorous standards of the APA. Let’s dive in and demystify the process.

The Foundation: Understanding APA Style Essentials

Before you even begin to write a word, it’s crucial to understand the core principles of APA style. Developed by the American Psychological Association, this style guide is primarily used in the social sciences, education, business, and nursing. Its primary goals are clarity, precision, and consistency. This is achieved through meticulous formatting, standardized citation practices, and a focus on clear and concise language.

Key elements to grasp include:

  • Formatting: This covers things like margins, font, line spacing, and page numbers. These elements provide a consistent visual structure.
  • Citation: APA style uses the author-date system. It involves in-text citations and a comprehensive reference list at the end of your paper. Correct citation is crucial to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original authors.
  • Language: APA encourages using active voice, precise language, and avoiding jargon where possible.

Formatting Your APA Style Paper: The Basics

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of formatting. Following these rules meticulously is the foundation of a well-structured APA paper.

Margins, Font, and Spacing

  • Margins: Set all margins to 1 inch (2.54 cm) on all sides of the document.
  • Font: Use a readable font, such as 12-point Times New Roman or 11-point Calibri. Check with your instructor if they have a preferred font.
  • Spacing: Double-space the entire paper, including the abstract, text, block quotations, and references.

The APA Cover Page: Your First Impression

The cover page is the first thing your reader sees. It contains important information about your paper. The elements included are:

  • Running Head: A shortened version of your paper’s title (50 characters or less), flush left in the header.
  • Page Number: The page number is flush right in the header.
  • Title of the Paper: Centered and placed in the upper half of the page.
  • Your Name: Below the paper title.
  • Your Institution: Below your name.

Important Note: In the latest (7th) edition of the APA Publication Manual, the “Running head:” label is only required on the title page of a professional paper. For a student paper, it is not necessary.

Page Numbers: Keeping Track

Page numbers are crucial for organization. They should be included on all pages of your paper, starting with the title page.

Title and Abstract: Setting the Stage

The title page should contain:

  • Title: Concise and informative, reflecting the paper’s content.
  • Author’s Name: Your name.
  • Institutional Affiliation: The name of your university or institution.

The abstract follows the title page and provides a brief summary of your paper. It should be concise (typically 150-250 words) and include the following:

  • Purpose of the study.
  • Methodology used.
  • Key findings.
  • Conclusions.

Structuring Your Paper: Sections and Organization

APA style emphasizes a logical and organized structure. This usually involves several key sections.

Introduction: Setting the Context

The introduction sets the stage for your paper. It should:

  • Introduce the topic and provide background information.
  • State your research question or thesis statement.
  • Briefly outline the scope and organization of the paper.

Body Paragraphs: Developing Your Argument

The body paragraphs are where you develop your arguments, present your findings, and support your claims. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and be supported by evidence.

  • Use topic sentences to clearly state the main point of each paragraph.
  • Provide evidence from credible sources to support your claims.
  • Analyze and interpret the evidence.
  • Transition smoothly between paragraphs.

Methods Section: Detailing Your Approach

The methods section describes how you conducted your research. This section is particularly important for empirical research papers and should include:

  • Participants: Describe the characteristics of your participants.
  • Materials: Describe any materials used in your study (e.g., surveys, questionnaires).
  • Procedure: Explain the steps you took to conduct the study.

Results Section: Presenting Your Findings

The results section presents your findings without interpretation. Use tables, figures, and text to clearly and concisely present your data.

Discussion Section: Interpreting Your Findings

The discussion section is where you interpret your results and discuss their implications.

  • Summarize your key findings.
  • Relate your findings to your research question or thesis statement.
  • Discuss the limitations of your study.
  • Suggest directions for future research.

Citing Sources in APA Style: Avoiding Plagiarism

Proper citation is essential in APA style. It helps you give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. APA uses the author-date system.

In-Text Citations: Acknowledging Your Sources

In-text citations are placed within the text of your paper. They include the author’s last name and the year of publication.

  • For direct quotes: Include the page number or paragraph number.
  • For paraphrased information: Include the author’s last name and the year of publication.

Reference List: The Complete Picture

The reference list, placed at the end of your paper, provides complete information about all the sources you cited in your paper. Each entry should include:

  • Author(s) name.
  • Year of publication.
  • Title of the work.
  • Publication information.

Formatting the Reference List:

  • Alphabetical order by the author’s last name.
  • Hanging indent for each entry.
  • Double-spacing.

Mastering APA Style: Tips for Success

Writing in APA style takes practice. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Practice Makes Perfect: Regular Writing

The more you write in APA style, the more comfortable you will become with its conventions.

Use a Style Guide: Reference Regularly

The APA Publication Manual is the definitive guide to APA style. Refer to it frequently, especially when you are unsure about a specific rule.

Seek Feedback: Get a Second Opinion

Ask your professor, a writing center tutor, or a peer to review your paper and provide feedback.

Utilize Software: Technology to Help

Consider using citation management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley) to help you manage your sources and generate citations automatically. Most word processors like Microsoft Word also have built-in citation tools.

Common APA Style Errors: Avoiding Pitfalls

Be aware of the common mistakes that students make when writing in APA style:

  • Incorrect Formatting: Pay close attention to margins, spacing, and font.
  • Inconsistent Citations: Ensure all citations follow APA guidelines.
  • Plagiarism: Always cite your sources.
  • Poor Writing: Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon.

FAQs: Addressing Your Burning Questions

Here are some additional questions to guide you on your APA style journey:

What is the best way to deal with a source that has multiple authors?

When citing a source with multiple authors, the format changes depending on the number of authors. For sources with two authors, include both authors’ last names every time you cite the source. For sources with three or more authors, use the first author’s last name followed by “et al.” (and the year) for all subsequent citations.

How do I cite a website or online source?

Citing websites and online sources depends on the type of content. Generally, include the author (if available), the date of publication, the title of the page or article, the website name, and the URL. If no author is listed, use the organization or group responsible for the website.

Can I use contractions in an APA style paper?

While APA style generally favors formal writing, using contractions is acceptable in most cases. However, avoid excessive use, and always consider your audience and the context of your paper.

How do I cite a book chapter?

To cite a book chapter, include the author of the chapter, the year of publication, the title of the chapter, the editors of the book, the title of the book, and the page range of the chapter.

What is the purpose of a running head, and when do I use it?

The running head is a shortened version of your paper’s title, used in the header of the page. For student papers, the running head is not required in the 7th edition of the APA manual. For professional papers, it is required on the title page.

Conclusion: Your Guide to APA Style Mastery

Writing an APA style paper can seem like a complex undertaking, but by understanding the core principles, mastering the formatting guidelines, and practicing diligent citation, you can confidently produce well-written and academically sound papers. Remember to focus on clarity, precision, and consistency. This comprehensive guide has provided you with the foundational knowledge you need. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll be well on your way to crafting exceptional APA-style papers. Good luck, and happy writing!