Learn the New APA Style Essay Format for 2023!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to APA Formatting
2. Formatting the Page
   1. Setting Margins
   2. Setting Font and Type Size
   3. Adding Page Numbers
3. Creating the Title Page
   1. Setting Alignment and Spacing
   2. Writing the Title and Heading
   3. Adding Course Information
   4. Including the Teacher's Name and Due Date
4. Formatting the Body of the Paper
   1. Beginning the First Body Paragraph
   2. Using Subheadings
   3. Formatting Block Quotations

Introduction to APA Formatting

Are you struggling to format your paper in APA style? Don't worry, this article will guide you step-by-step through the process and ensure that your paper meets all the necessary requirements. APA, or the American Psychological Association, is a widely used citation style for academic papers. It provides guidelines for formatting documents, citing sources, and creating reference lists. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your paper is organized, professional, and easy to read.

Formatting the Page

The first step in APA formatting is to set up the page layout properly. This includes adjusting the margins and selecting an appropriate font and type size.

Setting Margins

To set the margins for your paper, go to the Layout tab and navigate to the margins tab on the left. Click on the drop-down arrow and select normal to apply a one-inch margin on all sides of your paper. This standard margin size allows for adequate white space and readability.

Setting Font and Type Size

Next, you need to select the font and type size for your paper. In the Home tab, click on the font dialog box launcher arrow to open the font settings. The default font for Word is Calibri, which is acceptable for APA formatting. However, you can also choose Arial (11 or 12-point) or Times New Roman (12-point) as alternative accessible fonts. Select your preferred font, and make sure to click on the "Regular" option to ensure consistency throughout your paper. Additionally, click on the "Default" button in the bottom left corner to save these settings as the default for all your future papers.

Adding Page Numbers

Page numbers are an essential element of APA formatting. To insert page numbers, go to the Insert tab and select the Page Number drop-down arrow. Choose the "Top of Page" option and then select "Plain Number Three" from the available options. This will place the page number in the top right-hand corner of the header area. Make sure that the font used for the page number matches the font selected for the rest of your paper to maintain consistency. To exit the header area, click on the word "Header" or anywhere in the body of the document.

Creating the Title Page

The title page is the first page of your APA-formatted paper. It includes essential information such as the title, your name, the course, and the due date.

Setting Alignment and Spacing

To begin formatting the title page, move your cursor to the top third of the page, approximately at the one-inch marker on the ruler. Then, click on the Home tab and select Center Alignment to center your text. Afterward, go to the line spacing tool and choose "2.0" for double spacing. This spacing ensures that your title page is properly formatted. Additionally, you may need to go back to the line spacing tool and select "Remove Space after Paragraph" if it is not grayed out. This step helps maintain consistent spacing throughout your paper.

Writing the Title and Heading

Type in your title on the title page, using title capitalization. This means capitalizing all words except prepositions and articles that are fewer than four letters. Also, capitalize the first and last words of the title, regardless of their length. After typing the title, highlight it and click on the "B" button in the Home tab to apply bold formatting. In APA formatting, all titles are boldfaced. Press Enter once to add double spacing, and then click on the "B" button again to turn off bold formatting.

Adding Course Information

Below the title, enter your full name, including a middle initial if desired. Include the name and number of the course, followed by a colon, one space, and the full title of the course. For example, "Introduction to Criminal Justice." Press Enter once for double spacing. You can use honorifics like Dr., Instructor, or Professor, followed by the name of your teacher. Press Enter again to leave space for the due date.

Including the Teacher's Name and Due Date

Type in the name of your teacher, and then press Enter once to add double spacing. Finally, enter the due date for your paper. With the completion of this section, your title page is now properly formatted.

Formatting the Body of the Paper

After setting up the title page, you can proceed to format the body of your APA paper. This involves starting the first paragraph, using subheadings, and properly formatting block quotations.

Beginning the First Body Paragraph

To begin typing the first body paragraph, make sure your text is left-aligned. APA requires indentation of one half inch for all paragraphs. Simply press the Tab key once to achieve this indentation. Remember not to use the Enter key at the end of a line unless you are starting a new paragraph. APA emphasizes the use of indentation rather than manual line breaks to maintain consistent formatting.

Using Subheadings

APA encourages the use of subheadings to divide your paper into logical sections. These subheadings provide clarity and organization for your readers. To insert a Level One subheading, move to the appropriate location below the preceding paragraph and click on Center Alignment. Type in your subheading, following the same title capitalization rules as the main title. Next, highlight the subheading and click on the "B" button in the Home tab to apply bold formatting. Press Enter once for double spacing, and then click on the "B" button again to turn off bold formatting. You can now click on left alignment and continue typing the second paragraph or section of your paper, ensuring a one-half inch indentation.

Formatting Block Quotations

APA has specific formatting requirements for block quotations, which are quotations longer than 40 words. When using a block quotation, introduce it with a colon at the end of the preceding sentence. Type the quotation without using quotation marks, and then highlight the entire quotation. In the Home menu, go to the increase indent option and click it once to create a hanging indentation. Note that there should be no period after the parentheses that contains the in-text citation for block quotations.

In conclusion, by following these APA formatting guidelines, you can ensure that your paper adheres to the necessary standards. Proper formatting makes your paper more professional, organized, and readable. Remember to set up the page layout correctly, create a well-structured title page, and use subheadings to divide your paper into sections. By following these steps, you can confidently submit your APA-formatted paper.

Highlights

• APA formatting is crucial for academic papers to ensure proper organization and readability.
• The page layout must be adjusted by setting margins, selecting a font, and adding page numbers.
• The title page should include the title, author's name, course information, and due date.
• The body of the paper should be formatted with proper indentation and the use of subheadings.
• Block quotations longer than 40 words should be formatted with a hanging indentation and without quotation marks.

FAQ

Q: Why is APA formatting important? A: APA formatting is important because it provides a standardized format for academic papers, making them easier to read and understand. It also ensures that proper credit is given to the sources used.

Q: Can I use a different font for my APA paper? A: While Calibri is the default font for Word documents, APA allows the use of other accessible fonts, such as Arial (11-12 point) and Times New Roman (12 point). The key is to maintain consistency throughout the paper.

Q: Do I need to include page numbers in my APA paper? A: Yes, page numbers are an essential element of APA formatting. They provide a reference point for readers and help with proper citation.

Q: How should I format a block quotation in APA? A: A block quotation, which is a quotation longer than 40 words, should be formatted with a hanging indentation, without quotation marks, and introduced with a colon.

Q: Can I use subheadings in my APA paper? A: Yes, APA encourages the use of subheadings to divide your paper into logical sections. This helps to organize your content and make it easier for readers to follow.