How to Format a Paper in APA

There are several instances in which writing a paper in APA style may be necessary. After writing several papers in this style, it will become second nature. Use the following guide to help you get comfortable formatting your paper in APA.

Instructions

1. Each page should have a header that includes a partial title (3 or 4 words) and the page number. This should be right-justified.

2. The paper should be size 12 font and double-spaced throughout.

3. An APA style paper should include a title page. This should include the full title, your name, the class, professor, and due date. Each of these items should be centered and on their own separate line.

4. If your paper requires an abstract, it should be its own page.

5. The actual paper should begin with the full title, which should also be centered.

6. The contents of the paper should be left justified.

7. Each paragraph should begin with a half-inch indentation.

8. Your references should be listed on a page titled "References." The title should be centered and the references must be alphabetized.

9. The references should be left-justified and all references exceeding one line must have a half inch indentation on those lines.

Tips & Warnings

• APA style can be difficult, so it's a good idea to get a style book to guide you.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• APA Style