SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 6
Download to read offline
Running head: WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 1
A Guide for Writing APA Style Research Papers
Susan B. Smith
Capital Community College
PROVIDE A “RUNNING HEAD” OR
SHORT TITLE OF YOUR PAPER IN
ALL CAPS FOR EACH PAGE OF THE
PAPER
Each page is numbered
starting with the title page.
The title of your paper is centered and
positioned in the upper half of the page. It
should be no longer than 12 words.
Student’s name: first, middle initial, last.
Institutional affiliation
The recommended typeface is Times
New Roman with a 12 point font size.
Based on the Sixth Ed. of the Publication
Manual of the American Psychological
Association. Updated September 19, 2012.
WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 2
Abstract
This paper is a guide to writing a general paper in according to the Publication Manual
of the American Psychological Association. The guide instructs a user on how to format
a paper in APA style, illustrating structure, style and content, as well as presenting detailed
examples of references cited, including print examples of books, magazine articles and
reference works. Additional examples are provided for electronic versions of the above.
Keywords: APA, research papers, format, style guide
An abstract is a brief comprehensive
summary of the paper between 150 and
250 words. Do not add to or comment on
the body of the work here. It provides the
reader with a brief overview of the article.
The running head or short title
Page number
Check with your instructor to
see if an abstract and/or
keywords are required elements
of your paper.
Type the
abstract in
block format,
one paragraph,
no indentations
and double
spaced.
WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 3
A Guide for Writing APA Style Research Papers
There are several different types of articles appropriate for publication in the
APA or American Psychological Association style. These include reports of empirical
studies, literature reviews, theoretical articles, methodological articles, and case studies.
Each of these types of articles follows a proscribed format. Refer to the Publication
Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th
edition for the most up to date
and comprehensive details of setting up your manuscript. This paper will serve as a
general guide only, and as always, your instructor has the final word on the format and
style required for the assigned paper.
Method
A research paper presents the results of your investigations on a selected topic.
Based on your own thoughts and the facts and ideas you have gathered from a variety of
sources, a research paper is a creation that is uniquely yours. The experience of
gathering, interpreting, and documenting information, developing and organizing ideas
and conclusions, and communicating them clearly will prove to be an important and
satisfying part of your education. Generally, the formatting of citations recommended
below is based on the American Psychological Association guidelines. Your instructor
may require another format. It is important to follow consistently and accurately a
recommended format that is clear and concise and that has been approved by your
teacher. This guide may suffice for most students' needs for most academic purposes, but
for advanced research projects it is by no means a substitute for the Publication Manual
Page 3 begins the body of the paper.
Type and center the title
of the paper on this page.
Do not bold or underline.
Running head on every page
1 inch margins
on all sides 1 inch margins
on all sides.
Leave right side
ragged and do
not hyphenate
words.
2 spaces after a
punctuation mark
helps the reader.
Level 1 Heading
The heading
style
recommended by
APA consists of
5 possible
formatting
arrangements.
Check with your
instructor and/or
the APA Manual
section 3.02 for
further guidance
regarding
headings.
1 inch
margin
1 inch
margin
WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 4
of the American Psychological Association Sixth Edition (2010). That handbook can be
purchased in most bookstores and copies should be available in every college and
municipal library. This guide and a guide similar to this one, but based on the MLA
style, are available online. “Your best source of advice on all these matters is, of course,
your instructor and your library professionals” (Darling, 2008, p. 98).
Once your topic has been approved, gather information from authoritative sources:
pertinent books, encyclopedias, and articles in magazines, journals, and newspapers.
Librarians will be happy to show you how to use the various research tools
within the library and may suggest other sources of information. Important new resources
are now available to you through electronic services which provide many learning and
reference tools as well as access to the Internet, where you can often discover an
abundance of information. Depending on the resources available and the length
of your assignment, you may find it necessary to widen or restrict the scope of your
topic (Darling, 2008, pp. 96-97).
Discussion
Using someone else's ideas or phrasing and representing those ideas as your own,
either on purpose or through carelessness, is a serious offense known as plagiarism.
Ideas or phrasing includes written or spoken material, from whole papers
and paragraphs to sentences, and, indeed, phrases but it also includes statistics, lab
results, art work, etc. Someone else can mean a professional source, such as a published
Level 1 Heading
If you are instructed by your professor
to use headings, refer to section 3.02 of
the Publication Manual of the APA.
If a quotation is
40 or more
words, start a
new line, using
a block
quotation;
indent as if a
new paragraph,
double space,
and do not use
quotation
marks.
Quotations
fewer than
40 words are
incorporated
into the text
using quote
marks. Cite
the specific
page of the
quote.
Quotations
WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 5
writer or critic in a book, magazine, encyclopedia, journal or in an electronic resource
such as material you discover on the Internet; another student at your school or
anywhere else; or a paper-writing service which offers to sell written papers for a fee.
Newton (2011) found that he penalty for plagiarism is usually determined by the instructor
teaching the course; in many schools and colleges, it could involve failure for the paper and
it could mean failure for the entire course and even expulsion from school. At the very least,
however, students who plagiarize have cheated themselves out of the experience of being
responsible members of the academic community and have cheated their classmates by
pretending to contribute something original which is, in fact, a cheap copy (Newton, 2011).
Summary and Concluding Discussion
One-inch margins at the top, bottom, right and left sides are now required by APA.
Double spacing is required throughout the paper. In 2011 Newton stated that if you wish to
use single spacing for quotations of verse and drama because it more nearly approximates
what the poet would want, you must consult with your instructor before doing so.
Each page is numbered consecutively including title page and reference page. Type the
numbers in the upper right-hand corner using Arabic numerals. Arrange the manuscript as
follows: title page, abstract, body of the paper, and reference page. A short title is used
throughout the paper. R. Newton (personal communication, July 20, 2012) states that the
short title is a two or three word derivation of the title of the paper. If the title of your paper
were Understanding Patterns of Byzantine Intrigue, the short title could be Byzantine Intrigue
(R. Newton, personal communication, July 20, 2012).
Citing references in text
Option #1
Option #2
Option #3
Personal
communication,
option #1
Personal communication, option #2
Do not include references to personal
communications, such as letters, emails,
interviews, telephone conversations on the
reference page as they are not recoverable.
You may however cite them in-text. What you
cite should have scholarly relevance.
Options 1, 2, and 3 are all acceptable
formats for pointing to the source listed
on the reference page.
or
(Newton, 2011, Chapter 3)
or
(Newton, 2011, p. 11)
WRITING A RESEARCH PAPER 6
References
Darling, C. (2008). Saints of diminished capacity. New York: Random House.
Language (2009). In Columbia electronic encyclopedia. Retrieved September 18,
2012, from http://www.informationplease.com
Harkavy, W. (2010, November 3). Educational writings. Village Voice.
Retrieved September 8, 2012 from http://villagevoice.com
Newton, R. (2011). Areference guide to learning about research. Hartford,
CT: Merganser University Press.
South, S., Oltmanns, T., & Turkheimer, E. (2009). Interpersonal communication
across peer groups. Journal of Communication, 73, (2) 675-692.
doi: 10.1111/j.1467-6494.2005.00325
South, S.,Oltmanns, T., & Turkheimer, E. (2009). Interpersonal communication
across peer groups. Journal of Communication, 73, (2) 675-692. Retrieved
from http://search.ebscohost.com
Wheatcroft, G. (2008, June). The challenge of education. The Atlantic, 293(3), 56–72.
Arrange entries in alphabetical order by the
author’s last name, or if no author, by the 1st
word in the citation.
APA Style
Include page number in upper right corner
Use Times New Roman 12 point font.
Book with 1 author
Online journal
article from a
database with
no DOI. (Same
article as above
when no DOI
is provided).
Article retrieved from an
online reference work with no
author
Web site
Book 1 author
Print journal article. Full title
italicized in upper and lowercase
letters. Italicize the volume
number but not the issue and
page numbers.
Online journal
article with DOI.
Include the DOI
(digital object
identifier) in
your citation
whenever it is
provided.
Capitalize only
the first word of
a journal article
title and subtitle.
Do not italicize.
The reference page provides the
information necessary for a reader to locate
and retrieve any source you cite. Each
source you cite in the paper must appear in
your reference list.

More Related Content

Similar to A Guide For Writing APA Style Research Papers

APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptx
APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptxAPA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptx
APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptxBONNIEPARRISH1
 
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptx
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptxAPA Formatting and Style Guide .pptx
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptxEdthorGabriel
 
Apa writing labonline
Apa writing labonlineApa writing labonline
Apa writing labonlineAmy Arwood Henry
 
Methods of Research.pptx
Methods of Research.pptxMethods of Research.pptx
Methods of Research.pptxRODELAZARES3
 
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptx
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptxAPA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptx
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptxjaimegonzalez838359
 
APA Referencing Style
APA Referencing StyleAPA Referencing Style
APA Referencing StyleBrandi Gonzales
 
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docx
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docxAssignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docx
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docxrock73
 
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1MARK547399
 
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docxjackiewalcutt
 
Corrected PPT.pptx
Corrected PPT.pptxCorrected PPT.pptx
Corrected PPT.pptxDevarajuBn
 
Citing Your Sources - APA
Citing Your Sources - APACiting Your Sources - APA
Citing Your Sources - APAkpaxton41017
 
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS .docx
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS         .docxRunning head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS         .docx
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS .docxhealdkathaleen
 
1 AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx
1  AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx1  AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx
1 AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docxoswald1horne84988
 
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docxblondellchancy
 

Similar to A Guide For Writing APA Style Research Papers (20)

APA powerpoint
APA powerpointAPA powerpoint
APA powerpoint
 
PPT.pptx
PPT.pptxPPT.pptx
PPT.pptx
 
APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptx
APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptxAPA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptx
APA POWERPOINT REPORT WRITING GUIDELINES.pptx
 
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptx
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptxAPA Formatting and Style Guide .pptx
APA Formatting and Style Guide .pptx
 
APAppt.pptx
APAppt.pptxAPAppt.pptx
APAppt.pptx
 
Apa writing labonline
Apa writing labonlineApa writing labonline
Apa writing labonline
 
Methods of Research.pptx
Methods of Research.pptxMethods of Research.pptx
Methods of Research.pptx
 
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptx
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptxAPA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptx
APA STYLE 7TH EDITION (1).pptx
 
APA Referencing Style
APA Referencing StyleAPA Referencing Style
APA Referencing Style
 
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docx
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docxAssignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docx
Assignment TemplateFull Title of the TopicAuthor’s Name .docx
 
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1
Running head insert shortened title (50 characters or fewer)1
 
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx
1. Essay) Discuss the drivers in the environment and the economy t.docx
 
Corrected PPT.pptx
Corrected PPT.pptxCorrected PPT.pptx
Corrected PPT.pptx
 
Mercadal ayelen power point
Mercadal ayelen power pointMercadal ayelen power point
Mercadal ayelen power point
 
Citing Your Sources - APA
Citing Your Sources - APACiting Your Sources - APA
Citing Your Sources - APA
 
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS .docx
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS         .docxRunning head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS         .docx
Running head ABBREVIATED VERSION OF TITLE IN ALL CAPS .docx
 
Guerrilla apa
Guerrilla apaGuerrilla apa
Guerrilla apa
 
Apa Style Essay Paper
Apa Style Essay PaperApa Style Essay Paper
Apa Style Essay Paper
 
1 AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx
1  AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx1  AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx
1 AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION APA GU.docx
 
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx
8Title of the Paper in Full Goes HereStudent Name Here.docx
 

More from Jose Katab

The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.
The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.
The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.Jose Katab
 
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online Writers
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online WritersWriting A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online Writers
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online WritersJose Katab
 
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For Kids
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For KidsResearch Paper Summer Vacations Essay For Kids
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For KidsJose Katab
 
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.Jose Katab
 
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How To
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How ToCompare And Contrast Essay Tips On How To
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How ToJose Katab
 
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.Jose Katab
 
Essay Writing How To Tips Teaching Resources
Essay Writing How To Tips  Teaching ResourcesEssay Writing How To Tips  Teaching Resources
Essay Writing How To Tips Teaching ResourcesJose Katab
 
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & E
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & ECollege Articles & Resources - College Admissions & E
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & EJose Katab
 
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of A
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of ADissertation Abstract Help - Example Of A
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of AJose Katab
 
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K Kit
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K KitSchool Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K Kit
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K KitJose Katab
 
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - Writ
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - WritBuy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - Writ
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - WritJose Katab
 
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25Jose Katab
 
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer Worksheets
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer WorksheetsPersuade Me Graphic Organizer Worksheets
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer WorksheetsJose Katab
 
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESL
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESLHOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESL
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESLJose Katab
 
Essay On Help The Needy Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...
Essay On Help The Needy  Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...Essay On Help The Needy  Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...
Essay On Help The Needy Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...Jose Katab
 
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New Autobi
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New AutobiExample Of Autobiography About Yourself New Autobi
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New AutobiJose Katab
 
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples FirstJose Katab
 
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritin
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritinImaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritin
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritinJose Katab
 
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper TPT. Online assignment writing service.
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper  TPT. Online assignment writing service.Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper  TPT. Online assignment writing service.
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper TPT. Online assignment writing service.Jose Katab
 
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates Welcom
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates  WelcomFree Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates  Welcom
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates WelcomJose Katab
 

More from Jose Katab (20)

The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.
The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.
The Election Process Of US President -. Online assignment writing service.
 
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online Writers
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online WritersWriting A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online Writers
Writing A Descriptive Essay Help Essay Online Writers
 
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For Kids
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For KidsResearch Paper Summer Vacations Essay For Kids
Research Paper Summer Vacations Essay For Kids
 
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.
Essay On Money Can T B. Online assignment writing service.
 
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How To
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How ToCompare And Contrast Essay Tips On How To
Compare And Contrast Essay Tips On How To
 
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.
Free End Of The Year Memory Book - Te. Online assignment writing service.
 
Essay Writing How To Tips Teaching Resources
Essay Writing How To Tips  Teaching ResourcesEssay Writing How To Tips  Teaching Resources
Essay Writing How To Tips Teaching Resources
 
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & E
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & ECollege Articles & Resources - College Admissions & E
College Articles & Resources - College Admissions & E
 
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of A
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of ADissertation Abstract Help - Example Of A
Dissertation Abstract Help - Example Of A
 
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K Kit
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K KitSchool Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K Kit
School Health Handwriting Without Tears Pre-K Kit
 
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - Writ
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - WritBuy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - Writ
Buy Essay Online - Get 100 Original Essay - Writ
 
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25
Who Is The Father Of Essay. The Father Essay. 2022-10-25
 
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer Worksheets
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer WorksheetsPersuade Me Graphic Organizer Worksheets
Persuade Me Graphic Organizer Worksheets
 
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESL
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESLHOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESL
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY IN 8 EASY STEPS - ESL
 
Essay On Help The Needy Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...
Essay On Help The Needy  Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...Essay On Help The Needy  Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...
Essay On Help The Needy Make A Life Lend A Helping Hand To The Poor ...
 
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New Autobi
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New AutobiExample Of Autobiography About Yourself New Autobi
Example Of Autobiography About Yourself New Autobi
 
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First
006 Essay Example Job Application Examples First
 
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritin
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritinImaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritin
Imaginative Essay Writing. ImaginativeWritin
 
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper TPT. Online assignment writing service.
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper  TPT. Online assignment writing service.Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper  TPT. Online assignment writing service.
Results For Dr Seuss Writing Paper TPT. Online assignment writing service.
 
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates Welcom
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates  WelcomFree Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates  Welcom
Free Paper Fortune Teller Printable Templates Welcom
 

Recently uploaded

CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptx
CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptxCELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptx
CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptxJiesonDelaCerna
 
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...JhezDiaz1
 
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptx
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptxIntroduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptx
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptxpboyjonauth
 
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media Component
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media ComponentMeghan Sutherland In Media Res Media Component
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media ComponentInMediaRes1
 
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptx
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptxHow to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptx
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptxmanuelaromero2013
 
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptx
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptxSolving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptx
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptxOH TEIK BIN
 
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptx
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptxMICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptx
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptxabhijeetpadhi001
 
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPT
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPTECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPT
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPTiammrhaywood
 
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docx
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docxBlooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docx
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docxUnboundStockton
 
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptx
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptxEPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptx
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptxRaymartEstabillo3
 
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media Component
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media ComponentAlper Gobel In Media Res Media Component
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media ComponentInMediaRes1
 
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatEarth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatYousafMalik24
 
Full Stack Web Development Course for Beginners
Full Stack Web Development Course  for BeginnersFull Stack Web Development Course  for Beginners
Full Stack Web Development Course for BeginnersSabitha Banu
 
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersDATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersSabitha Banu
 
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.arsicmarija21
 
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Celine George
 
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptx
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptxEmployee wellbeing at the workplace.pptx
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptxNirmalaLoungPoorunde1
 
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of India
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of IndiaPainted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of India
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of IndiaVirag Sontakke
 
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha elections
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha electionsPresiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha elections
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha electionsanshu789521
 

Recently uploaded (20)

CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptx
CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptxCELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptx
CELL CYCLE Division Science 8 quarter IV.pptx
 
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...
ENGLISH 7_Q4_LESSON 2_ Employing a Variety of Strategies for Effective Interp...
 
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptx
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptxIntroduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptx
Introduction to AI in Higher Education_draft.pptx
 
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media Component
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media ComponentMeghan Sutherland In Media Res Media Component
Meghan Sutherland In Media Res Media Component
 
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptx
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptxHow to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptx
How to Make a Pirate ship Primary Education.pptx
 
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptx
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptxSolving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptx
Solving Puzzles Benefits Everyone (English).pptx
 
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptx
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptxMICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptx
MICROBIOLOGY biochemical test detailed.pptx
 
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPT
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPTECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPT
ECONOMIC CONTEXT - LONG FORM TV DRAMA - PPT
 
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docx
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docxBlooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docx
Blooming Together_ Growing a Community Garden Worksheet.docx
 
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptx
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptxEPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptx
EPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE using notes.pptx
 
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media Component
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media ComponentAlper Gobel In Media Res Media Component
Alper Gobel In Media Res Media Component
 
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice greatEarth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
Earth Day Presentation wow hello nice great
 
Full Stack Web Development Course for Beginners
Full Stack Web Development Course  for BeginnersFull Stack Web Development Course  for Beginners
Full Stack Web Development Course for Beginners
 
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginnersDATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
DATA STRUCTURE AND ALGORITHM for beginners
 
Model Call Girl in Bikash Puri Delhi reach out to us at 🔝9953056974🔝
Model Call Girl in Bikash Puri  Delhi reach out to us at 🔝9953056974🔝Model Call Girl in Bikash Puri  Delhi reach out to us at 🔝9953056974🔝
Model Call Girl in Bikash Puri Delhi reach out to us at 🔝9953056974🔝
 
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.
AmericanHighSchoolsprezentacijaoskolama.
 
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
Difference Between Search & Browse Methods in Odoo 17
 
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptx
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptxEmployee wellbeing at the workplace.pptx
Employee wellbeing at the workplace.pptx
 
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of India
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of IndiaPainted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of India
Painted Grey Ware.pptx, PGW Culture of India
 
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha elections
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha electionsPresiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha elections
Presiding Officer Training module 2024 lok sabha elections
 

A Guide For Writing APA Style Research Papers

  • 1. Running head: WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 1 A Guide for Writing APA Style Research Papers Susan B. Smith Capital Community College PROVIDE A “RUNNING HEAD” OR SHORT TITLE OF YOUR PAPER IN ALL CAPS FOR EACH PAGE OF THE PAPER Each page is numbered starting with the title page. The title of your paper is centered and positioned in the upper half of the page. It should be no longer than 12 words. Student’s name: first, middle initial, last. Institutional affiliation The recommended typeface is Times New Roman with a 12 point font size. Based on the Sixth Ed. of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Updated September 19, 2012.
  • 2. WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 2 Abstract This paper is a guide to writing a general paper in according to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. The guide instructs a user on how to format a paper in APA style, illustrating structure, style and content, as well as presenting detailed examples of references cited, including print examples of books, magazine articles and reference works. Additional examples are provided for electronic versions of the above. Keywords: APA, research papers, format, style guide An abstract is a brief comprehensive summary of the paper between 150 and 250 words. Do not add to or comment on the body of the work here. It provides the reader with a brief overview of the article. The running head or short title Page number Check with your instructor to see if an abstract and/or keywords are required elements of your paper. Type the abstract in block format, one paragraph, no indentations and double spaced.
  • 3. WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 3 A Guide for Writing APA Style Research Papers There are several different types of articles appropriate for publication in the APA or American Psychological Association style. These include reports of empirical studies, literature reviews, theoretical articles, methodological articles, and case studies. Each of these types of articles follows a proscribed format. Refer to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th edition for the most up to date and comprehensive details of setting up your manuscript. This paper will serve as a general guide only, and as always, your instructor has the final word on the format and style required for the assigned paper. Method A research paper presents the results of your investigations on a selected topic. Based on your own thoughts and the facts and ideas you have gathered from a variety of sources, a research paper is a creation that is uniquely yours. The experience of gathering, interpreting, and documenting information, developing and organizing ideas and conclusions, and communicating them clearly will prove to be an important and satisfying part of your education. Generally, the formatting of citations recommended below is based on the American Psychological Association guidelines. Your instructor may require another format. It is important to follow consistently and accurately a recommended format that is clear and concise and that has been approved by your teacher. This guide may suffice for most students' needs for most academic purposes, but for advanced research projects it is by no means a substitute for the Publication Manual Page 3 begins the body of the paper. Type and center the title of the paper on this page. Do not bold or underline. Running head on every page 1 inch margins on all sides 1 inch margins on all sides. Leave right side ragged and do not hyphenate words. 2 spaces after a punctuation mark helps the reader. Level 1 Heading The heading style recommended by APA consists of 5 possible formatting arrangements. Check with your instructor and/or the APA Manual section 3.02 for further guidance regarding headings. 1 inch margin 1 inch margin
  • 4. WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 4 of the American Psychological Association Sixth Edition (2010). That handbook can be purchased in most bookstores and copies should be available in every college and municipal library. This guide and a guide similar to this one, but based on the MLA style, are available online. “Your best source of advice on all these matters is, of course, your instructor and your library professionals” (Darling, 2008, p. 98). Once your topic has been approved, gather information from authoritative sources: pertinent books, encyclopedias, and articles in magazines, journals, and newspapers. Librarians will be happy to show you how to use the various research tools within the library and may suggest other sources of information. Important new resources are now available to you through electronic services which provide many learning and reference tools as well as access to the Internet, where you can often discover an abundance of information. Depending on the resources available and the length of your assignment, you may find it necessary to widen or restrict the scope of your topic (Darling, 2008, pp. 96-97). Discussion Using someone else's ideas or phrasing and representing those ideas as your own, either on purpose or through carelessness, is a serious offense known as plagiarism. Ideas or phrasing includes written or spoken material, from whole papers and paragraphs to sentences, and, indeed, phrases but it also includes statistics, lab results, art work, etc. Someone else can mean a professional source, such as a published Level 1 Heading If you are instructed by your professor to use headings, refer to section 3.02 of the Publication Manual of the APA. If a quotation is 40 or more words, start a new line, using a block quotation; indent as if a new paragraph, double space, and do not use quotation marks. Quotations fewer than 40 words are incorporated into the text using quote marks. Cite the specific page of the quote. Quotations
  • 5. WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS 5 writer or critic in a book, magazine, encyclopedia, journal or in an electronic resource such as material you discover on the Internet; another student at your school or anywhere else; or a paper-writing service which offers to sell written papers for a fee. Newton (2011) found that he penalty for plagiarism is usually determined by the instructor teaching the course; in many schools and colleges, it could involve failure for the paper and it could mean failure for the entire course and even expulsion from school. At the very least, however, students who plagiarize have cheated themselves out of the experience of being responsible members of the academic community and have cheated their classmates by pretending to contribute something original which is, in fact, a cheap copy (Newton, 2011). Summary and Concluding Discussion One-inch margins at the top, bottom, right and left sides are now required by APA. Double spacing is required throughout the paper. In 2011 Newton stated that if you wish to use single spacing for quotations of verse and drama because it more nearly approximates what the poet would want, you must consult with your instructor before doing so. Each page is numbered consecutively including title page and reference page. Type the numbers in the upper right-hand corner using Arabic numerals. Arrange the manuscript as follows: title page, abstract, body of the paper, and reference page. A short title is used throughout the paper. R. Newton (personal communication, July 20, 2012) states that the short title is a two or three word derivation of the title of the paper. If the title of your paper were Understanding Patterns of Byzantine Intrigue, the short title could be Byzantine Intrigue (R. Newton, personal communication, July 20, 2012). Citing references in text Option #1 Option #2 Option #3 Personal communication, option #1 Personal communication, option #2 Do not include references to personal communications, such as letters, emails, interviews, telephone conversations on the reference page as they are not recoverable. You may however cite them in-text. What you cite should have scholarly relevance. Options 1, 2, and 3 are all acceptable formats for pointing to the source listed on the reference page. or (Newton, 2011, Chapter 3) or (Newton, 2011, p. 11)
  • 6. WRITING A RESEARCH PAPER 6 References Darling, C. (2008). Saints of diminished capacity. New York: Random House. Language (2009). In Columbia electronic encyclopedia. Retrieved September 18, 2012, from http://www.informationplease.com Harkavy, W. (2010, November 3). Educational writings. Village Voice. Retrieved September 8, 2012 from http://villagevoice.com Newton, R. (2011). Areference guide to learning about research. Hartford, CT: Merganser University Press. South, S., Oltmanns, T., & Turkheimer, E. (2009). Interpersonal communication across peer groups. Journal of Communication, 73, (2) 675-692. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-6494.2005.00325 South, S.,Oltmanns, T., & Turkheimer, E. (2009). Interpersonal communication across peer groups. Journal of Communication, 73, (2) 675-692. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com Wheatcroft, G. (2008, June). The challenge of education. The Atlantic, 293(3), 56–72. Arrange entries in alphabetical order by the author’s last name, or if no author, by the 1st word in the citation. APA Style Include page number in upper right corner Use Times New Roman 12 point font. Book with 1 author Online journal article from a database with no DOI. (Same article as above when no DOI is provided). Article retrieved from an online reference work with no author Web site Book 1 author Print journal article. Full title italicized in upper and lowercase letters. Italicize the volume number but not the issue and page numbers. Online journal article with DOI. Include the DOI (digital object identifier) in your citation whenever it is provided. Capitalize only the first word of a journal article title and subtitle. Do not italicize. The reference page provides the information necessary for a reader to locate and retrieve any source you cite. Each source you cite in the paper must appear in your reference list.