This document provides guidelines for using headings in APA style. It explains that section headings use level one format, subsections use level two format, and subsections of subsections use level three format. The introduction section does not receive a heading. Level 1 and 2 headings are always on a separate line, while level 3, 4, and 5 headings may be on a separate line or at the beginning of a paragraph. Headings are not indicated by letters or numbers.

2. Section Headings
Presentation by Michael Scanlon, Sheryl Scanlon,
and Kate Cottle

3. APA Headings
( “APA Formatting and Style Guide,” 2013, slide 31)

4. APA Heading Examples
indented
½”
( “APA
Formatting and
Style Guide,”
2013, slide 32)

5. APA Headings
▪ Section headings receive level one format.
▪ Subsections receive level two format.
▪ Subsections of subsections receive level three format.
▪ If you want to make subsections, make sure that you have at
least two for each subsection

6. APA Headings
▪ In APA Style, the Introduction section never gets a
heading
– It is directly proceeded by the title of the paper
– The title before the introduction should match the title on
page one/ the title page.
– Both titles should be in title case
▪ Every word capitalized except for the little words: “a,” “an,”
“the,” etc.
▪ Headings are not indicated by letters or numbers.

7. APA Headings
▪ Level 1 & 2 headings are ALWAYS on a separate line
▪ Level 3, 4, & 5 headings MAY be on a separate line OR at the
beginning of a paragraph (always verify with your instructor)
– See APA Publication Manual, 6th edition, sample paper pages 44 and
58 for specifics
▪ The number of sections and subsections (marked by
headings) will depend upon the length and organization of
your paper.
▪ Regardless, always begin with level one headings and
proceed to level two, etc.

8. References
APA Formatting and Style Guide. (2013). [PowerPoint slides].
Retrieved from
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/17/