APA Style is a standardized format for writing research papers... Show more
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0
E
Erran Mathews
11/28/2025
English
APA Formatting Guidelines
43
•
Nov 28, 2025
•
Master APA Formatting Basics
E
Erran Mathews
@erranmathews_vdmd
1 / 4
APA Research Writing Fundamentals
APA Style creates a structured approach to academic writing that helps both writers and readers. When you know what to present, how to present it, and in what order, your writing process becomes much more manageable. Your audience also benefits from reading content in a familiar, expected format.
The writing style in APA is formal and professional, prioritizing clear communication over flowery language. Your sentences should be straightforward and direct, avoiding humor and literary devices. Technical terms are used when necessary to improve communication—not to sound more scientific or impressive.
Research in APA papers comes in two main forms. Primary research involves first-hand investigation or experiences that you personally witnessed, like diaries, letters, or memoirs. These sources are considered contemporary accounts of events and provide direct evidence.
Quick Tip: Think of APA Style as the "GPS" for your research paper—it tells you exactly where to go and how to get there, eliminating guesswork and helping you arrive at a professional-looking finished product.
Research Process and Citations
Secondary research examines studies conducted by other researchers about events you didn't witness yourself. These sources give objective reviews of primary data and include historical reviews, journals, and documents. Most academic papers rely heavily on secondary sources for support.
The research writing process begins with clear pre-writing steps. First, clarify your assignment's purpose, audience, and requirements. Then choose a topic that interests both you and your audience, has multiple credible sources available, and meets the length requirements. After conducting initial research to locate credible sources, create an outline to organize your thoughts.
APA citations follow a simple, date-focused format. The reference page includes author, date, title, and URL for each source. In-text citations follow the (Author, year, p. #) format, though online sources may not require page numbers. Use "p." when citing a single page and "pp." for multiple pages.
Remember: Good citations aren't just about avoiding plagiarism—they build your credibility as a researcher by showing you've done thorough homework on your topic.
Formatting Guidelines and Paper Structure
Proper formatting is essential in APA papers. Your document should be typed, double-spaced with 1" margins, using a 10-12pt standard font. Every page must include a page number in the top-right corner for easy reference.
Two common types of APA papers are the Literary Review, which summarizes scientific literature on a research topic, and the Experimental Report, which follows the scientific method to conduct an experiment. Both have specific formatting requirements.
Your paper should begin with a title page featuring a concise, specific title that's centered with major words capitalized. The abstract appears on the second page as a very concise summary (maximum 150 words) of your entire report. It should indicate the purpose and summarize main findings without indentation, using numerical form for numbers.
Pro Tip: Write your abstract last, even though it appears near the beginning of your paper. This way, you can accurately summarize what your completed paper contains rather than what you think it might include.
Paper Components and References
The main body of your paper typically begins with an introduction explaining the issue and why it matters, backed by research. The method section follows, describing yourself as a participant and detailing your procedure, including materials, resources, and duration.
In the results section, discuss what you expected to happen based on research and what changes actually occurred. The discussion section should address what you foresee resulting from the challenge, what you might do differently, and end with a memorable conclusion.
Your references page starts on a new page and must include all in-text citations (and vice versa). List works alphabetically by the first author's last name using a hanging indent format—the first line at the normal margin with subsequent lines indented. Tools like Purdue OWL can help you properly format your references.
Important: Double-check that every source cited in your text appears on your References page and that every Reference entry is cited in your paper. This one-to-one correspondence is crucial for proper APA formatting.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Master APA Formatting Basics
E
Erran Mathews
@erranmathews_vdmd
APA Style is a standardized format for writing research papers that originated in 1929 as a set of procedures established by psychologists, anthropologists, and business managers. It provides clarity, organization, and a professional framework that makes both writing and reading... Show more
APA Research Writing Fundamentals
APA Style creates a structured approach to academic writing that helps both writers and readers. When you know what to present, how to present it, and in what order, your writing process becomes much more manageable. Your audience also benefits from reading content in a familiar, expected format.
The writing style in APA is formal and professional, prioritizing clear communication over flowery language. Your sentences should be straightforward and direct, avoiding humor and literary devices. Technical terms are used when necessary to improve communication—not to sound more scientific or impressive.
Research in APA papers comes in two main forms. Primary research involves first-hand investigation or experiences that you personally witnessed, like diaries, letters, or memoirs. These sources are considered contemporary accounts of events and provide direct evidence.
Quick Tip: Think of APA Style as the "GPS" for your research paper—it tells you exactly where to go and how to get there, eliminating guesswork and helping you arrive at a professional-looking finished product.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Research Process and Citations
Secondary research examines studies conducted by other researchers about events you didn't witness yourself. These sources give objective reviews of primary data and include historical reviews, journals, and documents. Most academic papers rely heavily on secondary sources for support.
The research writing process begins with clear pre-writing steps. First, clarify your assignment's purpose, audience, and requirements. Then choose a topic that interests both you and your audience, has multiple credible sources available, and meets the length requirements. After conducting initial research to locate credible sources, create an outline to organize your thoughts.
APA citations follow a simple, date-focused format. The reference page includes author, date, title, and URL for each source. In-text citations follow the (Author, year, p. #) format, though online sources may not require page numbers. Use "p." when citing a single page and "pp." for multiple pages.
Remember: Good citations aren't just about avoiding plagiarism—they build your credibility as a researcher by showing you've done thorough homework on your topic.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Formatting Guidelines and Paper Structure
Proper formatting is essential in APA papers. Your document should be typed, double-spaced with 1" margins, using a 10-12pt standard font. Every page must include a page number in the top-right corner for easy reference.
Two common types of APA papers are the Literary Review, which summarizes scientific literature on a research topic, and the Experimental Report, which follows the scientific method to conduct an experiment. Both have specific formatting requirements.
Your paper should begin with a title page featuring a concise, specific title that's centered with major words capitalized. The abstract appears on the second page as a very concise summary (maximum 150 words) of your entire report. It should indicate the purpose and summarize main findings without indentation, using numerical form for numbers.
Pro Tip: Write your abstract last, even though it appears near the beginning of your paper. This way, you can accurately summarize what your completed paper contains rather than what you think it might include.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Paper Components and References
The main body of your paper typically begins with an introduction explaining the issue and why it matters, backed by research. The method section follows, describing yourself as a participant and detailing your procedure, including materials, resources, and duration.
In the results section, discuss what you expected to happen based on research and what changes actually occurred. The discussion section should address what you foresee resulting from the challenge, what you might do differently, and end with a memorable conclusion.
Your references page starts on a new page and must include all in-text citations (and vice versa). List works alphabetically by the first author's last name using a hanging indent format—the first line at the normal margin with subsequent lines indented. Tools like Purdue OWL can help you properly format your references.
Important: Double-check that every source cited in your text appears on your References page and that every Reference entry is cited in your paper. This one-to-one correspondence is crucial for proper APA formatting.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user