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Formatting an APA title page

The title page is a requirement for all APA papers. The primary role of the title page is to present just that: the title. But that’s only the beginning of what is actually required for a properly formatted APA title page. This is the first chance a writer has to truly engage with the reader.

For students, the title page also lets people know which class, professor, and institution the text was written for. For professional authors, the title page is an opportunity to share any affiliations or conflicts of interest that might be present.

APA Style recognizes two different ways to format a title page. One is for student papers and the other is for professional papers. This guide will examine the difference and provide real-life examples of both.

The information provided below comes from the 7 th edition of the APA’s Publication Manual . You can read more about title page elements in Sections 2.1 – 2.8.

Here’s a run-through of everything this page includes:

The difference between a professional title page and a student title page in APA

Elements of an apa style title page, apa formatting title page example, conclusion: formatting a title page in apa 7.

Both student and professional title pages require a title, author, and an affiliation. Both types of title page also require the same basic formatting, including 1-inch indentations on all sides and a page number in the top right corner.

The primary difference is that professional title pages also require an author note and a running head. However, some professors do ask that you provide some of these elements in student papers. It’s a good idea to know how to format them just in case.

Student title page APA

An APA title page for any paper being submitted for a class, degree, or thesis is all about the basics. Here are the elements that should be included in a student title page :

• Title of your paper
• Byline (author or authors)
• Affiliation (department and university)
• Course name and course number
• Instructor name

Page number

Your professor or institution might have their own formatting requirements. When writing a paper for a class, the first rule is to always pay attention to the instructions.

Professional title page APA

A professional title page skips the class info and due date, but it includes:

• Affiliation (division and/or organization)
• Author note
• Running head

The author note and running head are generally only required for professional papers. However, some professors might ask that you include one or both of them. Be sure to check the assignment instructions before submitting.

The title of your paper is really important. This is where the author needs to simultaneously inform and engage the reader without being overly wordy.

An effective title will:

• Engage the reader
• Concisely explain the main topic of research
• Concisely explain any relevant variables or theoretical issues

The paper title should be placed three or four lines down from the top margin of the page. It should be presented in bold, title case, and centered on the page.

Author/Byline

The correct way to display the author’s name is first name, middle initial, and last name. The most important thing is to prevent the possibility of mistaken identity. After all, there are a lot of papers published every year, and it’s possible that someone else has the same name as you do.

For all author bylines in APA, all licenses and degrees are omitted (e.g., Dr., Professor, PhD, RN, etc.).

If your paper has multiple authors, then they should all be listed in the same way, in order of their contributions. All authors should be on the same line, unless more lines are required.

Here’s an example of a properly formatted byline for a paper with two authors:

Cassandra M. Berkman and Wilhelm K. Jackson

Affiliation

The affiliation element is where you identify the place where the work was conducted or who it was conducted for. This is almost always a university or institution. In some cases, there are multiple affiliations for one author, or multiple authors with different affiliations.

Academic affiliations

Academic affiliations include schools, universities, and teaching hospitals. The affiliation line should include the specific department followed by the name of the institution. There is no need to include a location for academic affiliations.

Here is an example of what a basic academic affiliation line should look like:

Department of Psychology, Colorado State University

Non-academic affiliations

Non-academic affiliations are anything that isn’t a school or university, which could be a hospital, laboratory, or just about any type of organization. The affiliation line for a non-academic organization should include the department or division, followed by the name and location of the organization. All elements should be separated by commas.

Here’s how it looks when put to use:

Vidant Health, Greenville, NC, United States

Course number and name (Student only)

Use the course number and course name as they appear on official university materials. Examples:

• ENG 204: Modern English Literature
• PSYC 2301: Research Methodology

Instructor name (Student papers only)

It’s important that you display your instructor’s name in their preferred way. With academics who have multiple degrees and positions, this isn’t something that you should guess at.

It is generally safe to use the course syllabus to see how they prefer to be listed. For example, some use the word “Professor” as their prefix, and many will have PhD, RN, or other type of professional designation.

Due date (Student papers only)

The due date should be presented in the day, month, and year format that is standard to your country.

The page number goes at the top right-hand side of the paper. This is one of the only elements that appears on every single page.

You can add running page numbers to your paper by double-clicking the header portion of the document or clicking the “Insert” tab. It will automatically insert page numbers into the rest of the document.

Author note (Professional papers only)

The author note is usually only required for professional papers. This is where additional data, disclaimers, conflicts of interest, and statements about funding are placed. In some cases, the author statement can be several pages long.

The author note is generally split into four paragraphs, including:

• ORCID iD (a scientific/academic author ID)
• Changes of Affiliation
• Disclosures and Acknowledgments
• Contact Information

Section 2.7 of the Publication Manual has even more information on how to structure these elements for a professional paper.

Running Head (Professional papers only)

While some student papers might require a running head, this is something that is typically only for papers being submitted for publication. This is an abbreviated version of your title that appears at the top of every page to help readers identify it. The running title is particularly useful especially in print versions of journals and publications.

The running head does not have to use the same words as they appear in your title. Instead, try to re-work your paper’s main idea into a shortened form.

For example, if your paper’s title is:

“A Mystery of Style: Exploring the Formatting Mechanics of the Running Head According  to APA Style 7th Edition”

Then your abbreviated title can be something like:

“RUNNING HEAD IN APA 7”

“FORMATTING THE RUNNING HEAD”

The idea is to convey only the most important aspects of your title. The running head should be entered in the page header, flush left against the margin, and presented in all-capital letters.

The APA suggests a maximum length of 50 characters (including spaces and punctuation) for a running head. If your title is already 50 characters and under, then you can use the whole thing as the running head.

Next, let’s have a look at an example of what a real APA title page looks like when it’s all put together.

Student title page formatting example

Professional title page formatting example

All papers written according to APA Style should have a properly formatted title page. Making sure that the title page elements are accurate and informative will help people access your work. It is also the first opportunity that you have as the author to establish credibility and engage the reader.

For more information on the basic elements of an APA paper, check out Chapter 2 of the Publication Manual or our guide on APA format .

Published October 28, 2020.

APA Formatting Guide

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An APA title page provides the details of the paper, such as the title of the paper, author name, and author affiliation. APA title pages have two formats—one for professional papers and one for student papers.

The elements to be added on the title page of a professional paper (in order of appearance) are:

• Page number and running head: These elements appear in the header section. The page number appears at the top-right corner, whereas the running head appears at the top-left corner. If the title is too long, the running head is shortened to less than 50 characters.
• Title of the paper: It provides information about the paper. It is aligned center and set in bold.
• Names of the authors: It gives the names of the contributors to the paper and is aligned center.
• Affiliations of the authors: It gives the department and university details of the authors.
• Author note: It gives extra information about the authors.

In a student paper, the following details are included on the title page:

• Page number: This appears in the top-right corner of the header section.
• Title of the paper: It gives the reader an idea of the information in the paper. It appears in title case and bold. It is center-aligned.
• Names of the authors: The names of the contributors are added here. This field is also called the by-line.
• Affiliations of the authors: It includes the names of the authors’ departments and universities.
• Name of the course: The name of the course for which the paper is written is included in this field.
• Name of the instructor: Unlike the professional paper, the instructor’s name is included in a student paper.
• Due date of the assignment: The due date of the assignment is added here. The format is “Month Day, Year” (e.g., August 22, 2017).

The title page information for APA is different for a professional paper and a student paper. As a student, you need to include the following details in the same order on the title page of your student paper.

• Page number: This appears in the header section. Set the page number in the top-right corner of the header.
• Title of the paper: Set it in title case and bold. Align it to the center.
• Names of the authors: Provide the names of the contributors. This field is also called the by-line.
• Affiliations of the authors: Include your department and university name.
• Name of the course: Provide the name of the course and course number for which the paper is written.
• Name of the instructor: Add the instructor’s name. There is no rigid rule on how to set the instructor’s name. You can set it according to the instructor’s preference.
• Due date of the assignment: Add the due date of the assignment. The format should be “Month Day, Year” (e.g., August 23, 2021).

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APA Title Page (Cover Page) Format, Example, & Templates

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On This Page:

In APA Style (7th edition), the cover page, or title page, should include:

• A running head (professional papers only) and page number
• The title of the paper
• The name of the author(s)
• The institutional affiliation
• An author note; optional (professional papers only)
• A student paper should also include course information

Note : APA 7 provides slightly different directions for formatting the title pages of professional papers (e.g., those intended for scholarly publication) and student papers (e.g., those turned in for credit in a high school or college course).

Professional paper APA title page

Student paper APA title page

Formatting an APA title page

Note : All text on the title page should be double-spaced and typed in either 12-point, Times New Roman font. In the 7th edition, APA increaded the flexibility regarding font options: which now include Calibri 11, Arial 11, Lucida Sans Unicode 10, Times New Roman 12, or Georgia 11. All words should be centered, and capitalize the first letter of important words.

Running Head

In the 7th edition of the APA style manual, running heads are only required for professional papers that are being submitted for publication (student papers do not require a running head, but still need a page number).

Your title page should contain a running head that is flush left at the top of the page and a page number that is flush right at the top of the page.

Place the running head in the page’s header:

• The running head is the abbreviated title of the paper (IN UPPERCASE LETTERS) aligned left on the page header of all pages, including the title page. APA (7th edition) guidelines require that running heads be a maximum of 50 characters (spaces count as characters).
• The “Running head:” label used in the APA sixth edition is no longer used.
• Place the page number in this same header, but align right, beginning with page number 1 on the title page.
• This header should be 1 inch from the top. Some instructors allow for 1/2 inch, too, but the default is 1 inch.

Paper Title

Position the title of the paper in the upper half of the page. The title should be centered and written in boldface, and important words should be capitalized.

The APA recommends that your title should be a maximum of 12 words and should not contain abbreviations or words that serve no purpose.

Author Name(s)

Institutional affiliation.

Position the school or university’s name below the author(s) name, centered.

A student paper should also include the course number and name, instructor name, and assignment due date.

Further Information

• APA Student Title Page Guide
• APA Referencing
• How to Write a Lab Report
• Essay Writing Guide for Psychology Students
• APA Style Citations & References
• Example of an APA Formatted Paper

• The Complete Guide to APA Format in 2020

APA Title Page / Cover Page

• Headings and Subheadings
• Discussion Section
• Websites and Online Sources
• Journals and Periodicals
• Other Print Sources
• Other Non-Print Sources
• In-text Citations
• Footnotes and Endnotes
• Using MyBib Responsibly
• Miscellaneous Questions

Details to include

The title page (also known as the cover page) is the front page of your paper. It should contain:

• The running head , a header at the top of the page.
• The first page number .
• The title of the paper
• The institution for which you writing.

Running head

The running head should be in the top-left corner of the page in uppercase. It should include a shortened title of your paper. On the front page only, it should also be prepended with "Running head:".

First page number

The first page number -- generally page 1 -- should be in the top-right corner of the page. Both the page number and the running head should be a half inch from the top of the page.

The title of the paper can contain upper and lowercase letters, and ideally should be no more than 12 words in length. It should be direct, and should not contain abbreviations or other unnecessary words. It should not span longer than 2 lines. The first letter of each word should be uppercase, except for articles (a, an, the), and conjunctions (and, but, for, or, yet).

Underneath the title should be your name (or the author's name if you're not the author). It should be displayed as the first name , middle initial , and last name . Do not add titles (such as Dr.) to the beginning, or qualifications (such as PhD) to the end of an author's name.

Your institution

Finally, underneath the author's name, state the full name of the institution or school you're writing the paper for.

The font for all text on the title page should be Times New Roman, size 12pt, with double line-spacing.

A correct title page will look like the below image:

After completing your title page you will move on to writing an abstract of your paper.

APA 7th edition - Paper Format: Title Page

Introduction.

• Mechanics of Style
• Overall Paper
• Sample Papers
• Reference List
• Tables and Figures
• APA Citations This link opens in a new window
• Additional Resources
• Writing Skills This link opens in a new window

Student or Professional Style?

Most courses require students to write papers using the Student Style. Do not use the Professional Style paper unless your instructor requests you to do so. If you are unsure which style to use, ask your instructor for clarification.

The key differences between Student Style and Professional Style are the  Title Page  and the  Abstract . 

Student Style papers do  not  require an abstract, whereas Professional Style papers  do  require an abstract.

• APA Title Page - JIBC Tip Sheet A handy guide to creating a title page in APA Style.

Title Page - Student Paper

How to Create a Student Style Title Page - Tutorial

Student style title page requirements: 

Page number:.

• Page number included in the top right corner. Ensure it is the same font as the rest of your paper.

Title of Paper: 

• Bold and centre aligned.
• The first word, including minor words such as “A” or “The”
• All words with four or more letters 
• The first word after a colon, em dash, or punctuation in a heading
• The first word in a subtitle
• Major words, including the second part of a hyphenated major word
• 3-4 lines down from the top margin of the page.
• Double spaced.
• Put a double-spaced blank line between the title and the author(s) names. This is the only additional line space in your paper.
• The paper title also appears at the top of the first page of your paper (formatted as a Level-1 heading)

Author Name(s): 

• Should be centred and one double-spaced blank line beneath the title.
• In the format of first name and last name, e.g. John Doe.
• Do not include titles, honorifics, or degrees.
• If your instructor requires your student number, it will be centred and one double-spaced blank line beneath the author name.

Multiple authors:

• Order the names of authors based on their contributions (i.e. the one that did the most work should be listed first).
• Write all of the names on the same line (flowing onto additional lines if needed).
• For example, John Doe (J123456), Ann Student (J246898)

Author Affiliation: 

• Centre aligned and beneath the author(s) names.
• Identify where they worked or studied when the paper was written.
• Include the name of the institute in full (“Justice Institute of British Columbia”)

Course Name:

• Include the course abbreviation, number, and full course name, centre aligned and below the Author Affiliation, e.g. RESM 2100: Research Methods

Instructor:

• Include the full name (first, any middle initial that they use, and last) of the course instructor(s), centre aligned and below the Course Name. 
• Do not include the label "Instructor" in front of the instructor's name.
• Include the instructor's title and /or degree (i.e. Dr., Professor, or PhD) if that is their preference.
• Place the month, date, and year of the date the assignment is due, centre aligned and below the Instructor(s) name(s).
• Do not include the label "Due Date" in front of the due date.

Word Count:

• Word counts are not required on APA Style student paper title pages. However, if your instructor requests it, then include it centre aligned and below the Due Date of the paper. 
• You may choose to stay the number of words or include “Word Count:” before the number of words, e.g. “1,987 words” or “Word Count: 1,987”

See Additional Resources  for more.

Title Page - Student Style

Title Page - Professional Paper

How to Format a Professional Style Title Page - Tutorial

Unless you are requested by your instructor to write your paper in the Professional Style of APA, use the Student Style format. If you are unsure which style to use, ask your instructor for clarification. 

Professional style title pages require:

Page number included in the header, in the top right corner. Ensure it is the same font as the rest of your paper.

Running Head:

How to Include a Running Head - Tutorial

The running head is an abbreviated version of the paper title that appears in the header at the top of every page to identify it for readers.

• Consists of a maximum of 50 characters, counting letters, punctuation, and spaces between words.
• If the title is less than 50 characters, the full title can be used.
• Avoid using abbreviations.
• The ampersand symbol (&) may be used rather than the word “and.”
• In the header, in the top left corner.
• In all capital letters.
• Ensure it is the same font as the rest of your paper.
• Use the same running head on every page of your paper.
• Do not use the label “Running head” to identify the running head on any page.
• Title Casing (see Title Casing rules in the box to your left  Title Page - Student Paper ).
• In the format of first name and last name (e.g. John Doe).
• Write all of the names on the same line (flowing onto additionally lines if needed).
• Include the department and/or program of study (e.g. “Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies”)

Author Note:

An author note provides additional information about authors, study registration, data sharing, disclaimers or statements regarding conflict of interest, and help or funding that supported the research. The author note is written in the style of paragraphs. 

Students using the professional style of formatting should use the author note to include:

• Course Information
• Advisors and/or Sponsors
• Word Count (if requested)

The author note may be arranged in separate paragraphs to maintain organization of ideas. For example, students may choose to keep course information, due dates, and word counts together in one paragraph and instructors, advisors, and/or sponsors in a second paragraph.

Formatting the Author Note:

• Begin the author note in the bottom half of the title page.
• Leave at least one blank line between the affiliation and the author note label.
• Centre the label “Author Note” written in bold font.
• Left align and indent each paragraph of the author note.
• Do not label the paragraphs of the author note.  For example, do not include the label "Instructor" in front of the instructor's name.

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APA Guide: 7th Edition

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Student Paper Example

• Student Paper Example This is a student paper example from the 7th Edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.

Professional Paper Example

• Professional Paper Example This is a professional paper example from the 7th Edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.

Student Title Page Elements

The title page includes the following elements: Page number, Paper title, Author, Author Affiliation, Course, Instructor, and Due Date .  Remember, your instructor can include other requirements for your assignment.  Refer to their instructions carefully.

Your title page and paper is double-spaced. Use 1-inch margins. 

Acceptable Fonts:

• 11-point Calibri 
• 11-point Arial
• 10-point Lucida Sans Unicode 
• 12-point Times New Roman
• 11-point Georgia
• 10-point Computer Modern 1 
• Should summarize the main idea in a succinct way .
• Include strong keywords so that readers can find your work in a database or by using a search engine.
• Avoid using abbreviations in a title.
• The title should be provided in title case .  This means that all major words are capitalized. 
• Be bolded, centered, and begin 3-4 lines down from the top margin of the paper.
• Put a double-spaced blank line between the title and the byline.
• The paper title also appears at the top of the first page of your paper.

Author Name(s) (Byline)

• Beneath the title, type the  author's or authors' full name(s) .
• Do not use titles or degrees.
• ​Order the names of authors based on their contributions.
• Write all of the names on the same line.
• Center the names in a standard font.
• Smith and Doe
• Smith, Doe, and Jones

Author Affiliation

• Identify where you worked or studied when the body of work was completed.
• Include no more than two affiliations for each author.
• Example:  College of Nursing and Health Innovation, University of Texas at Arlington
• Include the department or division.
• Include the name of the institution.
• Include the location of the institution.
• Example:  Hematology/Oncology, Cook Children's Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas, United States
• Include the location.

Locations should include the city, state, province, and country.

Course Name

• Put the course number and name below the Author Affiliation.
• Check with your instructor on the preferred name.
• Place the month, date, and year after the Instructor(s) name(s).

See the example title page below:

All content on this guide comes from the 7th edition of the  Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association and from the APA Style Blog.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association ( 7th ed.).  https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000  

American Psychological Association. (2020, October). Blog .  https://apastyle.apa.org/blog

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• APA Style 6th edition
• APA title page (6th edition)

APA Title Page (6th edition) | Guidelines, Example, Template

Published on November 6, 2020 by Raimo Streefkerk .

An APA title page must include:

• A running head (including page number)
• The title of your paper (one or two lines long)
• The full name of the author(s)
• Your university or institution

Additional information, such as a course number or an author’s note, should be placed on a separate line below the institution.

APA title page template

Table of contents

Apa title page example, general formatting guidelines, running head, paper title, author name(s), setting up the title page.

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The APA cover page adheres to the  general APA formatting guidelines :

• 12 pt Times New Roman
• Double line spacing
• 1 inch (2.54 cm) margins

The formatting requirements for each element on the APA title page are listed below.

Write “Running head:” followed by a (shortened) version of your paper’s title. It must be:

• Left aligned
• Capitalized
• Maximum 50 characters (not including the words “running head:”)

Read more on how to  insert and format a running head .

Use an informative, striking title that summarizes the main idea of your paper.

• Apply title case ( capitalize the first letter of each word, except small words such as articles and short prepositions )
• Keep it shorter than 12 words
• Don’t use abbreviations or contractions
• Place the title in the center of the page

The names of the authors are written in full (first name, initial of middle name(s), last name). Include the names of all authors in order of contribution. Don’t include titles (Dr., Prof.) or degrees (PhD, MSc).

APA title page with multiple authors

There are specific guidelines for multiple authors. The formatting guidelines depend on whether the authors have the same affiliation.

This video will demonstrate how to set up the title page in Google Docs.

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APA Formatting and Style Guide (7th Edition)

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• Formatting Your Title Page and Paper in Word

APA Formatting for Word 2016

Apa formatting for word online.

Use the following directions to format your Microsoft Word document in APA format. You can also check out our APA sample paper for more guidance.

In the 7th edition of APA, they have separate format for "student papers" that doesn't require a full header. Instead, it only requires the page number to appear in the top-right corner of each page.

A common characteristic of APA style papers is to include a title page. Check with your instructor to confirm if you should include a title page for your assignment.

• On the "Home" tab, select your font and size from the dropdown menu. Acceptable fonts for your title page include size 12 Times New Roman or size 11 Calibri.

• On the "Home" tab, click the arrow that expands "Paragraph Settings." Under "Line Spacing," choose "Double" and make sure "Before" and "After" are set to 0 pt.

• On the "Page Layout" tab, click "Margins," and select "Normal" (1" on all sides). This is usually the standard setting in Microsoft Word.

• Click on the "Insert" tab, then click on "Page Number." Choose "Top of Page," then "Plain Number 3."

• Highlight the page number to adjust the font to match the font of your paper. Click out of your header to move your cursor back to the main body of your paper.
• Under the "Home" tab, click the "Justify Center" icon to center your cursor. 

• Hit the "Enter" key on your keyboard 3-4 times.  
• Type in the title of your paper. Your title should have all the major words capitalized and should be in bold. 
• Hit "Enter" twice on your keyboard to start a new line and to give space between your title and the next line. Turn off bold. Type in your name.
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line. Type in the name of the department you are in and the name of your college.
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line. Type in the name of the course you are taking. Include both the course code and the full name of the course (example: NUR 120: Basic Nursing Concepts).
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line. Type in your instructor's name and their academic credentials (if you know them).
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line. Type in the due date of your assignment.

Body of Paper

• After completing your title page, click the "Insert" tab and choose "Blank Page" to add a new page to your document. Your header with your page number should appear in the top right corner of your page.

• Type the title of your paper at the top of your page. Your title should be justified center (like your title page) and bolded.
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line.
• Change the text alignment over to left.

• Hit "Tab" your keyboard to start a new paragraph.
• If you have multiple section titles, each section title should be centered and bolded.

To learn about formatting a References Page, check out the library's Formatting Your Reference Page in Word guide .

Use the following directions to format your Word Online document in APA format. You can also check out our APA sample paper for more guidance.

• On the "Home" tab, select your font and size from the dropdown menu. Acceptable fonts for your title page include size 12 Times New Roman or size 11 Calibri.

• On the "Home" tab, click on the three dots (found next to "Designer") to expand the menu. Select "Paragraph Options." 

• Under "Paragraph," look under "Spacing" and change the "Line Spacing" to "Double." 

• Under "Layout," click "Margins" and confirm that "Normal" (1"  margins on all sides) is selected. This should be the default option in Word Online.

• Click on the "Insert" tab, then click on "Page Numbers." Choose the option that has the page number in the top right corner of your page.

• Note: Once you click out of the header with your page numbers, it will disappear from your page. Click the "Header" tab at the top of the page to see your page numbers again or to edit your header.

• Under the "Home" tab, click the "Text Alignment" icon. On the dropdown menu, click "Align Center" to center your cursor.

• Hit the "Enter" key on your keyboard 3-4 times.
• Type in the title of your paper. Your title should have all the major words capitalized and should be in bold.
• Hit "Enter" on your keyboard to start a new line. Type in your instructor's name.

• Note:  When using "Page Break" Word Online will seemingly remove all of the blank space on the previous page and start the next page. If you print out or upload your document to D2L, the blank space will remain on the page as normal. Word Online is trying to save space for your view by removing the blank space.

• Under "Home," click "Text Alignment" and change to "Align Left."

• Hit "Tab" on your keyboard to start a new paragraph.
• If you have multiple section titles, each section should be centered and bolded.

To learn about formatting a references page, check out the library's Formatting Your Reference Page in Word Online guide .

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Mastering the APA Style Title Page: A Comprehensive Guide

APA (American Psychological Association) Style is a popular format in social and behavioral sciences. It provides a uniform framework for manuscript layout and citation. An integral part of this format is the title page, which offers essential details about the paper. This article will guide you through the process of writing an APA Style title page, complete with examples to help simplify the process.

What is an APA Style title page?

An APA Style title page is the cover page of your research paper , thesis , or dissertation that follows a specific set of formatting guidelines. This page includes elements such as the paper's title, the author's name, the institutional affiliation, and a page header (also termed running head). It's crucial to get these details right because they set the tone for your entire paper.

APA Style guidelines for title page formatting vary slightly depending on the type of paper you're writing. For instance, professional papers intended for academic publishing have somewhat different directions compared to student papers submitted for coursework in high school or college.

All title pages must include the paper's title, the name of the author(s), and the associated institutional affiliation. In the case of a professional paper, an author's note is a necessary addition. Conversely, student papers need to provide additional details like the course number and name, the instructor's name, and the due date of the assignment.

Understanding the importance of the APA Style title page

Before we delve deeper into the nuances of creating a flawless APA Style title page, let's understand why it is important.

The title page is often the first thing your reader, be it a professor, peer, or a journal editor, sees. Therefore, it acts as the first impression of your work. An accurately formatted title page suggests that you've given due attention to details, thereby hinting at the quality of the research that lies within. Moreover, it provides the essential details for anyone referencing your work, ensuring appropriate attribution.

Components of an APA Style title page

An APA Style title page comprises several key elements, each with its unique formatting requirements. Let's look at each component in detail:

Title of the paper

The title should be a concise summarization of the main idea of the manuscript. The title text should be bolded and centered in the upper half of the page. Use a clear, concise title that accurately reflects your paper's content. Capitalize the first letter of each word of the title and any subtitles, as well as any proper nouns.
 Do not capitalize conjunctions, prepositions, and articles (e.g., and, of, on) unless it is the first word, or the first word immediately following a colon.

Example: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Your title should be specific to your research and provide a snapshot of your study's content. It should not contain any unnecessary words or filler phrases. If your research is part of a larger study or a series of studies, mention it in the title for context.

Example: Evaluating the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: A Longitudinal Study

Author's name

Directly under the title, type your name. It should be your first name, middle initial, and last name. Avoid using titles or degrees.

Example: John D. Doe

You should use the name under which you usually publish. If you have a common name, consider using your middle initial or name to differentiate yourself from other researchers. If there was more than one author, all authors should be included here.

Example: John D. Doe and Jane E. Poe

Institutional affiliation

This refers to the location where you conducted your research. It should be centered under the author(s)'name.
 If the author does not have an institutional affiliation, list the city and state of residence below the author's name.

Example: University of California, San Francisco

If you conducted your research at multiple locations, per APA Style guidelines, you can include a dual affiliation only if two institutions contributed substantial support to the study. No more than two affiliations per author should be listed. Otherwise, only one affiliation should be listed.

Course details

Some educational institutions require the course name and number, the instructor's name, and the due date. These should be placed after the institutional affiliation and should each be on their own line.

Example: PSYCH101: Introduction to Psychology Professor Jane Smith Due May 16, 2023

These details help your professor or course coordinator identify your work. Always confirm the format and the information needed with your instructor or the course syllabus.

Page header and running head

Include a page header at the top of every page also known as the "running head." Please note that APA 7th edition removes the running head for student papers. However, many professors still follow this rule. It should be aligned to the left and contain a shortened version of your title (a maximum of 50 characters, including spaces). The first page should read "Running head: SHORTENED TITLE," and the rest should have the shortened title only.

Example on the title page: Running head: SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT

Example on subsequent pages: SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT

The running head helps keep your paper identifiable in a concise way when it's printed out among others.

Formatting the APA Style title page

Beyond the content, the formatting of your title page is equally important in APA Style. Here are the primary formatting rules to follow:

The recommended font is 12-pt Times New Roman, although some alternatives like 11-pt Calibri or Arial, and 10-pt Lucida Sans Unicode can be used.

Your entire paper, including the title page, should be double-spaced.

All of the text on the title page should be centered, except for the page header or running head, which should be aligned to the left, and the page number, which is aligned to the right.

Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.

Page number

The page number should appear on the right side of the header on the first and all subsequent pages.

Capitalization

All words in the title and headings should be capitalized, except for conjunctions, prepositions, and articles in the middle of the title or heading.

Abbreviations

Avoid using abbreviations in your title or headings. Spell out all terms.

Steps to create an APA Style title page

Now that we've covered the key components and formatting rules, let's walk through the steps to create an APA Style title page.

Step 1: Start a new page

Your title page should be the first page of your paper. In a Microsoft Word document, you can do this by clicking "Insert," then "Page Break."

Step 2: Write the running head

In the header of the page, type "Running head:" followed by a shortened version of your title in capital letters. Remember, the running head needs to be under 50 characters, including spaces.

Step 3: Insert the page number

Still in the header, click the "Insert" tab in Word, then "Page Number." Choose "Top of Page," then "Plain Number 3" to align the page number to the right.

Step 4: Write the paper title

Move down to around the top third of the page. Center your cursor and write your paper's title in title case.

Step 5: Write your name

On the next line, still centered, write your full name.

Step 6: Write your institutional affiliation

On the next line, write the name of your institution.

Step 7: Add course details (if required)

On separate lines, write the course name and number, instructor's name, and due date.

Common mistakes to avoid

When creating an APA Style title page, it's easy to overlook small but critical aspects. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:

Inaccurate running head

The running head must be a concise version of your title. If it's too long or doesn't reflect your title, it needs to be adjusted.

Incorrect capitalization

Ensure that you are capitalizing the first letter of significant words in your title, excluding conjunctions, prepositions, and articles in the middle.

Adding extra information

Your title page should not include any information not mentioned in the guidelines, such as your email address, contact number, or a picture.

Delving into APA Style formatting rules

The APA's formatting rules ensure consistency and readability. Following these helps your work appear professional and respect the norms of academic publishing.

The standard font ensures your paper is legible and looks professional. While 12-point Times New Roman is widely accepted, the APA also suggests alternatives for those who wish to use a different typeface (e.g., 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, and 10-point Lucida Sans Unicode).

Double spacing helps enhance readability, making it easier for reviewers and readers to engage with your content.

Alignment and margins

Proper alignment and margins improve your paper's aesthetics, ensuring that it is easy on the eyes and that no text is cut off when the document is printed.

Including the page number on every page is crucial, especially for lengthy papers. It helps readers and reviewers to reference specific parts of your work.

Practical tips for creating an APA Style title page

While knowing the guidelines is important, practical tips can make the process of creating an APA Style title page easier.

Use a template

Many word processing software programs like Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer APA Style title page templates that you can use as a starting point.

Always proofread your title page for typos, misspellings, and incorrect capitalization. Minor mistakes can detract from the professionalism of your work.

Get a second opinion

Have someone else review your title page. They might catch mistakes or inconsistencies that you've missed.

Follow updates

APA Style guidelines are updated periodically. Stay current with the latest edition to ensure your work adheres to the most recent standards.

Frequently asked questions about the APA Style title page

To round off this comprehensive guide, let's address some frequently asked questions about the APA Style title page:

How do I shorten my title for the running head?

The running head should ideally represent your full title, but if it exceeds 50 characters, try to retain the most critical words that capture the essence of your paper.

What if I have multiple affiliations?

If your research was supported by multiple institutions, consult your professor or the publication you're submitting to, to understand how to best represent this.

Can I include acknowledgments on the title page?

No, acknowledgments should be included in a separate section following the body of your paper.

What if I'm co-authoring the paper?

If there are multiple authors, list them in the order of their contributions on separate lines, with the name of each author followed by their respective institutional affiliation.

The APA Style title page might seem like a small part of your paper, but it carries significant weight. It sets the tone for your entire research paper and provides crucial information to your readers. By following the guidelines in this article and paying attention to every detail, you can master the APA Style title page. The first impression of your paper will be one of academic rigor and attention to detail, thereby instilling confidence in your readers about the quality of research that follows.

In academic writing, adhering to established standards like the APA Style is critical. Not only does it enhance the readability and professionalism of your work, but it also ensures that the focus remains on your research findings. The APA Style title page, with its specific components and formatting rules, is a testament to this fact. So, the next time you embark on a research project, remember that a well-formatted title page can pave the way for your paper's success.

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Paper Format

Consistency in the order, structure, and format of a paper allows readers to focus on a paper’s content rather than its presentation.

To format a paper in APA Style, writers can typically use the default settings and automatic formatting tools of their word-processing program or make only minor adjustments.

The guidelines for paper format apply to both student assignments and manuscripts being submitted for publication to a journal. If you are using APA Style to create another kind of work (e.g., a website, conference poster, or PowerPoint presentation), you may need to format your work differently in order to optimize its presentation, for example, by using different line spacing and font sizes. Follow the guidelines of your institution or publisher to adapt APA Style formatting guidelines as needed.

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APA cover (title) page: format and templates

There are two types of title page required for APA style papers, a professional and a student version.

Student APA cover page

As long as students do not have any specific guidance from their instructors in regards to a cover page format, they should include the following elements on their cover page:

• Running head : only for APA 6th you write "Running head: TITLE" as a header. APA 7th does not require a running head.
• Title of the paper : three to four lines down from the top of the title page, centered and in bold for APA 7 (APA 6 does not have a title in bold).
• Name of author(s) : include a double-spaced blank line between the paper title and the author name(s).
• Affiliation for each author (the university attended, including department)
• Course number and name
• Name of instructor
• Due date of the assignment (date format used in your location)
• Page number (included on all pages), cover page is number 1.
• Times New Roman is the preferred font, 12-point .
• Double spacing
• 1 inch margins

We created a a student APA cover page template of both 6th & 7th edition, which you can download:

Professional APA cover page

A professional APA cover page should include the following elements:

• Name of each author : include a double-spaced blank line between the paper title and the author names.
• Affiliation for each author: give the name of the institution at which the research was carried out.
• Author note : see the specific instructions below.
• Running head (included on all pages): for APA 6th you write "Running head: TITLE" and for APA 7th only the title in caps is required (omitting the phrase running head).
• Page number (included on all pages): page 1 is the cover page.
• Times New Roman is the preferred font, 12 -point.

Since there are a few slight differences between the professional cover page in APA 6th and 7th edition, we created a template for each version, which you can download.

APA cover page: Author note format

An author note in a professional paper can be found at the bottom of the cover page. It is usually composed of four paragraphs.

• In the first paragraph : for APA 6, give the name of the author and their affiliation. For APA 7, give the authors' ORCID iDs. Omit this part if the authors don't have ORCID iDs.
• Second paragraph : Specify any changes of affiliation (for both APA 6 & 7). Use the following format: “[Author’s name] is now at [affiliation].” This paragraph may also clarify the death of an author.
• Third paragraph : give any confidentiality disclosures and/or acknowledgments.
• Fourth paragraph : give the contact information of the author(s).

Format : start this section in the bottom half of the title page, below the affiliations. Leave a minimum of one blank line between the affiliation and the author note title. Center the title “Author Note” in bold. The first line of each paragraph should be indented and all aligned to the left.

Further reading

For more details not covered in this guide, take a look at the following sources:

📝 Student and Professional APA cover page (7th ed.)

🌐 APA 6th cover page tutorial

Frequently Asked Questions about APA cover (title) page

The title page of a student paper serves as a representation of the author. It is a mere formality, as it makes your paper appear more academic. As a student, the title page helps your instructor identify on a glance who wrote the paper, what the topic is, and for what course. In sum, a student should add a title page when indicated.

The title page of a professional paper serves as a representation of the author. For professionals, the function of a title page is to introduce the reader to the main facts of the paper, such as the author, the topic, the year of publication, and contact information. In sum, a professional should add a title page to comply with academic standards.

No. According to APA style, the title's font of a title page should not include any type of Word Art or "fun" fonts of any kind. APA style indicates titles should be written in the same font as the rest of the text, it should centered and in bold (for APA 7).

Yes, APA style's title page should be formated as page 1 of the paper, followed by the abstract page as page 2.

If you learn better by watching than by reading, here are two YouTube tutorials that will help you create a title page: APA Style 7th Edition: Student Paper Formatting and APA Style 7th Edition: Professional Paper Formatting by Samuel Forlenza, PhD.

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APA Title Page Essentials: Creating a Stellar First Impression

Table of contents

• 1.0.1 Font Size
• 1.0.2 Font Style
• 1.0.3 Alignment
• 1.0.4 Spacing
• 2.1 Title of the Paper 
• 2.2 Author’s Name 
• 2.3 Running Head and Page Number 
• 2.4 Institutional Affiliation
• 2.5 Course Information and Instructor Name 
• 2.6 Due Date 
• 2.7 Author Note 
• 3 Finishing on a High Note 

The formatting of an APA publication manual strictly requires a corresponding APA title page . The significance is that it highlights the APA style and sets it apart from other formatting standards. However, developing it is governed by strict laws. Hence, this article helps academic scholars know a proper APA title page format. 

At the end of this content, you will:

• Understand how to create a title page in the 7th edition of the APA title format. 
• Learn about the different formatting guidelines.
• Be able to choose a title and fill in its basic elements.

Follow closely to understand how to do the proper APA formatting in your next research paper. 

APA Formatting Guidelines

Professional papers follow laid-down formats. The student title page has formatting guidelines that make it standard. Some people use writing services and may not be familiar with what has been done. 

Here are the necessary factors to prioritize in your APA title format:

The generally acceptable font size is 12. While some may favor font size 11, that does not apply to the title page. You can consider it while writing the research content. Using a smaller or bigger font can poorly represent your hard work. 

Times New Roman is the acceptable font style. Most academic materials instruct writers to employ font size 12 and Times New Roman rather than other styles and sizes. 

It is advisable to align the text in the body of your work against the left margin, while the right one appears ragged. Even if you have writing services to help you write a research paper , you can cross-check the alignment and other formatting guidelines. 

The double-spaced approach is the right format for an APA-style paper. This includes every part of the content. Remove extra space before and after paragraphs. 

As a result, the next big question is, how do I choose a title? 

There is always a topic to work with. The challenge could be that it doesn’t sound professional for an academic paper. A title should be concise yet informative about the entire research paper. 

Here are some tips on how to choose the right title:

• Understand the topic sentence.
• Define the aim of the research.
• Create multiple titles for the same research.
• Select the most professional or seek your supervisor’s help.

Also, it is important to format the author names and institutional affiliations. If there are two authors, use ampersand (&) to separate their names. But, in the  case of multiple authors, insert only the last name of the author. Follow it by “et al.” to imply other authors. 

For institutional affiliations, identify where the author carried out their research. If there are multiple institutions, include dual affiliation. However, both institutions must have tangibly contributed to the research. If the affiliation changes at any point, ensure to include this in the author’s note. 

Title Page Elements

An APA-style title page has major elements that you should follow. 

Title of the Paper 

You need a professional title page. Following the right formatting helps to achieve a good title and generally acceptable work.

Here are the major elements of APA-style papers:

• Page number.
• Paper title.
• Author (and their institution affiliation).
• Course instructor.

These are examples of the APA 7 title page:

Author’s Name 

As stated earlier, including your name is necessary in your APA format title page. It acknowledges your effort and helps readers to trace your publication easily. For unpublished works, you can have the course number and name on the front page of your APA style manual. 

Running Head and Page Number 

The numbering of the pages in APA style papers (7th ed.) coincides with numbering in other formatting styles. The title page is also included in the list of numbered pages. Page numbering should appear in the upper-right corner of the header using Arabic numerals. The rule for running head in an APA research paper is that the short version of the title should not exceed 50 characters.

In the 7th edition of the APA style guide, the use of a running head on the title page (and subsequent pages) depends on the type of paper you are writing:

Student Papers: For most student papers, a running head is not required. Only a page number is included in the header, in the top right corner of each page.

Professional Papers: For professional manuscripts intended for publication (like journal articles), a running head is still required. It appears in the top header of each page, aligned to the left, and is a shortened version of the paper’s title.

Institutional Affiliation

Institutional affiliation is essential when working on any academic paper. It is mandatory if you want to publish your manual. Include relevant details like;

• Department.
• University Name.
• Author name(s).

Course Information and Instructor Name 

Including the course information helps readers to know what your subject of discourse is about. Course information should be short. Sometimes, your course information may include your department and university. Whichever way, it shouldn’t exceed 50 characters. 

The instructor’s name is essential because you acknowledge their supervisory role during your work. More than the experience your instructor offered during your research, adding their name adds more credibility to your entire work. 

Due Date 

The due date refers to the fulfillment of your research work. It can be your submission date. However, it helps a reader know the duration of your project and compare it with related papers. 

Note the following rules when you want to write the due date:

• Include the month, day, and year based on your country’s format 

See example below 

“September 23, 2023”

“23 September 2023.”

Author Note 

The author’s note should be at the bottom half of the APA title page. It should be below the title, authors, and affiliations. The author’s note details additional information about the author, data sharing, research paper types of study registration, conflicting statements, or any necessary disclaimer for the research paper. 

Some notes include details about the funding or support they got during the research. It is necessary for a professional paper if you want to submit your work for publication.

Finishing on a High Note 

Consistently, you will see the need to maintain proper APA format for your professional content. A title page plays a significant role in this. While your content is great, a perfect research paper contains basic information like the author’s name, institution affiliation, course information, due date, and author note. 

Running head and page affiliation also help to complete your research paper. Being a great writer means following guidelines and proper formatting. Definitely, it will make you a good student, but it also takes you closer to having a published work. Take note that this content was based on the APA 7th edition.

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APA Citations (7th ed.)

• General Formatting
• Student Paper Elements - Title Page
• Professional Paper Elements - Title Page
• In-text Citation Basics
• In-text Citation Author Rules
• Citing Multiple Works
• Personal Communications
• Classroom or Intranet Resources
• Secondary Sources
• Periodicals
• Books & Reference Works
• Edited Book Chapters & Entries in Reference Works
• Reports & Gray Literature
• Conference Sessions & Presentations
• Dissertations & Theses
• Data Sets & Software
• Tests, Scales, & Inventories
• Audiovisual Works
• Audio Works
• Visual Works
• Social Media
• Webpages & Websites
• Artificial Intelligence
• Basics & Formatting
• Avoiding Plagiarism

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Professional Paper Required Elements

Professional papers should always include:

• A  title page , which contains the paper title, author names and affiliations, and author note
• Page headers  with a running head and page numbers
• An  abstract
• A  reference list

Papers may also include:

• Tables and/or figures
• Appendices and/or supplemental materials

The Professional Title Page includes:

• The title of the paper
• Name of each author of the paper
• Affiliation for each author
• Author note
• Running head
• Page number

The  title  should summarize the main idea of the paper in a simple, concise manner. Include essential terms in the title to increase findability. The title should be in title case, bold, centered, and positioned in the upper half of the title page.

The  author name  should be written as first name, middle initial(s), and last name. Omit all professional titles (e.g., PhD, EdD, MD, MA, RN, MSW). The author names should follow the paper title on the title page. Include one blank double-spaced line between the paper title and the author names.

The  author affiliation  identifies where the author worked or studied when the research was conducted. Include a dual affiliation only if two institutions contributed substantial support to the study. Include no more than two affiliations per author. If an author's affiliation has changed, give current affiliation in the author note. See Table 2.2 (p. 34) in the manual to learn more about author affiliations.

The  author note  provides additional information and a point of contact for readers. First paragraph is where authors with an ORCID iD may include their identification number. If an author does not have an ORCID iD, omit the author. If no authors have an ORCID iD, omit the first paragraph. The second paragraph identifies any changes in author affiliations or death of an author. The third paragraph includes disclosures and acknowledgments, including study registration, data sharing, disclaimers or statements regarding conflicts of interest, and help or funding that supported the research. The fourth paragraph contains contact information for the corresponding author. The author note should be placed in the bottom half of the title page, below the title, authors, and affiliations. Center "Author note" in bold above the paragraphs and indent the beginning of each paragraph. Learn more about author notes on pp. 35-37 of the manual.

The  running head  is an abbreviated version of the paper title that appears at the top of every page to identify it for readers. The running head should contain a maximum of 50 characters. The running head should be in the page header, flush left, in all-capital letters, across from the right-aligned page number.

The  page number  should be included in all papers, flush right, in the header on every page. The title page is page number 1.

Sample Professional Title Page

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APA Citation Guidelines (7th Edition): Style & Format

• Style & Format
• Page Formats
• In-text Citations
• Reference Examples
• Sample Paper & Template

About this Page

This page contains information on the style and format of papers according to APA 7th edition using the Concise Guide to APA Style: The Official APA Style for Students .

• APA Style and Grammar Guidelines

APA Style papers should have the same style and size of font throughout the text of the paper (title page to reference page). APA considers the following fonts acceptable: 11- point Calibri, 11-point Arial, 10-point Lucida Sans Unicode, 12-point Times New Roman, 11-point Georgia, or 10-point Computer Modern. It is recommended that you check with your instructor to see if they have a preferred font style.

(See section 1.18 of the Concise Guide to APA Style )

The first line of every paragraph in the text of your paper and every reference on your reference page is indented (hit the tab key once). The remaining lines are left flush with the left-hand margin of the paper (this is known as a "hanging indent").

Other Format Guidelines

Page numbers : Title page through reference pages are numbered using Arabic numerals;  place each number in the top right corner of the page.

Running heads: Are NOT required in student papers, but you should still check with your instructor to see if they wish them to be used.

Dashes: APA uses em dashes (long dash) and en dashes (short dash). See section 4.6 of the Concise Guide to APA Style for more information.

Additional Resources

• Heading Levels: Template: Student Papers
• Abbreviations Guide
• Transititions Guide
• Number and Statistics Guide

Other APA Pages

• Style and Format
• In-text citations
• Title and Reference Page Format
• I Want to See A Sample Paper

Lines and Margins

APA Style papers should have double-spaced text throughout the entire paper (including quotations and references). To make your paper double-spaced in Microsoft Word, highlight the text you want double-spaced, and then click Layout . Next, click on the arrow to the right of the word Paragraph (a pop-up appears). From the drop-down menu under Line Spacing , select Double (default choice is Multiple ) and click OK .

APA Style papers use 1 inch margins all around (top to bottom and left to right). Margins in Microsoft Word are set to 1 inch by default. If you are unsure, you can check your margins by clicking Layout, and clicking Margins. Once the drop-down menu appears, make sure Normal is selected to ensure you have 1 inch margins all around your paper.

(See sections 1.20 and 1.21 of the Concise Guide to APA Style )

APA Style recommends ONE space after a period when the period ends a sentence, separates parts of a reference list entry, or follows initials in names (J.B. Jones).

Do NOT put a space after a period when the period is part of an internal abbreviations (U.S. or a.m.)

Do NOT use periods for the abbreviation of state, province, or territory names (AZ; KS; BC); capital letter abbreviations and acronyms (APA, AMA, EPA); for abbreviations of academic degrees (PhD, MD, DO); or for abbreviations of metric and nonmetric measurements (cm, hr, kg,). Note: Use a period when abbreviating "inch" or "inches" (in.) or else it could be misread.

(See sections 4.1 and 4.2 of the Concise Guide to APA Style )

Sentence Case vs. Title Case

Sentence case is where most words in a sentence are going to be lower case.

The EXCEPTIONS are the first word in a title, heading, or sub-title ; proper nouns ; the first word after an em dash, semi-colon, or end punctuation; and any noun followed by a letter or number.

Title case is where major words are capitalized while minor words are lower case.

In APA style, major words are nouns, verbs, adjectives, pronouns, adverbs, or any word that is four letters or longer.

Minor words are articles, short prepositions, and conjunctions that are three letters or less.

(See section 5.7 of the Concise Guide to APA Style )

Paraphrasing

Refers to restating someone else's ideas or findings into your own words. Paraphrasing allows you to summarize information from one or more sources, compare and contrast information from multiple sources, and focus on the most important information from each source.

It is BEST to paraphrase information whenever possible rather than using direct quotations.

Paraphrased information must be cited in-text with either a parenthetical or narrative citation.

(See sections 8.23 and 8.24 of the Concise Guide to APA Style)

Reproduce words EXACTLY as written from another work (including your own). Quotations are best used in papers for when you want to reproduce an exact definition, when an author of a work has said something memorable, or when you want to respond to the exact wording (something someone said) from an author in your paper.

When not using a quotation for one of the above reasons, it is best to paraphrase information. Additionally, you should check with your instructor to see if they limit the number of quotations you are allowed to use.

Quotations must be cited in-text with either a parenthetical or narrative citation.

Short quotations consist of 40 words or less and should be incorporated into the text of your paper with quotation marks.

Long quotations consists of 40 words or more and do not use quotations marks. Instead, they should be incorporated into your paper as a block quotation. Block quotations begin on a new line, are double-spaced, and are indented 0.5 inches from the left hand margin of your paper.

(See sections 8.25 - 8.33 of the Concise Guide to APA Style)

Heading Levels

Heading Levels or "headings" are a way to organize information in APA papers and convey it clearly ( think of headings as "sections" and "subsections"). There are five levels of headings in APA Style, although for undergraduates it is rare to need to go past a Level 2 headings. If you are unsure if you need to use headings, check with your instructor.

Note: Do NOT label an introduction as "Introduction" in APA papers. The title of your paper acts as a de facto Level 1 Heading.

(See section 1.26 of the Concise Guide to APA Style)

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• Essay Editor

Essay Format Tips from an English Teacher

Writing a solid and well-crafted essay is crucial for students and researchers, as it involves presenting arguments clearly and succinctly. Whether you are writing a paper for an assignment, a scientific journal, or a personal statement, understanding the correct essay format is pivotal. This meticulously collated guide covers key features of essay formatting and provides tips to refine your writing.

What is an Essay Format?

An essay format is a blueprint for shaping your written assignment, comprising the work’s headings, the title page, paragraphs, and references. Accurate structuring enhances readability and professionalism, thus adhering to academic standards. Instructors across disciplines may specify paper-formatting styles to apply, for instance, Chicago, APA, or MLA formatting, each with unique guidelines tailored to various academic fields.

The essay structure serves as the framework for effectively building and conveying ideas. It is the roadmap that leads the audience via the writer's reflection process, securing coherence, precision, and logical progression of supporting arguments.

Struggling to craft a refined and captivating essay? Want to know how to format an essay? Consider using Aithor's AI writing assistant. The AI Essay Generator is a revolutionary tool designed to streamline the writing procedure, offering assistance in editing, refining, and generating content. With its advanced algorithms, this tool assists in enhancing overall flow and consistency in your projects.

How to Format an Essay

Composing a well-structured piece is crucial for scholastic success and leaves a long-lasting impression on the audience. Structuring your text includes several key components to guarantee its clarity and coherence:

•  Proper Heading: Start from the piece’s top left corner, typing your name, lecturer’s name, related course title, and current date. This heading provides essential facts about the essay's author and context.
•  Margins: On the paper’s all four sides, set one-inch-long margins for consistency and compliance with educational standards.
•  Spacing: Skip a line or double-space your writing unless specified otherwise. This enhances the composition’s clarity and allows room for annotations or feedback.
•  Font & Size: Use a legible font, let’s say, 12-point sized Arial or Times New Roman. This provides uniformity and clarity all over your composition.
•  Indentation: Leave a standard half an inch of space in the first line of each section to visually separate essay parts and improve the overall article structure.

Following these basic guidelines will guarantee an A-level presentation, increasing the readability and effectiveness of your piece. 

How to Write an Essay: MLA Format vs. APA Format

Learning the essentials of correct essay formatting required by standard styles like MLA and APA is pivotal for scholastic success. While both are broadly used, they significantly differ in their arrangement and requirements. Knowing these distinctions ensures your assignment meets disciplinary standards and effectively communicates ideas.

MLA Format:

•  Primarily utilized in the humanities area.
•  Necessitates a Works Cited collection that catalogs alphabetically all academic materials used.
•  Requires a text heading in the top left angle of the opening paper, and the project title centrally positioned on the succeeding line.
•  For the in-text citations apply the ‘author-page’ format (e.g., (Smith 123)).
•  Italicizes the work headings of larger pieces, for instance, literature and films.
•  Typically, it is not obligatory to make a separate cover page for standard essays.
•  Does not mandate inserting URLs for online resources in the Works Cited list. 

APA Format:

•  Generally employed in the space of social sciences.
•  Demands a title page containing a so-called running head, a piece’s abstract, and a list of References.
•  Uses the arrangement called ‘author-date’ for in-text references (e.g., (Smith, 2019, p. 123)).
•  Italicizes the headings of larger essays but uses quotation marks for shorter pieces like articles.
•  Demands a separate cover page containing a running head.
•  Requires all URLs for online sources to be alphabetized in the list of References.

In summary, mastering both MLA and APA organizations is essential for educational settings. Comprehending their unique rules and adhering to their specific guidelines will ensure that your pieces are well-crafted and effectively convey your message to the audience.

How to Create a Title Page

Generating an effective title page is crucial for arranging an academic paper as it briefly introduces the content, sets the writing tone, and demonstrates crucial identification details. Yet, the particulars vary conditional on the assigned essay style format, with preferred MLA or APA organization styles requiring distinct approaches.

In MLA structure, the cover page is generally unnecessary for standard papers unless specified. If you decide to generate it, then center the composition’s title at the top of the opening page. Below it, indicate yours with the lecturer’s name, the discipline, current date, all centered.

In an APA-based organization, designing the title page is obligatory. Center the article’s or research’s heading at the top half of the opening page. Below that, put your name, and the educational institution's title, then in the header section, put a title’s shortened form. Additionally, set the page number correctly in the sheet’s top right corner.

Largely, MLA and APA differ in title sheet settings and layout. By sticking to the particular rules of each scholarly writing style, you can be confident that your notion is presented professionally and accurately mirrors educational standards.

The First Page of Your Essay

The opening page of the scholarly composition acts as the first encounter with your concept, offering a prospect to engage your audience and provide essential details about your subject matter and text organization style.

The MLA-based structure includes a left-aligned heading on the opening page. The proper heading for essay must contain your and the educator’s name, the related discipline with the current date. The composition’s title is adjusted centrally on the opening page, and the intro of your assignment is placed below without added introductory sections.

In contrast, APA organization begins with the document’s title aligned centrally at the page’s upper section. Under the title, indicate your name and indicate the educational institution. APA also entails a running head with a summarized title and page number located in the header. The intro paragraph commences below the title.

In essence, adhering to educational MLA or APA standards for the opening page of your written task is vital for establishing its content, tone, and format. By complying with the fixed procedures of each style, you can effortlessly generate an engaging and professional opening that effectively introduces your thoughts to the audience.

Introduction, Body, and Conclusion

As writers, we navigate a labyrinth of words, constructing compositions that captivate our readers' minds. The fundamental structure of paragraphs leads us through the maze of ideas, functioning as the backbone of our message. Here's how each section contributes:

Introduction

A solid intro is vital, establishing the setting and a captivating hook to engage the audience. Present your topic, add background data, and state your central idea, or thesis statement concisely.

Each body section must focus on a single aspect of your viewpoint, supported by illustrations and evidence. Use transitional phrases for smooth shifts, maintaining unity and clarity. Reinforce your points with facts and details to enhance credibility.

Recap your key points, reiterate the thesis, and offer a final perspective. Summarize the strongest arguments without introducing new details. The last paragraph provides closure and underlines your composition’s relevance.

Essay writing is akin to navigating a literary labyrinth, where structure guides comprehensibility and impact. A well-structured text that leaves a lasting impression is essential for academic accomplishment. By keeping to readability, organizing your thoughts reasonably, and supporting key arguments with evidence, your text becomes a powerful tool for conveying message and persuasion.

In-Text Citation

Scholarly essays require precise citation practices to demonstrate utilized sources and uphold the integrity of your ideas. Citing materials is needed for crediting them and promoting original writing.

•  In MLA-based style, quotes typically indicate in parentheses the writer's surname and book’s page number, (e.g., Smith 23), making source identification easier.
•  In contrast, the APA-focused formatting method indicates the author's surname with the book’s publication year, like (Smith, 2023), giving a brief reference to the literature’s publication date.

Adhering to the referencing rules leads to scholarly rigor and ethical integrity. Accurately citing used sources is a winning approach to increase the integrity of your points and demonstrate academic integrity.

Works Cited Page

In research, precise source citation is critical for demonstrating the integrity of your study and preventing plagiarism. A well-ordered Works Cited (in MLA) or References (in APA) list is a way to showcase the depth of your investigation and respect for any intellectual property.

Here’s how to format the bibliography list:

•  MLA: Title it "Works Cited," alphabetize sources by listing all writers’ last names with indentation for clarity.
•  APA: Title it "References," adding details about the author, book publication year, brief title, and literature to enhance credibility.

A meticulously curated Works Cited or References page heightens your proficiency, bolstering your composition’s overall reliability.

Utilizing Templates and Tools

Using templates and formatting-related tools can greatly simplify the process of crafting academic works. Word processing programs offer templates for MLA, APA, or Chicago styles to meet academic standards. Additionally, online tools and bibliography generators like Aithor AI streamline the creation of accurate citations with reference lists, saving your time and ensuring precision.

It's essential, however, to always review AI-generated content for accuracy and logic, as automated tools may occasionally introduce errors. For more comprehensive guidelines, consult authoritative sources such as Wikipedia's formatting guidelines, official academic style manuals, and scholarly publications.

Following the mentioned essay-formatting tips enables students, writers, and researchers to create clear, well-organized compositions that meet demanding academic standards. Proficient formatting not only enhances your readability and professionalism but also underscores your commitment to scholarly excellence.

By mastering specific style guidelines, organizing content efficiently, and employing correct citation practices, your pieces will resonate with clarity and flow. Upholding these standards ensures your assignment not only meets academic criteria but also communicates your notions effectively to readers.

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Research Title

Ai generator.

A research title is a succinct, informative phrase that encapsulates a study’s essence. It gives readers a clear indication of the research’s focus, scope, and significance. An effective research title is concise, specific, and engaging, incorporating key terms related to the primary subject matter. Crafting a well-thought-out research title is crucial as it influences first impressions and impacts the study’s visibility and accessibility. Additionally, a strong research title enhances the title page and ensures the research paper cover letter accurately reflects the study’s content.

What is Research Title?

A research title is a concise statement that clearly and precisely encapsulates the main topic, scope, and objective of a research study. It serves as the first point of contact for readers and should effectively communicate the essence of the research in a way that is both engaging and informative. A well-crafted research title is specific, descriptive, and reflective of the study’s core focus, helping to attract interest and provide a clear understanding of the research subject at a glance.

Research Title Format

A well-crafted research title follows a specific format to ensure clarity and precision. Here’s a structured approach:

[Main Topic]: [Specific Aspect or Focus]

Example: “The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health: A Comprehensive Analysis of Behavioral Changes”

Examples of Research Titles

Here are some examples of well-crafted research titles across various fields:

• “The Effects of Bilingual Education on Cognitive Development in Early Childhood”
• “Assessing the Impact of Technology Integration on Student Engagement in High School Classrooms”
• “The Role of Genetics in the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis”
• “Evaluating the Efficacy of Telemedicine in Managing Chronic Diseases During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
• “The Impact of Urbanization on Local Wildlife Populations: A Case Study of Central Park”
• “Assessing the Effectiveness of Renewable Energy Policies in Reducing Carbon Emissions”
• “The Influence of Social Media on Political Participation Among Millennials”
• “Exploring the Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Academic Achievement in Urban Schools”
• “Analyzing the Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility on Consumer Behavior”
• “The Role of Microfinance in Alleviating Poverty in Developing Countries”
• “The Development and Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Workforce Automation”
• “Assessing the Safety and Efficiency of Autonomous Vehicles in Urban Areas”
• “The Representation of Gender Roles in 21st Century Cinema”
• “Exploring the Influence of Renaissance Art on Modern Aesthetic Values”
• “The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Relationships: A Longitudinal Study”
• “Exploring the Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Treating Anxiety Disorders”
• “The Effectiveness of Vaccination Campaigns in Reducing the Spread of Infectious Diseases: A Global Perspective”
• “Sustainable Farming Practices and Their Impact on Soil Health: A Comparative Study of Organic and Conventional Methods”

Research Titles for Students

• The Impact of Online Learning on Student Performance in High School
• Exploring the Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Achievement Among College Students
• The Effects of Extracurricular Activities on Student Social Skills Development
• The Influence of Peer Pressure on High School Students’ Academic Choices
• Assessing the Benefits of Early Childhood Education Programs on Later Academic Success
• The Role of Nutrition and Diet in Enhancing Student Concentration and Memory
• Examining the Effectiveness of Study Groups in Improving Academic Performance in University Settings
• The Impact of Part-Time Employment on High School Students’ Academic Achievement and Time Management
• Exploring the Relationship Between Physical Activity and Mental Health Among College Students
• The Effects of School Uniform Policies on Student Behavior and Academic Outcomes

Qualitative Research Titles

• Exploring Student Perceptions of Remote Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• The Lived Experiences of First-Generation College Students: Challenges and Triumphs
• Understanding Teacher Attitudes Towards Inclusive Education in Mainstream Classrooms
• The Impact of Parental Involvement on Student Motivation and Academic Success
• Exploring the Cultural Adaptation Experiences of International Students in American Universities
• The Role of Peer Support in Coping with Academic Stress Among High School Students
• Investigating the Influence of School Climate on Teacher Job Satisfaction and Retention
• The Effects of Community-Based Learning on Student Engagement and Civic Responsibility
• Understanding the Barriers to STEM Education for Female Students in Rural Areas
• Exploring the Experiences of Students with Learning Disabilities in Higher Education
• The Impact of School Leadership Styles on Teacher Morale and Performance
• The Role of Mentorship Programs in Supporting Minority Students in STEM Fields
• Exploring the Emotional and Social Impacts of Bullying on Middle School Students
• The Influence of Extracurricular Activities on Identity Development in Adolescents
• Understanding the Perspectives of Parents on Bilingual Education Programs

Quantitative Research Titles

• The Impact of Class Size on Student Academic Achievement in Elementary Schools
• Analyzing the Correlation Between Homework Frequency and Student Performance in Mathematics
• The Effects of School Funding on Standardized Test Scores in Public Schools
• Assessing the Relationship Between Attendance Rates and Graduation Rates in High Schools
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Flipped Classrooms on Student Learning Outcomes
• The Influence of Parental Education Levels on Children’s Academic Success
• The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Literacy Rates in Primary School Students
• Comparing Academic Performance Between Students in Single-Sex and Coeducational Schools
• The Role of Technology in Enhancing Student Engagement in STEM Subjects
• Analyzing the Impact of Nutrition Programs on Student Health and Academic Performance
• The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement in High School Students
• Evaluating the Success of Mentorship Programs on College Retention Rates
• The Effects of Sleep Patterns on Academic Performance Among University Students
• Assessing the Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Access to Higher Education
• The Influence of Teacher Qualifications on Student Achievement in Science

Importance of a Research Title

A research title is a critical component of any research study or academic paper. It serves multiple important functions that contribute to the overall success and impact of the research. Here are key reasons why a research title is important:

1. First Impression

The research title is often the first element a reader encounters. A well-crafted title can create a strong first impression, attracting the reader’s attention and encouraging them to explore the study further.

2. Clarity and Focus

A good research title clearly and succinctly communicates the main topic and scope of the study. It helps the reader quickly understand what the research is about and what specific aspect is being addressed.

3. Guidance

The title provides guidance to the reader about the content and direction of the research. It sets expectations and helps readers decide if the paper is relevant to their interests or research needs.

4. Searchability

In the digital age, research titles are crucial for searchability. A precise and descriptive title improves the chances of the paper being found in online searches, databases, and academic journals, increasing its visibility and accessibility.

5. Academic and Professional Recognition

A well-formulated research title contributes to the academic and professional recognition of the work. It reflects the researcher’s ability to clearly define and articulate their study, which can enhance credibility and reputation within the academic community.

Characteristics of a Good Research Title

A good research title is essential for effectively communicating the main focus and scope of your study. Here are the key characteristics that make a research title effective:

• Clear and Understandable : The title should be easily understood by a broad audience, avoiding jargon or overly complex language.
• Direct : It should convey the main topic and scope of the research without ambiguity.

2. Conciseness

• Brevity : A good title is concise and to the point, typically no longer than 10-15 words.
• Essential Information : It includes only the most relevant information, omitting unnecessary words.

3. Specificity

• Focused : The title should clearly reflect the specific aspect or focus of the research.
• Detailed : It provides enough detail to give a clear sense of what the study entails.

4. Descriptiveness

• Informative : It accurately describes the content and scope of the study.
• Comprehensive : The title should give readers a good understanding of the research without needing to read the entire paper.

5. Keywords

• Relevant Keywords : Including key terms that are central to the research topic helps with searchability and indexing.
• SEO-Friendly : Using keywords that align with what potential readers might search for increases the paper’s visibility.

6. Engagement

• Interest : The title should be engaging and interesting, encouraging readers to want to learn more about the study.
• Appeal : It should appeal to the target audience, whether they are academics, practitioners, or the general public.

How to Write a Research Title?

A well-crafted research title is crucial as it provides the first impression of your study. It should be concise, informative, and engaging to capture the reader’s attention while conveying the essence of your research. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective research title.

1. Understand the Purpose of the Title

The title should:

• Summarize the main topic of the research.
• Indicate the scope and focus of the study.
• Reflect the methodology used (if applicable).
• Attract the target audience’s interest.

2. Identify the Key Components

To create a comprehensive title, identify the following components of your research:

• Main topic : The primary subject or focus.
• Variables : Key elements or factors studied.
• Population/sample : The group or sample studied.
• Methodology : The approach or techniques used in the research.

3. Be Clear and Specific

Avoid vague and ambiguous terms. Be precise in describing your research. For example, instead of “Study of Education Methods,” use “Effectiveness of Interactive Learning Techniques in High School Biology.”

4. Keep It Concise

A good title is typically between 10 to 15 words. It should be long enough to include essential information but short enough to be easily readable.

5. Use Descriptive Words

Use words that describe the content and aim of your research effectively. Descriptive words help in making the title informative and engaging. Examples include “effects,” “analysis,” “evaluation,” “comparison,” etc.

6. Avoid Jargon and Abbreviations

Ensure that your title is accessible to a broad audience by avoiding technical jargon and abbreviations that might not be widely understood.

7. Consider the Audience

Think about who will be reading your research. Tailor your title to meet the expectations and interests of your target audience, whether they are academic peers, professionals, or the general public.

8. Reflect the Type of Study

Indicate whether the research is a review, case study, experiment, or theoretical analysis. This helps set the context for the reader. For example, “A Case Study on Renewable Energy Adoption in Urban Areas.”

9. Include Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords that reflect the main themes of your research. This not only helps in search engine optimization but also makes your research easily discoverable.

10. Revise and Refine

Review your title for clarity, conciseness, and accuracy. Ask for feedback from peers or mentors to ensure it effectively represents your research.

FAQ’s

How should a research title be structured.

A research title should be clear, concise, and informative, often including the main variables, methods, and context of the study.

What are the key elements of a good research title?

Key elements include relevance, clarity, specificity, and the inclusion of main keywords related to the research topic.

Can a research title be a question?

Yes, a research title can be a question if it effectively conveys the research’s focus and intrigues the reader.

How long should a research title be?

A research title should be brief but descriptive, typically between 10 to 15 words, avoiding unnecessary jargon or overly complex terms.

Should a research title include keywords?

Yes, including keywords helps in indexing and searching, making it easier for others to find your research.

Can a research title change during the research process?

Yes, it can be refined or adjusted as the research progresses to better reflect the study’s findings and scope.

Should the research title reflect the research methodology?

It can, especially if the methodology is central to the study’s uniqueness or understanding, but it’s not always necessary.

How specific should a research title be?

A research title should be specific enough to give a clear idea of the study’s focus but not so detailed that it becomes cumbersome.

What makes a research title catchy?

A catchy research title is engaging, piques curiosity, and uses intriguing language while still being clear and informative.

Can humor be used in a research title?

Humor can be used if appropriate for the subject matter and audience, but it should not compromise clarity or professionalism.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

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