APA Style Research Paper Format With Header
When writing a research paper, APA format requires the inclusion of a title page that acts as a cover page for the paper. In addition to the title page, the header or running header is another important formatting element that must appear on the top right of every page of the paper. This article will explain in detail how to format headers according to APA style including the specific elements that must be included.
What Goes in the Header?
The header in an APA style paper consists of three key elements: the page number, a shortened title, and the title consisting of no more than 50 characters including spaces. Each element is separated by a space and aligned to the top right of the header section. The header should be flush with the right margin.
Page Number
The page number is the first element and must be flushed to the right margin. Page numbers start on the title page with the number 1. The number is not physically typed, just implied. Page numbers then continue consecutively throughout the paper including the reference list on the final page. Page numbers should be written in Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3 etc.).
Shortened Title
The shortened title provides a brief description of the content of the paper and should be no more than 50 characters including spacing. This serves as an identifying label for readers. When creating the shortened title, authors should consider keywords, terms or phrases that capture the essence of the paper in a succinct manner. Proper nouns, subject terms or topic descriptors are ideal choices for the shortened title.
Full Paper Title
If the full paper title exceeds 50 characters, it should be shortened to fit the guidelines. If the full title is less than 50 characters, it can be used in place of a shortened title. In this case, do not include a shortened title in the header. The full title should be written in title case with capitalization of main words. It should not be enclosed in quotation marks or italicized.
Example Header
Here is an example of a properly formatted header for a paper titled “How Does Music Affect Mood?”:
Page 1 How Does Music Affect How Does Music Affect Mood?
This header shows the three required elements:
Page number right aligned (1)
Shortened title fitting within 50 characters including spaces (“How Does Music Affect”)
Full title in title case (“How Does Music Affect Mood?”)
This same header should appear on every page of the paper.
Formatting Specifics
Both the page number and shortened/full title should be flush right with the header area which is 0.5 inches from the top of the page. Font should match the rest of the paper, usually Times New Roman 12 point. The header text should not be bolded, underlined, or styled in any way. In Word, insert the header by going to Insert > Header and create the header text from right to left.
Rules for Specific Sections
While the basic format remains the same, there are some variations in headers depending on the specific section of a paper:
Title Page – The header is blank without any text. The full paper title appears centered at the top of the page below the header area.
Abstract Page – Use the full paper title as the header. On the first abstract page, center the word “Abstract” without quotation marks at the top. On any subsequent abstract pages, continue with the header but remove the word “Abstract”.
Appendices – Use the appropriate appendix label in place of the page number. For example, the header on Appendix A would read “Appendix A” followed by the shortened title and full title. Subsequent appendix pages would continue the label.
The header format enables readers to naturally associate pages without confusion. Remaining consistent is crucial for professionally presenting ideas and information according to standard APA style guidelines. Taking the time to properly format headers demonstrates attention to detail and helps establish academic credibility.
Creating Headers in Word and Google Docs
Formatting consistent headers is simple using Word processing default features. In Word, enter the header text as described on the first page. Select the header area, go to the “Insert” tab, and choose “Link to Previous” which will automatically repeat the header on future pages. In Google Docs, select “Insert” then “Header” and type the desired header text in to automatically populate on subsequent pages. Be sure to update the page number as needed if content is added. Styles and templates can also be utilized for quick application of headers.
Conclusion
The header is an essential yet often overlooked formatting element of APA style papers. By including the proper components aligned flush right atop each page, readers are provided consistency and direction as they navigate through ideas and information. Taking care to thoughtfully create headers ensures papers meet standard academic presentation requirements. Mastering APA headers is a straightforward way for students to demonstrate research and writing competency according to established publication guidelines.