APA Style Research Paper Template
This article provides a sample APA style research paper template to use every time you need to write an APA formatted research paper, essay or article. Being able to write an effective APA style research paper or essay takes more practice than just learning the formatting guidelines. Making sure you understand the principles behind sound research and properly executing your ideas through organized, coherent and supported arguments is vital for your success.
The main components of an APA style research paper template include:
Title Page
Abstract
Introduction
Method
Results
Discussion
References
Appendices
Follow this template to help properly format and structure your research paper. Make sure any additional sections like appendices are also included and formatted according to APA style guidelines.
Title Page
The title page is the cover page of your paper. It includes:
Running head: A shortened version of your paper’s title in capital letters.
Page number: Insert page number 1 aligned right.
Paper title: Center this and do not bold, underline, or italicize the title.
Author name: Center this below the title without any titles (such as Mr. or Ms.).
Institutional affiliation: Center this below your name.
Abstract
The abstract is a single paragraph, usually 150-250 words, that provides a brief summary of the paper. It discusses the problem, methods, results and conclusions of the research. Write this in a concise, declarative style.
Your abstract appears on its own page and is headed with the label “Abstract” centered at the top of the page without formatting. Do not indent the first line of the abstract paragraph. The word “Abstract” should not be bolded, underlined, or in italics.
Introduction
The introduction should establish your topic, provide context and background for readers, present the research problem or question and justify the need for your research. It must include a clear thesis statement near the end that establishes the purpose of the study.
Method
Describe your research methodology to allow other researchers to replicate your study. For experimental research, include your participants, materials used, procedures followed to collect data, research design and variables manipulated or measured. Include IRB approval number if appropriate.
Results
Present the analysis and findings of your study using tables, graphs and texts. Do not interpret results, just report what the numbers show. Use past tense. Include statistical data if needed.
Discussion
Discuss the meaning and importance of your results. Show how findings address your research question and relate to previous studies. Discuss limitations and ideas for future research. Do not just repeat results. End with a conclusion that summarizes answers to your research problem.
References
List alphabetically by author’s last name all references cited in text. Only include sources you directly cited. Follow APA formatting guidelines for each reference type.
Appendices
Include any supplements here that readers may need for context but that interrupt the flow of the main paper such as raw data, interview protocols or statistical outputs. Label each appendix clearly.
While this template provides the basic formatting guidelines, high quality APA research demands more. Develop your ideas thoroughly with a clear argument, integrate sources effectively and provide robust evidence to support your thesis. Double check for consistent in-text citations, correct title page formatting and adhering to other style nuances. Crafting an excellent APA research paper takes practice but following a solid template is the first step towards success.