APA Style recently got an update, retiring the 6th edition after more than a decade of use. If you are already well-acquainted with the rules of the 6th edition, it may be beneficial to read our blog post highlighting the major changes.
What is APA Style and When Should You Use it?
APA stands for the American Psychological Association, and it provides rules for how to format your paper and properly cite your sources. APA style is used in the social science disciplines (psychology, education, communication, etc.). When in doubt, just ask your professor which style to use.
You must cite all outside information sources used for a paper in order to avoid plagiarism, give credit to the original writer, and direct your reader to more information about your topic. Citations are not only for direct quotes--you also must cite sources when you summarize, paraphrase, or use any information (or images) from an outside source in any way.
This guide will introduce you to the most basic rules that you will need to know to write a properly formatted APA paper. For a full list of the rules, consult the Publication Manual of the APA (7th ed.). Copies are available at all three library locations, under the call number:
R 808.06615 P96pu 2020
Downloads:
- APA Quick Citation GuideThe library's printable quick guide to APA with just the basics on paper formatting and reference list citations.
It also includes select pages from a sample paper, including a student title page, first page, and reference list.
Full Sample Student Paper:
Interested in citation management software?
- HPU Libraries' EndNote GuideInterested in using the citation management software EndNote? Check out our guide!
- Zotero
Zotero is another citation manager, similar to EndNote. Some students may find it easier to use - and it's free!
