Formatting a title page in APA style establishes the tone for your academic or professional document, signaling adherence to scholarly standards. This guide walks through each element, ensuring your work meets the precise requirements of the 7th edition.
Core Components of an APA Title Page
Every APA title page contains several mandatory elements that must appear in a specific arrangement. These components include the paper title, author name, and institutional affiliation, all centered on the page. Running head and page numbers are also required for professional formatting.
Paper Title
Write the paper title in bold title case, capitalizing major words and essential lowercase words like the first word after a colon. Keep the title concise yet descriptive, avoiding unnecessary abbreviations and filler words that do not add meaning.
Author Name and Institutional Affiliation
Place the author’s full name below the title, followed by a blank line and the institutional affiliation. This affiliation indicates where the research was conducted or the primary academic home of the author.
Running Head and Page Number
A running head is a shortened version of the paper title in all capital letters, aligned left. It appears on every page including the title page, accompanied by the page number aligned right.
Formatting Details and Margins
Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the page to provide consistent spacing. Use double-spacing throughout the title page, including between the running head, title, author name, and affiliation.
Font and Size
APA recommends using a clear, highly readable font such as 12-point Times New Roman. Ensure the text appears clean on both screen and printed formats, avoiding decorative or script styles.
Additional Considerations for Student and Professional Papers
Student papers may include the course name and number, instructor name, and assignment due date below the institutional affiliation. Professional papers typically omit these academic identifiers and focus on author credentials and institutional sponsorship.
Final Review and Consistency Checks
Before finalizing, verify that the title page matches the running head, page number, and document header exactly. Consistent capitalization, spacing, and alignment demonstrate attention to detail and respect for editorial guidelines.
