APA format for an essay: layout, structure and citations
Quick answer
An APA 7 essay has a title page, double-spaced text, 1-inch margins, a 0.5-inch indent, a permitted font and a page number at the top right. Cite borrowed ideas with author and year, and finish the essay with a References page on a new sheet.
What format does an APA 7 essay use?
The same as any student paper: Letter paper, 1-inch margins, double spacing, 0.5-inch indent, left alignment and a number at the top right. The font can be 12-point Times New Roman or 11-point Calibri, among others. Measurements are in the APA format guides.
What structure should it have?
- Title page, if your school asks: title page guide.
- Title repeated on the first page of text, centered and bold.
- Introduction: topic and thesis.
- Body: arguments with sources, one idea per paragraph.
- Conclusion: return to your thesis and what you showed.
- References: reference page.
How do I cite inside an essay?
Use paraphrasing for most ideas and direct quotes only when the exact words add something. Every citation needs author and year; direct quotes need a page number too.
What mistakes should I avoid?
- A paragraph made only of quotes with no voice of your own.
- Long block quotes that fill half a page.
- References never cited in the text.
- A Level 2 heading with no Level 1.
Starter outline
Essay title
Introduction: topic and thesis (1 paragraph)
Argument 1 + source (1-2 paragraphs)
Argument 2 + source (1-2 paragraphs)
Counterargument and reply (1 paragraph)
Conclusion (1 paragraph)
ReferencesChecklist
- Page layout correct
- Title page, if required
- Clear thesis and sourced arguments
- Citations with author and year
- Complete reference page
Frequently asked questions
How do I write an essay in APA format?
Set 1-inch margins, a permitted font and double spacing. Add a title page if asked, write an introduction, body and conclusion, cite each source and finish with a reference list.
Does an APA essay need an abstract?
Not unless your instructor asks. Abstracts are required in scientific articles, but student essays almost always skip them. Check the course instructions or the assignment rubric to be sure about the requirement.
How many heading levels does an essay need?
Usually one or two. A short essay can have none at all. If you use headings, apply Level 1 centered and in bold and, if needed, Level 2 flush left and bold, following the heading guide.