how to write an apa paper on google docs

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How to Use APA Format in Google Docs

Format any academic paper with ease

What Is APA Format?

Step-by-Step: Use the APA Template in Google Docs
Use APA Format on Google Docs

Formatting References for APA Style

In-text citations for apa style.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you use Google Docs for academic writing, then you'll likely need to be familiar with APA format. While you can use a Google Docs template , it also helps to know how to set up APA format in Google Docs manually, too.

Instructions in this article apply to the web version of Google Docs. The steps are the same for all web browsers and operating systems .

Your instructor might have specific requirements, but most papers in APA format should include the following:

Double-spaced text with no extra spaces between paragraphs.
Size 12 Times New Roman font, or a similarly legible font.
One-inch page margins on all sides.
A header that includes the title of your paper and the page number.
A title page that includes the title of your paper, your name, and your school's name.
Body paragraphs begin with a 1/2 inch indent.
A References page at the end of the paper.
In-text citations for specific quotes or facts.

The Google Doc APA template includes headings that you may or may not need. For example, your instructor might not require a 'Methodology' or 'Results' section. The American Psychological Association's website has the official guidelines for APA style .

How to Use the APA Template in Google Docs

Google Docs offers several templates that automatically format your documents. To set up the APA template in Google Docs:

Open a new document and select File > New > From template .

The template gallery will open in a separate browser tab. Scroll down to the Education section and select Report APA .

If you need to set up MLA format in Google Docs , there's also a template for that.

A new document will open containing dummy text in APA format. With the proper formatting already in place, you just need to change the words. If there are sections you don't need, delete them.

How to Do APA Format on Google Docs

Since the template can be a little confusing, you should understand how to set up APA style in Google Docs step-by-step. Once you format your paper, you can save it to use as your own personal template for the future:

Change the font to Times New Roman and the font size to 12 .

Google Docs uses 1-inch margins all round by default, so you don't need to change the margins.

Select Insert > Headers & footers > Header .

You can easily change and remove headers on Google Docs at any time.

The font for the header will revert to the default, so change it to 12 point Times New Roman and type the title of your paper in all caps.

You can use a shortened version of your title if it is particularly long.

Select Insert > Page numbers > Page count .

Move the text cursor to the left side of the page number and press the spacebar or tab key until it is aligned with the top-right margin, then check the box under Different first page .

The text you entered will disappear from the first page, but it will appear on subsequent pages. Type Running head: followed by a space, then type your title in all caps.

Type the number 1 , then move the text cursor to the left side of the page number and press the spacebar or tab key until it is aligned with the top-right margin.

Make sure the font is set to the same font as the rest of your text.

Click or tap anywhere below the header, then select Format > Line Spacing > Double .

Alternately, select the Line spacing icon in the toolbar at the top of the page and choose Double .

Press the Enter key until the text cursor is about mid-way down the page and select Center Align .

Type the paper’s full title, your full name, and your school’s name on separate lines.

Select Insert > Break > Page Break to start a new page.

Select Center Align and type Abstract .

Press Enter , select Left Align .

Select Tab to indent, then type your abstract.

Google Doc's default ident of 0.5 inches is appropriate for APA format.

Select Insert > Break > Page Break to start a new page, then press the Tab key and begin typing the body of your paper. Begin each new paragraph with an indent.

You can set custom indents in Google Docs using the ruler tool.

When you're finished with the body of your paper, select Insert > Break > Page Break to create a new page for your references.

At the end of your paper, there should be a separate page that begins with the word “References” (without quotation marks) centered below the heading. The appropriate format for each reference depends on the type of source. For instance, use the following format to reference articles found on the web:

Author last name, first name (year, month day). Title. Publication. URL.

So, an online news article can be referenced as follows:

Kelion, Leo (2020, May 4). Coronavirus: UK contact-tracing app is ready for Isle of Wight downloads. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-52532435 .

Your references should be alphabetized by the author's last name, and each entry needs a hanging indent , which means that every line after the first one is indented.

APA style also requires in-text citations. Follow all facts or quotes with a citation in the format (Author last, publication year, p. #) after the quote or before the sentence's end punction. For example:

(Atwood, 2019, p. 43)

You can omit the page number if you're referencing an entire work.

The American Psychological Association website has more examples of references in APA style .

Select Insert from the Google Docs menu bar, followed by Table . From the pull-down menu, choose the number of rows and columns for your table (1x1 minimum, 20x20 maximum). Remove all vertical lines in the table by selecting them, then select the Border Color tool and choose a color that matches the table background. Do the same for the horizontal lines, except when those lines are needed for data clarity. Type the number of the table (in bold) above the table, then type the table's title in title case (and in italics) below that. Include any relevant notes below the table.

Change the formatting of citations that have already been written to APA by selecting Tools from the menu bar, followed by Citations . A citation format sidebar will appear on the right side of the screen. Select APA from the drop-down menu to have Google Docs change your citation format accordingly.

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How to set up an APA format paper in Google Docs

How to use Google Docs' APA format templates

How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or other built-in features

You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template.
The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of which can be done in Google Docs.
Google Docs' templates page includes pre-made APA 6 and APA 7 documents you can use as well.

While some students write in MLA format, others write in APA format. APA — short for American Psychological Association — is a standardized format for writing academic papers, especially in the fields of sociology, psychology, and other behavioral or social sciences. It has specific rules for what your essays should look like, and how they should be structured.

APA format has changed a few times over the decades (right now we're on APA Seventh Edition, or "APA 7"), but the basics have stayed the same. And no matter which version of APA format you're using, you can set it all up using Google Docs.

Here's how to make an APA essay in Google Docs, either manually or using a template.

Like other style guides, APA format has a variety of rules and standards. Here are the most important guidelines for structuring your paper, along with tips on how to meet those guidelines in Google Docs.

The font needs to be readable and consistent.

APA isn't strict about what font you should use, or even what size it should be. It just needs to be legible, and you need to use the same font throughout your entire paper (with exceptions for figures, computer code, and footnotes). Some common choices are 12-point Times New Roman, 11-point Arial, and 11-point Calibri.

You can change your font and font size using the toolbar at the top of the screen. If you're trying to change text that you've already written, just be sure to highlight it first.

Your entire document needs to have one-inch margins and double-spaced lines.

All Google Docs documents have one-inch margins by default, so you probably don't need to worry about that. If you want to double-check or change them anyway, you can change the margins using the Page Setup menu or ruler feature .

Meanwhile, you can enable double-spacing with the Line & paragraph spacing menu in the toolbar above your document. Highlight all the text in your document, then select Double in this menu to turn on double-spacing .

Every page needs a header with the paper's title in the top-left, and the page number in the top-right.

Google Docs lets you add headers to any page. You can add automatic page numbers through the Insert menu , and then double-click the header to add your title on the left if needed.

Remember that they need to be the same font and font size as the rest of your paper.

Your paper needs a title page with your name, paper title in bold, "institutional affiliation," and more.

Probably the most important part of an APA paper is the title page. It needs to include the paper's title in bold, your name, and your "institutional affiliation" — the school or organization that you're writing for. If you're a student, you also need to add the course number and name, your instructor's name, and the due date.

All this information should be centered in the upper-half of the first page. You can find Google Docs' alignment options in the toolbar at the top of the page. Highlight your text and select Center align in this menu to center everything.

Your paper should end with a References page, and each entry should be written with a hanging indent.

The last section of your paper is the References page. Make sure to put it on a new page (or pages, depending on how many you have to cite).

The word "References" should be centered and bolded on the very first line of the page. You can center the words using the alignment options mentioned above, and bold it by clicking the B icon .

List all your references in alphabetical order and use the ruler to give each one a hanging indent — in other words, every line after the first needs to be indented .

Your citations need hanging indents, which you can make with the ruler tool. Google; William Antonelli/Insider

How to use google docs' apa format templates.

While you can format your paper manually, Google Docs also offers two different APA templates — one for APA 7, and another for APA 6. These templates will let you meet most of the APA guidelines right away, but you'll probably still need to change some of it.

To use one of these templates:

1. Head to the Google Docs homepage and click Template gallery in the top-right.

2. Scroll down the templates page until you reach the Education section. In this section, click either Report [APA 6th ed] or Report [APA 7th ed] .

3. A page will open with an APA format paper already written in fake Lorem Ipsum language. Most of the formatting is there, so you just need to replace the pre-written words with your own.

You can find these templates in the mobile app by tapping the plus sign icon in the bottom-right, and then selecting Choose template .

how to write an apa paper on google docs

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How to Style Your Paper with APA Format in Google Docs

Last updated November 15, 2023

If you’re a student or working in the academic field, you’re probably somewhat familiar with the APA format. However, formatting your paper according to APA guidelines can be daunting, especially if you’re using a tool like Google Docs.

But fear not! In this article, we’ll teach you how to use APA format in Google Docs and access its built-in APA templates to save you time and effort in the long run.

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What Is APA Format?

APA stands for American Psychological Association. From its name, it’s easy to guess that this style has become the standard for many disciplines, including psychology, education, and social sciences.

The APA Style is a standard format used in essays, research, and other forms of academic writing.

Related : How to Do MLA Format on Google Docs [Step-by-Step Guide]

How to Set Up APA Format in Google Docs

Before starting the writing process, it’s essential to customize the appearance of your document. This ensures that every important section in an APA-style paper is present. As of writing, APA is in its seventh edition (APA 7). Therefore, we’ll use this version in the following guide.

Here’s how to do APA format in Google Docs.

Step 1: Configure Margin Settings

By default, a new document in Google Docs has one-inch margins on all sides. If you’ve changed your default settings at some point in the past, you’ll need to modify them for APA.

Go to “File,” then select “Page setup.”

Where is the page setup option in Google Docs

Ensure that all margins are set at 1 inch (or in the margin size specified by your instructor).
Click “OK” when done.

Step 2: Add Page Headers

In the drop-down menu bar, select “ I nsert” > “Headers & footers” > “Header.”

If you’re writing the paper for professional use, type the title in all caps (as a running head ). If not, skip step three.
Highlight the page header and select “Times New Roman,” size 12 as the font.

Switching APA font to Times New Roman, size 12

Under the Header menu, click on the “Options” drop-down and choose “Page numbers.”

Ensure that the value in the “Start at” field is 1. Click on the “Apply” button to insert the pagination.

Adding pagination within Google Docs APA formatting

Place your cursor at the immediate left of the page number. Press the “Tab” key and/or the spacebar on your keyboard to flush the page number to the right.

Adjusting the position of the page number in Google Docs

Step 3: Set up the APA Format for Title Page in Google Docs

Click on any part of your document.
Change the font style by clicking on the “Font” drop-down menu and selecting “Times New Roman.”

Adjust the font size to 12 using the “Font size” option in the Google Docs toolbar.

Click on the “Line & paragraph spacing” button (denoted by an up-down arrow with three horizontal lines). Select “Double.”

How to double-space Google document for APA format

Press the “Enter” or “Return” key on your keyboard three to four times.
Click on “Align” > “Center align” in the toolbar to flush the text to the middle of the page.

Type your paper title and make it bold by pressing “Ctrl” + “B” (or “Cmd” + “B” for Mac) on your keyboard.

Making paper title bold to follow APA format

Alternatively, highlight the title and click the “B” (Bold) button on the toolbar at the top.

Add a new line, then type the name of the author(s) below it.
For students : Author’s school, course number and name, name of the instructor, and assignment due date.
For professionals : Author’s affiliation (where the research was conducted), notes from the author, and ORCiD link .

To start a new page, select “Insert” > “Break” > “Page break.”

Step 4: Insert an Abstract Page

An abstract page presents the overall gist of your paper. It contains both the summary and a list of keywords related to your topic. Note that this is only important for professional papers.

To insert an abstract page, simply follow the steps below.

On a new page after the title page, type “Abstract” and select “Align” > “Center align” in the toolbar.

How to create an APA abstract page in Google Docs

Make it bold by pressing “Ctrl” + “B” (or “Cmd” + “B” for Mac).
Press “Enter” to start a new line.
Enable “Left align” and begin typing your abstract.

APA formatting abstract page Google Docs

Step 5: Type the Full Paper Title & Start Writing

Having laid out the basic formatting of your paper, you can now begin writing your content. On the first line of a new page, you’ll have to enter the full title of your work. This should be bolded, centered, and using an APA-style title case .

When it comes to the body of your paper or dissertation, there are a few more elements to remember.

Apply the Correct Paragraph Format

When using the APA style, your paragraphs should be aligned to the left margin. Each paragraph should also start with a 0.5-inch indentation . In Google Docs, pressing the “Tab” key on your keyboard should produce a half-inch indentation by default.

Paragraph indentation rules for APA format

If you’re citing original text from another source with more than 40 words, you should use a “block quotation.” This means the whole block or paragraph is indented ½ inch to the right (but remains left-aligned).

Related : Easily Insert a Google Sheet Into Google Docs [2023 Guide]

Use In-Text Citations Properly

When getting information from other references, make sure to use in-text citations. You can do this in two ways:

(Author’s surname, publication year, and page number): This is called a parenthetical citation . You can insert it right after a quote or at the end of a sentence. The page number is important if you’re citing specific lines from another source. But you can remove it if you’re citing the summary of an entire paper.

[Author] reported that…(Publication year): This is called a narrative citation . Here, the surname of the author is part of the paragraph itself. You only need to enclose the publication year in parentheses.

How to Format References for APA Style

You have to give credit to every source used in your APA research and paper. This allows your instructor or reader to verify whether certain information in your work is true. Therefore, you must have a References page at the end of your document.

Here’s how to set it up.

On a new page, type the word “References” on the first line.
Put it in center alignment and make it bold.

Making the APA references page in Google Docs

Start a new line and input the correct format for your source type .
After listing your references, alphabetize them based on the surnames of the authors.
Highlight your reference list.
Go to “Format” > “Align & indent” > “Indentation options.”

Where to find indentation options in Google Docs

Under “Special indent,” select “Hanging” from the drop-down menu.
Click on the “Apply” button.

Using hanging indent for APA references page

How to Use the APA Google Docs Templates

Given the common use of the APA format in academia, it’s common to find templates designed for it. Google Docs itself offers two variants: APA 6th Ed. and APA 7th Ed. (the latest edition).

Here’s how you can set them up for your use.

Launch your browser and go to the Google Docs homepage .
Click on “Template Gallery.”

Under the “Education” category, select “Report” with the words “APA 6th Ed.” or “APA 7th Ed.” below it (depending on what your instructor requires).

You can also access the templates from a blank document you created. To do this, click on “File” > “New” > “From template.” This will redirect you to the same Template Gallery. Select any of the two APA formats to proceed.

Accessing the GDocs template gallery from a new document

Doing the steps above would open an APA format template in Google Docs. All you have to do is insert your content.

It’s important to note that APA formatting for professional and student papers differs slightly. This is noticeable, especially when making the APA cover page in Google Docs . These templates have parentheses that say “for professional papers” and “for student papers.” Select what applies to you and delete the other unnecessary parts of the template.

Difference between student and professional paper in APA format

Get Even More APA Format Tips and Templates!

By following this guide to using APA format in Google Docs, you’ll ensure that papers meet your educational institution’s formatting requirements (while giving your work a professional and polished look).

Need more assistance with APA? Not to worry: Udemy’s got plenty of APA formatting courses to give you a leg-up!

Looking for powerful templates to improve your work output? You can find them on our Gumroad page ! Check out our huge list of templates and get 50% off by using the code “SSP .”

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Google Docs APA Format: A Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Application

Applying APA format to your Google Docs is easier than you might think. In a nutshell, you’ll need to adjust your document’s settings to meet APA guidelines, which include 1-inch margins, a running head, page numbers, double spacing, and the correct font and font size. After reading this article, you’ll be an APA formatting pro!

Step by Step Tutorial: Applying Google Docs APA Format

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s get a sense of what we’re aiming for. The APA format is a set of rules for formatting academic documents. It’s widely used in the social sciences, and following it correctly can really make your work shine. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Set Your Margins to 1 inch

Open your Google Doc and click on the “File” menu, then select “Page Setup.”

Getting your margins right is crucial because it’s the framework of your document. APA requires all margins to be set at 1 inch, and luckily Google Docs makes this easy. Once in “Page Setup,” you’ll see the margins section where you can enter “1” for all sides.

Step 2: Insert a Running Head

Click on “Insert,” then “Header,” and type your running head.

The running head is a short version of your paper’s title and should be no more than 50 characters, including spaces. It goes in the header of each page, aligned to the left. Your first page will have “Running head: YOUR TITLE” and subsequent pages will just have the title.

Step 3: Add Page Numbers

While in the header, click on “Insert” again, then “Page Numbers,” and choose the top-right option.

Page numbers are a must in APA format. They should be flush to the right margin and located in the header of every page. Google Docs makes it a breeze to add these.

Step 4: Double Space Your Text

Select all your text with Ctrl+A (or Cmd+A on Mac), then click on the “Line Spacing” icon and choose “Double.”

Double spacing is standard for APA format because it makes the document easier to read and edit. Remember to apply double spacing to your entire document, including your references page.

Step 5: Choose the Correct Font and Size

Highlight your text and select “Times New Roman” as your font and “12” for your font size.

APA typically requires Times New Roman at a 12-point size. Make sure your document adheres to this standard so that it’s not only compliant but also looks professional.

Once you’ve followed these steps, your document should be perfectly formatted according to APA standards. This means it’ll be ready for submission to your professor or for publication in an academic journal.

Tips for Applying Google Docs APA Format

Always check with your instructor for specific formatting guidelines they may require.
Use Google Docs’ built-in citation tools to help format your references.
Remember to include a title page and abstract if required, following APA guidelines.
Pay attention to the headings and subheadings structure, which APA also regulates.
Keep the “Page Setup” options in mind for future documents – once you’ve set them, you can use them as a template for other APA papers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i align my title page according to apa format in google docs.

Your title page should be double spaced and centered both vertically and horizontally on the page. You can adjust the vertical alignment by going to “Format,” then “Align & indent,” and selecting “Centre.”

Can I use fonts other than Times New Roman for APA format?

While Times New Roman is the traditional font for APA format, other readable fonts like Arial (11-point) or Georgia (11-point) are also acceptable. Be sure to check with your instructor or publication guidelines.

How do I create a hanging indent for my references in Google Docs?

Highlight your references, then go to “Format,” “Align & indent,” and select “Indentation options.” Set “Special indent” to “Hanging” and “By” to 0.5 inches.

What should I do if my instructor has additional formatting requirements?

Always follow your instructor’s specific guidelines, even if they differ from standard APA format. They have the final say on how your document should be formatted.

Is there a difference in formatting between the APA 6th and 7th editions?

Yes, there are several changes, including the running head, which is no longer required for student papers in the 7th edition, and guidelines for font choices. Always confirm which edition you should be using.

Set your margins to 1 inch in the “Page Setup.”
Insert a running head in the header for the first page and then a shortened title for subsequent pages.
Add page numbers in the top-right corner of the header.
Double space your entire document.
Use Times New Roman font at a 12-point size or another approved font.

Mastering Google Docs APA format can seem a bit daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a breeze. Remember, the key to any good academic paper is not just the content but also the presentation. Correct APA formatting shows your attention to detail and respect for the academic community’s standards. Don’t be afraid to use this article as a reference – bookmark it, share it with friends, or keep it handy for your next big paper. Whether you’re a seasoned academic or a first-year college student, knowing how to apply google docs APA format is a skill that will serve you well throughout your academic journey. Now, go forth and format with confidence!

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How To Use APA Format In Google Docs

Key Takeaways

APA format is the preferred format for writing academic papers in social sciences, psychology, and behavioral studies.
You can use either the built-in tools of Google Docs or the template to create an APA format in Google Docs.
An external add-on available in Google Workspace Marketplace is also of great help.

The American Psychological Association, or APA, developed the terminology that academics use and understand throughout the world. APA format serves as the standard for writing research papers in social sciences, psychology, and behavioral sciences. Those who wish to use APA format in Google Docs can use the built-in functions or the template.

Google Docs supports the APA and MLA formats , the most commonly used format template in academic writing. APA style is generally used to organize studies better and make it easier for the reader to access critical information. In addition, the APA style is widely used because it sets the standard for writing. The current APA style is 7th edition.

What Is APA Format?

If you want to write in APA format in Google Docs like an MLA format template document, you must follow an extended checklist. If not all, most APA formats require the components mentioned below-

Introduction
Review of the Literature
References/ Cited List

3 Ways To Use APA Format In Google Docs

There are three ways to write your academic papers in APA format in Google Docs.

1. Use Template To Access APA Format In Google Docs

When it comes to using templates for APA format in Google Docs, there are two templates available in the template gallery – 6th and 7th edition templates. Using the template helps you write your academic papers in an easy way because it is already in a general APA formatted paper that you might need.

Let us see how we can use it.

Step 1: Open Google Docs on your browser.

Step 2: Click on the Template Gallery in the top right corner of your Google Docs homepage.

Step 3: From the Education Section, select APA Format. Two editions of the format are available, viz. 6th and 7th edition. Choose whichever you prefer.

Select any one APA format from 6th and 7th Edition

Step 4: The APA format on Google Docs will open. You can either select the 6th edition or the 7th one.

Font style, font size, margins, alignment, sequence of the parts, preferred citation format – all the proper formatting details are taken care of. It is a sample paper where formatting is done, and you just have to write your APA paper.

You can write your academic paper (student paper) and professional papers with the help of these editable templates. If your instructor needs some minor changes in the formatting, please do that in these templates and use them.

2. Step-by-Step Manual On APA Format In Google Docs

If you don’t wish to use the template, you can also format your paper in a blank Google Doc. You can create the APA format in Google Docs if you know all the formatting settings.

When using Google Docs in APA format, keep these things in mind:

All the margins need to be 1 inch on all sides.
The font style has to be Times New Roman, and the font size should be 12
Line spacing has to be double spaced.
Every paragraph should have an indentation.
A title page is a must which should include information about your paper and you.
A header with a paper title and page numbers is a must.
You should have an abstract about your paper findings.
The title should be center-aligned.
You should have a References page at the end of your paper with alphabetical APA citations.
All APA headings should be in bold font style.

Keeping these things in mind, let us see how you can apply the APA format on Google Docs.

Step 1: Change the margins. You need to set 1-inch margins on all sides for your APA format paper. By default Google Docs has one-inch page margins on all sides, so you will not need to change it. If you have set a different default value for all your Google Docs, you will need to change them back to 1 inch.

Step 2: Change Font and Size. By default, every Google Doc font is ‘Arial,’ and font size is set to 11. For your APA format in Google Docs, you will need to select the font ‘Times New Roman’ from the drop-down list. Then, increase the size to 12 by clicking on the plus (+) button beside the textbox where the font size is displayed.

Step 3: Change Line Spacing. By default, line spacing is 1.15. You need to change it to Double. There are no extra spaces between paragraphs. For line spacing, click on the Line and spacing paragraph icon on the formatting toolbar. From the drop-down list, select Double.

There is another way to accomplish this. Click on the Format menu from the menu bar. Select the Line & paragraph spacing option. Select Double from the drop-down menu.

Click on the Format menu and change the line spacing

Step 4: Paragraph Indentation. Every first line of a new paragraph of your paper needs to be indented. Click on the Tab key on your keyboard before starting a new paragraph. You can also use the left indent on your document’s ruler. Drag the rectangle pointer and set it to 0.50 on the ruler, i.e., 1/2-inch left indent from the left margin.

Drag and set the rectangle pointer to 0.50 on the ruler tool

Step 5: Title Page. Every paper or essay needs to have a title paper. For the title page of APA format in Google Docs, you need to make a few changes. The Title page text needs to be center aligned. Select the alignment by clicking on the center align button on the formatting toolbar.

Next, hit the Enter key on your keyboard at least seven times so that you will start your text from the quarter of your page. Write the Full Title of your paper in bold letters. To do so, click on the Bold icon on the formatting toolbar.

Now, unselect the Bold icon and type your Full name in the First Middle Last sequence. On the next line, type the name of your School or Institution. Then in the following lines, write the Course name and number, the Instructors name, and Date, respectively.

Step 6: The next section of the title page is the Authors Note. This section is used only when you are writing the paper for some professional use.

Mention these things: First paragraph: Author ORCID iDs (if any), Second paragraph: Changes in affiliation (if any), Third paragraph: Disclosures and Acknowledgments, Fourth paragraph: Contact information (mailing address and e-mail).

Step 7: Set Header. For APA format in Google Docs, you need to show the title of your paper and page number on every page of your essay.

To do so, click on the Insert menu from the menu bar. Then, from Headers and Footers, select the Header option. Set the font to Times New Roman and size to 12 for the header.

Write the full title of your paper in all capital letters. For page numbers, select Page numbers from the Options dropdown menu.

Select Page numbers from the options menu

By default, it is set to 1. Click Apply.

The header will look as shown in the figure. Adjust the spacing properly.

Header Format for APA format in google docs

Step 8: Next comes the Abstract Page. Hit the Ctrl+Enter key for a Page break. Then, choose the Center Alignment and Bold style. Type ‘Abstract’ and press the Enter key. Do not set the indent for this paragraph as it is a single paragraph section. Now, select Left Align for the abstract.

Step 9: Start of Paper. For this, hit Ctrl+Enter for a Page break. Select Center Align by clicking the center align button, and for the Bold Style, click the bold icon. Type the full name of your title. Press the Enter button.

Then, set the indent for the paragraph. Now, you can start writing your paper.

Start of the paper for APA format in google docs

Step 10: References. All of the sources you’ve summarized, paraphrased, or quoted in your essay are listed alphabetically on your References page. A reference page is a must for any APA format in Google Docs.

This page should be placed at the end of the paper and should start a new page.

Next, press the Ctrl+Enter keys on your keyboard. The references list should be double-spaced and left-aligned. It should be written in a bold style and center-aligned. The reference list must have hanging indents.

Hanging indents are those kinds of indents where the first line is not indented, and all the subsequent lines are indented. The subsequent lines use ½ inch indent.

Hanging Indent for References format for APA format in google docs

Step 11: In-text citation entries. For APA format Google Docs also requires in-text citation details. All the quotes and facts are followed by complete citations. The citation style consists of Author’s last name, publication year, and page number. You can eliminate the page number if you refer to the entire work. Giving a citation source is very important.

Example: (Hawking, 2000, p. 34)

3. Use External Add-on For APA Format In Google Docs

Google Workspace Marketplace also has some external add-ons or plugins for using APA Format in Google Docs. One such add-on is MLA/APA Formatter. The default template supports MLA style as well as APA style paper. The add-on will set all the APA formatting needed for writing an essay.

Users can follow the steps mentioned below for installing and using the add-on.

Step 1: Get the MLA/APA Formatter from Google Workspace Marketplace. A new tab will open.

Step 2: Click Install.

Click on the Install button for APA format in google docs

Step 3: A prompt will appear asking for permission to continue. Click continue.

Step 4: Select the Google Account.

Step 5: Click Allow to give the permissions for installation.

Click Allow for APA format in google docs

Step 6: Click Next to continue.

Step 7: Click on Complete additional setup now.

Step 8: A new window will open. Click on the install button.

Step 9: Next, let’s use the add-on. Open a new blank document. Then click on the Add-ons menu from the menu bar. After that, select the MLA/APA Formatter add-on.

Click on Add-ons and select the MLA/APA Formatter add-on.

Step 10: A panel will appear on the right side of the screen.

A Panel on the Right Side of the window will appear

You can start the tutorial or import data to use APA format in Google Docs.

The APA format has changed a few times over the years (we’re now using APA Seventh Edition, or “APA 7”), but the fundamentals have remained consistent. You can set it up in Google Docs regardless of which version of the APA format you’re using. Most users prefer to use the APA format in Google Docs as the paper’s formatting is already set.

We can even do the formatting right from scratch if we want to with the help of various built-in features of Google Docs. Also, an external add-on helps you with the formatting if you do not wish to use the template or do the formatting yourself. You can write in any word processor like Microsoft Word, or Libre Office writer. But Google Docs not only provides you with APA 7th edition template, but its other features make it more user-friendly.

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How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or other built-in features

You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template.
The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of which can be done in Google Docs.
Google Docs' templates page includes pre-made APA 6 and APA 7 documents you can use as well.

Here's how to make an APA essay in Google Docs, either manually or using a template.

Quick tip: This guide focuses on the Google Docs website, not the app. While you can format an APA paper using the app, you'll have a much easier time using the website.

How to set up an APA format paper in Google Docs

Important: Below are the standard APA 7 rules, but you should always follow your instructor's specific guidelines, even if they differ from the official rules.

The font needs to be readable and consistent.

You can change your font and font size using the toolbar at the top of the screen. If you're trying to change text that you've already written, just be sure to highlight it first.

Quick tip: If you're writing for a professional context, you'll also need to add an Author Note with your ORCiD link and any conflicts of interest at the bottom of your title page. Consult the APA handbook directly for more guidance.

Your paper should end with a References page, and each entry should be written with a hanging indent.

The last section of your paper is the References page. Make sure to put it on a new page (or pages, depending on how many you have to cite).

The word "References" should be centered and bolded on the very first line of the page. You can center the words using the alignment options mentioned above, and bold it by clicking the B icon .

List all your references in alphabetical order and use the ruler to give each one a hanging indent — in other words, every line after the first needs to be indented .

Quick tip: APA requires a different style for every citation, depending on what you're referencing. For a full guide on how to write your references, check out the Purdue OWL's guide on how to write a References page .

Your citations need hanging indents, which you can make with the ruler tool. Google; William Antonelli/Insider

How to use google docs' apa format templates.

To use one of these templates:

1. Head to the Google Docs homepage and click Template gallery in the top-right.

2. Scroll down the templates page until you reach the Education section. In this section, click either Report [APA 6th ed] or Report [APA 7th ed] .

3. A page will open with an APA format paper already written in fake Lorem Ipsum language. Most of the formatting is there, so you just need to replace the pre-written words with your own.

You can find these templates in the mobile app by tapping the plus sign icon in the bottom-right, and then selecting Choose template .

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Generate accurate APA citations for free

Knowledge Base
APA Style 7th edition
APA format for academic papers and essays

APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.) | Generator, Template, Examples

Published on November 6, 2020 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on January 17, 2024.

The 7th edition of the APA Publication Manual provides guidelines for clear communication , citing sources , and formatting documents. This article focuses on paper formatting.

Generate accurate APA citations with Scribbr

Throughout your paper, you need to apply the following APA format guidelines:

Set page margins to 1 inch on all sides.
Double-space all text, including headings.
Indent the first line of every paragraph 0.5 inches.
Use an accessible font (e.g., Times New Roman 12pt., Arial 11pt., or Georgia 11pt.).
Include a page number on every page.

Let an expert format your paper

Our APA formatting experts can help you to format your paper according to APA guidelines. They can help you with:

Margins, line spacing, and indentation
Font and headings
Running head and page numbering

How to set up apa format (with template), apa alphabetization guidelines, apa format template [free download], page header, headings and subheadings, reference page, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about apa format.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

References are ordered alphabetically by the first author’s last name. If the author is unknown, order the reference entry by the first meaningful word of the title (ignoring articles: “the”, “a”, or “an”).

Why set up APA format from scratch if you can download Scribbr’s template for free?

Student papers and professional papers have slightly different guidelines regarding the title page, abstract, and running head. Our template is available in Word and Google Docs format for both versions.

Student paper: Word | Google Docs
Professional paper: Word | Google Docs

In an APA Style paper, every page has a page header. For student papers, the page header usually consists of just a page number in the page’s top-right corner. For professional papers intended for publication, it also includes a running head .

A running head is simply the paper’s title in all capital letters. It is left-aligned and can be up to 50 characters in length. Longer titles are abbreviated .

Scribbr Citation Checker New

The AI-powered Citation Checker helps you avoid common mistakes such as:

Missing commas and periods
Incorrect usage of “et al.”
Ampersands (&) in narrative citations
Missing reference entries

APA headings have five possible levels. Heading level 1 is used for main sections such as “ Methods ” or “ Results ”. Heading levels 2 to 5 are used for subheadings. Each heading level is formatted differently.

Want to know how many heading levels you should use, when to use which heading level, and how to set up heading styles in Word or Google Docs? Then check out our in-depth article on APA headings .

The title page is the first page of an APA Style paper. There are different guidelines for student and professional papers.

Both versions include the paper title and author’s name and affiliation. The student version includes the course number and name, instructor name, and due date of the assignment. The professional version includes an author note and running head .

For more information on writing a striking title, crediting multiple authors (with different affiliations), and writing the author note, check out our in-depth article on the APA title page .

APA title page - student version (7th edition)

The abstract is a 150–250 word summary of your paper. An abstract is usually required in professional papers, but it’s rare to include one in student papers (except for longer texts like theses and dissertations).

The abstract is placed on a separate page after the title page . At the top of the page, write the section label “Abstract” (bold and centered). The contents of the abstract appear directly under the label. Unlike regular paragraphs, the first line is not indented. Abstracts are usually written as a single paragraph without headings or blank lines.

Directly below the abstract, you may list three to five relevant keywords . On a new line, write the label “Keywords:” (italicized and indented), followed by the keywords in lowercase letters, separated by commas.

APA Style does not provide guidelines for formatting the table of contents . It’s also not a required paper element in either professional or student papers. If your instructor wants you to include a table of contents, it’s best to follow the general guidelines.

Place the table of contents on a separate page between the abstract and introduction. Write the section label “Contents” at the top (bold and centered), press “Enter” once, and list the important headings with corresponding page numbers.

The APA reference page is placed after the main body of your paper but before any appendices . Here you list all sources that you’ve cited in your paper (through APA in-text citations ). APA provides guidelines for formatting the references as well as the page itself.

Creating APA Style references

Play around with the Scribbr Citation Example Generator below to learn about the APA reference format of the most common source types or generate APA citations for free with Scribbr’s APA Citation Generator .

Formatting the reference page

Write the section label “References” at the top of a new page (bold and centered). Place the reference entries directly under the label in alphabetical order.

Finally, apply a hanging indent , meaning the first line of each reference is left-aligned, and all subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches.

Tables and figures are presented in a similar format. They’re preceded by a number and title and followed by explanatory notes (if necessary).

Use bold styling for the word “Table” or “Figure” and the number, and place the title on a separate line directly below it (in italics and title case). Try to keep tables clean; don’t use any vertical lines, use as few horizontal lines as possible, and keep row and column labels concise.

Keep the design of figures as simple as possible. Include labels and a legend if needed, and only use color when necessary (not to make it look more appealing).

Check out our in-depth article about table and figure notes to learn when to use notes and how to format them.

The easiest way to set up APA format in Word is to download Scribbr’s free APA format template for student papers or professional papers.

Alternatively, you can watch Scribbr’s 5-minute step-by-step tutorial or check out our APA format guide with examples.

APA Style papers should be written in a font that is legible and widely accessible. For example:

Times New Roman (12pt.)
Arial (11pt.)
Calibri (11pt.)
Georgia (11pt.)

The same font and font size is used throughout the document, including the running head , page numbers, headings , and the reference page . Text in footnotes and figure images may be smaller and use single line spacing.

You need an APA in-text citation and reference entry . Each source type has its own format; for example, a webpage citation is different from a book citation .

Use Scribbr’s free APA Citation Generator to generate flawless citations in seconds or take a look at our APA citation examples .

Yes, page numbers are included on all pages, including the title page , table of contents , and reference page . Page numbers should be right-aligned in the page header.

To insert page numbers in Microsoft Word or Google Docs, click ‘Insert’ and then ‘Page number’.

APA format is widely used by professionals, researchers, and students in the social and behavioral sciences, including fields like education, psychology, and business.

Be sure to check the guidelines of your university or the journal you want to be published in to double-check which style you should be using.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2024, January 17). APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.) | Generator, Template, Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 8, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/apa-style/format/

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Other students also liked, apa title page (7th edition) | template for students & professionals, creating apa reference entries, beginner's guide to apa in-text citation, unlimited academic ai-proofreading.

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How to Set up an APA Format Paper in Google Docs

Setting up a paper in APA format using Google Docs is easy thanks to built-in formatting options and templates. Follow these steps:

Choose an Accessible Font

APA recommends using a font that is accessible to all readers, such as:

Times New Roman 12pt
Georgia 11pt
Calibri 11pt

Ensure the font is consistent throughout the entire paper.

Double Space the Entire Paper

APA format requires double spacing throughout, including:

Block quotes
Reference list
Tables and figures

To double space in Google Docs:

Click Format
Select Line spacing
Choose Double

Set 1 Inch Margins

The margin settings for APA format are:

Top: 1 inch
Bottom: 1 inch
Left: 1 inch
Right: 1 inch

To change margins in Google Docs:

Select Page setup
Set all margins to 1 inch

Indent First Line of Paragraphs

The first line of every paragraph in an APA paper should be indented 0.5 inches.

To set a first line indent in Google Docs:

Select Align & indent
Under Indentation options, choose First line and set to 0.5 inches

Add Page Numbers

Include a page number on every page, starting with 1 on the title page. Page numbers go in the top right corner.

To insert page numbers in Google Docs:

Click Insert
Select Page numbers
Choose a style and alignment

Format Headings Properly

APA uses specific heading formats:

Level 1 Heading

Centered, Bold, Title Case

Level 2 Heading

Flush Left, Bold, Title Case

Level 3 Heading

Flush Left, Bold Italic, Title Case

To format headings in Google Docs, highlight the heading text and use the formatting toolbar.

Use an APA Template

The easiest way to setup APA format is to start with an APA template. Google Docs includes templates for:

APA 6th edition
APA 7th edition

To access the templates:

Open Google Docs
Click Template gallery
Scroll down to the Education section
Select the desired APA template

The template will contain dummy text formatted properly so you can start writing immediately. Simply delete the dummy text and insert your own content.

Proofread Carefully

Be sure to carefully proofread your final paper to check for proper APA formatting before turning it in. Pay extra attention to:

Font style and size
Line spacing
Indentations
Page numbers

Correct any formatting issues to ensure your paper conforms perfectly to APA guidelines.

Following these steps will make setting up an APA paper in Google Docs simple. Leverage the built-in tools and take advantage of pre-formatted templates to save time and ensure accuracy. Review the American Psychological Association’s website for additional guidance on APA standards. With attention to detail and proofreading, you’ll have a properly formatted paper ready for submission.

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How to Create an APA Format Template in Google Docs With Examples

11 December 2023

last updated

The American Psychological Association (APA) referencing technique outlines specific formatting and organization of student papers that an author can readily preserve in a template. Basically, this guide begins with a comprehensive description of Google Docs and highlights its utility to students. Then, the manual explains the method for accessing the ready Google Docs APA template. Next, the guide provides step-by-step instructions for manually creating an APA format template in Google Docs. In turn, this manual discusses the making of an APA format template in two major stages: setting up the major sections of the template and covering elements that affect the entire paper.

Google Docs

Google Docs is a word-processing program that runs on an online platform with a high level of integration with other Google services and products. Basically, students use Google Docs to create text documents that require special formatting and organization, for example, an APA format essay. In this case, Google Docs users can use the software on Google Chrome. Also, Google Docs works on other browsers, but the user must first sign in to his or her Google account. Then, instructors encourage students to use Google Docs because it offers a permanent solution to the risk of losing saved assignments, which is a significant problem when using word processors that save documents in the laptop’s hardware. Besides, Google Docs updates all changes made to an assignment file in near real-time and preserves it in Google Drive, which makes an individual’s work accessible regardless of the device.

Ready APA Format Template in Google Docs

Google Docs comes with several ready templates, which include an APA format template. On a blank document, students navigate to the “File” tab (marker 1; see figure 1). After clicking the “File” tab, select “New” on the dropdown menu (marker 2). Then, click on “From template” on the dropdown menu that appears on the right of “New” (marker 3). The “Template gallery” opens up on a separate window. In the “Template gallery,” scroll to the “Education” section that contains the APA template under the name “Report: APA.”

Navigating to the “Template gallery”

Setting Up Major Sections of an APA Format Template in Google Docs

1. title page.

The APA referencing style has a fixed title page for student papers. Basically, students press the enter key on the keyboard to create blank spaces. In this case, the blank space is composed of at least two blank lines, but no more than five blank lines (marker 1; see figure 2). After the four-line space, an author writes the title of the paper, his or her names, the name of the institution that he or she attends, the course number and name, the instructor’s name, and the due date or submission date (marker 2). Also, students write each of these details on separate lines. Finally, the author centers elements of the title page using the centering functionality (marker 3).

Elements and Organisation of the Title Page

2. Abstract

Immediately after the date on the title page, students should jump to the next page through the creation of a section break (marker 4; see figure 3). Basically, authors create the section break by clicking on the “Insert” tab and navigating to the “Break” section in the dropdown menu, as shown by markers 1 and 2. Also, writers select the “Section break (next page)” option in the “Break” dropdown menu (marker 3). In this case, students center the title of the abstract page, “Abstract,” at the top of the page (marker 5). Besides, when creating an APA format template in Google Docs, the abstract begins with no indentation (marker 6). Then, the keywords appear after the last line of the abstract with half an inch indentation from the left margin. In turn, a colon follows the phrase “Keywords,” which authors italicize, as shown by marker 7.

Developing an Abstract

3. Title of the Paper

All essays or research papers in APA begin on a new page, which requires the insertion of a section break using the technique described in the previous section (marker 1; see figure 4). In this case, authors write full titles of their papers at the top of the new page (marker 2). Besides, students use title case styling and center the title (marker 2). Then, scholars write their essays on a new line, with no spaces between the title and first line (marker 3). In turn, the essay text aligns with the left margin of the paper.

Formatting the Title and Essay Text

4. References Page

After the final word of the essay, students place a section break to move to the next page (marker 1; see figure 5). In this case, authors create the section break using the procedure in figure 3. Moreover, the title of the reference page, “References,” appears at the top of the new page (marker 5). On the next line, students write their first citation, covering the rules of organizing an APA format template in Google Docs. Then, each reference list entry exists in its paragraph, which has a hanging indentation (marker 6). In turn, students click on the “Format” tab (marker 2) and select the “Align and indent” option (marker 3) to reveal a dropdown menu that contains the “Indentation options” functionality (marker 4). Upon clicking the “Indentation options,” a new window opens, which allows authors to select “hanging” under the “special indentation” section and set the indentation distance to 0.5 inches.

Setting up the Reference Page

Setting Up APA Format Elements That Affect the Entire Paper Template in Google Docs

Students click the “Insert” tab while the cursor is somewhere on the text of the page (marker 1; see figure 6). Under the “Insert” dropdown menu, writers select the “Headers and footers” option (marker 2), which allows them to select the “Header” (marker 3). In this case, the header section appears at the top of the page with the cursor aligned with the left margin. Also, authors write a shortened title of the paper, which should not exceed 50 characters (marker 4).

First and Second Page Header Differences . On the first page, the phrase “Running head:” precedes the shortened title, which makes its header different from the rest of the page, as shown in figure 7. Consequently, students check the “Different first page” box for the first page, as illustrated by marker 5 in figure 7. On the second page, authors do not check the “Different first page” and “Link to previous” boxes (marker 5; see figure 6).

Creating the Header

2. Page Numbers

Students access the tab-stop function by right-clicking the ruler, which opens a menu that contains the “Add right tab-stop” option (marker 1; see figure 7). After activating the right tab-stop, a triangle appears on the ruler, and authors drag the triangle towards the right until it aligns with the blue triangle on the right edge of the ruler. Once the cursor is correctly aligned with the right margin using the tab key, students click the “Insert” tab to expose a dropdown menu (marker 2). Then, scholars click the “Page numbers” section (marker 3), which displays various options for page number styling. In turn, writers select the page number style, where the numbering begins from the first page, and the number takes the top-right position on the paper (marker 4).

Inserting the Page Number

Students click on the dropdown arrow of the font tab on the toolbar (marker 1; see figure 8). In this case, a list of different fonts appears, and authors select the preferred font by scrolling down the list (marker 2). Finally, scholars adjust the font size by clicking the font size dropdown arrow on the toolbar (marker 3). Mostly, APA format papers use 12-point Times New Roman and 11-point Arial in Google Docs, although writers may use other san serif and serif fonts.

Choosing the Font and Setting Font Size

Students click on the “File” tab on the toolbar, which reveals a dropdown menu with the “Page setup” option (marker 1; see figure 9). After selecting the “Page setup” option, a new window pops up on the screen (marker 2). In this case, authors change the “Apply to” section to “Whole document” (marker 3). Finally, scholars set the margins to 2.57 centimeters, which is equivalent to one inch (marker 4).

Setting One Inch Margins

5. Indentation

Scholars navigate to the “Indentation options” using the steps illustrated in figure 5. On clicking the “Indentation options” section, a new tab opens, which allows users to customize the indentation settings (marker 1; see figure 10). In this case, APA style does not require any indentation of standard body text, which implies that students set the indentation distance to zero (marker 2). However, the first line of each paragraph requires a half-inch indentation in Google Docs. Hence, authors select “First Line” under the special indent section and set the indentation distance to 1.27 cm (marker 3).

Half Inch Indentation for Body Paragraphs

Authors click on the “Format” tab (marker 1), which opens a menu that contains a “Line spacing option” (marker 2; see figure 11). In this case, the “Line spacing” option provides writers with a variety of spacing options. Moreover, students click on the appropriate spacing, which instructors typically provide in assignment instructions (marker 3).

Line Spacing

Saving APA Format Template in Google Docs

The free version of Google Docs does not allow users to create their APA format templates. Nonetheless, a student may create this template and save it as an ordinary document, which he or she may reuse when necessary. In particulars, scholars open the original template file and click on the “File” tab, which generates a dropdown menu (marker 1; see figure 12). Then, students click on the “Make a copy” option (marker 2), which preserves the integrity of the original template and creates a new document that authors may use for an assignment.

Opening a Copy of the Template

A ready APA format template in Google Docs saves students from the hustle of last-minute formatting, which may result in errors and penalties.
It is good practice to create the title page, abstract, first page of the essay, and reference before other elements because they have unique formatting requirements.

Also, check out how to create an MLA format template in Google Docs .

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How to cite a journal article in mla 9: the main rules with examples, how to cite an encyclopedia in apa 7: the main rules with examples.

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How to set up an APA format of an essay in Google Docs

Students have to deal with hundreds of writing assignments during their academic path. Such papers aim to develop undergraduates’ critical thinking, writing, formatting, and structuring abilities. Indeed, every essay has to be written according to a specific format and structure. Depending on your major, you may need to follow different formatting styles. The most prominent and used ones are MLA (Modern Language Association), Chicago, and APA (American Psychological Association). If you use Google Docs, you can find some templates to use there. However, if you want to manually set up this format, you are most welcome to read this article.

Table of Contents

APA format: Definition, Rules, and Purpose

As we already know, APA stands for American Psychological Association. It is mostly used by scholars who study Social Sciences, such as Linguistics, Criminology, Sociology, Economics, etc. Indeed, it has established rules regarding font, title, and a reference page. Even though professors may require sticking to different instructions, a standard APA paper has the following attributes:

Double-spaced text without spaces between paragraphs
The text follows 12 Times New Roman font (it can be replaced by any other font, such as Arial; however, Times New Roman is hardly ever replaced by other fonts)
One-inch page margins all over the paper
A header that includes your paper’s title and page number
The first page, also known as the title page, comprises your credentials, the topic, and affiliation you belong to
Body paragraphs are indented with a ½ inch
In-text citations for direct quotes or paraphrased sentences
The last page is called References in the APA format, where you include your sources used

Note that the default template placed in Google Docs includes units that can be redundant for your piece. That is, you may not need such sections as Methodology or Results. Either way, you are free to go to the official APA page and find out what you need.

Using The APA Template In Google Docs

In case you want to use a standard APA format in Google Docs, you have to go to Files — New — From template. When you do this, you will be redirected to a new tab where you will find the bulk of different templates. Go a little bit down, and you will see an Education section. Select an APA format, and voila.

The document will have some text just to show you how the paper should look. Some essays don’t need to have specific chapters. You are free to delete them when using this template.

How To Set Up The APA Format In Google Docs

Many people encounter problems with Google Docs. Which may have them switch to another alternative . The reason is they can’t see any templates. When using Templates , they are redirected to the page with their previously written documents. Suppose you face the same issue, no need to worry. You can create a document on your own, and we will gladly help you with that:

Undoubtedly, a default Arial is a real pain in the neck. You always have to change it before writing an academic paper. Change it to Times New Roman 12.
Then click Insert on the left top — Headers and footers — Header (or you can simply press Ctrl+Alt+O or Ctrl+Alt+H ).
Again, when filling out the header, you have to change its font from Arial 11 to Times New Roman 12. Remember to write it in CAPS.
The next thing you have to do is to set up page numbers. Go to Insert — Page numbers — Page number .
You have to align the page number with the top-right margin. You can do that by clicking the tab or spacebar. And don’t forget to click Different first page. Your title page doesn’t have to be indicated by a page number. Don’t worry, though, as the page number will appear on subsequent pages.
Besides, type “Running head:” before the title. Make sure the following pages have numbers and are aligned with the top-right margin.
Click anywhere on the paper and choose Format — Line — Spacing — Double. Please note that your professor may require you to follow single line spacing. Clarify which spacing you have to stick to.
On the title page, make sure your indicator is about mid-way down the page. Select Center Align.
Type the document’s full title, your first and second name, and the institutional affiliation. You must write every item on separate lines.
Finally, choose Select — Break — Page Break to start a new page.
Again, pick Center Align and type Abstract. Alternatively, you can Align your text and line space in the toolbar at the top right of Google Docs.
Once you do that, press Enter and select Left Align .
Press Tab to indent the text and start a new paragraph.
Since the Abstract has to be written on a separate page, press Enter + Ctrl to start a new one. Plus, press Tab to indicate the beginning of the paragraph.
Repeat that when finishing your paper with a Reference page.

How To Handle Referencing in APA

Each and every academic paper needs to have credible sources to support the student’s arguments. Regardless of the formatting style, you have to give credits to academicians you refer to. To do that, you have to create a page called References. Your sources must be alphabetized by the scholar’s last name. Besides, every second line of the same reference must be indented. For example:

Gore, A. (2006). An inconvenient truth: The planetary emergency of global warming and what

we can do about it. Emmaus, PA: Rodale.

Michaels, P. J., & Balling, R. C., Jr. (2000). The satanic gases: Clearing the air about global

warming. Washington, DC: Cato Institute.

Begley, S., & Murr, A. (2007, July 2). Which of these is not causing global warming? A. Sport

utility vehicles; B. Rice fields; C. Increased solar output. Newsweek, 150(2), 48-50.

How To Give Credits In Text In APA

When writing essays using APA, you also need to know how to make in-text citations. APA requires mentioning the author’s last name and the year of publication. If you insert direct quotes, you must include the page number, as well. The citation itself has to be at the end of a sentence, followed by a period. The following are in-text citations for various textual or statistical evidence:

Paying no attention to global warming, people jeopardize our future, which, in turn, may not occur (Gore, 2006).

It is not clear to what extent specimens as tools to document phonological changes can help people slow down severe effects caused by global warming (Miller-Rushing, Primack, Primack, & Mukunda, 2006, p. 1671)

Recapitulation

Writing academic essays may seem easy at first glance. Knowing a structure, you can complete the paper promptly and submit it to the teacher. But, be that as it may, the professor will likely put an unsatisfactory grade. This may occur because of the improper formatting style.

The mentioned guide goes through the most crucial aspects you have to meet to write an academic piece. Following this guideline, you will spend less time creating headers, indenting texts, and writing citations. Employ this guide daily to make your writing abilities and productivity skyrocket.

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How to Do APA Format on Google Docs and Tailor Them to Your Needs

Did you know that you can create world-class academic documents on Google Docs? Whether you’re a student or an academic expert, applying different document formats like APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard is important to raise the standard. As APA is one of the most widely used formats, you should understand how to do APA format on Google Docs in a few steps.

Visit the home page of Google Docs.
Click Template Gallery and select the one that displays APA 6th/7th format.
Tap on the document in the APA format.
Start editing the document.

That’s just as easy as 1-2-3. In this article, let’s look at the exact way to apply APA format to your document and other uses of this format.

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How To Do APA Format On Google Docs

While it sounds like Greek and Latin to get your document to adhere to APA format, there’s an easy way in Google Docs.

To create a document in APA format on Google Docs, follow the steps below.

3. Tap on the document in the APA format.

4. Start editing the document.

As soon as you begin working on the document, you can observe various formats such as running head, paragraph alignment , referencing format, footer , and topic indents.

Why Is The APA Format Used

The American Psychological Association (APA) formatting style is widely used for academic and professional publications. It provides a set of rules and guidelines for presenting written information consistently and organizationally.

The primary benefit of using the APA format is that it makes documents easier for both the author and the reader. Using standard conventions such as margins, font size, line spacing, and headings lets readers quickly identify the document structure and skim important sections more efficiently. Additionally, providing a comprehensive framework for citations ensures that authors get credit when referring to other people’s work in their papers.

Another reason APA formatting has become so popular is that it helps writers organize their thoughts more effectively. Following specific guidelines on how to present each section of a paper – such as a title page, abstracts, introduction, and conclusion – can guide how best to structure the content. This, in turn, can help writers express their ideas coherently.

How To Confirm If A Document Is In APA Format

Using the APA format correctly can be tricky, especially if you’re new to it. Luckily, Google Docs makes it easy to confirm your document’s formatted correctly. Here are some steps you can take to make sure your paper adheres to the style guidelines:

Check for Proper Header Formatting – The title page should have a ‘running head’ in the header at the top of each page. This should include the shortened version of your paper’s title and the page number. You can check that this is set up properly by clicking in the header box and double-checking that the ‘Different First Page’ is not clicked.
Check for Margins & Line Spacing – The document should have 1-inch margins on all sides, with double-spaced lines throughout the paper. To check this, go to File > Page Setup and make sure any custom margins are removed and that line spacing is set to Double.
Check the Font – The font size should be 12 points with a font type of Times New Roman or Arial/Helvetica. To check this, highlight all text in the document (Ctrl + A) and then select either Times New Roman or Arial from the dropdown menu under Fonts at the top of your screen.
Check Sources & Citations – All sources must be listed on a References page at the end of your paper. Any citations within your document must follow APA formatting guidelines for in-text and reference list entries. You can find more information about these topics here: Purdue OWL

These simple elements confirm that the document adheres to the APA format. Perhaps, most academic experts and publishers also adhere to these basic guidelines.

Final Thoughts

APA is one of the most widely used formats and is perhaps considered a standard by publishers and domain experts. If you want to structure your document in APA format in Google Docs, follow every step mentioned in this article to save time.

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How to Change Margins in Google Docs: Adjust Margins Tutorial

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APA Style 7th Edition Tutorials for Students in Psychology and Social Work

What is apa style.

The Importance of Citing

Why is APA Style needed?

How do i get started with apa style, let us practice what we have learned, attribution and acknowledgement.

Basics of APA Style Tutorial
Reference Entry Elements
Reference Examples
Reference List
In-Text Citations
Student Paper Format
Managing References - Zotero

Origination of APA Style

Where did APA Style come from?

Commonly Used APA Related Terms

Abstract : Abstract is a brief synopses of article. It provides a brief but comprehensive summary of the article.

Citing : In the context of academic writing, citing is the act of acknowledging the sources of information you have used when writing your work.

Citation: A citation gives credit to a source, and contains publication information such as author(s), title and date.

DOI (digital object identifier): It is a unique alphanumeric string assigned to a digital object, mainly a scholarly article, to provide a persistent link to its location on the internet.

In-Text Citation : It is a brief note that appears within the body of the paper and briefly identifies the cited work by its author and date of publication. An in-text citation should always match the corresponding entry in the reference list at the end of paper.

Paraphrasing : A paraphrase restates another’s idea (or your own previously published idea) in your own words.

Plagiarism : It is the act of presenting the words, ideas, or images of another as your own; it denies creators of content the credit they are due.

Quoting : It is the act of reproducing the exact wording used by the original author. Direct quotations appear within quotation marks and end with a citation.

Reference : It contains details about one cited work, generally including four elements: author, date, title, and source.

Reference List : It identifies all the sources you cited in the text of your paper. It generally is at the end of the paper and definitely on a new page after the text of your paper.

APA Style is the most common writing style used in college and career. Its purpose is to promote excellence in communication by helping writers create clear, precise, and inclusive sentences with a straightforward scholarly tone. It addresses areas of writing such as how to

format a paper so it looks professional;
credit other people’s words and ideas via citations and references to avoid plagiarism; and
describe other people with dignity and respect using inclusive, bias-free language.

APA Style is primarily used in the behavioral sciences, which are subjects related to people, such as psychology, education, and nursing. It is also used by students in business, engineering, communications, and other classes. Students use it to write academic essays and research papers in college, and professionals use it to conduct, report, and publish scientific research.

In addition, APA Style provides you with a powerful tool that will hep you avoid deliberate or unintentional plagiarism. Please review the Avoiding Plagiarism Guide created by the APA experts to understand what two common types of plagiarism are and how to avoid them.

Why is learning citations important? Citations help readers understand where the information used in your paper comes from, enabling them to trace the path of that information. When readers wish to explore a specific point or reference cited in the text, citations make it easier by providing information about your sources in a standardized format.

Besides showing readers where you obtained information, using citations also has a strong ethical purpose. In academic writing, it is important to credit ideas that are not your own. Citations allow you to integrate the ideas of others with your own thoughts in a fair and honest way.

The reference formats for APA Style manuals are as follows:

APA Style provides a foundation for effective scholarly communication because it helps authors present their ideas in a clear and concise, and organized manner. Uniformity and consistency enable readers to (a) focus on the ideas being presented rather than formatting and (b) scan works quickly for key points, findings, and sources. When style works best, ideas flow logically, sources are credited appropriately, and papers are organized predictably and consistently.

Students are encouraged to first learn about APA Style by reading works written in APA Style. A couple of guides created by APA experts from the American Psychological Association can help you with that:

Anatomy of a Journal Article https://apastyle.apa.org/instructional-aids/anatomy-journal-article.pdf

Scholarly journal articles share a common anatomy or structure. Each part of an article serves a specific purpose. The handout of Anatomy of a Journal Article explains how journal articles are structured and how to become more efficient at reading and understanding them. Understanding the structure of a scholarly article and the purpose of each part helps you grasp a strategy called targeted reading. Targeted reading means to read specific sections of research articles first to determine if the article seems useful for your research topic. This way you will save time, find useful article faster, and choose which articles to read in full.

Reading and Understanding Abstracts https://apastyle.apa.org/instructional-aids/reading-abstracts.pdf

Abstracts are short summaries of scientific research articles. The handout of Reading & Understanding Abstracts explains the definition and purpose of abstracts and the benefits of reading them, including analysis of a sample abstract. The skill of reading and understanding abstracts of scholarly articles not only saves time but also helps you conduct better research and write more effectively.

APA Style Writing Principles https://apastyle.apa.org/instructional-aids/writing-principles.pdf

The poster created by APA experts shows the three main principles of APA Style: clarity, precision, and inclusion and lists steps on how to achieve them. As a student writer, you always should write your academic paper with clarity, precision, and inclusion.

Research Article Activity https://apastyle.apa.org/instructional-aids/apa-style-research-activity.pdf

Reading research articles is not an easy task for you as a student. The Research Article Activity designed by APA Style experts aims to make it easy to read and understand a scholarly article. This activity worksheet helps you find, cite, analyze, and summarize a research article. Completing this activity breaks down a lengthy research article into easily understandable chunks. This way helps you better understand the study in the article before you write about it.

The information in this Guide is courtesy of the official APA Style website by the American Psychological Association.

Source Credit: Information on this LibGuide comes from APA Style website https://apastyle.apa.org/ This website has a wealth of free and authoritative resources designed to help anyone new to APA Style.

Next: Basics of APA Style Tutorial >>
Last Updated: Apr 6, 2024 12:06 PM
URL: https://research.ewu.edu/APAStyleTutorial

An Easy Way To Change Margins In Google Docs

White space can work in your favor! Google Docs offers the best hacks for changing margins in your documents. Here's how!

One of the best ways to change margins is by giving your words room to breathe with a bit of white space .

The same design principles apply regardless of how you affix words to paper ( physical or virtual ).

If you're writing something that's meant to be read (whether on one of the best e-readers or paper), the most crucial consideration is to make it easy to read.

Follow this intuitive guide below for some great margin hacks in Google Docs.

How To Set Margins In Google Docs 🔃

Using freehand margins in google docs 🖐️, margins in google docs: faq 🤷, wrapping up 🎁.

Important disclosure: we're proud affiliates of some tools mentioned in this guide. If you click an affiliate link and subsequently make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you (you pay nothing extra). For more information, read our affiliate disclosure .

By default, Google Docs places a one-inch (2.54 cm.) margin on all sides of the document. That means on an 8.5-inch (21.59 cm.) paper by 11-inch (27.94 cm.) paper.

Changing your margins in Google Docs is straightforward to remember. Here’s how:

Launch Google Docs and open a new or existing document to which margins must be added.
Navigate to the ' File' tab.

3. From the drop-down list, click on ' Page Setup.'

4. From the page setup pop-out, under the ' Margins' field, enter your preferred margin values (inches or centimeters). Once you’re finished, click on 'OK.'

If you'd instead eyeball your margins, you can change the left and right margins (not the top or bottom) by clicking and dragging in the gray portion of the ruler at the top of the document.

Navigate to the grey portion within the ruler at the top of your document.

2. Click on the left or right margin and adjust it according to your specifications.

Why do we use margins? Margins prevent text from colliding with document boundaries.

What is the best margin size? The left and right page margins are about 0.5-1 inches (1.27-2.54 cm.)

When is it best to use margins? It's best to use 1 inch (2.54 cm.) on all sides of the document for formal business documents, resumés, letters, and more.

Why is it essential to change margins? At times, margins change to comply with a project's instructions and requirements.

Now that you know how to change the margins on your document in Google Docs , what should you change hem to? If you're writing an academic paper, you may want to leave the margins alone.

APA, MLA, and Chicago format guides mandate one-inch (2.54cm.) margins on all sides , as do many universities.

Are you looking to learn more about the cool hacks Google Docs offers? Visit our informative tutorial gallery for more.

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IMAGES

How to Use APA Format in Google Docs
Formatting an APA Paper Using Google Docs
How to Use APA Format in Google Docs
How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or
How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or
How to Format an APA Paper using Google Docs

VIDEO

Creating an APA citation
How to Make Lined Paper Google Docs Document
APA Formatting : How to Create a Reference List in APA Style
How To Write Paper In APA Format
Set Google Docs to APA Format
APA Format: Reference list using Google Scholar

COMMENTS

How to Use APA Format in Google Docs
Press Enter, select Left Align . Select Tab to indent, then type your abstract. Google Doc's default ident of 0.5 inches is appropriate for APA format. Select Insert > Break > Page Break to start a new page, then press the Tab key and begin typing the body of your paper. Begin each new paragraph with an indent.
How to Set up an APA Format Paper in Google Docs
You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template. The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of ...
How to Use APA Format in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 2: Adjust the Line Spacing. Set your document's line spacing to double. APA format requires double spacing throughout the document. This includes the title page, abstract, body of the document, and references. Double spacing makes the document easier to read and allows for comments and corrections.
How to Style Your Paper with APA Format in Google Docs
How to Set Up APA Format in Google Docs. Step 1: Configure Margin Settings. Step 2: Add Page Headers. Step 3: Set up the APA Format for Title Page in Google Docs. Step 4: Insert an Abstract Page. Step 5: Type the Full Paper Title & Start Writing. How to Format References for APA Style.
APA 7th in Minutes: Formatting a Paper in Google Docs
This video shows you the basics on how to format a typical college paper in APA 7th format using Google Docs.0:00 Introduction0:27 Information required0:52 F...
APA Format for Papers in Google Docs: 3-Minute Setup (6th ...
This quick run-through video will show you in 3 minutes how to format your running head, title page, heading levels, abstract and reference page in APA forma...
Google Docs APA Format: A Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Application
Step 4: Double Space Your Text. Select all your text with Ctrl+A (or Cmd+A on Mac), then click on the "Line Spacing" icon and choose "Double.". Double spacing is standard for APA format because it makes the document easier to read and edit. Remember to apply double spacing to your entire document, including your references page.
How To Use APA Format In Google Docs
Open Google Docs from your browser. Step 2: Click on the Template Gallery in the top right corner of your Google Docs homepage. Click on the Template gallery. Step 3: From the Education Section, select APA Format. Two editions of the format are available, viz. 6th and 7th edition.
How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or
You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template.; The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of ...
PDF APA FORMATTING: GOOGLE DOCS
Go to Google Docs and instead of clicking to start a Blank document, look above to where it says Template Gallery. Click on Template Gallery, make sure that General is selected, and in the Education section, find the APA Report template. Click on that and a new Google Doc will open; the new Doc will have information already typed that you will ...
PDF Student Paper Setup Guide, APA Style 7th Edition
Seventh edition APA Style was designed with modern word-processing programs in mind. Most default settings in programs such as Academic Writer, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs already comply with APA Style. However, you may need to make a few adjustments before you begin writing. Margins: Use 1-in. margins on all sides of the page (top, bottom ...
APA format for academic papers and essays
Our template is available in Word and Google Docs format for both versions. Student paper: Word | Google Docs; Professional paper: Word | Google Docs; Page header. In an APA Style paper, every page has a page header. For student papers, the page header usually consists of just a page number in the page's top-right corner.
Formatting an APA-Style Paper in Google Docs (APA 6th edition)
APA style and Google Docs don't always play nicely with each other, but if you know which details to keep an eye on, you can format your document quickly and...
How to Set up an APA Format Paper in Google Docs
To format headings in Google Docs, highlight the heading text and use the formatting toolbar. Use an APA Template. The easiest way to setup APA format is to start with an APA template. Google Docs includes templates for: APA 6th edition
PDF Google Docs Instructions for Formatting an Academic Paper
6 Google Docs: Instructions for Formatting Updated May 2021. 2. To create the paper's headings, click to position the insertion point in the top left corner of the document, making sure the "Left Align" button is selected, and type your full name, the instructor's name, the course name and number (e.g. ENG 111), and the paper's due date,
How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or
You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template. The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of ...
How to Create an APA Format Template in Google Docs With Examples
Google Docs comes with several ready templates, which include an APA format template. On a blank document, students navigate to the "File" tab (marker 1; see figure 1). After clicking the "File" tab, select "New" on the dropdown menu (marker 2). Then, click on "From template" on the dropdown menu that appears on the right of ...
How to set up an APA format of an essay in Google Docs
In case you want to use a standard APA format in Google Docs, you have to go to Files — New — From template. When you do this, you will be redirected to a new tab where you will find the bulk of different templates. Go a little bit down, and you will see an Education section. Select an APA format, and voila.
How to Do APA Format on Google Docs and Tailor Them to Your Needs
Visit the home page of Google Docs. Click Template Gallery and select the one that displays APA 6th/7th format. Tap on the document in the APA format. Start editing the document. That's just as easy as 1-2-3. In this article, let's look at the exact way to apply APA format to your document and other uses of this format.
How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs
* You can write an APA formatted paper in Google Docs using its built-in tools or a template. * The basics of APA 7 format include double-spaced lines, a running header, and a title page — all of which can be done in Google Docs. * Google Docs' templates page includes pre-made APA 6 and APA 7 documents you can use as well.
Formatting a student version of an APA-Style Paper in Google Docs (APA
I mentioned in the video that everything in an APA-style paper is double-spaced. This is mostly correct; however, if you use tables in your paper, those may ...
How to write an APA format paper for Google Docs using a template press
You can set up and written an APA formatted paper in Google Document using the platform's built-in tools otherwise a template on its website. Jump to. Main content; Search; Account ... How until firm up an APA formats paper the Google Docs ; How to use Google Docs' APA format templates ; Tech ...
About APA Style 7th Edition
Abstract: Abstract is a brief synopses of article.It provides a brief but comprehensive summary of the article. Citing: In the context of academic writing, citing is the act of acknowledging the sources of information you have used when writing your work.. Citation: A citation gives credit to a source, and contains publication information such as author(s), title and date.
Title page setup
Follow the guidelines described next to format each element of the student title page. Place the title three to four lines down from the top of the title page. Center it and type it in bold font. Capitalize major words of the title. Place the main title and any subtitle on separate double-spaced lines if desired.
How To Change Margins In Google Docs
Here's how: Launch Google Docs and open a new or existing document to which margins must be added. 3. From the drop-down list, click on ' Page Setup.'. 4. From the page setup pop-out, under the ' Margins' field, enter your preferred margin values (inches or centimeters). Once you're finished, click on 'OK.'.

How to Use APA Format in Google Docs

In This Article

What Is APA Format?

Formatting References for APA Style

How to Use the APA Template in Google Docs

How to Do APA Format on Google Docs

How to set up an APA format paper in Google Docs

How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or other built-in features

Your citations need hanging indents, which you can make with the ruler tool. Google; William Antonelli/Insider

How to Style Your Paper with APA Format in Google Docs

What Is APA Format?

How to Set Up APA Format in Google Docs

Step 1: Configure Margin Settings

Step 2: Add Page Headers

Step 3: Set up the APA Format for Title Page in Google Docs

Step 4: Insert an Abstract Page

Step 5: Type the Full Paper Title & Start Writing

Apply the Correct Paragraph Format

Use In-Text Citations Properly

How to Format References for APA Style

How to Use the APA Google Docs Templates

Get Even More APA Format Tips and Templates!

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Google Docs APA Format: A Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Application

Step by Step Tutorial: Applying Google Docs APA Format

Step 1: Set Your Margins to 1 inch

Step 2: Insert a Running Head

Step 3: Add Page Numbers

Step 4: Double Space Your Text

Step 5: Choose the Correct Font and Size

Tips for Applying Google Docs APA Format

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fonts other than Times New Roman for APA format?

How do I create a hanging indent for my references in Google Docs?

What should I do if my instructor has additional formatting requirements?

Is there a difference in formatting between the APA 6th and 7th editions?

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Key Takeaways

What Is APA Format?

3 Ways To Use APA Format In Google Docs

1. Use Template To Access APA Format In Google Docs

2. Step-by-Step Manual On APA Format In Google Docs

3. Use External Add-on For APA Format In Google Docs

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How to write an APA format paper in Google Docs using a template or other built-in features

How to set up an APA format paper in Google Docs

Your citations need hanging indents, which you can make with the ruler tool. Google; William Antonelli/Insider

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APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.) | Generator, Template, Examples

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Table of contents

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Creating APA Style references

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How to Set up an APA Format Paper in Google Docs

Choose an Accessible Font

Double Space the Entire Paper

Set 1 Inch Margins

Indent First Line of Paragraphs

Add Page Numbers

Format Headings Properly

Level 1 Heading

Level 2 Heading

Level 3 Heading

Use an APA Template

Proofread Carefully

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