Formatting the References Page in APA

The reference list, which contains all the sources used in the paper, should begin on a new page for easy accessibility by readers. Every source cited in the paper must be included in the reference list, and conversely, every entry in the reference list should be cited in the text.

To format the reference list, start with a bolded and center-aligned heading titled “References” at the top of a new page. The page header must continue as on other pages of the document with a margin of 1 inch on all sides. The heading should not be underlined or placed in quotation marks. The entire reference list should be double-spaced, just like the rest of the paper.

When listing the references:

All the entries flush with the left margin.
Double-space the lines and use hanging indents, where the first line starts at the left margin and subsequent lines are indented by 0.5 inches.
Arrange the entries in alphabetical order based on the last name of the first author for each citation.
Write the authors’ last name first, followed by the first and middle initials (e.g., Skiver, G. F.).
Capitalize only the first word of the title, the first word after a colon or em dash (long dash), and any proper nouns.
Do not capitalize the second word of a hyphenated compound.
Do not use quotation marks around the titles of articles.
Each reference entry should follow the specific APA format guidelines based on the type of source (e.g., book, journal article, website, etc.).
Include all necessary information, such as the author(s), publication year, title, source details, and page numbers (if applicable).

Additional Requirements

Appendices with Illustrations, Tables, and Figures

Appendices are commonly used in academic and research papers, reports, and dissertations to present data, charts, graphs, tables, survey instruments, questionnaires, transcripts, or any other relevant materials that are not essential to the main body of the document but can enhance the reader’s understanding. It is formatted in the following manner:

Begin each appendix on a new page.
Label each appendix with a capital letter (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B).
Include a descriptive title for each appendix (e.g., Appendix A: Survey Results).
If you have multiple appendices, use a clear and consistent naming system (e.g., Appendix A: Survey Results, Appendix B: Data Tables).
Reference the appendices in the main body of your paper (e.g., “See Appendix A for additional details”).
Format the content within each appendix according to the appropriate guidelines for tables, figures, or other materials.

Annotated Bibliography

An annotated bibliography is a curated list of sources (such as books, journal articles, websites, etc.) that provides a summary and evaluation of each source. Each entry in an annotated bibliography typically includes the bibliographic information (author, title, publication details) followed by a concise annotation.

The annotation is a paragraph that summarizes the source’s content, evaluates its credibility and relevance to the research topic, and may also reflect on how the source contributes to the overall understanding of the subject. The purpose of an annotated bibliography is to demonstrate the quality and depth of research conducted, as well as the ability to critically analyze and select relevant sources.

An annotated bibliography is often required when conducting research or writing academic papers that involve the exploration and evaluation of various sources.

When formatting the annotated bibliography:

Begin the annotated bibliography on a new page after the main body of your paper and before any appendices.
Center and bold the title “Annotated Bibliography” at the top of the page (without quotation marks, italics, or underlining).
List each annotated bibliography entry in alphabetical order based on the authors’ last names.
Format each entry with a hanging indent, where the first line is flush left and subsequent lines are indented.
Include a brief annotation after each bibliographic entry that summarizes, evaluates, and reflects on the source’s relevance and credibility (the entire annotation is indented 1½ inches from the left margin).
For annotations containing multiple paragraphs, the first line of the second and succeeding paragraphs must be indented an additional ½ inches.

We suggest you consult your institution’s guidelines or your instructor for any specific requirements or variations in formatting appendices and annotated bibliographies in APA style. Different institutions may have specific preferences or additional guidelines.

Seek Professional Assistance

We hope that this comprehensive guide has provided you with a clear understanding of the APA format’s guidelines and techniques for writing and organizing a paper. However, if you require further assistance, whether it be in exploring different formatting styles like the Chicago referencing style or facing challenges in completing your papers accurately, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.