Final Checks
Check Page Order
• Start each section on a new page.
• Arrange pages in the following order:
o Title page (page 1)
o Text (starts on page 2)
o Reference list (starts on a new
page after the text)
Check Headings
• Check that headings accurately reflect the content in each section.
• Start each main section with a Level 1 heading.
• Use Level 2 headings for subsections of the introduction.
• Use the same level of heading for sections of equal importance.
• Avoid having only one subsection within a section (have two or more, or none).
Check Assignment Instructions
• Instructors’ guidelines supersede APA Style.
• Students should check their assignment guidelines or rubric for specific content to
include in their papers and to make sure they are meeting assignment requirements.
Tips for Better Writing
• Ask for feedback on your paper from a classmate, writing center tutor, or instructor.
• Budget time to implement suggestions.
• Use spell-check and grammar-check to identify potential errors.
• Proofread the paper by reading it slowly and carefully aloud to yourself.
• Consult your university writing center if you need extra help.
More information on student papers can be found in the Publication
Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.) and in
the Concise Guide to APA Style (7th ed.).
SOURCE: American Psychological Association. (2020).
Publication manual of the American Psychological
Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000
Last updated 10/21/2020