The American Psychological Association (APA) format is a widely used style guide in the social sciences, education, and business fields. When it comes to creating a cover page, also known as a title page, in APA format, there are specific guidelines to follow. In this article, we will delve into the details of creating a comprehensive APA format cover page guide.
Components of an APA Format Cover Page
An APA format cover page typically includes the following elements: title, author’s name, institutional affiliation, and date. The title should be concise and informative, and it should not exceed 12 words. The author’s name should be written in the following format: first name, middle initial, and last name. The institutional affiliation should include the name of the university or institution where the research was conducted.
APA Format Cover Page Template
Here is a template for an APA format cover page:
| Element | Format |
|---|---|
| Title | Centered, in title case, and not exceeding 12 words |
| Author's Name | First name, middle initial, and last name, centered |
| Institutional Affiliation | Name of university or institution, centered |
| Date | Centered, and including the month, day, and year |
For example:
Running head: EFFECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH
Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
John D. Smith
University of California, Los Angeles
February 10, 2023
APA Format Cover Page Guidelines
Here are some additional guidelines to keep in mind when creating an APA format cover page:
- The cover page should be on a separate page from the rest of the paper.
- The title should be in title case, meaning that the first word and any proper nouns should be capitalized.
- The author's name should not include any titles or degrees, such as Dr. or Ph.D.
- The institutional affiliation should be the name of the university or institution where the research was conducted, not the author's current affiliation.
- The date should be the date the paper was submitted, not the date it was written.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When creating an APA format cover page, there are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not including the running head, which is a shortened version of the title that appears at the top of each page.
- Not centering the title, author's name, and institutional affiliation.
- Not using title case for the title.
- Including unnecessary information, such as the author's address or phone number.
By following the APA format guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a professional and effective cover page that sets the tone for your paper.
What is the purpose of the APA format cover page?
+The APA format cover page provides a professional appearance and sets the tone for the rest of the paper. It also includes essential information, such as the title, author’s name, and institutional affiliation.
What are the key elements of an APA format cover page?
+The key elements of an APA format cover page are the title, author’s name, institutional affiliation, and date.
How do I format the title on the APA format cover page?
+The title should be centered, in title case, and not exceeding 12 words.
