Cover Page in APA Style: A Comprehensive Guide
The American Psychological Association (APA) style is widely used in the social sciences, education, and psychology for academic writing. A properly formatted cover page, also known as the title page, is the first impression of your work and sets the tone for the professionalism and attention to detail within. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how to create an APA-compliant cover page, ensuring your document meets the highest standards of academic rigor.
Essential Elements of an APA Cover Page
An APA cover page consists of specific elements arranged in a precise order. These components include the title of the paper, the author’s name, the institutional affiliation, a running head, and a page number. Each element serves a distinct purpose and must be formatted according to APA guidelines.
1. Title of the Paper
The title should be concise, informative, and centered on the upper half of the page. It should not exceed 12 words and must avoid unnecessary jargon. Use bold font and title case, capitalizing the first letter of major words.
2. Author’s Name
The author’s name appears below the title, also centered. If there are multiple authors, list them in the order of contribution, separated by commas. Include the first and middle initials followed by the surname.
3. Institutional Affiliation
Below the author’s name, include the institutional affiliation, typically the university or organization where the research was conducted. This line is also centered. If multiple authors are from different institutions, list each affiliation on a separate line.
4. Running Head
The running head is a shortened version of the paper’s title, appearing in the header of every page. On the cover page, it is left-aligned and written in all capital letters, followed by a colon and the page number (1). For example: RUNNING HEAD: APA COVER PAGE GUIDE.
5. Page Number
The page number is right-aligned in the header of the cover page. In APA style, the cover page is always page 1, even if a page number is not displayed on subsequent pages.
Additional Considerations for Student Papers vs. Professional Papers
APA style differentiates between student papers and professional papers, with slight variations in cover page requirements.
Student Papers
Student papers typically include a course number and instructor’s name below the institutional affiliation. These details are centered and provide context for the assignment.
Professional Papers
Professional papers, such as those submitted for publication, omit the course number and instructor’s name. They may include additional elements like author notes, which provide contact information or acknowledgments.
Formatting Guidelines
Adhering to APA formatting guidelines is crucial for a polished cover page. Use a 12-point, Times New Roman font, double-spacing, and one-inch margins on all sides. Ensure the entire document is consistent in style and presentation.
| Element | Formatting Requirement |
|---|---|
| Font | 12-point Times New Roman |
| Spacing | Double-spaced |
| Margins | 1-inch on all sides |
| Alignment | Centered (title, author, affiliation) |
| Running Head | Left-aligned, all caps |
| Page Number | Right-aligned |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating an APA cover page may seem straightforward, but several common mistakes can compromise its professionalism. Avoid the following errors:
- Using excessive decoration or images.
- Forgetting to include the running head or page number.
- Misaligning elements or using inconsistent formatting.
- Exceeding the word limit for the title.
Example of an APA Cover Page
Below is a correctly formatted APA cover page for a student paper:
Running head: THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON BIODIVERSITY
The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity
John A. Doe
University of Environmental Studies
ENV 101: Introduction to Environmental Science
Dr. Jane Smith
1
What is the purpose of a running head in APA style?
+
The running head is a shortened title that appears on every page of the document, helping readers identify the paper if pages are separated.
Do I need to include a course number on a professional paper?
+
No, course numbers and instructor names are only required for student papers, not professional submissions.
Can I use a different font on the cover page?
+
APA guidelines specify 12-point Times New Roman font for the entire document, including the cover page.
