APA7 formatting is the bedrock of academic writing in social sciences, yet it's easy to stumble over its detailed guidelines. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a faultless paper.
Inconsistent Headings
APA7 has specific rules for formatting headings at different levels. Ensure consistency in style and capitalization across all headings.
Incorrect Citations
Mistakes in author-date citations can compromise your paper’s credibility. Double-check your references for accuracy and completeness.
Failing to Double-Space
APA7 requires double spacing throughout the document, including the reference list and block quotations. Failing to do so is a frequent error.
Using Too Many Footnotes
While APA7 allows for footnotes, these should be used sparingly and only for providing additional information that doesn't fit in the text.
Ignoring Serial Commas
In a list of three or more items, APA7 requires a comma before the conjunction (e.g., apples, bananas, and cherries).
Mismatched Reference List
Every in-text citation should correspond to an entry in the reference list, and vice versa. Make sure there are no mismatches.
Overusing Abbreviations
Only use abbreviations for terms that appear frequently in your paper and spell out the term in full upon its first appearance, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses.
Missing Page Numbers in Quotes
When quoting directly, always provide the page number along with the author and year in the in-text citation.
Inconsistent Font and Margins
Stick to approved fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri and maintain a 1-inch margin on all sides.
Not Using a Running Head
In APA7, a running head is no longer required for student papers, but is still mandatory for professional manuscripts. Know your paper type.
Avoiding these common APA7 formatting mistakes will not only make your paper more professional but also easier to read and understand. When in doubt, consult the APA7 manual or seek the guidance of an experienced academic editor.
