Fix Common APA Style Mistakes: Quick Guide

Published: YYYY-MM-DD | Last Updated: YYYY-MM-DD | Author: Professional Essay Writer

Navigating the intricacies of APA style can often feel like a daunting task for students. The American Psychological Association (APA) style is a widely adopted academic formatting standard, particularly in social sciences, education, and business. Precision in APA formatting is not just about aesthetics; it reflects your attention to detail, enhances the readability of your work, and ensures proper attribution of sources, which is critical for academic integrity. However, even the most diligent students can fall prey to common APA style mistakes, leading to lost marks and frustration.

Understanding APA style is crucial for academic success. This comprehensive guide is designed to illuminate some of the most frequent errors encountered in APA formatting and referencing. We'll break down these mistakes and provide clear, actionable solutions to help you correct them, empowering you to perfect your academic papers. While this post aims to equip you to fix common APA errors yourself, remember that if you're feeling overwhelmed or short on time, the expert writers at Write-My-Essay-Now.com are here to help. We can handle all aspects of APA formatting for your essays, ensuring they are flawless and meet the highest academic standards.

Let's dive into these common pitfalls and learn how to sidestep them for a polished, professional submission every time.

General Formatting Errors: The Foundation of Your Paper

Before you even begin writing the core content, setting up your document correctly in APA style is paramount. Errors here are immediately noticeable and can create a poor first impression.

Incorrect Margins

Mistake: Using margins other than the standard 1-inch (2.54 cm) on all sides (top, bottom, left, right). Fix:

• In your word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs), go to the page layout or page setup options.
• Set the margins to 1 inch for all four sides. This is usually the default, but it's always good to double-check.
• Why it matters: Consistent margins ensure readability and provide space for instructor comments.

Wrong Font Type and Size

Mistake: Using unapproved fonts or incorrect font sizes. APA 7th edition offers more flexibility than previous editions, but there are still guidelines. Fix:

• Approved fonts include:
  • Sans serif fonts: 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, or 10-point Lucida Sans Unicode.
  • Serif fonts: 12-point Times New Roman, 11-point Georgia, or 10-point Computer Modern.
• Choose one of these fonts and use it consistently throughout your paper.
• Why it matters: Readability and consistency are key. Using a standard font ensures your paper is easy for everyone to read.

Spacing Issues

Mistake:

• Not double-spacing the entire paper, including the title page, abstract, body, headings, block quotations, and reference list.
• Adding extra spaces between paragraphs or after punctuation. Fix:
• Set your entire document to double-spacing. In most word processors, this option is found in the paragraph formatting settings.
• Ensure there is only one space after periods and other punctuation marks at the end of sentences (a change from older APA editions that sometimes allowed two).
• Do not add extra blank lines between paragraphs unless it's to start a new major section (like the reference list on a new page).
• Why it matters: Double-spacing improves readability and provides space for edits and comments.

Page Header (Running Head) and Page Numbers

Mistake:

• Incorrectly formatting the running head or omitting it.
• Incorrect placement or formatting of page numbers. Fix:
• Student Papers (APA 7th Edition):
  • A running head (an abbreviated version of your paper's title in all caps) is no longer required for student papers unless specifically requested by your instructor or institution.
  • Page numbers should be in the top right corner of every page, starting with '1' on the title page.
• Professional Papers (for publication):
  • Include a running head. It should be a shortened version of your paper title (maximum 50 characters, including spaces and punctuation), in all capital letters.
  • The running head appears in the header of every page, flush left.
  • The page number appears in the header of every page, flush right.
  • On the title page, the running head is preceded by the label "Running head:" (e.g., Running head: ABBREVIATED TITLE). On subsequent pages, only the abbreviated title in all caps appears. Correction for APA 7th: For professional papers, the label "Running head:" is NO LONGER USED on any page. The running head (short title in all caps) appears on all pages, including the title page, flush left, with the page number flush right.
• How to implement: Use the header function in your word processor to insert page numbers and the running head (if applicable).
• Why it matters: Page numbers help organize the paper, and the running head (for professional papers) aids identification if pages get separated.

Title Page Blunders

The title page is the very first impression your paper makes. Getting it right sets a professional tone.

Incorrect Information or Formatting (Student Papers - APA 7th)

Mistake:

• Missing essential elements or including unnecessary ones.
• Incorrect formatting of the title, author name, affiliation, etc. Fix: For student papers, the title page should typically include (centered and double-spaced, in the upper half of the page):

1. Title of the Paper: Bold, title case (major words capitalized). Positioned three to four lines down from the top margin.
2. Author Name(s): Your first name, middle initial(s), and last name. No titles or degrees (e.g., Dr., PhD). One double-spaced blank line below the title.
3. Author Affiliation: Department and university (e.g., Department of Psychology, University of Example).
4. Course Number and Name: As provided by your instructor (e.g., PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology).
5. Instructor Name: As preferred by your instructor (e.g., Dr. Jane Doe).
6. Assignment Due Date: Month Day, Year (e.g., October 26, 2023).
7. Page Number: '1' in the top right corner.

• Example Layout (Simplified):

  [Page Number 1 in top right]
  
  **This Is the Title of My Awesome Student Paper**
  
  Your Name
  
  Department of Subject, Name of University
  
  COURSE 101: Course Title
  
  Instructor's Name
  
  October 26, 2023
  

• Why it matters: A correctly formatted title page provides all necessary identifying information in a standardized way.

Abstract Errors (If Required)

While not always required for student papers (check your instructor's guidelines), a poorly written or formatted abstract can be problematic.

Length, Content, and Formatting

Mistake:

• Abstract is too long (typically, APA abstracts are between 150-250 words) or too short.
• Fails to summarize the paper's main points (purpose, methods, results, conclusions).
• Incorrect heading ("Abstract" should be centered and bolded at the top of a new page).
• Not double-spaced, or indented. The first line of the abstract itself is not indented. Fix:
• Start the abstract on a new page after the title page.
• The heading "Abstract" should be centered and bold at the top of the page.
• The abstract itself should be a single paragraph, double-spaced, and not indented.
• Concisely summarize your paper's:
  • Problem or research question
  • Participants/methodology (if applicable)
  • Key findings
  • Conclusions and implications
• Adhere to any word count limits specified by your instructor or the publication.
• Keywords (if required): Indent the line below the abstract and type Keywords: (italicized), followed by a list of relevant keywords in lowercase (unless proper nouns).
• Why it matters: The abstract provides a quick overview of your paper, helping readers decide if it's relevant to their interests.

In-Text Citation Errors: Giving Credit Where It's Due

In-text citations are crucial for acknowledging your sources and avoiding plagiarism. This is an area where many common APA style mistakes occur. For a deeper dive, consider reviewing resources on Mastering In-Text Citations: APA Style Simplified.

Missing Citations

Mistake: Failing to cite information that is not common knowledge or your original idea. This includes direct quotes, paraphrases, summaries, data, and specific facts. Fix:

• Cite every time you use information from another source. When in doubt, cite.
• This applies to paraphrased material as well as direct quotations.
• Why it matters: Proper citation gives credit to original authors and helps you avoid plagiarism, a serious academic offense. For more on this, see our guide on Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism in Your Essays.

Incorrect Formatting of Parenthetical Citations

Mistake: Errors in the (Author, Year) format.

• Example Incorrect: (Smith. 2020), (Smith, J., 2020), (Smith, p. 15, 2020) Fix:
• One Author: (Smith, 2020)
• Two Authors: (Smith & Jones, 2021). Use an ampersand (&) within parentheses.
• Three or More Authors: (Smith et al., 2022) for the first and all subsequent citations.
• Page Numbers for Direct Quotes: (Smith, 2020, p. 15) or (Smith, 2020, pp. 15-17). For sources without page numbers (like some websites), use a paragraph number (para. 4), section heading, or a shortened title of the section.
• No Author: Use the first few words of the title in quotation marks (or italics if the title is italicized in the reference list, like a book title) and the year: ("Understanding APA," 2023) or (Book of Styles, 2023).
• No Date: Use "n.d." for "no date": (Smith, n.d.).
• Organization as Author: (American Psychological Association, 2020). If the organization has a common abbreviation, you can define it: (American Psychological Association [APA], 2020) for the first citation, then (APA, 2020) for subsequent ones.
• Why it matters: Correct formatting ensures clarity and consistency, allowing readers to easily locate the full source in your reference list.

Incorrect Formatting of Narrative Citations

Mistake: Errors when incorporating the author's name into the text.

• Example Incorrect: Smith (2020, p. 15) says that... (comma before p. is usually not needed here if it flows naturally). Fix:
• One Author: Smith (2020) found that... For a direct quote: Smith (2020) stated, "quote" (p. 15).
• Two Authors: Smith and Jones (2021) argued... (use "and," not "&").
• Three or More Authors: Smith et al. (2022) discovered...
• Why it matters: Narrative citations integrate more smoothly into your writing while still providing necessary attribution.

Direct Quotes: Short vs. Block

Mistake:

• Incorrectly formatting quotes shorter than 40 words.
• Incorrectly formatting block quotes (40 words or more). Fix:
• Short Quotes (fewer than 40 words):
  • Incorporate into the text and enclose in double quotation marks.
  • Include the author, year, and specific page number (or paragraph number for non-paginated sources).
  • Example: She stated, "Students often struggle with APA" (Jones, 2021, p. 45), but noted that practice helps.
• Block Quotes (40 words or more):
  • Start the quotation on a new line.
  • Indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin.
  • Maintain double-spacing.
  • Do NOT use quotation marks around the block quote.
  • The parenthetical citation comes after the final punctuation of the quote.
  • Example: Jones (2021) offered a significant insight:

    Students find APA challenging, particularly when it comes to the nuances of reference list entries for various source types. Consistent practice and attention to detail are paramount for mastering this style. (p. 47)

• Why it matters: Proper quote formatting distinguishes borrowed text from your own and maintains readability.

Paraphrasing Issues

Mistake:

• Simply changing a few words from the original source (patchwriting).
• Not citing paraphrased material. Fix:
• When paraphrasing, rewrite the original idea entirely in your own words and sentence structure.
• Always cite the original source (Author, Year). Page numbers are encouraged but not strictly required for paraphrases in APA 7th, though some instructors may still prefer them.
• Why it matters: Paraphrasing allows you to integrate sources smoothly, but it must be done ethically and with proper attribution to avoid plagiarism. This is a key component of Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism in Your Essays.

Reference List Nightmares

The reference list is where many students encounter significant challenges. Every source cited in your text must appear here, and every entry must be meticulously formatted. For comprehensive guidance, refer to our article on Crafting a Flawless APA Reference List: Step-by-Step.

General Formatting of the Reference List

Mistake:

• Incorrect title (e.g., "Bibliography," "Works Cited").
• Not starting on a new page.
• Incorrect alphabetical order.
• Missing hanging indent.
• Not double-spaced. Fix:
• The title should be "References," centered and bolded at the top of a new page.
• All entries must be listed alphabetically by the first author's last name.
• Use a hanging indent for each entry (the first line is flush left, subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches).
• The entire reference list should be double-spaced (both within and between entries).
• Why it matters: A correctly formatted reference list allows readers to easily locate and retrieve the sources you've used.

Specific Entry Errors (Common Source Types)

This is where many detailed common APA style mistakes occur. APA 7th edition has specific rules for various source types.

Books

Mistake:

• Incorrect author name format (e.g., Smith, John instead of Smith, J. J.).
• Incorrect capitalization or italicization of the book title.
• Missing publisher information. Fix (Basic Format): Author, A. A. (Year of publication). Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle (Edition, if not first). Publisher.
• Example (One Author): Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts. Random House.
• Example (Edited Book): Schwartz, T., & finitely, J. (Eds.). (2021). The new psychology of leadership (2nd ed.). University Press.
• Capitalization: Book titles are in sentence case (only the first word, first word after a colon or em dash, and proper nouns are capitalized) and italicized.

Journal Articles

Mistake:

• Incorrect capitalization or formatting of the article title vs. journal title.
• Missing volume, issue, or page numbers.
• Incorrect DOI formatting. Fix (Basic Format): Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year). Title of article: Subtitle here in sentence case. Title of Periodical in Title Case and Italics, VolumeNumber(IssueNumber), PageRange. DOI or URL
• Example: Ahmed, S., Lee, J., & Kim, Y. (2023). The impact of social media on student engagement. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 26(3), 112-125. https://doi.org/xxxxxxx
• Details:
  • Article title: Sentence case, not italicized, no quotation marks.
  • Journal title: Title case (major words capitalized), italicized.
  • Volume number: Italicized.
  • Issue number: In parentheses, not italicized, directly after volume number with no space.
  • DOIs: Format as a hyperlink: https://doi.org/xxxxxxx. Use the DOI if available. If no DOI, and the article was retrieved from a database that is not proprietary or from an open-access repository, you generally do not need to include a URL unless it's necessary for retrieval (e.g., from a university archive). If from a website that isn't a database, provide the URL.

Websites/Webpages

Mistake:

• Missing author (can be an organization).
• Missing publication date or using "n.d." incorrectly.
• Incorrect title formatting.
• Not including a retrieval date when necessary (only for content designed to change over time and not archived). Fix (Basic Format): Author, A. A. (Year, Month Day). Title of webpage or section in sentence case and italics. Site Name (if different from author). URL
• Example (Organization as Author): World Health Organization. (2022, March 15). COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
• Example (Individual Author on a Website): Bernstein, M. (2023, January 5). Understanding cognitive biases. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/cognitive-bias.html
• No Date: If no date is available, use (n.d.).
• Italics: The title of the webpage is italicized. The name of the overall website is included in plain text if it's different from the author and helps the reader locate the work.

Mismatched In-Text Citations and Reference List Entries

Mistake:

• A source is cited in the text but missing from the reference list.
• A source is in the reference list but never cited in the text. Fix:
• Meticulously cross-check every in-text citation against your reference list and vice-versa.
• Ensure spelling of author names and years match exactly.
• Why it matters: This ensures the integrity of your research and allows readers to follow your sources.

Headings and Subheadings Errors

APA provides a clear hierarchy for headings to structure your paper.

Incorrect Formatting of Heading Levels

Mistake: Using incorrect capitalization, bolding, italics, or alignment for the five possible levels of APA headings. Fix: APA 7th Edition Heading Levels:

• Level 1: Centered, Bold, Title Case Heading
  • Text begins as a new paragraph.
• Level 2: Flush Left, Bold, Title Case Heading
  • Text begins as a new paragraph.
• Level 3: Flush Left, Bold Italic, Title Case Heading
  • Text begins as a new paragraph.
• Level 4:     Indented, Bold, Title Case Heading, Ending With a Period. Text begins on the same line and continues as a regular paragraph.
• Level 5:     Indented, Bold Italic, Title Case Heading, Ending With a Period. Text begins on the same line and continues as a regular paragraph.

Use headings sequentially. Start with Level 1, then Level 2 if you have subsections, and so on.

• Why it matters: Proper headings improve the organization and readability of your paper, guiding the reader through your arguments.

Numbers and Statistics Errors

APA has specific rules for presenting numbers and statistical information.

Using Numerals vs. Words

Mistake: Inconsistently using numerals or words for numbers. Fix (General Rules):

• Use numerals for numbers 10 and above (e.g., 12 participants, 25 years).
• Use words for numbers below 10 (e.g., five experiments, two conditions).
• Exceptions:
  • Numbers in the abstract: Use numerals (except to start a sentence).
  • Numbers immediately preceding a unit of measurement: Use numerals (e.g., 5 mg, 3 cm).
  • Numbers representing statistical or mathematical functions, fractions, percentages, ratios, percentiles, and quartiles: Use numerals (e.g., multiplied by 3, 5% of the sample, a ratio of 16:1).
  • Numbers representing time, dates, ages, scores, points on a scale, exact sums of money: Use numerals (e.g., 2 years old, scored 7 on a 10-point scale, $5).
  • Numbers denoting a place in a numbered series, parts of books/tables: Use numerals (e.g., Table 1, Chapter 3, Grade 8).
• Why it matters: Consistency in number presentation is a hallmark of professional academic writing.

Reporting Statistical Results

Mistake: Incorrectly formatting statistical abbreviations, p-values, confidence intervals, etc. Fix:

• Italicize statistical symbols (e.g., M, SD, p, t, F).
• Report exact p-values (e.g., p = .024), unless p < .001.
• Include spaces around equals signs (e.g., t(33) = 2.10).
• Report confidence intervals when appropriate. Example: 95% CI [0.12, 0.87].
• Consult the APA Manual for specific formatting of different statistical tests.
• Why it matters: Accurate and standardized reporting of statistics allows for clear communication of research findings and facilitates meta-analysis.

Bias-Free Language Errors

APA style emphasizes the use of language that is respectful, inclusive, and avoids perpetuating biases.

Insensitive or Imprecise Language

Mistake: Using language that is biased related to age, disability, gender, racial and ethnic identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or other personal characteristics. Fix:

• Be Specific: Instead of "elderly people," use "persons aged 65 and older" or "older adults."
• Person-First Language: For disabilities, use "person with a disability" rather than "disabled person," unless the community prefers identity-first language (e.g., "autistic person").
• Gender: Use "they" as a singular pronoun or rephrase sentences to avoid gendered pronouns if gender is unknown or irrelevant. Avoid gendered terms like "mankind" (use "humanity" or "people").
• Race and Ethnicity: Capitalize racial and ethnic groups (e.g., Black, White, Asian, Hispanic). Be specific when possible (e.g., "Chinese American" instead of just "Asian").
• Sexual Orientation: Use terms like "gay men," "lesbians," "bisexual people" rather than outdated or offensive terms.
• Socioeconomic Status: Be mindful of terms that may stigmatize (e.g., use "people living in poverty" rather than "the poor").
• Consult Chapter 5 of the APA Publication Manual (7th ed.) for detailed guidelines.
• Why it matters: Bias-free language promotes inclusivity, respect, and accuracy in scientific communication.

Mechanics of Style: The Nitty-Gritty

These are often overlooked but contribute significantly to the polish of your paper.

Punctuation

Mistake: Common errors with commas, semicolons, colons, periods with quotation marks, and hyphens. Fix:

• Commas: Use commas to separate elements in a series of three or more items (including a comma before the final "and" or "or" – the Oxford comma). Use commas correctly with introductory clauses, nonrestrictive elements, etc.
• Semicolons: Use to join two closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a series that already contain commas.
• Colons: Use to introduce a list, an explanation, or a quotation.
• Periods with Quotation Marks: In APA (and American English generally), periods and commas go inside closing quotation marks.
• Hyphenation: Follow APA guidelines for compound words, prefixes, and temporary compounds used as adjectives before a noun (e.g., "a well-being measure" vs. "her well-being improved").
• Why it matters: Correct punctuation clarifies meaning and ensures smooth reading.

Spelling and Grammar

Mistake: Obvious spelling errors and grammatical mistakes. Fix:

• Proofread meticulously. Use spell-check and grammar-check tools, but don't rely on them solely—they can miss context-specific errors.
• Read your paper aloud to catch awkward phrasing or errors.
• Why it matters: Errors in spelling and grammar undermine your credibility and can obscure your message.

Capitalization

Mistake: Incorrect capitalization in titles (in text vs. reference list), proper nouns, or after colons. Fix:

• Titles in Text: For titles of articles and books mentioned in the body of your paper, use title case (capitalize major words).
• Titles in Reference List:
  • Article and book chapter titles: Sentence case.
  • Journal, book, and report titles: Italicized and in sentence case for books/reports; italicized and in title case for journals.
• Proper Nouns: Always capitalize proper nouns (names of specific people, places, organizations, tests, etc.).
• After a Colon: Capitalize the first word after a colon if it begins a complete sentence.
• Why it matters: Consistent capitalization follows academic conventions and aids readability.

Abbreviations

Mistake: Using abbreviations without defining them or using them inconsistently. Fix:

• Define an abbreviation the first time it is used by providing the full term followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. Example: American Psychological Association (APA).
• Thereafter, you can use the abbreviation.
• Avoid overusing abbreviations, especially if they are not standard or might confuse the reader.
• Some standard abbreviations (like units of measurement, e.g., cm, kg, or common Latin abbreviations like e.g., i.e., et al.) do not need to be defined, but ensure correct usage.
• Why it matters: Proper use of abbreviations enhances clarity and conciseness without sacrificing understanding.

Tips for Avoiding Common APA Style Mistakes

Mastering APA style is an ongoing process. Here are some tips to help you along the way:

1. Get the Manual: If you're serious about your academic writing, owning or having access to the latest Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th Edition) is invaluable.
2. Use Reputable Online Resources: Websites like the official APA Style Blog and Purdue OWL offer excellent, up-to-date guidance and examples.
3. Create a Checklist: Develop a personal checklist of common APA errors you tend to make and review it before submitting any paper.
4. Use Citation Management Software (with caution): Tools like Zotero, Mendeley, or EndNote can help manage your references and generate citations and reference lists. However, always double-check their output, as they can make mistakes.
5. Proofread Specifically for APA: After you've proofread for content, do a separate read-through focusing solely on APA formatting, citations, and references.
6. Practice Consistently: The more you use APA style, the more familiar and intuitive it will become.
7. Seek Feedback: Ask a peer, writing center tutor, or instructor to review your paper for APA errors if possible.
8. Pay Attention to Detail: APA style is all about precision. Small details matter.

Submit Your APA Papers with Confidence

Navigating the rules of APA style can certainly be challenging, but by understanding these common APA style mistakes and how to rectify them, you are well on your way to producing more polished, professional, and academically sound papers. Diligence and attention to detail are your greatest allies in this endeavor. Remember, correct APA formatting not only helps you avoid losing marks but also enhances the credibility and clarity of your research.

Fix Your APA Mistakes Now & Submit with Confidence! Stop losing marks on APA errors. This guide is designed to help you identify and correct common APA style blunders. However, we understand that academic life is demanding, and sometimes you need an expert hand. For comprehensive, affordable APA formatting and essay writing support, trust Write-My-Essay-Now.com to deliver polished, professional papers every time. Our experienced writers are adept at all aspects of APA style and can help you save time, reduce stress, and achieve the academic success you deserve.