Set up your document to fit the APA style guidelines. Margins should be set to one inch on all sides on standard size paper. Use 10-12 point Times New Roman font.
Set a page header by placing the TITLE OF YOUR PAPER (all caps) on the left and page number on the right. This header should be on each page of your paper. Your title page should contain your title, name and school.
The first section of an APA paper is the abstract. Type "Abstract" at the top of the page, then summarize your topic and findings and list any keywords associated with your paper. The word count for this section should be about 150-250.
When writing the main body of your paper, keep in mind that you should avoid using first person at all times. Try to use active voice as well.
Remember that APA style focuses more on fact and detail; avoid using figurative language or poetic devices when writing your essay paper.
Avoid using bias at any point in your paper. The writing should be scientific and therefore it should lack any preconceptions or personal opinions.
Keep track of all your sources when writing your paper. For direct quotations, include a short citation in parentheses in the body of your paper. Use the following format: (Author last name, Year published, Page number).
Label the final page of your paper "References" and create a complete list of all the sources you used. Each item should have a hanging indent if it is more than one line, and should be alphabetized by the last name of the author.
Use the following format for references at the end of your paper: Author last name, First name. (Year published). Title (in italics). Place where book was published: Publisher.