Here's why:
* Purpose: APA style aims to promote clarity, consistency, and accuracy in academic writing. It's about making research easily accessible and understandable, not just about following a rigid set of instructions.
* Flexibility: APA style isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are some areas where flexibility is allowed, depending on the specific context of your writing.
* Continuous Evolution: APA style is constantly evolving to reflect changes in academic practices and technologies. New editions of the APA Manual are released periodically to incorporate these changes.
Think of APA style as a framework or a set of principles to guide your writing, rather than a rigid set of rules.
Here are some key aspects of APA style that go beyond simple rules:
* Ethical considerations: APA style emphasizes ethical writing practices, such as avoiding plagiarism and ensuring the accurate representation of research findings.
* Clarity and conciseness: APA style encourages clear and concise writing, making it easier for readers to understand the main points of your work.
* Objectivity and impartiality: APA style promotes objectivity in research writing, avoiding biased language and personal opinions.
* Consistency: APA style emphasizes consistency in formatting, citation style, and other aspects of writing, ensuring that your work is professional and easy to follow.
In summary, while APA style does include rules, it's more than just a set of instructions. It's a framework that promotes clarity, consistency, and ethical writing practices in academic research.