APA Format Basics and Introduction Psychology 290 November

APA Format Basics and Introduction Psychology 290 November 2 – 4, 2015

Elements of an APA format Laboratory Report • • Title Page Abstract (if instructed) Introduction Method Results Discussion Reference Page Appendices/Tables/Figures (if necessary)

Headings Level One Heading [Indent] Type your text here. Level Two Heading [Indent] Type your text here. Notice Never leave a heading at the bottom of the page where the text begins on the next page [Indent] Level three heading. Type your text here. [Indent] Level four heading. Type your text here. [Indent] Level five heading. Type your text here.

Abstract • A brief and complete summary of the work – 150 – 250 words typically • Allows for assessment of relevance to a given topic • Must be: Accurate, Non-evaluative, Coherent and readable, Concise

Abstract Formatting • • Should be on its own page Level one heading of Abstract Written in a single, non-indented paragraph All numbers (including those zero – nine) are written in Arabic numeral format, except those that begin a sentence

Abstract Content • The problem or research question • A description of the participants/subjects (including pertinent demographic details) • Critical details about the method • Results (including statistical significance) • Conclusions • Implications and applications

Writing an Introduction • Should begin on a new page • Centered and not in bold, present the title of your paper • Be succinct • Start general and move to specific – Use the Introduction to “funnel” your reader toward the hypothesis (es)

An Introduction must: • Introduce the purpose/problem of your study • Provide relevant background details (i. e. Literature review) – Provides a context for your proposed study – Keep it relevant (i. e. participants vs results) • Develop your research question – Your research question must be based on the previous research – Outline the elements that lead to your current research question

An Introduction must: • End with a brief outline of your proposed procedure and provide theoretical link between your problem and proposed procedure • Clear statement of your research question (es) • Clear statement of your hypothesis (es) • Clearly define all variables (conceptually)