Title Page
APA format
Abstract
Provides complete overview of paper (up to 250 words)
APA format
Introduction
5-7 pages, addressing the topic and a main idea.
Existing literature overview.
Hypothesis and prediction statement.
Each paragraph contains a clear topic sentence and logically leads to the next paragraph.
APA format
In text citations.
Methods
1-2 pages
APA format.
Performed research methods and design.
Statistical analysis and results.
Discussion
5-7 pages
Summarizes the body and concludes the paper
Contains restatement of the main idea (hypothesis) and the results. Includes limitations and future research ideas.
Each paragraph contains a clear topic sentence and logically leads to the next paragraph.
APA Format
Entire paper is double-spaced with 1″ margins
12 pt font, New Times Roman
Correct running head (header) with pagination
Title, name, school name centered and double-spaced
Length sufficient to properly develop written communication with respect to the main idea, subtopics, etc. (ca. 8-10 or perhaps a few more pages)
Other Considerations
Contains factual support for the purpose
Avoids ambiguity in discussion of methods, results or interpretations
Is clear and concise
Is developed logically
Main points are emphasized and auxiliary or background information is kept in proper perspective
Attribution
All sources properly attributed, no plagiarism, paraphrasing and direct quotes where appropriate
Style
Academically appropriate (formal without being “wordy” or involving affectation (unnatural or artificial expression meant simply to impress)
Free of slang, contractions, personal pronouns, “you”
Variety of sentence structures
Fluency of expression in writing
