APA Style, 7th Edition

This guide reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual, 7th edition, published in October 2019. Many databases and citation generators have not yet updated to the 7th edition. Please check with your instructor about which version of APA to use in your assignments.

Visit the Fitchburg State University Research Guide for APA, 6th Edition.

Always refer to the APA Manual for specific authorized examples of citations.

Some of the citation examples in this guide are from the manual and others are examples from the Amelia V. Galluci-Cirio Library Librarians.

This guide is an adaptation of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.), not a substitute for it. 

For some sources, you may need to consult the APA Manual and interpret the rules to the best of your own ability. Copies of the manual are located at the Research Help desk.

Currently in its 7th edition. APA Style is a citation format established by the American Psychological Association. The format was developed to ensure consistency and to provide style rules for scientific writing.

This format is used mostly for:

• Social Sciences (including Psychology, Education, Sociology, Economics, Criminal Justice, etc.)
• Business

APA Style Includes:

• the format & structure of your paper
• how you cite other authors within the body of your paper
• how you compile a references page at the end of your paper

          Top Five Reasons to Use APA Style:

•  APA style is required for many classes.
•  APA style helps you credit sources and distinguish your own ideas from others'.
•  APA Style helps you avoid accidental plagiarism.
•  APA Style communicates important information about your sources.
•  APA Style looks professional and credible.

The biggest mistake students make with citation generator is completely trusting there are no errors. Make sure you closely review all citations created this way: