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