VOLUME 30 , NUMBER 1 -January 1999

Software helps writers conform to APA style

By Gary R. VandenBos, PhD
Executive Director, Publications & Communications

APA took its first step into software publishing in October by introducing the APA-Style Helper (www.apa.org/apa-style/). This software is designed specifically to help students in the behavioral and social sciences and other new writers write term papers, reports, review articles and other manuscripts that adhere to the standard APA-style guidelines. The APA-Style Helper was designed as a companion to the APA Publication Manual, the authoritative source for writing style.

APA-Style Helper Version 1.0 was put through an extensive beta-testing phase by students and professionals. Style Helper is compatible with MS Word 97 for Windows 95, 98 or NT 4.0. Anyone with this type of word processor and an active e-mail account can purchase APA-Style Helper online and download it immediately. At the low cost of $24.95, students and beginning writers can download this program directly onto their word processing programing.

The APA-Style Helper walks the user through the process of completing a manuscript-from point of creation to its completion. Version 1.0 features a citation builder that includes 21 types of references (journals, books and web references). The APA-Style Helper can be used for any kind of manuscript the writer may wish to prepare-empirical research, a review article or a theoretical manuscript. The APA-Style Helper puts the essential elements of the manuscript right on the desktop where they are readily accessible.

In addition, an online wizard instructs the writer where to insert key sections for each type of paper or report. For example, when writing a manuscript, the template will guide the writer to include title, abstract, introduction, method, results, discussion, references, appendix, author note, footnotes, table, figure captions, and figure sections. The online-help function points writers to the specific section of the APA Publication Manual should they need more detailed help.

APA-Style Helper Version 1.5, released in December 1998, increased the number of citation types from 21 to approximately 80 types (including research reports, dissertations, and multimedia). It is also available for $24.95. Those who previously purchased Version 1.0 can request a free upgrade to Version 1.5.

APA-Style Helper Version 2.0 will be introduced in the first quarter of 1999. This version will be designed for the more experienced writer, with citation management tools that allow users to automatically import citations from the online PsycINFO database and maintain a master file for references. Citations can then be marked for specific papers and the reference list automatically generated in APA-Style. Those who have purchased earlier versions of APA-Style Helper will be able to get an upgrade for a very modest fee.

The most exciting news is that, in the third quarter of 1999, we will have Version 3.0 of the APA-Style Helper available. This product will be platform independent. It will, thus, allow writers with various types of computers, including Macintoshes, to use the APA-Style Helper program with most word processors. In addition, we will also introduce a CD-ROM distribution with Version 3.0 of APA-Style Helper.

APA is pleased to have this authoritative electronic guide readily accessible online to the public. It will greatly facilitate term paper and manuscript writing in accordance with APA's publishing style. Because the APA-Style Helper is specifically designed as a companion to the APA Publication Manual, software development of this product will be in tandem with further updates of the Publication Manual.

I urge students and other beginning writers to try it out. And, we encourage you to give us feedback, so that we can continue to improve the software to meet your needs. Please send your comments or queries for more information to apastyle@apa.org.

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