APA Style is designed for writing and understanding how to cite and explain scientific literature. It is used in people-centered academic disciplines such as psychology, education, and nursing that students may major in; it is also used in other academic fields, including business and engineering. Even if you teach, or were taught, a different writing style (e.g., MLA, Chicago), once you have learned one style, learning another style should be easier.
Because APA Style is used in many fields as a foundation for academic writing, we create content to assist you in teaching writing that is clear, precise, and inclusive—which will improve your students’ scholarly communication. Many of our resources are intended for students and were designed by APA Style experts in conjunction with university instructors.
On the APA Style YouTube channelopens in new window, we feature videos that demonstrate the fundamental principles of APA Style, including recordings of our webinars. We have been working on lots of great, engaging videos for the new school year. Our latest videoopens in new window, Why Do You Need APA Style?, will increase your and your students’ understanding of why it is important to use APA Style guidance based on the assignment type and/or academic discipline. Usually, students have trouble putting APA Style into practice, and this video will enhance their APA Style learning experience—knowing the “why” may lessen the “whys.”
Also, when teaching students how to write a scientific paper in APA Style, you should ensure your students are cognizant of two things before they start their draft: audience (i.e., those who will read their work) and purpose (i.e., the main reason they are writing whatever it is they are writing and what they would like their audience to learn). Teaching students how to effectively communicate their data and choose reliable sources to support their assertions in a clear and concise manner are crucial in advancing science. The Why Do You Need APA Style? video focuses on practical ways to think about the writing process and promotes critical thinking about science.
As a reminder, the APA Style team encourages instructors, departments, and institutions to adapt APA Style to fit their needs. Students should follow the guidelines of their instructor, advisor, department, and/or institution when writing papers.
