How should I format my reference list?
Answer
An APA Style paper that includes works cited in the text requires a reference list. Below are some general guidelines for formatting a reference list:
- Start the reference list on a new page after the text.
- Write the label "References" at the top of the page in bold and centered.
- Type each reference as a single paragraph, justified to the left margin.
- Alphabetize references according to the first word of the reference (usually the last name of the first author).
- Apply a 0.5-in. hanging indent to the whole reference list, which keeps the first line of each reference flush left and indents any subsequent lines 0.5in.
- DOIs and URLs can be either blue and underlined (i.e., the default setting for hyperlinks) or plain text that is not underlined.
- Double-check that all the works cited in the text are included in the reference list.
- Double-check that all works in the reference list are cited in the text.