MLA APA format paper writing-Tech Tip

Formatting an APA format paper writing style using keyboard commands is an efficient way to create a properly structured document without relying on a mouse. By using shortcuts within programs like Microsoft Word, you can quickly adjust key elements such as margins, fonts, line spacing, and indentation. This guide outlines the essential steps, including setting up the title page, organizing headings, and formatting the references page. By mastering these keyboard commands, you can streamline the process of formatting your APA paper and ensure it meets academic standards.

To format an APA paper using keyboard commands, you can use several standard shortcuts within word processors like Microsoft Word. Follow these tips to make APA format paper writing easier:

1. Setup the Document in APA format paper writing style

• Margins: The default margins in Word are typically 1 inch, but you can check by pressing Alt + P, then M, and selecting “Normal”.
• Font and Size: Use Ctrl + D to open the Font dialog box. Set the font to Times New Roman and the size to 12. Both settings are essential in APA format paper writing.
• Line Spacing: To set double spacing, press Ctrl + 2.
• Indentation: For the first line of each paragraph, press Ctrl + T to create a hanging indent. To undo this and create a regular first-line indent, press Ctrl + Shift + T and then Tab to indent the first line.

2. Title Page

• Running Head: Press Alt + N to go to the “Insert” tab, then H for “Header”, and Ctrl + R to right-align the text. Type “Running head: YOUR TITLE” (in caps) on the first page. On other pages, just type the title without “Running head”.
• Title: Press Ctrl + E to center the title. Capitalize each major word in the title.
• Author and Institution: Press Ctrl + E again to center your name and institution. Press Enter between lines. Proper formatting of this section is crucial for APA format paper writing.

3. Main Body

• Heading Levels:
  • Level 1: Centered, bold. Use Ctrl + E to center and Ctrl + B to bold.
  • Level 2: Left-aligned, bold. Use Ctrl + L to left-align and Ctrl + B to bold.
  • Level 3: Left-aligned, bold, and italicized. Use Ctrl + L, Ctrl + B, and Ctrl + I.
  • Level 4: Indented, bold, ending with a period. Use Ctrl + T for hanging indent, Ctrl + B, and type your text.
  • Level 5: Indented, italicized, ending with a period. Use Ctrl + T, Ctrl + I, and type your text.

4. References Page

• Hanging Indent: Select the references text and press Ctrl + T to apply a hanging indent, following APA format paper conventions.
• Title: Center the title “References” using Ctrl + E.

5. Page Numbers

• Insert page numbers by pressing Alt + N, then N, and selecting “Page Number”. Place the number in the top right by pressing Ctrl + R.

This approach covers the essential formatting elements for an APA paper using keyboard shortcuts. Let me know if you need specific details on any step for better APA format paper writing! Find MLA Word Format here.