The 7th edition of the APA Style Guide came out last fall, and many schools are adopting this version after sticking with the 6th edition to wrap up the academic year. In fact, I just edited my first dissertation for 7th edition style, and I’ve continued to pore through the new edition to prepare for the fall semester when I expect to see more 7th edition papers.
Here are a few notable changes in the new edition, which you should learn now to incorporate into your writing as soon as your school implements the update:
1. Drop the publisher location
In the 6th edition, book citations took the City, ST: Publisher format. In the 7th edition, you just list the publisher––no City, ST: needed.
2. List up to 20 authors
The 7th edition now allows you to list up to 20 authors for each source, rather than just seven in the previous edition.
3. Use “et al.” on first reference
In the body of your manuscript, when you cite a source with three or more authors, use “et al.” in the parenthetical citation on first reference. Previously, sources with three to five authors listed all names on first reference and et al. on subsequent references.
4. Choose the right title page
The new edition offers two title page options: one for academic manuscripts and one for professional manuscripts. Defer to your professor’s or journal’s preferences when choosing your title page format moving forward.
5. Use new headings
Headings look a bit different, too. Level 3 headings are italicized and left justified; level 4 headings are indented, bold, and run in line with the paragraph; and level 5 headings are indented, bold, italicized, and run in line with the paragraph.
Adjusting to a new style guide can be tricky, and I’m here to help. I’ll be editing all summer long and can format your APA 6th edition paper into a flawless 7th edition one. Let’s chat about your manuscript!