How to format (sub)headings according to APA

Organize, organize, organize!

headings

💡 See also How to format your academic paper in APA style (7th edition) using Microsoft Word.

Source: Publication manual of the APA, 2020, p. 48

When writing a shorter academic text like a five-paragraph essay, usually only one level heading is required: a level one heading that represents the title of the essay and a second level one heading for the references page, called, "References". If your instructor requires more headings, then consider a level II heading to include subsections throughout the text.

When writing longer academic texts like a 5,000 to 6,000-word thesis paper, then usually on three types of headings are required: a level one heading, a level two heading, and a level three heading.

Formatting level one, two, and three headings

💡In many cases, a level I, II, and III will suffice for most papers. Levels one, two, and three follow title case (See Sentence Case vs. Title Case).

• A level one heading is centered to the page, in bold, and uses a (title case heading). The text begins as a new paragraph.

• A level two heading is flush left to the page, in bold, and uses a title case heading. Text begins as a new paragraph.

• A level three heading is flush left to the page, in bold italics, and uses a title case heading. Text begins as a new paragraph.

💡 Always check with your instructor if you feel you need more than three levels of headings.

Crafting effective titles and subheadings for academic papers

Here are a few title options, ranging from more descriptive to slightly more engaging, based on the tutorial you provided:

Option 1 (Descriptive & Straightforward):

• Crafting Effective Titles and Subheadings for Academic Papers

Option 2 (Slightly More Engaging, Keyword-Rich):

• A Guide to Writing Compelling Titles and Subheadings for Research Papers

Option 3 (Using a Colon - Two Part):

• Academic Writing Essentials: Mastering Titles and Subheadings for Clarity and Impact

• Titles and Subheadings: A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting a Clear and Engaging Paper

Option 4 (Focusing on the "How-To"):

• How to Write Effective Titles and Subheadings for Your Research Paper

Option 5 (More direct and brief)

• Writing Effective Titles and Subheadings

My Recommendation and Why:

I'd probably recommend Option 3 ("Academic Writing Essentials: Mastering Titles and Subheadings for Clarity and Impact") or Option 5 ("Writing Effective Titles and Subheadings").

• Option 3 uses the colon structure effectively. "Academic Writing Essentials" is broad and appealing, while the part after the colon provides specific focus and keywords. "Clarity and Impact" highlights the benefits of good titles and subheadings.

• Option 5 is concise, but sacrifices a small amount of detail.

The best choice depends slightly on the intended audience and the overall tone you're aiming for. If it's a very formal academic setting, Option 1 or the first instance of Option 3 might be preferred. If it's a slightly more accessible guide (e.g., for students), Options 2, 4, or 5 could work well. But all of the options are valid and reflect the content accurately.