What should I include in the department section when writing an APA paper?

When writing an APA paper, the department section on the title page is a crucial element that needs careful attention. The department section typically includes the name of your university or college, your department or faculty, and occasionally, the course name or number. Let's delve into the specifics.

Why Does the Department Section Matter in Your APA Paper? 🤔

The department section in an APA paper is a key identifier that tells the reader where the paper is coming from. It's essential for establishing the academic context of your work, and it's also a way of giving due credit to the institution that has supported your research.

Your APA Paper Checklist: What Goes in the Department Section? ✅

Here's what you should include in the department section:

Essential Elements to Include in the Department Section

1. University or College Name: This is the name of the academic institution where you are studying or conducting your research.
2. Department or Faculty: This is the specific section or discipline within the university where your study is based.
3. Course Name or Number (Optional): If your paper is for a specific course, you may also include the course name or number.

It's important to note that the above information should be centered and placed in the upper half of the page. Also, don't forget to double-space between each line.

Picture This: A Sample Department Section in APA Format 🖼️

Here's an example of how a department section might look:

# University of Excellence
## Department of English Literature
### ENG 101

Remember, the department section is not the place to include personal information like your student number or contact details. This information typically does not belong on an APA title page.

Becoming an APA Format Pro: It's Easier Than You Think! 💪

Getting the department section right is just one part of mastering the APA format. From the running head to the reference list, every element of your paper needs to follow the APA guidelines to ensure consistency and clarity.

Learn more about Test Your Knowledge on APA Formatting 📝 or discover other Superior Formatting quizzes.

For a more detailed guide on APA formatting, including how to format the title page and write a book title in APA, check out our comprehensive APA format guide. And remember, the key to mastering APA format is practice and attention to detail, so don't be discouraged if you don't get it perfect the first time. Keep writing, keep learning, and you'll get there!

Let's take a moment to address some common questions about the department section in APA formatting:

Remember, the department section, like every other aspect of your APA paper, is an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail.

Remember, the department section, like every other aspect of your APA paper, is an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail. So, take the time to get it right, and your hard work will certainly pay off.

Catherine O'Donnell

Academic Writing, MLA and APA Formatting, Literature, Education

Catherine O'Donnell is a seasoned English professor with over 20 years of experience in teaching academic writing at a prestigious university. She is known for her ability to simplify complex concepts and make them easily understandable for students.