Using Headings and Subheadings in APA Style
Before using headings, make sure that you actually
need them: Headings and subheadings are often
used to separate sections of a long paper –
often scientific publications or upper-level academic
writing – and make it easier for readers to follow.
However, headings and subheadings are rarely used
in short papers; unless required by the professor and
the assignment, don’t use them simply to avoid
normal transitioning between paragraphs.
Be sure not to get creative with things like color,
different fonts, or clip art (unless required for your
assignment). Consistently stick to the formats in the
table below, and your headings will look great!
Figure 1. Effective formatting of APA-style papers
helps your audience understand how your writing
is organized and arranged. Image of coffee cup
and notepad, © 2010 Jupiterimages Corporation.
APA uses 5 levels of headings
Level 1
Centered, Boldface,
Major Words Start with Capital Letters (like a title)
Level 2
Far left, Boldface, Major Words Start with Capital Letters (like a title)
Level 3
Indented, boldface, only first letter of first word is capitalized,
ends in period.
Level 4
Indented, boldface, italicized, only first letter of first word is
capitalized, ends in period.
Level 5
Indented, italicized, only first letter of first word is capitalized, ends in
period.
•
•
•
Like an outline, the first level subheading would be used for all of your major points, the next
level for the points under it, etc. Also like an outline, you would only use a subheading in a level
if you have another subheading in that same level under that same heading (such as in an
outline, you would only put an A under Section 1 if you also have a B to put under that section,
etc.).
You would certainly not need to use all five levels. Again, as in an outline, you would only use
what you need for your particular paper.
Unlike an outline, there are no numbers or letters on headings, and though the headings do not
have to be in full sentences, your paper should be written in full sentences, full paragraphs, and
with fully developed ideas.
Kaplan University Writing Center Resource Library  Headings & Subheadings in APA by Amanda Millard  November 2010  Page 1