Using Style Sheets

Watch and learn

This is a video guide to formatting the title and first pages of a basic APA-style document and is, to the best of our knowledge, up to date as of June 2025. Enjoy!

If you do not see the video, please click on the link to view it (you will leave this page):

How to format your paper in APA style in 2025

Top tips

  • Learn what style guide is commonly used in your discipline or field.
  • Learn to use the style guide as a reference tool for formatting citations for specific types of sources.
  • Learn to use the style guide to structure your own writing.
  • The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers gives detailed advice and examples, with useful sections on citing non-print sources such as films, paintings, sound recordings, and Internet sources. See also the MLA website for recommendations on details of referring to non-print sources.
  • See also the Chicago Manual of Style online citation quick guide .
  • See the APA style help page for further advice on APA requirements.
  • The system worked out by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is often used in Computer Science and Engineering. Consult the handy IEEE citation style guide.

 

Academic style guides

Enhance your learning

AP Style and Chicago Manual of Style updates:

Note: These links will open in a new page.

Enhance your wellness

Are you feeling low and that’s not your style? Looking for some support to get you back on track? “Bounce Back is an evidence-based program designed to help adults experiencing symptoms of mild to moderate depression, low mood, or stress, with or without anxiety.” It’s free for participants! 

For more resources, see health and wellness resources from VIU counselling services.

Student support areas

Writing Centre

Value for me?

What's your style?

A style manual is not just about formatting citations; it will also advise you on how to:

Collect information

Organize information

Structure, punctuate, capitalize, abbreviate, and otherwise format your written work

Visualize topic

Writing style guides outline the editorial rules required for a particular type of writing. Make sure you know which style guide your professor has required you to follow.

Technology integration

APA paper format template
This template from Microsoft for Word 2003 or later "provides a framework to correctly format your writing in the APA format; includes example text and instructions."

Research paper template in MLA style 
Downloadable template from Microsoft for Word: "change the editable fields and follow the MLA guidelines within the text."

Build your resources