How do I format a running head for APA in MS Word?

Answer

Although APA 7 running heads are no longer required for student papers, there are still running head rules for non-student/professional papers.

Here is the process for creating a running head in MS Word if your instructor has specifically requested that you include one:

  1. Add the running head after you have finished setting up your cover page and the first page of your paper
  2. On the cover page, click the "Insert" tab
  3. Click the "Header" button
  4. Check "Edit Header"
  5. Click the "Page Number" button
  6. Hover over the "Top of Page" entry and click the "Plain Number 3" option
  7. Type in your running head using all capital letters. It's okay that there is no space between the title and the page number.
  8. Click the "Insert Alignment Tab" button in the Position menu
  9. Make the following selections in the dialog box that appears: Right, Margin, and None
  10. Click OK
  11. Scroll down to the header section of the next page to make sure the header appears there as well
  12. Close Header and Footer tab.

*Note: Your running head is an abbreviated version of the title of your paper. It should be no longer than 50 characters. If the paper title is already short, the running head can be the same as the paper title*

 

  • Last Updated Feb 10, 2022
  • Views 643
  • Answered By Hannah Elliott

FAQ Actions

Was this helpful? 1 0

Comments (1)

  1. This was the most usful video ever in understanding APA and setting up the page format. Most recommended. Thanks for saving me and increasing the points for my paper.
    by on Nov 25, 2012

Submit a Question

You will receive a response within one business day.

Your Info

Please list your Sask Polytech email.

Fields marked with * are required.