Random WILT Post - APA 7 Reference Formatting in Word
Formatting References Like a Pro: APA 7 in Word
In a recent Assignment review I got feedback that my reference list was a mess. While I felt it was harsh feedback, I decided to learn from it.
So are you like me and you are sick of your reference list looking like a hot mess?
Fear not, for I bring you the secrets to taming those unruly citations into submission. Behold, the power of proper APA 7 formatting!
2 things you will be asked to do with your references is hanging indents and sorting alphabetically.
First, let's tackle those hanging indents that make your references look oh-so-professional. It's easier than you think:
Select your entire reference list (or just the entries you want to format).
On the ruler at the top, you'll see a little rectangle and an arrow. These are your new best friends.
Drag the arrow to 0.5 inches (or half an inch, for those metrically challenged).
Now, drag the rectangle back to 0 inches.
Voilà! Your references now have that fancy hanging indent, with the first line flush left and the rest indented. Aren't you just the most sophisticated scholar?
But wait, there's more! APA 7 also demands that your references be arranged in alphabetical order. No more random chaos allowed.
Select your reference list again.
On the Home tab, look for the "Sort" button (or press Alt+O+S on your keyboard).
In the Sort Text dialog box, ensure "Paragraphs" is selected, and choose "Text" in the Sort by field.
Check the "Ascending" option, so your references will be sorted A to Z.
Click OK, and marvel at the orderly beauty you've created.
With these simple steps, your reference list will be the envy of all your peers. No more sloppy citations, no more disorganized chaos. Just pure, unadulterated APA 7 perfection.
You're welcome, fellow scholars. Now go forth and format like the academic bosses you are!
Grace to you.