Final answer:
APA style is used for citing sources within the social sciences, featuring in-text citations, and a References Page with full publication details. The APA paper format includes a title page, abstract, main body, and references, adhering to specific APA guidelines or instructor requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The APA style is a documentation system used in a variety of academic disciplines, particularly in the social sciences such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, economics, social work, and often education. APA (American Psychological Association) style involves the use of author-date citations in the text of a paper whenever referencing sources. Following the guidelines outlined in the APA Manual, when you borrow material from any source, you must include an in-text citation that typically features the author's last name, the year of publication, and, where applicable, page numbers for direct quotes. In addition to in-text citations, APA style requires a References Page at the end of the paper. This page lists all sources cited within the text in alphabetical order by the author's last name and provides full publication details. By adhering to APA style, you enable readers to locate the sources you've cited easily and to appreciate the timeliness and relevance of your research.
The APA paper format includes several specific layout guidelines. Your instructor may have specific formatting requirements, but standard APA guidelines include a title page, abstract, main body, and the references page. For precise APA paper structure and citation models, the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 7th edition, is the essential resource. It is important to note that your instructor may require a different citation style, such as MLA (Modern Language Association) or Chicago, depending on the subject matter and course requirements. Therefore, always check with your instructor to ensure you are using the correct documentation style for your assignment.