Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format / How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

In this citation guide, you will learn how to reference and cite an undergraduate thesis, master’s thesis, or doctoral dissertation. This guide will also review the differences between a thesis or dissertation that is published and one that has remained unpublished. The guidelines below come from the 7th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2020a), pages 333 and 334. Please note that the association is not affiliated with this guide.

Alternatively, you can visit EasyBib.com for helpful citation tools to cite your thesis or dissertation .

Guide Overview

Citing an unpublished thesis or dissertation, citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation: reference overview, what you need.

Since unpublished theses can usually only be sourced in print form from a university library, the correct citation structure includes the university name where the publisher element usually goes.

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution.

Ames, J. H., & Doughty, L. H. (1911). The proposed plans for the Iowa State College athletic field including the design of a reinforced concrete grandstand and wall [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.

In-text citation example:

  • Parenthetical :  (Ames & Doughty, 1911)
  • Narrative :  Ames & Doughty (1911)

If a thesis or dissertation has been published and is found on a database, then follow the structure below. It’s similar to the format for an unpublished dissertation/thesis, but with a few differences:

  • The institution is presented in brackets after the title
  • The archive or database name is included

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name.

Examples 1:

Knight, K. A. (2011). Media epidemics: Viral structures in literature and new media (Accession No. 2013420395) [Doctoral dissertation, University of California, Santa Barbara]. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing.

Example dissertation-thesis

Trotman, J.B. (2018). New insights into the biochemistry and cell biology of RNA recapping (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses & Dissertations Center.

In the example given above, the dissertation is presented with a Document Number (Document No.). Sometimes called a database number or publication number, this is the identifier that is used by the database’s indexing system. If the database you are using provides you with such a number, then include it directly after the work’s title in parentheses.

If you are interested in learning more about how to handle works that were accessed via academic research databases, see Section 9.3 of the Publication Manual.

In-text citation examples :

  • Parenthetical citation : (Trotman, 2018)
  • Narrative citation : Trotman (2018)

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year Published). Title in sentence case [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL

Kim, O. (2019). Soviet tableau: cinema and history under late socialism [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. https://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

Stiles, T. W. (2001). Doing science: Teachers’ authentic experiences at the Lone Star Dinosaur Field Institute [Master’s thesis, Texas A&M University]. OAKTrust. https://hdl.handle.net/1969.1/ETD-TAMU-2001-THESIS-S745

It is important to note that not every thesis or dissertation published online will be associated with a specific archive or collection. If the work is published on a private website, provide only the URL as the source element.

In-text citation examples:

  • Parenthetical citation : (Kim, 2019)
  • Narrative citation : Kim (2019)
  • Parenthetical citation : (Stiles, 2001)
  • Narrative citation : Stiles (2001)
Unpublished Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution Ames, J.H., & Doughty, L.H (1911). [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.
Published from a database Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name. Trotman, J.B. (2018). (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Thesis & Dissertations Center
Published online but not from a database Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL Kim, O. (2019). [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

dissertation and thesis Citations for APA 7

We hope that the information provided here will serve as an effective guide for your research. If you’re looking for even more citation info, visit EasyBib.com for a comprehensive collection of educational materials covering multiple source types.

If you’re citing a variety of different sources, consider taking the EasyBib citation generator for a spin. It can help you cite easily and offers citation forms for several different kinds of sources.

To start things off, let’s take a look at the different types of literature that are classified under Chapter 10.6 of the Publication Manual :

  • Undergraduate thesis
  • Master’s thesis
  • Doctoral dissertation

You will need to know which type you are citing. You’ll also need to know if it is published or unpublished .

When you decide to cite a dissertation or thesis, you’ll need to look for the following information to use in your citation:

  • Author’s last name, and first and middle initials
  • Year published
  • Title of thesis or dissertation
  • If it is unpublished
  • Publication or document number (if applicable; for published work)
  • Degree type (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral)
  • Thesis or dissertation
  • Name of institution awarding degree
  • DOI (https://doi.org/xxxxx) or URL (if applicable)

Since theses and dissertations are directly linked to educational degrees, it is necessary to list the name of the associated institution; i.e., the college, university, or school that is awarding the associated degree.

To get an idea of the proper form, take a look at the examples below. There are three outlined scenarios:

  • Unpublished thesis or dissertation
  • Published thesis or dissertation from a database
  • Thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database

American Psychological Association. (2020a). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

American Psychological Association. (2020b). Style-Grammar-Guidelines. https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/citations/basic-principles/parenthetical-versus-narrative

Published August 10, 2012. Updated March 24, 2020.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Block Quotes
  • et al Usage
  • In-text Citations
  • Multiple Authors
  • Paraphrasing
  • Page Numbers
  • Parenthetical Citations
  • Reference Page
  • Sample Paper
  • APA 7 Updates
  • View APA Guide

Citation Examples

  • Book Chapter
  • Journal Article
  • Magazine Article
  • Newspaper Article
  • Website (no author)
  • View all APA Examples

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

To cite a published thesis in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, publication year, title of the thesis, institute name, archive name, and URL (uniform resource locator). The templates for an in-text citation and reference list entry of a thesis, along with examples, are given below:

In-text citation template and example:

Use the author surname and the publication year in the in-text citation.

Author Surname (Publication Year)

Cartmel (2007)

Parenthetical:

(Author Surname, Publication Year)

(Cartmel, 2007)

Reference list entry template and example:

The title of the thesis is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose the thesis and the institute awarding the degree inside brackets following the publication year. Then add the name of the database followed by the URL.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the thesis [Master’s thesis, Institute Name]. Name of the Database. URL

Cartmel, J. (2007). Outside school hours care and schools [Master’s thesis, Queensland University of Technology]. EPrints. http://eprints.qut.edu.au/17810/1/Jennifer_Cartmel_Thesis.pdf

To cite an unpublished dissertation in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, year, title of the dissertation, and institute name. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of an online thesis, along with examples, are given below:

Author Surname (Year)

Averill (2009)

(Author Surname, Year)

(Averill, 2009)

The title of the dissertation is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose “Unpublished doctoral dissertation” inside brackets following the year. Then add the name of the institution awarding the degree.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the dissertation [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Name of the Institute.

Averill, R. (2009). Teacher–student relationships in diverse New Zealand year 10 mathematics classrooms: Teacher care [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Victoria University of Wellington.

APA Citation Examples

Writing Tools

Citation Generators

Other Citation Styles

Plagiarism Checker

Upload a paper to check for plagiarism against billions of sources and get advanced writing suggestions for clarity and style.

Get Started

Generate accurate APA citations for free

  • Knowledge Base
  • APA Style 7th edition
  • APA format for academic papers and essays

APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.) | Generator, Template, Examples

Published on November 6, 2020 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on January 17, 2024.

The 7th edition of the APA Publication Manual provides guidelines for clear communication , citing sources , and formatting documents. This article focuses on paper formatting.

Generate accurate APA citations with Scribbr

Throughout your paper, you need to apply the following APA format guidelines:

  • Set page margins to 1 inch on all sides.
  • Double-space all text, including headings.
  • Indent the first line of every paragraph 0.5 inches.
  • Use an accessible font (e.g., Times New Roman 12pt., Arial 11pt., or Georgia 11pt.).
  • Include a page number on every page.

APA format (7th edition)

Let an expert format your paper

Our APA formatting experts can help you to format your paper according to APA guidelines. They can help you with:

  • Margins, line spacing, and indentation
  • Font and headings
  • Running head and page numbering

apa format example for thesis

Table of contents

How to set up apa format (with template), apa alphabetization guidelines, apa format template [free download], page header, headings and subheadings, reference page, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about apa format.

Are your APA in-text citations flawless?

The AI-powered APA Citation Checker points out every error, tells you exactly what’s wrong, and explains how to fix it. Say goodbye to losing marks on your assignment!

Get started!

apa format example for thesis

References are ordered alphabetically by the first author’s last name. If the author is unknown, order the reference entry by the first meaningful word of the title (ignoring articles: “the”, “a”, or “an”).

Why set up APA format from scratch if you can download Scribbr’s template for free?

Student papers and professional papers have slightly different guidelines regarding the title page, abstract, and running head. Our template is available in Word and Google Docs format for both versions.

  • Student paper: Word | Google Docs
  • Professional paper: Word | Google Docs

In an APA Style paper, every page has a page header. For student papers, the page header usually consists of just a page number in the page’s top-right corner. For professional papers intended for publication, it also includes a running head .

A running head is simply the paper’s title in all capital letters. It is left-aligned and can be up to 50 characters in length. Longer titles are abbreviated .

APA running head (7th edition)

APA headings have five possible levels. Heading level 1 is used for main sections such as “ Methods ” or “ Results ”. Heading levels 2 to 5 are used for subheadings. Each heading level is formatted differently.

Want to know how many heading levels you should use, when to use which heading level, and how to set up heading styles in Word or Google Docs? Then check out our in-depth article on APA headings .

APA headings (7th edition)

The title page is the first page of an APA Style paper. There are different guidelines for student and professional papers.

Both versions include the paper title and author’s name and affiliation. The student version includes the course number and name, instructor name, and due date of the assignment. The professional version includes an author note and running head .

For more information on writing a striking title, crediting multiple authors (with different affiliations), and writing the author note, check out our in-depth article on the APA title page .

APA title page - student version (7th edition)

The abstract is a 150–250 word summary of your paper. An abstract is usually required in professional papers, but it’s rare to include one in student papers (except for longer texts like theses and dissertations).

The abstract is placed on a separate page after the title page . At the top of the page, write the section label “Abstract” (bold and centered). The contents of the abstract appear directly under the label. Unlike regular paragraphs, the first line is not indented. Abstracts are usually written as a single paragraph without headings or blank lines.

Directly below the abstract, you may list three to five relevant keywords . On a new line, write the label “Keywords:” (italicized and indented), followed by the keywords in lowercase letters, separated by commas.

APA abstract (7th edition)

APA Style does not provide guidelines for formatting the table of contents . It’s also not a required paper element in either professional or student papers. If your instructor wants you to include a table of contents, it’s best to follow the general guidelines.

Place the table of contents on a separate page between the abstract and introduction. Write the section label “Contents” at the top (bold and centered), press “Enter” once, and list the important headings with corresponding page numbers.

The APA reference page is placed after the main body of your paper but before any appendices . Here you list all sources that you’ve cited in your paper (through APA in-text citations ). APA provides guidelines for formatting the references as well as the page itself.

Creating APA Style references

Play around with the Scribbr Citation Example Generator below to learn about the APA reference format of the most common source types or generate APA citations for free with Scribbr’s APA Citation Generator .

Formatting the reference page

Write the section label “References” at the top of a new page (bold and centered). Place the reference entries directly under the label in alphabetical order.

Finally, apply a hanging indent , meaning the first line of each reference is left-aligned, and all subsequent lines are indented 0.5 inches.

APA reference page (7th edition)

Tables and figures are presented in a similar format. They’re preceded by a number and title and followed by explanatory notes (if necessary).

Use bold styling for the word “Table” or “Figure” and the number, and place the title on a separate line directly below it (in italics and title case). Try to keep tables clean; don’t use any vertical lines, use as few horizontal lines as possible, and keep row and column labels concise.

Keep the design of figures as simple as possible. Include labels and a legend if needed, and only use color when necessary (not to make it look more appealing).

Check out our in-depth article about table and figure notes to learn when to use notes and how to format them.

APA table (7th edition)

The easiest way to set up APA format in Word is to download Scribbr’s free APA format template for student papers or professional papers.

Alternatively, you can watch Scribbr’s 5-minute step-by-step tutorial or check out our APA format guide with examples.

APA Style papers should be written in a font that is legible and widely accessible. For example:

  • Times New Roman (12pt.)
  • Arial (11pt.)
  • Calibri (11pt.)
  • Georgia (11pt.)

The same font and font size is used throughout the document, including the running head , page numbers, headings , and the reference page . Text in footnotes and figure images may be smaller and use single line spacing.

You need an APA in-text citation and reference entry . Each source type has its own format; for example, a webpage citation is different from a book citation .

Use Scribbr’s free APA Citation Generator to generate flawless citations in seconds or take a look at our APA citation examples .

Yes, page numbers are included on all pages, including the title page , table of contents , and reference page . Page numbers should be right-aligned in the page header.

To insert page numbers in Microsoft Word or Google Docs, click ‘Insert’ and then ‘Page number’.

APA format is widely used by professionals, researchers, and students in the social and behavioral sciences, including fields like education, psychology, and business.

Be sure to check the guidelines of your university or the journal you want to be published in to double-check which style you should be using.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2024, January 17). APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.) | Generator, Template, Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/apa-style/format/

Is this article helpful?

Raimo Streefkerk

Raimo Streefkerk

Other students also liked, apa title page (7th edition) | template for students & professionals, creating apa reference entries, beginner's guide to apa in-text citation, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”

APA Style 6th Edition: Citing Your Sources

  • Basics of APA Formatting
  • In Text Quick View
  • Block Quotes
  • Books & eBooks
  • Thesis/Dissertation

Standard Format

Various examples.

  • Conference Presentations
  • Course Documents
  • Social Media
  • Government Documents
  • Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
  • Additional Resources
  • Sample Reference Page

Dissertation or thesis available from a database service:

Author Surname, First Initial. Second Initial. (year of publication).  Title of dissertation or thesis (Doctoral dissertation or master’s thesis).  Retrieved from Name of database.  (Accession or Order No.)

For an unpublished dissertation or thesis:

Author Surname, First Initial. Second Initial. (year of creation).  Title of dissertation or thesis (Unpublished doctoral dissertation or master’s thesis).  Name of Institution, Location.

Thesis, from a commercial database

Nicometo, D. N. (2015). (Order No. 1597712). Retrieved from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (1717577238).

Dissertation, from an institutional database

Andrea, H. (2014). (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from https://etd.ohiolink.edu/

Unpublished master’s thesis

Curry, J.  (2016).  (Unpublished master’s thesis).  Pacific Oaks College, Pasadena, CA.

See Ch 7 pp. 207-208 APA Manual for more examples and formatting rules

Formatting:

  • Italicize the title
  • Identify whether source is doctoral dissertation or master’s thesis in parentheses after the title
  • << Previous: Articles
  • Next: Websites >>
  • Last Updated: Sep 22, 2022 11:20 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/APA-citation-style

NAU Logo

APA Formatting and Style (7th ed.)

  • What's New in the 7th ed.?
  • Principles of Plagiarism: An Overview
  • Basic Paper Formatting
  • Basic Paper Elements
  • Punctuation, Capitalization, Abbreviations, Apostrophes, Numbers, Plurals
  • Tables and Figures
  • Powerpoint Presentations
  • Reference Page Format
  • Periodicals (Journals, Magazines, Newspapers)
  • Books and Reference Works
  • Webpage on a Website
  • Discussion Post
  • Company Information & SWOT Analyses
  • Dissertations or Theses
  • ChatGPT and other AI Large Language Models
  • Online Images
  • Online Video
  • Computer Software and Mobile Apps
  • Missing Information
  • Two Authors
  • Three or More Authors
  • Group Authors
  • Missing Author
  • Chat GPT and other AI Large Language Models
  • Secondary Sources
  • Block Quotations
  • Fillable Template and Sample Paper
  • Government Documents and Legal Materials
  • APA Style 7th ed. Tutorials
  • Additional APA 7th Resources
  • Grammarly - your writing assistant
  • Writing Center - Writing Skills This link opens in a new window
  • Brainfuse Online Tutoring

Reference Page Examples - Dissertations or Theses

  • Published Dissertation or Thesis
  • Unpublished Dissertation or Thesis

 A dissertation or thesis is considered published when it is available from a database such as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.

If the database or archive requires users to log in before they can view the dissertation or thesis, meaning the url will not work for readers, end the reference with the database name., author, a. a. (year).  title of dissertation  (publication no. xxxxxxxxx). [doctoral dissertation or masters thesis, name of, institution that awarded the degree]. name of source i.e. proquest dissertations and theses global. url for, the dissertation or thesis., d'arcangelis, g. s. (2009).  the bio scare: anthrax, smallpox, sars, flu and post-9/11 u.s. empire  (order no.,            3388146). [doctoral dissertation, university of california los angeles]. proquest dissertations and theses,            global. , * ** remember: each source listed on the reference page must correspond to at least one in-text citation in the body of the paper; each in-text citation must correspond to a source listed on the reference page., when a dissertation or thesis is unpublished, include the description “[unpublished doctoral dissertation]” or “[unpublished master’s thesis]” in square brackets after the dissertation or thesis title., in the source element of the reference, provide the name of the institution that awarded the degree., author, a. a. (year).  title of dissertation  [unpublished doctoral dissertation or unpublished, masters thesis], name of institution that awarded the degree. , johnson, b. (2005). balanced scorecard applications  [unpublished master's thesis]. worthington university..

  • << Previous: Company Information & SWOT Analyses
  • Next: ChatGPT and other AI Large Language Models >>
  • Last Updated: Aug 9, 2024 11:50 AM
  • URL: https://national.libguides.com/apa_7th

AUS Library Homepage

  • WorldCat Discovery
  • Course and Subject Guides
  • Journal Finder
  • New Books Feeds
  • Course Reserves
  • Room Reservations
  • Faculty and Graduate Services
  • Available Computers
  • Events and Workshops
  • Copyright and Fair Use
  • Interlibrary Loan
  • Request Forms
  • Library Policies
  • Borrowing & Access Policies
  • Library Building
  • American University of Sharjah

APA 6th Edition Citation Style

Dissertation / thesis.

  • APA 6th Edition Guide
  • Annual Report
  • Article, Journal
  • Article, Journal (with DOI)
  • Article, Journal (without DOI)
  • Book, Chapter in edited work
  • Book, Electronic
  • Dissertation / Thesis (Database)
  • Email/Interviews
  • Events, Live
  • Newspaper Article
  • Newspaper Article (Database)
  • Newspaper Article (Website)
  • Podcast, Audio
  • Reference Work
  • Reference Work (Database)
  • Website Document
  • Video, Online
  • No Author / No Date
: Samah Ahmad Sabbagh
: 2009
: Investigating oral presentation skills and non-verbal communication
  techniques in UAE classrooms: A thesis in teaching English to speakers of other languages
: master's thesis
: American University of Sharjah
: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Document Example:

Proper Bibliographic Reference Format:

  • Bibliographic references are double-spaced and indented half an inch after the first line.
  • Use italics and "sentence-style" capitalization for dissertation / thesis titles.
  • Identify the work as a doctoral dissertation / master’s thesis in parentheses after the title.

Sabbagh, S. A. (2009). Investigating oral presentation skills and non-verbal communication techniques in UAE classrooms: A thesis in teaching English to speakers of other languages (master’s thesis). American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

In-Text Citations:

Citations are placed in the context of discussion using the author’s last name and date of publication.

(Sabbagh, 2009)

Alternatively, you can integrate the citation into the sentence by means of narrative.

Sabbagh (2009) compares a variety of oral presentation techniques.

Print Version

  • Print version of Disseration Citation Guide
  • << Previous: Blog Post
  • Next: Dissertation / Thesis (Database) >>
  • Last Updated: Oct 13, 2022 2:48 PM
  • URL: https://aus.libguides.com/apa

© 2020  American University of Sharjah . All Rights Reserved.

Privacy Policy

Return to AUS

APA 7th Edition Citation Examples

  • Volume and Issue Numbers
  • Page Numbers
  • Undated Sources
  • Citing a Source Within a Source
  • In-Text Citations
  • Academic Journals
  • Encyclopedia Articles
  • Book, Film, and Product Reviews
  • Online Classroom Materials
  • Conference Papers
  • Technical + Research Reports
  • Court Decisions
  • Treaties and Other International Agreements
  • Federal Regulations: I. The Code of Federal Regulations
  • Federal Regulations: II. The Federal Register
  • Executive Orders
  • Charter of the United Nations
  • Federal Statutes

Format for dissertations and theses

Dissertations and theses database.

  • Interviews, E-mail Messages + Other Personal Communications
  • Social Media
  • Business Sources
  • PowerPoints
  • AI: ChatGPT, etc.

Author last name, first initial. (Year).  Title of dissertation/thesis  (Publication No.) [Doctoral dissertation/Master's thesis, University]. Database. URL

  • Author:  List the last name, followed by the first initial (and second initial). See  Authors  for more information.
  • Year:  List the year between parentheses, followed by a period.
  • Title of dissertation/thesis:  In italics. Capitalize the first word of the title, subtitle, and proper nouns.
  • Publication number: Can be found in Dissertations and Theses database, listed in the item record as “Dissertation/thesis number.”
  • Doctoral dissertation/Master's thesis:  List whether it is a dissertation or a thesis.
  • University:  List the university associated with the dissertation/thesis.
  • Database:  List database the dissertation/thesis was found in, if found in a database.
  • URL:  List URL if found on the free Web rather than in a database.

See specific examples below.

Dissertations:

Pecore, J. T. (2004). Sounding the spirit of Cambodia: The living tradition of Khmer music and dance-drama in a Washington, DC community  (Publication No. 3114720) [Doctoral dissertation, University of Maryland]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. 

Master's Theses:

Hollander, M. M. (2017). Resitance to authority: Methodological innovations and new lessons from the Milgram experiment   (Publication No. 10289373) [Master's thesis, University of Wisconsin - Madison]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.

APA calls for the citation to include a unique identifying number for the dissertation, labeling it “Publication No.” That number can be found in Dissertations and Theses database, listed in the item record as “Dissertation/thesis number.”

Karamanos, X. (2020). The influence of professional development models on student mathematics performance in New Jersey public elementary schools [Doctoral dissertation, Seton Hall University]. Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs). https://scholarship.shu.edu/dissertations/2732

Bordo, V. C. (2011). Making a case for the use of foreign language in the educational activities of nonprofit arts organizations [Master's thesis, University of Akron]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses & Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1311135640

Caprette, C. L. (2005). Conquering the cold shudder: The origin and evolution of snake eyes  [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University].

Angelova, A. N. (2004). Data pruning  [Master's thesis, California Institute of Technology].

See  Publication Manual , 10.6.

  • << Previous: Federal Statutes
  • Next: Images >>
  • Last Updated: Mar 18, 2024 12:55 PM
  • URL: https://libguides.umgc.edu/apa-examples

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

APA Sample Paper

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Note:  This page reflects APA 6, which is now out of date. It will remain online until 2021, but will not be updated. The equivalent APA 7 page can be found here .

Media File: APA Sample Paper

This resource is enhanced by an Acrobat PDF file. Download the free Acrobat Reader

Click this link to download the PDF handout of the APA Sample Paper.

Examples

APA Thesis Statement

Ai generator.

apa format example for thesis

Crafting a compelling thesis statement is at the heart of any impactful research. When adhering to APA guidelines, striking the right balance between clarity, precision, and engagement becomes paramount. Delve into a curated collection of APA thesis statement examples, gain insights from a structured guide on how to write them, and arm yourself with practical tips to refine your craft. Embark on this academic journey, and elevate the essence of your research.

What is the APA Thesis Statement? – Definition

The APA thesis statement refers to a clear, concise sentence or two in an academic paper that presents the main point or argument of the paper. Though the American Psychological Association (APA) provides guidelines for the entire paper, it doesn’t specify a unique format for the concise thesis statement . However, the thesis in an APA-style paper should follow standard conventions: be specific, assertive, and positioned at the end of the introduction section.

What is an Example of an APA Thesis Statement?

“In examining the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance, this study demonstrates that reduced hours of sleep lead to significant declines in attention span and memory recall among college students.”

This example follows APA conventions in its clarity and specificity, positioning the reader for the detailed research that follows.

100 APA Thesis Statement Examples

APA Thesis Statement Examples

Size: 207 KB

An APA thesis statement succinctly encapsulates the main idea or argument in a research paper. Following APA guidelines, it is typically located at the end of the introductory section and should be clear, concise, and specific. To help you understand the diverse ways a specific thesis statement can be presented, here are 100 unique examples, categorized by their respective research topics.

  • Mental Health : “The study aims to explore the correlation between social media usage and increased levels of anxiety among teenagers.”
  • Climate Change : “This research investigates the direct impact of carbon emissions on global warming trends over the last two decades.”
  • Child Development : “Attachment styles in early childhood have significant long-term impacts on social and emotional well-being.”
  • Technology in Education : “The incorporation of digital tools in classrooms enhances interactive learning but also poses distractions.”
  • Corporate Social Responsibility : “Companies with robust CSR programs witness higher employee satisfaction and increased brand loyalty.”
  • Healthcare Policy : “Universal healthcare, while costly, is essential for creating a more equitable society.”
  • Artificial Intelligence : “The growing integration of AI in healthcare promises efficiency but also raises ethical concerns.”
  • Nutrition : “Plant-based diets contribute to higher energy levels and lower rates of chronic disease.”
  • Online Privacy : “The erosion of online privacy is directly correlated with the rise in identity theft cases.”
  • Immigration : “The economic contributions of immigrants outweigh the initial costs of their integration into American society.”
  • Cybersecurity : “Small businesses are disproportionately affected by cyberattacks due to a lack of robust security measures.”
  • Gun Control : “Stricter gun control laws have a direct impact on reducing instances of mass shootings.”
  • Telemedicine : “The rise of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has improved healthcare accessibility but exposed digital divide issues.”
  • Animal Rights : “Animal testing for cosmetics is both ethically and scientifically outdated.”
  • Literature and Gender : “The portrayal of women in 19th-century literature reflects the societal norms of their time, not their actual potential.”
  • Urban Planning : “Green spaces in urban settings contribute to improved mental health among residents.”
  • Political Polarization : “Social media algorithms contribute to the deepening of political polarization in America.”
  • Renewable Energy : “Investment in renewable energy sources is more cost-effective in the long run than continuing to rely on fossil fuels.”
  • Obesity : “The rise in childhood obesity is strongly linked with the decline in physical activity in schools.”
  • Feminism : “Third-wave feminism has broadened the scope of feminist discourse but also led to internal divisions.
  • Virtual Reality : “The adoption of virtual reality in education increases engagement, but questions of equitable access remain.”
  • Space Exploration : “The quest for Mars colonization reveals more about humanity’s survival instincts than our desire for discovery.”
  • Gig Economy : “While the gig economy offers flexibility, it often sacrifices workers’ rights and benefits.”
  • Bioethics : “CRISPR gene editing, while revolutionary, raises profound ethical issues about human evolution.”
  • Cultural Appropriation : “Borrowing elements from cultures, without understanding or respect, contributes to societal division.”
  • Ancient Civilizations : “The fall of the Roman Empire can be attributed as much to internal corruption as to external invasion.”
  • Modern Architecture : “Sustainable architectural practices are not just environmentally responsible but also cost-efficient in the long run.”
  • Euthanasia : “The right to die, with dignity, should be considered a fundamental human right, albeit with strong safeguards.”
  • Organic Farming : “Organic farming, while more labor-intensive, yields healthier produce and sustains soil health.”
  • Financial Literacy : “Introducing financial literacy in school curricula can significantly reduce future personal debt crises.”
  • Quantum Computing : “The advent of quantum computing promises to revolutionize industries but also threatens current cryptographic methods.”
  • Colonial Histories : “The lasting impacts of British colonialism are evident in modern-day economic and cultural disparities across former colonies.”
  • Meditation and Health : “Regular meditation not only reduces stress but can significantly improve cognitive abilities.”
  • Consumer Behavior : “Brands promoting sustainable practices witness a rise in millennial and Gen Z patronage.”
  • Performance Arts : “Modern theatre, in its digital adaptations, maintains its essence but risks losing intimate audience connection.”
  • Language Evolution : “The growth of internet slang accelerates the evolution of languages, but at the cost of linguistic purity.”
  • Antibiotic Resistance : “Overprescription of antibiotics in healthcare has accelerated the emergence of resistant bacterial strains.”
  • Holocaust Studies : “Denial of the Holocaust not only distorts history but also fuels hate ideologies.”
  • Dystopian Literature : “Dystopian novels of the 21st century reflect growing societal concerns about technology overpowering humanity.”
  • Ocean Pollution : “Plastic pollution in the oceans is not only a marine life hazard but also enters the human food chain through seafood.”
  • Digital Currencies : “Cryptocurrencies, while volatile, represent a significant shift in financial systems and decentralization.”
  • Aging Population : “An aging global population presents challenges in healthcare provision but also offers economic opportunities.”
  • Youth Activism : “Modern youth activism, amplified by social media, has reshaped political discourse but also confronts online polarization.”
  • E-learning : “E-learning offers accessibility and customization in education, but the lack of social interaction is a significant drawback.”
  • Museum Studies : “Digital exhibits in museums enhance reach but challenge traditional conceptions of artifact authenticity.”
  • Terrorism : “The root causes of global terrorism are as much socio-economic as they are religious or political.”
  • Wearable Tech : “Wearable health tech promises better patient monitoring but also raises concerns about data privacy.”
  • Human Rights : “The global rise in authoritarian regimes challenges the universality of human rights principles.”
  • Robotics : “The integration of robotics in industries increases efficiency but also exacerbates unemployment concerns.”
  • Fashion Industry : “The fashion industry’s shift towards sustainability is driven by consumer demand more than environmental concerns.”
  • Tourism : “Ecotourism, while beneficial for local economies, requires strict regulation to prevent ecosystem damage.”
  • Public Transportation : “Investments in public transportation not only reduce urban congestion but also contribute to a decline in carbon emissions.”
  • Alternative Medicine : “Alternative medicine practices, when integrated with conventional treatment, can lead to holistic patient care.”
  • Biodiversity : “The loss of biodiversity due to human activities threatens not just ecosystems but also global food security.”
  • Blockchain : “The blockchain, beyond cryptocurrencies, has the potential to revolutionize supply chains and voting systems.”
  • Mental Wellness : “Workplace environments that prioritize mental wellness report higher productivity and lower attrition rates.”
  • Video Gaming : “Video gaming can enhance cognitive abilities but can also lead to addictive behaviors if unchecked.”
  • Astronomy : “The study of exoplanets not only fuels interstellar travel ambitions but also broadens our understanding of life.”
  • Public Health : “Vaccination, beyond preventing diseases, plays a crucial role in maintaining global health security.”
  • Music Therapy : “Music therapy offers significant benefits in treating anxiety and depression without relying on medication.”
  • Animal Behavior : “Observing animal behavior in the wild, as opposed to captivity, offers more authentic insights into species characteristics.”
  • Nanotechnology : “The application of nanotechnology in medicine can revolutionize drug delivery and tissue repair.”
  • Gender Studies : “Gender fluidity challenges traditional binaries and requires a rethinking of societal norms and structures.”
  • Urban Farming : “Urban farming initiatives not only address food security but also enhance community bonding.”
  • Space Tourism : “While space tourism promises a new frontier for the wealthy, it poses significant ethical and environmental challenges.”
  • Child Psychology : “Exposure to screen time at early ages can affect cognitive development and attention spans in children.”
  • Modern Sculpture : “Sculpture in the digital age challenges traditional materials and embraces transient, dynamic forms.”
  • Neuroscience : “Neuroplasticity studies reveal the brain’s capacity for change and adaptation at any age.”
  • Historiography : “Post-colonial historiography is essential in challenging and rectifying biased historical narratives.”
  • Cyberbullying : “Cyberbullying has psychological impacts as severe as traditional bullying and requires comprehensive educational interventions.”
  • Astrophysics : “Dark matter, while elusive, plays a pivotal role in the universe’s structure and expansion.”
  • Sociolinguistics : “Regional dialects and accents play a significant role in shaping individual identities and cultural affiliations.”
  • Clean Energy : “Transitioning to clean energy not only addresses climate change but also promises economic opportunities in green sectors.”
  • Photojournalism : “Modern photojournalism, in the age of deep fakes, requires stringent verification processes to maintain credibility.”
  • Marine Biology : “Coral reef degradation has cascading impacts on marine biodiversity and human livelihoods.”
  • Financial Markets : “Global financial market stability is increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical events and requires multi-lateral safeguarding mechanisms.”
  • Zoology : “Cross-species disease transmission, such as in the case of zoonotic diseases, emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation.”
  • Social Media Trends : “Viral challenges on social media, while popular, often sideline concerns of safety and mental well-being.”
  • Cosmology : “Understanding the Big Bang Theory is fundamental to exploring the universe’s origins and its eventual fate.”
  • Criminal Psychology : “Profiling serial offenders relies heavily on understanding patterns and the psychological triggers of criminal behavior.”
  • Classical Music : “The revival of classical music in modern culture is driven by digital access and evolving interpretations.”
  • Forensic Science : “DNA evidence, while revolutionary, requires stringent collection and preservation protocols to prevent miscarriages of justice.”
  • Sports Medicine : “Concussions in contact sports have long-term neurological impacts that require comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies.”
  • Veterinary Medicine : “The rise of pet-specific therapies reflects the evolving understanding of animal emotions and needs.”
  • Epidemiology : “Pandemic preparedness, beyond medical interventions, requires global cooperation and information transparency.”
  • Dance Therapy : “Dance therapy offers unique pathways to physical and emotional healing by bridging movement and emotion.”
  • Archaeology : “Recent underwater archaeological discoveries challenge traditional timelines of ancient civilizations.”
  • Behavioral Economics : “Consumer decisions are influenced more by emotional factors than rational cost-benefit analyses.”
  • Environmental Law : “Enforcing stringent environmental laws is imperative in the face of corporate pushback and lobbying.”
  • Bioinformatics : “Bioinformatics tools have accelerated drug discovery processes, making personalized medicine a tangible reality.”
  • Endangered Languages : “Preserving endangered languages is crucial for maintaining cultural diversity and global heritage.”
  • Paleontology : “Recent dinosaur fossil discoveries challenge traditional classifications and evolutionary timelines.”
  • Ornithology : “Urban bird species demonstrate remarkable adaptability and play a crucial role in local ecosystems.”
  • Entomology : “The decline in global bee populations threatens food security and underscores the importance of insect conservation.”
  • Data Privacy : “As smart home devices proliferate, concerns about data privacy and security become paramount.”
  • Digital Marketing : “Consumer trust in brands is heavily influenced by transparent and ethical digital marketing practices.”
  • Philanthropy : “Modern philanthropy is shifting towards sustainable community-building rather than mere monetary donations.”
  • Ethnography : “Modern ethnographic studies emphasize participatory observation to gain authentic cultural insights.”
  • Pharmacology : “The opioid crisis highlights the need for balanced pharmacological interventions and patient education.”
  • Aerodynamics : “The shift towards electric aircraft demands innovations in aerodynamic designs to ensure energy efficiency.

APA Thesis Statement Examples for Annotated Bibliography

Annotated bibliographies offer a synthesis of sources, and the thesis statement helps anchor the main theme being explored. These examples encapsulate focused arguments for diverse annotated bibliographies.

  • Evolution Theories : “This annotated bibliography delves into various theories of evolution, highlighting contrasting viewpoints and supporting evidence.”
  • Modern Poetry : “The compilation reviews poets of the 21st century, exploring themes of identity, politics, and nature in their works.”
  • Nuclear Energy : “This bibliography examines the pros and cons of nuclear energy, focusing on its environmental impacts and potential as an alternative fuel source.”
  • Child Nutrition : “Exploring global perspectives on child nutrition, this bibliography evaluates the influence of cultural, economic, and social factors.”
  • Elderly Care Models : “This collection provides insights into various elderly care models, highlighting their effectiveness and areas of improvement.”
  • Quantum Physics Discoveries : “The bibliography collates groundbreaking studies in quantum physics, detailing their implications on our understanding of the universe.”
  • Postmodern Literature : “This annotated list delves into the characteristics and major works of postmodern literature, exploring its departure from traditional narratives.”
  • Human-AI Interaction : “The bibliography evaluates the rapidly evolving dynamics of human-AI interactions, focusing on ethical, practical, and psychological aspects.”
  • Sustainable Farming : “This collection assesses sustainable farming techniques worldwide, emphasizing their environmental and economic impacts.”
  • Space Exploration Milestones : “The bibliography chronicles major milestones in space exploration, shedding light on achievements, challenges, and future prospects.”

APA Thesis Statement Examples for Research Paper

These necessitate a clear and focused thesis statement for research paper to guide the direction of study. These examples showcase distinct arguments suited for comprehensive exploration.

  • VR in Healthcare : “Virtual reality’s integration in healthcare settings has revolutionized patient therapy and medical training.”
  • Microplastics Impact : “Microplastics in our oceans pose a substantial threat to marine life and subsequently human health.”
  • Teacher Burnout : “The increasing rates of teacher burnout demand systemic educational reforms and enhanced institutional support.”
  • Economic Inequality : “Rising economic inequality in developed nations has roots in policy decisions, technological shifts, and globalization.”
  • Solar Power Advancements : “Recent advancements in solar power technology position it as a front-runner in sustainable energy solutions.”
  • Genetic Memory : “Exploring the concept of genetic memory challenges traditional understandings of inheritance and human experience.”
  • Telecommuting Trends : “The rise of telecommuting reshapes urban planning needs, corporate structures, and work-life balances.”
  • Bilingualism Benefits : “Bilingualism, beyond linguistic advantages, offers cognitive, social, and cultural benefits.”
  • Artificial Meat : “The development of lab-grown meat could revolutionize the food industry, offering environmental and ethical solutions.”
  • Psychedelic Therapy : “The controlled use of psychedelics holds promising potential for treating various mental health disorders.”

APA Style Thesis Statement Examples

APA style thesis statements emphasize clarity, precision, and a formal tone. These examples embody these principles while presenting a clear argument.

  • Mental Health Apps : “Mobile applications dedicated to mental health offer potential benefits but raise concerns regarding data privacy and efficacy.”
  • Urban Green Spaces : “Urban green spaces are not mere aesthetic additions; they significantly contribute to community well-being and environmental health.”
  • E-sports Popularity : “The exponential growth of e-sports hinges on technological advancements, cultural shifts, and its commercial viability.”
  • Language Acquisition : “The critical period hypothesis in language acquisition highlights the innate human capacity for linguistic adaptability.”
  • Antibiotic Resistance : “The global health threat of antibiotic resistance mandates urgent research into alternative treatment modalities.”
  • Blockchain in Banking : “The integration of blockchain in banking could redefine transparency, security, and transaction efficiency.”
  • Cognitive Load Theory : “Cognitive Load Theory offers vital insights for educational strategies, emphasizing the optimization of working memory.”
  • Exoplanet Exploration : “The search for exoplanets illuminates possibilities of extraterrestrial life and potential future human colonization.”
  • Gender Representation in Media : “Media’s gender representation shapes societal norms, perpetuating stereotypes or driving progressive change.”
  • Plant-Based Diets : “Adopting plant-based diets can significantly reduce carbon footprints and address pressing environmental concerns.”

APA Thesis Statement Examples for Assignment

Assignments, whether academic or professional, require concise and pointed thesis statements. These examples exemplify clarity and specificity for a range of topics.

  • 5G Technology : “5G technology, while promising unprecedented connectivity speeds, brings forth challenges in infrastructure and health concerns.”
  • Migration Patterns : “Modern global migration patterns are influenced by geopolitical conflicts, economic disparities, and environmental challenges.”
  • Fintech Innovations : “Financial technology innovations are reshaping banking experiences, prioritizing user-centric design and real-time solutions.”
  • Ocean Acidification : “Ocean acidification, a lesser-known consequence of climate change, poses grave threats to marine biodiversity.”
  • Holistic Education : “Holistic education approaches prioritize the integration of emotional, social, and academic development.”
  • Nano-robotics in Medicine : “The frontier of nano-robotics in medicine promises targeted drug delivery but raises bioethical concerns.”
  • Urbanization Challenges : “Rapid urbanization in emerging economies necessitates sustainable infrastructure planning and social inclusivity.”
  • Minimalist Lifestyle : “The minimalist lifestyle movement counters consumerism, advocating for simplicity and intentionality in choices.”
  • Drones in Agriculture : “Drones are revolutionizing agriculture, enabling precision farming, and efficient resource management.”
  • Ancient Mathematics : “Ancient civilizations’ mathematical systems lay the groundwork for contemporary mathematical thought and practice.

APA 7th Edition Style Thesis Statement Examples

The 7th edition of the APA style emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and inclusivity. Crafting thesis statements under this guideline necessitates precision in language and a keen awareness of updated citation protocols. Here are 10 distinct examples, each tailored to demonstrate the characteristics of the APA 7th edition style.

  • Sustainable Fashion : “As the global fashion industry contributes significantly to environmental degradation, a shift towards sustainable practices becomes imperative for ecological preservation.”
  • Digital Humanities : “Exploring digital humanities reveals how technology is reshaping the interpretation and presentation of cultural artifacts.”
  • Geriatric Care : “The increasing global geriatric population necessitates reformed healthcare models that prioritize aging-related ailments and mental well-being.”
  • Microfinance : “Microfinance initiatives, while aiming to empower marginalized communities economically, must address inherent interest rate challenges to ensure genuine upliftment.”
  • Exoplanetary Science : “Research into exoplanetary atmospheres offers potential insights into the viability of extraterrestrial life.”
  • Culinary Arts and Culture : “The evolution of culinary arts reflects deep-rooted cultural narratives, revealing historical migrations and societal amalgamations.”
  • Quantum Teleportation : “Current advancements in quantum teleportation challenge traditional conceptions of information transfer, presenting revolutionary implications for secure communications.”
  • Oceanic Acoustics : “The study of acoustics in oceanic environments provides crucial insights into marine life communication and the potential impacts of human-made noise pollution.”
  • Intercultural Communication : “Effective intercultural communication in an increasingly globalized world requires comprehensive understanding and respect for diverse sociolinguistic cues.”
  • Pedagogical Innovations : “In the digital age, pedagogical innovations that incorporate experiential learning promote higher student engagement and retention.

Does APA have a thesis statement?

Yes, the APA (American Psychological Association) format does include guidelines for writing a thesis statement. However, the APA guidelines are more concerned with citation and formatting rather than content specifics like the formation of a thesis statement. Nevertheless, thesis statements are fundamental components of any academic work, and papers following APA guidelines are no exception. Within the context of the APA style, a thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific, aligning with the style’s emphasis on straightforwardness and precision.  Our MLA thesis statement is also worth a look at

What are the APA Guidelines for Writing a Thesis Statement?

While the APA (American Psychological Association) style primarily focuses on the formatting of documents and citations, it does provide some implicit guidance on crafting content, including thesis statements. The essence of the APA style revolves around clarity, precision, and a focus on evidence-based claims. Drawing from these general principles, here are some guidelines for writing a thesis statement in APA style:

  • Clarity and Conciseness : APA style emphasizes clear and concise communication. Your thesis statement should, therefore, get straight to the point without being wrapped in excessive verbiage or complex sentence structures.
  • Evidence-based Claims : APA style is rooted in empirical research. When making a claim in your thesis statement, it’s essential that the claim can be backed up with empirical evidence. If your statement alludes to specific research or data, be prepared to provide citations for that information in the body of your work.
  • Maintain Objectivity : The tone of your thesis statement should be objective. Avoid subjective language or first-person pronouns like “I believe” or “In my opinion.” Instead, present the statement as a factual, research-backed claim.
  • Specificity : A thesis statement should be specific, providing a clear direction for your paper. Avoid broad or overly general statements. Instead, hone in on a particular aspect of your topic that you plan to explore or argue.
  • Positioning : While this isn’t a strict APA rule, traditionally, in many academic papers, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction. This allows readers to grasp the context before being presented with the central claim.
  • Refrain from Questions : A thesis statement should be declarative, not interrogative. Instead of posing a question, your statement should assert a stance or claim.
  • Alignment with Research : Ensure that your thesis statement aligns with the research you present in your paper. There should be a clear thread connecting your statement to the evidence you provide in the body of your work.
  • Revision : Writing is a process. After crafting your thesis statement, be prepared to return to it after completing your paper to ensure that it still aligns with the content and provides a clear and concise summary of your research.

How do you write a thesis statement in APA format? – Step by Step Guide

  • Identify Your Research Topic : Before drafting your thesis statement, be clear about the main topic of your research. Understand the scope and relevance of your subject.
  • Formulate a Preliminary Question : Start by forming a question related to your topic. This helps to narrow down the focus and set the stage for your statement. For instance, if you’re researching sustainable fashion, a question might be, “How does sustainable fashion impact the environment?”
  • Write a Clear and Concise Statement : Convert your question into a clear and concise statement. Example: “Sustainable fashion significantly reduces environmental degradation.”
  • Position Your Statement : In APA papers, especially longer essays or dissertations, the thesis statement typically appears at the end of the introduction section. However, for shorter papers, it can directly follow the introduction sentence.
  • Ensure Specificity : An APA thesis statement should be specific. Avoid vague or overly broad statements. Instead of saying, “Food is crucial for health,” specify the type of food and its health benefits.
  • Revise and Refine : Once your statement is written, revisit it to ensure clarity, precision, and alignment with your research data. It’s common for a thesis statement to undergo several revisions before the final draft.
  • Cite Supporting Research : If your thesis statement is based on specific research or data, ensure you properly cite these sources in APA format. This adds credibility to your statement and adheres to the integrity standards of APA.

Tips for Crafting an APA Thesis Statement

  • Avoid Assumptions : Ensure your statement doesn’t assume information that isn’t yet established in the paper. Introduce and then assert.
  • Limit Ambiguity : Choose words that have precise meanings relevant to your topic. Avoid words that might have multiple interpretations.
  • Maintain Parallel Structure : This helps in readability and clarity. If you’re listing multiple ideas or claims, use a consistent grammatical form.
  • Stay Relevant to the Audience : Remember the intended readership of your paper. Frame your thesis in terms they would find clear and relevant.
  • Iterative Approach : As you dive deeper into your research, your understanding of the topic might evolve. Don’t hesitate to tweak the thesis to better encapsulate your findings.
  • Seek Peer Reviews : Sometimes, an outside perspective can help identify areas of improvement or clarity in your thesis statement.
  • Avoid Absolutes : Words like “always” or “never” can be hard to prove and may weaken your statement. Instead, opt for terms that suggest strong evidence without asserting absolute truths, unless you’re certain.
  • Use Action Words : Making your thesis statement dynamic can help draw the reader in. Use verbs that convey a sense of movement or transformation related to your research.
  • Limit Length : Even for complex topics, try to keep your thesis statement to one or two sentences. This ensures it remains punchy and easy to understand.
  • Stay Updated on APA Changes : While your main focus is content, it’s still essential to keep an eye on any updates or changes to the APA style guidelines to ensure your work remains compliant.

By incorporating these tips, you can enhance the effectiveness and clarity of your thesis statement, ensuring it aligns well with both your research and APA guidelines.

Twitter

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

American Psychological Association

Instructional Aids

apa format example for thesis

Many of these resources are intended for students and were designed by APA Style experts in conjunction with university instructors. Please note that because the scope of what constitutes a student paper is broad and flexible and varies by course and academic institution, there are no formal requirements for the nature or contents of APA Style student papers. Students should follow the guidelines of their instructor, advisor, department, and/or institution when writing papers, and instructors, departments, and institutions are encouraged to adapt APA Style to fit their needs.

More instructional aids will be added to the website in the future. If you are an instructor and want to share an instructional aid you made with APA to potentially be featured on our website, please contact the APA Style team .

illustration of person in front of laptop computer

Tutorials and webinars

illustration of form on a clipboard

Handouts and guides

PDFs to use in homes, classrooms, libraries, or anywhere else you are learning or teaching APA Style.

illustration of pencil next to stack of paper

Sample papers

Papers formatted in seventh edition APA Style for both professional manuscripts and student papers.

Mastering APA Style Student Workbook, Seventh Edition

This content is disabled due to your privacy settings. To re-enable, please adjust your cookie preferences.

Do you need to improve your knowledge and application of seventh edition APA Style? Watch this short video to learn about the new Mastering APA Style Student Workbook , the official interactive guide to learning APA Style.

Learn more about the workbook

Instructional Products

Mastering APA Style Student Workbook cover on tablet device

Mastering APA Style Student Workbook

An online and interactive workbook designed for teaching and learning seventh edition APA Style

Concise Guide to APA Style, Seventh Edition

Concise Guide, Seventh Edition

An easy-to-use guide for students writing their papers in seventh edition APA Style

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Seventh Edition

Publication Manual, Seventh Edition

The official source for seventh edition APA Style that guides users through the scholarly writing process

Academic Writer

Academic Writer™

Subscribe to Academic Writer, APA’s tool for teaching and learning effective writing

Course Adoption

The seventh edition Publication Manual , Concise Guide to APA Style , and Mastering APA Style Student Workbook are all available for course adoption.

  • When instructors adopt an APA Style book for their course or workshop, they can request a free exam or desk copy of the work.
  • Instructors who adopt the seventh edition of the Publication Manual or the Concise Guide to APA Style are also eligible to receive instructions on accessing ancillary instructional materials for teaching APA Style in the classroom.

Request a desk or exam copy

Request ancillary instructional materials

IMAGES

  1. APA Outline

    apa format example for thesis

  2. 😂 Apa format sample. 8+ APA Format Examples. 2019-02-22

    apa format example for thesis

  3. Sample Thesis Statement Apa Format

    apa format example for thesis

  4. How to Write a Research Paper in APA Format

    apa format example for thesis

  5. APA Formatting Guide for Essays and Dissertations

    apa format example for thesis

  6. 😂 Apa format sample. 8+ APA Format Examples. 2019-02-22

    apa format example for thesis

COMMENTS

  1. Thesis/Dissertation

    A guide to educating single mothers about early gang intervention and prevention (Unpublished master's thesis). Pacific Oaks College. Pacific Oaks College. See Ch. 10 pp. 313-352 of APA Manual for more examples and formatting rules

  2. How to Cite a Dissertation in APA Style

    In the square brackets, specify the type of dissertation or thesis and the university. As with other database sources, no URL or DOI is included. APA format. Author last name, Initials. ( Year ). Dissertation title (Publication No. Number) [ Type of dissertation/thesis, University Name ]. Database Name.

  3. PDF APA Style Dissertation Guidelines: Formatting Your Dissertation

    es. Keep all tables and figures within the margins of the page. If it is not possible to keep the table or figure within the margins, then place the table or figure on a separate page after the. and change the orientation of the page to landscape.AppendicesAppendices are always placed on separate pages at the very en.

  4. Published Dissertation or Thesis References

    The same format can be adapted for other published theses, including undergraduate theses, by changing the wording of the bracketed description as appropriate (e.g., "Undergraduate honors thesis"). Include a URL for the dissertation or thesis if the URL will resolve for readers (as shown in the Miranda and Zambrano-Vazquez examples).

  5. How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

    Citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database. If a thesis or dissertation has been published and is found on a database, then follow the structure below. It's similar to the format for an unpublished dissertation/thesis, but with a few differences: Structure: Author's last name, F. M. (Year published).

  6. Sample papers

    These sample papers demonstrate APA Style formatting standards for different student paper types. Students may write the same types of papers as professional authors (e.g., quantitative studies, literature reviews) or other types of papers for course assignments (e.g., reaction or response papers, discussion posts), dissertations, and theses.

  7. APA Formatting and Citation (7th Ed.)

    Throughout your paper, you need to apply the following APA format guidelines: Set page margins to 1 inch on all sides. Double-space all text, including headings. Indent the first line of every paragraph 0.5 inches. Use an accessible font (e.g., Times New Roman 12pt., Arial 11pt., or Georgia 11pt.).

  8. PDF How to Prepare your Dissertation in APA Style

    te.Style ManualIt is recommended that APA Style Seventh. is used. It should be in 12-point type using Times. ew Roman font.SpacingThe test in the manuscript should be double-spaced. The right margin of the text should not be justified, but. -aligned, also known as ragged right, like the test in this guide.

  9. Thesis/Dissertation

    Provide guidance on the APA format style based on the 6th edition of the APA Publication Manual. ... Dissertation or thesis available from a database service: Author Surname, First Initial. ... See Ch 7 pp. 207-208 APA Manual for more examples and formatting rules. Formatting. Formatting:

  10. Dissertations or Theses

    [Doctoral dissertation or Masters thesis, Name of institution that awarded the degree]. Name of Source i.e. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. URL for the dissertation or thesis. Example: D'Arcangelis, G. S. (2009). The bio scare: Anthrax, smallpox, SARS, flu and post-9/11 U.S. empire (Order No. 3388146).

  11. LibGuides: APA 6th Edition Citation Style: Dissertation / Thesis

    Document Example: Proper Bibliographic Reference Format: Bibliographic references are double-spaced and indented half an inch after the first line. Use italics and "sentence-style" capitalization for dissertation / thesis titles. Identify the work as a doctoral dissertation / master's thesis in parentheses after the title. Sabbagh, S. A. (2009).

  12. APA Sample Paper

    Media Files: APA Sample Student Paper , APA Sample Professional Paper This resource is enhanced by Acrobat PDF files. Download the free Acrobat Reader. Note: The APA Publication Manual, 7 th Edition specifies different formatting conventions for student and professional papers (i.e., papers written for credit in a course and papers intended for scholarly publication).

  13. APA Formatting and Style Guide (7th Edition)

    Basic guidelines for formatting the reference list at the end of a standard APA research paper Author/Authors Rules for handling works by a single author or multiple authors that apply to all APA-style references in your reference list, regardless of the type of work (book, article, electronic resource, etc.)

  14. APA Citations for a Thesis or Dissertation

    To cite a published dissertation in APA 7th edition, you need to include: Author, A. A. (Year). Title of doctoral dissertation or master's thesis (Publication number, if available) [Doctoral dissertation or master's thesis, Institution]. Publisher. Published APA Dissertation Example.

  15. PDF APA 6 Dissertation Template

    limit the abstract to one typed page; (b) maintain the scholarly language used throughout the. dissertation; (c) keep the abstract concise, accurate, and readable; (d) use correct English; (e) ensure each sentence adds value to the reader's understanding of the research; and (f) use the full.

  16. PDF Sample APA Paper: Professional Format for Graduate/Doctoral Students

    This sample paper is based on the Publication Manual of the American Psychological. Edition. (American Psychological Association [APA], 2020; hereinafterAPA-7). APA (2020) delineates. separate ...

  17. Dissertations and Theses

    Format: Author last name, first initial. (Year). Title of dissertation/thesis (Publication No.) [Doctoral dissertation/Master's thesis, University].Database. URL. Elements: Author: List the last name, followed by the first initial (and second initial).See Authors for more information.; Year: List the year between parentheses, followed by a period. Title of dissertation/thesis: In italics.

  18. Reference examples

    More than 100 reference examples and their corresponding in-text citations are presented in the seventh edition Publication Manual.Examples of the most common works that writers cite are provided on this page; additional examples are available in the Publication Manual.. To find the reference example you need, first select a category (e.g., periodicals) and then choose the appropriate type of ...

  19. PDF Manual for the Formatting of Graduate Dissertations and Theses

    Submitted to the Graduate Faculty in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Economics. The University of Toledo May 2010. Out-of-sample forecasting experiments are used as an alternative to looking at. F-statistics when examining whether money, interest rates or the commercial.

  20. APA Sample Paper

    Cite your source automatically in MLA or APA format. Cite. Using citation machines responsibly. Powered by. Media File: APA Sample Paper. This resource is enhanced by an Acrobat PDF file. Download the free Acrobat Reader. Click this link to download the PDF handout of the APA Sample Paper.

  21. Unpublished Dissertation or Thesis References

    The same format can be adapted for other unpublished theses, including undergraduate theses, by changing the wording of the bracketed description as appropriate. If you find the dissertation or thesis in a database or in a repository or archive, follow the published dissertation or thesis reference examples.

  22. APA Thesis Statement

    Tips for Crafting an APA Thesis Statement. Avoid Assumptions: Ensure your statement doesn't assume information that isn't yet established in the paper. Introduce and then assert. Limit Ambiguity: Choose words that have precise meanings relevant to your topic. Avoid words that might have multiple interpretations.

  23. PDF Student Paper Setup Guide, APA Style 7th Edition

    Indent the first line of every paragraph of text 0.5 in. using the tab key or the paragraph-formatting function of your word-processing program. Page numbers: Put a page number in the top right corner of every page, including the title page or cover page, which is page 1. Student papers do not require a running head on any page.

  24. Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in New Zealand and

    Background: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder that involves restrictive or avoidant eating behaviour not related to weight or body image concerns. It was first included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-fifth edition (DSM-5) in 2013. ARFID frequently begins in childhood and can have serious psychosocial impacts and detrimental ...

  25. Instructional aids

    These instructional aids will help you improve your APA Style skills. Access free tutorials and webinars, handouts and guides, and sample papers; learn about instructional products such as the Mastering APA Style Student Workbook; and request desk or exam copies of APA Style books as well as ancillary materials related to course adoption.New to APA Style?