How do I space my work in APA format?

Spacing in a sentence:

According to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th edition), “spacing twice after punctuation marks at the end of a sentence aids readers of draft manuscripts” (APA, 2010, p. 88). However, general publication guidelines often accept the general MS Word double spacing feature, and Walden also prefers the use of one space after each sentence.

Spacing in a paper:

Your paper should be double spaced, per both APA and Walden guidelines. The body of your text, the reference list, and any block quotations should also be double spaced.

Additional Resources:

• See the Writing Center’s top 10 APA nuances webpage for tips to pay attention to as you format your work.

Further Questions?

Do you have other general writing questions? Ask OASIS.

Other questions about your doctoral capstone or the Form & Style review? E-mail the Dissertation Editors at [email protected].

Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s homepage. 

Need additional help?

• For other MS Word questions or general writing or APA style help, Ask OASIS.
• For writing or help with APA style for proposals, dissertation, or doctoral studies, contact the Walden Writing Center Editors.