How to Make a Running Head & Title Page? (APA 7th edition)

The running head and title page are two of the most recognisable components of APA-style formatting. 

While APA 7th Edition simplified these elements, especially for student papers, many learners still struggle with understanding when a running head is required and how to format it correctly. 

What is a Running Head in APA Style?

A running head, also called a page header, is an abbreviated form of the title of your document. It is written in the page header along with a page number. The running head serves as a quick identifier for readers, editors, and reviewers. 

Generally, it is used only for professional papers, not for student papers. However, sometimes, an instructor may specifically ask for one. 

The running head usually consists of a shortened version consisting of 50 characters of the title of the document. All the characters should be in capital letters. It should be left-aligned, while the page number is right-aligned. 

Example of a running head:

How to Set Up a Running Head in Microsoft Word?

Here are the simple steps that you can take to set up a running head in MS Word: 

Step 1: Add the header

Click on “Insert” and select “Header”. Select the “Blank” header template (left-aligned).

Step 2: Type the running head 

Put your “Running Head” paper title all in capital letters. Click OK. Leave it left-aligned. 

Step 3: Add the page number

Click on “Insert” and then “Page number”. Select “Top of Page”, then “Right Alignment”. Word will automatically insert page numbers on all pages.

How to Set Up a Running Head in Google Docs?

Here are the steps that you can take to set up a running head in Docs: 

Step 1: Insert the header

First, click on “Insert”, select “Headers and footers”, and select “Header”.

Step 2: Add the running head

Type your running head in capital letters. 

Step 3: Insert page numbers

To insert automatic page numbering, click on “Insert” and select “Page numbers”.Click on page numbers in the top-right corner for all the pages. Ensure the running head remains left-aligned and the page number stays right-aligned. 

How to Abbreviate Long Titles for the Running Heads?

If the title of your paper is more than 50 characters, you must use its abbreviated form. 

Here are the guidelines for abbreviating long titles: 

1. Capture the core idea of the paper
2. No need to keep the exact meaning
3. You may replace “and” with ampersand “&”. 
4. Avoid abbreviations like acronyms unless widely known
5. The full title on the title page must remain unabbreviated

This shortened version preserves meaning while meeting APA’s character limit. 

How to Create an APA 7th Edition Title Page?

APA formatting differs depending on whether the paper is a student assignment or a professional manuscript. Here are some guidelines for creating an APA 7th Edition title page: 

• Student title page format

APA 7th Edition has significantly simplified and made student formatting more flexible. Here is what a student’s title page includes: 

1. Title of the paper
2. Student’s name
3. Institutional affiliation
4. Course number and name
5.  Instructor’s name
6. Due date
7. Page number (top-right corner)

When formatting this title page, centre all elements, use double spacing, use APA-approved fonts, type the title in bold, and use title case.

• Professional title page format

Professional papers require more details. This is what a professional title page includes:

1. Running head (top-left)
2. Page number (top-right)
3. Paper title (bold, centred)
4. Author name(s)
5. Institutional affiliation
6. Author role (if required)

This format is required for journal submissions or conference publications.

Frequently Asked Questions