Apa Publication Style For Research Reports In Psychology (Page 3 of 9) in pdf

Apa Publication Style For Research Reports In Psychology Page 3

APA STYLE FOR RESEARCH REPORTS

Introduction to APA Publication

Style for Research Reports in Psychology

This paper is designed to help you understand the formatting and organization of

an APA style research report. Each section of the report is described in its appropriate

location within the report.

The first section of the main text of the report is the Introduction. The purpose of

the Introduction is to (a) describe the purpose of the study, (b) place the study in the

context of previous research on the topic, and (c) justify your hypotheses (Smith, 2006).

Each paragraph of the Introduction should bring the reader closer to understanding why

the study was done and what hypotheses you are making.

The first paragraph of the Introduction should introduce the general topic of the

study. Do not begin too generally (e.g., discussing all of psychology), but do not begin

too specifically either (e.g., by stating the hypothesis). Be sure to define any terms you

are using that are specific to the field of study. Indicate what your operational definitions

are.

In subsequent paragraphs, you should be building a case for your study. Explain

what has been found in previous research on this topic, describe what gap exists in this

literature, and explain how your study will fill the gap (i.e., provide a unique study that

will contribute new knowledge in the area).

Toward the end of your Introduction, you should briefly describe the design of

your study in such a way that it connects to the justification you’ve given for the purpose

of the study and leads to your hypotheses. Be sure to briefly review the justification for

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