APA 7 distinguishes between two types of research papers: Student Research Papers and Professional Research Papers. While most APA 7 guidelines apply to both, there are some differences between the two.
Title page differences
The most noticeable difference between the two paper types is the title page.
Student paper title page can include:
- Paper title
- Student's or students' name(s)
- Student's or students' affiliation(s) – typically the name of your school
- Course name and number
- Instructor's name
- Assignment due date
- Page number
In a change from the 6th Edition, APA 7 no longer requires a Running Head in a student paper. For professional papers, the Running Head is still required – but it no longer includes the words "Running head." Instead, it requires only a page number and the shortened paper title.
Professional paper title page requires:
- Paper title
- Author's name(s)
- Author's affiliation(s)
- Author note
- Running head
- Page number
PERRLA can create both Student and Professional research papers.
Other differences
Abstracts
A professional paper includes an Abstract by default, following APA 7 guidelines. You can remove it if you don't need it.
You can still add an abstract to a student paper using the Abstract icon in the PERRLA ribbon.
Running Head
Student papers no longer include a Running Head. However, if your professor still requires one, you can add it manually in Word after downloading your paper.
Professional papers still include a Running Head on every page.
Creating a Student or Professional Research Paper
- Hover over Create New and click Paper.
- Select APA 7 for the format.
- Select the type of paper you want to create.
You can choose Student Research Paper, Discussion Post, or Professional Research Paper. - Enter the paper's information in the side panel.
- Click Create Paper.
PERRLA will ensure your title page and paper meet all APA 7 formatting requirements for whichever paper type you choose.
Can I switch between paper types after starting a paper?
No – once a paper has been started, PERRLA cannot convert it to the other type. You would need to create a new paper in the format you need and copy over the body of your paper.