APA & Writing

What is APA Style? 

While getting your degree, you will be expected to do a fair amount of academic writing. In this section, you can find information on ways to improve your APA and writing skills, as well as places where you can find additional help honing these skills should you need it.  

The American Psychological Association (APA) is the citation style used for all assignments at CityU. We are currently using the 7th edition. Note: This guide follows APA 7th edition rules; some courses and programs may have different requirements for use of APA. Refer to your instructor if you are unsure as to which edition should be used in your class. 

Citation style determines the way in which you refer to your sources in your writing (in-text) and at the end of your assignment (the reference list). In-text citations and a reference list are required for all assignments unless otherwise noted by your instructor. 

This guide contains a list of basic APA style elements that are commonly required for assignments at CityU. Any information that is not “common knowledge” must be cited. Common knowledge is information that most people know without looking it up. Common examples are “the sky is blue” or “it rains a lot in Seattle.” If you’re not sure whether something is common knowledge, citing it is better than not citing it. 

If you have any questions about APA style or citing sources, please ask a librarian.