How to Excel at Your APA Research Paper: A Complete Guide for PhD Scholars

If you are a PhD scholar or researcher navigating the demanding world of academic publishing, the title of your next manuscript might well include the phrase APA research paper. That term may evoke the formatting of the American Psychological Association style, the rigour of scholarly standards, and most of all, the ambition to turn complex ideas into publishable work. At ContentXprtz, we understand those ambitions — and the global challenges you face.

From mounting time pressure to escalating publication costs, researchers across more than 110 countries trust us to support their journey toward journal acceptance. Indeed, many feel trapped by the twin constraints of productivity and perfection: on one hand, the need to complete the study, draft the manuscript, format it as an APA research paper; on the other, the need to submit to high-impact journals, often with rejection rates as low as 10 % or even lower. For example, a recent study observed that journal acceptance rates average around 10 % for many fields. (Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

Then there are rising costs. Open-access article processing charges (APCs), the so-called “serials crisis” in journal pricing, and the load of oversight on peer review are all real concerns. (Wikipedia)

In this guide, we will take you — step by step — through how to craft, format, and submit an APA research paper that not only meets the style guidelines of the APA but also enhances your chances of publication. We will blend academic authority with actionable tips, show you how to integrate “academic editing,” “PhD support,” “research paper assistance” and other services naturally (including how services like ours at ContentXprtz can support you), and ensure you emerge confident, prepared and publication-ready.

Whether you are revising your dissertation for publication, preparing a journal article, or submitting a thesis chapter in APA style, this article will help you overcome formatting hurdles, manage your time, and approach journal submission strategically. Because at ContentXprtz, we don’t just edit — we help your ideas reach their fullest potential.

What is an APA Research Paper?

H2: Defining the APA research paper

An APA research paper is a manuscript formatted according to the guidelines of the American Psychological Association’s Publication Manual (currently the 7th edition). (APA Style) It is widely used in the social sciences, behavioural sciences, education, nursing and related fields. (Wikipedia)

The elements include:

• A title page, often with author, affiliation, running head (student papers may omit)
• An abstract summarising the study (typically 150–250 words)
• Main body sections: Introduction, Method, Results, Discussion (for empirical studies)
• In-text citations and a References list formatted according to APA style (Purdue OWL)
• Formatting rules: double-spaced text, 1-inch margins, consistent font, 0.5-inch first-line indent, left-aligned text. (library.ulethbridge.ca)

H3: Why follow APA style?

Using APA style ensures clarity and professional presentation. It offers:

• Credibility: A consistent format signals scholarly rigour.
• Readability: The formatting helps readers navigate your paper easily.
• Compatibility: Journals and universities expect manuscripts to follow specific styles; not adhering can delay review or cause rejection.
• Accessibility: The 7th edition introduced features for accessibility, bias-free language and clearer guidelines for student and professional papers. (Wikipedia)

H3: When do you need an APA research paper vs. other styles?

If you are writing in psychology, education, social sciences, nursing or allied fields, then an APA research paper is often required. Other disciplines may use MLA, Chicago, IEEE or other styles. Choose APA when your target journal specifies it, when your institution mandates it, or when you wish to align with established conventions in your field.

H3: The role of “research paper assistance” and “academic editing services”

Many PhD candidates and researchers outsource components of the process — not to do the work for them (that would violate ethics) but to refine language, ensure formatting compliance, check in-text citations, polish figures/tables, and mitigate submission errors. At ContentXprtz, our expert editors collaborate with subject specialists to provide academic editing services, PhD support, and research paper writing support that help your manuscript meet the highest standards.

Common PhD Scholar Challenges When Writing an APA Research Paper

H2: Time constraints and workload

As a doctoral researcher you juggle teaching, data collection, conference obligations and writing. According to a survey of early‐career researchers, desk rejection and publication delays keep many in limbo for extended periods. (arXiv)

Tips:

• Carve out dedicated writing blocks (e.g., 90-minute sessions) for your APA research paper.
• Use checklists (e.g., see the APA Style Student Paper Checklist) to avoid formatting time waste. (towson.libguides.com)
• Engage a support partner (such as ContentXprtz) early—so editing and formatting do not become last-minute burdens.

H2: Quality and publication pressure

Journal acceptance rates are low. One study highlights how for many journals rejection rather than acceptance is the typical outcome. (Cambridge University Press & Assessment) For larger journals, acceptance rates may hover between 5 % and 50 %, depending on discipline. (Elsevier Author Services – Articles)

This puts pressure on producing not just any APA research paper, but an exceptional one.

Tips:

• Focus on a clear research question and strong methodology — these underpin credibility and alignment with APA expectations.
• Use an external service to review your paper for clarity, logical flow, grammar, style and compliance with APA guidelines.
• Your first draft should go through multiple rounds: content → structure → language → formatting.

H2: Rising costs and publication ethics

Open-access publishing has made visibility easier, but at the same time authors often face high article-processing charges (APCs). (Wikipedia) Furthermore, the proliferation of predatory publishing means authors must be vigilant when choosing journals and submission partners. (Wikipedia)

Tips:

• Investigate the journal’s indexing, editorial board, peer‐review process and APCs before submission.
• Ensure your APA research paper references are accurate and your methodology transparent — strong ethical framing prevents issues later.
• Use professional editing services that follow ethical guidelines; don’t engage providers who promise guaranteed publication (that is often a red flag).

H2: Global diversity and language barriers

Many PhD scholars operate in regions where English is a second language, or work with data from multiple countries. This adds complexity to writing an APA research paper with clarity, coherence and compliance.

Tips:

• If English language proficiency is a challenge, invest in a service specialising in academic English and APA style compliance.
• Be aware of cross-cultural nuances in writing — for example, directness vs indirectness, differences in passive / active voice usage, use of first person, etc.
• Use peer feedback or professional proof-reading to ensure your manuscript reads smoothly and naturally for an international audience.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing an APA Research Paper

H2: 1. Pre-writing and planning

H3: Defining your research question and scope

Start with a crisp research question or hypothesis. That clarity will structure everything else — your literature review, method, results and discussion. A strong question reduces the trap of drifting into vague or overly broad writing.

H3: Organising the structure

Though individual journals may vary, a standard template for an APA research paper includes: Title page → Abstract → Introduction → Method → Results → Discussion → References → (Appendices, Figures/Tables). Use headings consistently — APA has defined heading levels. (APA Style)

H3: Creating a timeline

Allocate time segments:

• Week 1–2: Finalise question + outline
• Week 3–5: Literature review
• Week 6–8: Data collection / analysis
• Week 9–10: Draft introduction & method
• Week 11–12: Draft results & discussion
• Week 13: Abstract & title page
• Week 14: First revision
• Week 15: Formatting & references
• Week 16: Final proof / submission prep

Use calendar tools or Gantt charts; staying disciplined around time protects you from the usual delay traps many PhD scholars face.

H3: Engaging support early

At this stage you can already engage an academic editing service — ideally one attuned to APA research paper formatting, referencing and publication support. For example, at ContentXprtz we pair subject-specialist editors with PhD-level support teams to ensure that your manuscript is both academically rigorous and formatted correctly for journal submission (see our Writing & Publishing Services page).

H2: 2. Writing the draft

H3: Title page & abstract

Your title page should include the full title (in title case, centred), your name, affiliation, course (if applicable), and date. For student papers, often the running head is omitted. (Purdue OWL)

The abstract (typically 150–250 words) must summarise the key aspects: research question, methodology, results, and significance. Write this last, after the full paper is done — the reason is simple: you can’t summarise until you know what you wrote.

H3: Introduction

The introduction sets the scene: why the topic matters, what gap you are addressing, how you will proceed. Since you are writing as a PhD scholar, your audience includes other researchers and possibly reviewers — so tone is both scholarly and clear.

H3: Method, Results, Discussion

Follow APA’s structured advice: describe participants/materials/procedure (for empirical studies), present results with clarity (use tables/figures), and discuss implications, limitations and future research.

H3: Use of citations and references

Use in-text citations properly: (author, year) format, with page numbers for direct quotes. Then provide full references in a separate “References” list. The 7th edition of APA allows for more flexibility (e.g., up to 20 authors listed). (Scribbr)

H3: Headings and sub-headings

Use APA heading levels properly: eg. Level 1 is centred bold title case, Level 2 is left-aligned bold title case, Level 3 is left-aligned bold italic, etc. This helps both readability and compliance.

H2: 3. Revision and refinement

H3: Content check

Ask: Did I address the research question? Are citations adequate? Is the argument logical? Are methods described clearly? Is discussion tied to results and literature?

H3: Language & clarity

Check that your sentences are concise (preferably under 20 words), that transition words are used (however, moreover, in contrast…), passive voice is minimal (<10 %), and paragraphs are short. These adjustments help readability and align with SEO and academic standards.

H3: Formatting compliance

Use the loaded APA checklist (for example from Towson University) to verify: double-spacing, indentations, consistent font size, margins, running head (if required), page numbers, heading styles, reference list formatting with hanging indent. (towson.libguides.com)

H3: Use figures and tables effectively

Ensure each table/figure is titled and placed near the relevant text or at end if required by journal guidelines. Make sure the formatting follows APA style (label, number, title, note). These visuals can enhance the clarity of your APA research paper.

H2: 4. Final formatting for journal submission

H3: Align with journal guidelines

Although you have formatted your paper in APA style, the target journal may have additional requirements: word-count limits, cover letter, supplementary material, data availability statement (increasingly common). For example, mandated data archiving has been shown to increase transparency. (arXiv)

H3: Proof-reading and professional edit

A final external edit is highly advisable. At ContentXprtz, our team offers PhD & Academic Services tailored for final-stage editing, formatting, and submission readiness (see our PhD & Academic Services page).

H3: Submission prep and tracking

Keep track of submission details: manuscript ID, dates, communication with editor, revision rounds. Consider creating a submission tracker or spreadsheet. Software tools like JANE or Publons can help monitor metrics if your journal tracks review times. Submission readiness also means verifying referencing accuracy and ensuring no manuscript exceeds word or figure limits.

Top 10 FAQs about Writing an APA Research Paper

Here are common questions PhD scholars ask — with detailed answers to support you.

FAQ 1: What is the difference between an “APA format paper” and an “APA research paper”?

An APA format paper typically refers to a paper written in the APA style (7th edition) with correct formatting: margins, headings, citations, references. An APA research paper goes further: it is a manuscript presenting original research (questions, methods, results, discussion) that is formatted in APA style and intended for submission to a journal or as a thesis chapter. The research component means you are contributing new knowledge, not just writing an essay. For PhD scholars, the distinction matters: you are expected not only to format your work correctly but also to satisfy rigorous scholarly criteria — conceptual clarity, methodological soundness, robust discussions, and alignment with the literature. Using professional academic editing services helps to elevate both format and content.

FAQ 2: How many words or pages should my APA research paper have?

There is no fixed word‐length for an APA research paper — it depends on the journal, the field, and the type of research (empirical, theoretical, review). Many journals give limits (e.g., 6,000–8,000 words) or page limits (20–30 pp). For a doctoral thesis chapter converted into a journal article, you might aim for roughly 6,000–10,000 words including references. However, ensure you check the journal’s author guidelines. If you exceed the limit significantly, editors may ask you to shorten or split up the work. From a service perspective, you may engage a professional partner (like ContentXprtz) for “student writing services” (see Student Writing Services) to help optimise word-count, restructure text and tighten prose.

FAQ 3: Can I write in first person (“I” or “we”) in an APA research paper?

Yes — the 7th edition of the APA manual permits use of the first person when appropriate. (alliant.libguides.com) For example, if you are the sole researcher you may write: “I conducted a survey…”. If it’s a joint study you may use: “We analysed the data…”. This can make the text clearer and less awkward than passive constructions. However, some journals still prefer an impersonal tone; so check the target journal’s preferences. In any case, avoid excessive “I” or “we” statements that distract from objectivity. A healthy mix of first-person statements, active voice, and clear descriptions often yields the best balance.

FAQ 4: How do I choose the right journal for my APA research paper?

Choosing the right journal is critical. Here are key criteria:

• Scope & audience: Ensure the journal focuses on your research area and uses APA style or allows comparable format.
• Indexing & metrics: Journals indexed in reputable databases (e.g., Web of Science, Scopus) and recognized within your field are preferable.
• Acceptance rate: Many journals have low acceptance rates (e.g., ~10 %). (Cambridge University Press & Assessment) This means competition is high.
• Peer-review rigour: Strong journals maintain rigorous review processes; avoid “predatory” outlets. (Wikipedia)
• Author guidelines: Confirm formatting (APA or slight variations), APCs (article processing charges), timeframe from submission to publication.
• Fit with your career goals: For PhD scholars, publishing in recognized journals enhances credibility and funding opportunities.

After you shortlist a few journals, review several recent published articles to check style, length, reference structure and tone. Then ensure your APA research paper is aligned with that style — using professional research paper assistance can streamline this process.

FAQ 5: What common formatting errors should I avoid in my APA research paper?

Here are frequent pitfalls:

• Incorrect heading styles (e.g., inconsistent levels or bold/italics misuse)
• Running head (student papers often omit) or page numbering mistakes (Purdue OWL)
• Improper reference list (not alphabetical, incorrect hanging indents, missing DOI) (necc.mass.libguides.com)
• In-text citations mismatch with References list
• Figures/tables not labelled properly or not referred to in text
• Font inconsistency or wrong margins (standard is 1 inch on all sides) (library.ulethbridge.ca)
• Overuse of passive voice, long sentences and paragraphs that reduce readability

Having an external editing team (like ContentXprtz’s global support) check your formatting can save you from submission delays and help pass the technical gatekeeping of peer review.

FAQ 6: How can I increase the readability and “scape-value” of my APA research paper?

Readable papers attract positive reviews. Here are strategies:

• Use short paragraphs (2–4 sentences) and transition words (moreover, however, therefore) to meet readability metrics (30 %+ transitions)
• Keep sentences under 20 words as much as possible — avoids reader fatigue
• Minimise passive voice (aim <10 %) — e.g., instead of “It was found that…” use “We found…”
• Use headings and sub-headings to break up text and guide the reader
• Use bullet or numbered lists where appropriate (e.g., summarising steps, or presenting key findings)
• Include tables and figures to summarise complex data rather than long paragraphs

These readability features also help your APA research paper fare better in automated manuscript checks and conform to journal expectations — by enlisting professional academic editing support, you ensure these standards are met.

FAQ 7: Should I include a table of contents in my APA research paper?

Typically, a table of contents (TOC) is not required for journal submissions. The APA Style Guide states that for standard research papers, a TOC is not necessary unless specified by the instructor or publisher. (Verywell Mind) However, if you are submitting a thesis chapter or a dissertation that will be formatted for a longer form (e.g., a book or institutional repository), a TOC may be useful for navigation. If you decide to include one, ensure it follows basic APA formatting: consistent indents, dot-leaders, page numbers aligned right. For a journal article (~6–10 pages) it is usually omitted.

FAQ 8: How many rounds of revision are realistic for an APA research paper?

Given the low acceptance rates and high standards—from ~5–10 % acceptance depending on discipline (Reddit) — you should plan for at least 2–3 full revisions of your manuscript before submission, and often more. A typical workflow:

1. Self-revision for content completeness, logical flow and alignment with research question
2. Peer or mentor review for methodological clarity, literature gaps and argument coherence
3. Professional editing (for language, style, APA formatting)
4. Final proof-reading post-formatting for submission compliance
   Resources like ContentXprtz’s professional services help reduce the workload at stage 3, allowing you to focus on content and strategy.

FAQ 9: What role does professional academic editing play in preparing an APA research paper?

Professional academic editing supports you in three key ways:

• Language clarity: Ensures your writing is concise, readable and grammatically correct (particularly helpful if English is a second language)
• Formatting compliance: Ensures all APA requirements (headings, citations, references, margins, spacing) are met so you avoid technical desk rejection
• Publication readiness: Many services offer submission-ready formatting and may even provide advice on journal selection, cover letters, and response to reviewers

At ContentXprtz, our global team of editors, subject specialists and research consultants provides tailored PhD & Academic Services and Writing & Publishing Services to help your APA research paper meet the highest standards — whether you are in India, Australia, Tokyo, London or New Jersey.

FAQ 10: How do I prepare for peer review and revise after submission?

After you submit your APA research paper, you will typically receive one of three outcomes: accept (rare), revise (common), or reject. Given the competitive nature of publishing, “revise” or “major revise” is the norm. (Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

To maximise your chances:

• Read reviewer comments carefully and respond point-by-point in your revision letter
• When revising the manuscript, use track changes or highlight revisions clearly (as per the journal’s style)
• Maintain tone respectful and professional — even if you disagree with a reviewer, respond diplomatically
• After revision, conduct another language, formatting and consistency check (you may engage your editing service again)
• Monitor timeline: some journals have time limits for resubmission (e.g., 90 days)

Taking these steps demonstrates your commitment and professionalism to the editor and significantly improves your chances of acceptance.

Practical Tips for PhD Scholars — Optimising Your APA Research Paper

H2: Use templates and style‐checklists

Download an official APA 7th edition student or professional template (e.g., from APA’s site or university libraries). (APA Style) Use checklists (such as the one at Towson University) to ensure no formatting detail is overlooked. (towson.libguides.com)

H2: Manage references efficiently

Use citation management software (e.g., EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley) and set it to APA 7th style. Ensure each in-text citation corresponds to a reference. Faulty references are one key cause of revision delays.

H2: Optimise language and readability

• Use active voice as much as possible
• Begin paragraphs with clear topic sentences
• Use transition words (aim 30 %+) to help flow
• Avoid long blocks of text — break into 3–4 sentence paragraphs
• When using lists, convert complex prose into bullet points

H2: Leverage professional support smartly

• Plan ahead: don’t leave formatting or language editing to the last minute
• Choose a service with subject-specialist editors, not just general proof-readers
• Clarify scope: ensure they will check APA compliance, language, logic and formatting
• Use the service iteratively (before submission and after any major revision)

H2: Prepare for submission and review

• Check journal author guidelines carefully (they may modify or add to APA style)
• Include cover letters and highlight novelty of research
• Respond to reviewers thoroughly and professionally
• Keep data, figures, appendices accessible in case reviewers ask for them

How ContentXprtz Can Help You with Your APA Research Paper

At ContentXprtz we specialise in supporting researchers just like you — globally, across more than 110 countries, since 2010. Our services include:

• Detailed academic editing to ensure your manuscript reads clearly, logically and fluently
• Format-compliance checks for APA style, heading levels, citations, references
• Research publication assistance to guide you toward appropriate journals and improve your submission strategy
• Tailored support for PhD scholars: from dissertations to journal conversion, via our PhD & Academic Services
• Writing assistance for students and early-career researchers via Student Writing Services
• Additional services for book authors and corporate researchers via Book Authors Writing Services and Corporate Writing Services

When you partner with us, you aren’t just getting “proof-reading” — you are receiving global expertise, subject-specific insight and publication-ready support.

Conclusion

Writing an APA research paper as a PhD scholar is no small endeavour: you confront tight schedules, high quality expectations, competitive journal acceptance rates, and formatting demands. But with planning, discipline and the right support you can produce a manuscript that aligns with academic standards and increases your chances of publication. Use templates and checklists, ensure readability, engage professional editing, and approach submission strategically.

At ContentXprtz, we stand ready to support your research journey — globally, ethically and expertly. Explore our Writing & Publishing Services and PhD & Academic Services to see how we can help you finish strong.

At ContentXprtz, we don’t just edit — we help your ideas reach their fullest potential.