In APA (American Psychological Association) style, there is no specific heading required for the conclusion section of a paper. This is a common point of confusion for many writers. The APA guidelines focus on the structure of the introduction, method, results, and discussion sections, particularly in empirical studies. However, for non-empirical papers or when a clear conclusion is needed, the approach is straightforward yet nuanced. Below is a step-by-step guide to formatting a conclusion in an APA paper, ensuring clarity and adherence to APA standards.
Step 1: Understand APA’s General Guidelines
APA style emphasizes simplicity and clarity. While there is no dedicated heading for the conclusion, the section should be logically integrated into the paper’s flow. For most academic papers, the conclusion is part of the Discussion section in empirical studies or the final section in non-empirical papers.
Step 2: Decide Whether to Use a Heading
If your paper is not an empirical study (e.g., a literature review, theoretical paper, or essay), you can optionally label the conclusion section with a heading. In this case:
- Use a level 1 heading (centered, bold, title case).
- Example: Conclusion
However, if your paper is an empirical study, the conclusion is typically integrated into the Discussion section without a separate heading.
Step 3: Format the Conclusion Section
If you choose to use a heading for the conclusion:
1. Center the heading at the top of the section.
2. Bold the heading.
3. Use title case (capitalize the first word, the first word after a colon, and all major words).
Example:
Conclusion
If you do not use a heading, simply begin the conclusion paragraph on a new line after the final body paragraph, with no extra spacing.
Step 4: Write the Conclusion Content
The conclusion should:
- Summarize the main points of the paper.
- Reinforce the thesis or research question.
- Provide closure by discussing the implications of the findings or the significance of the topic.
- Avoid introducing new information or ideas.
Example:
“In summary, the findings of this study highlight the significant impact of workplace diversity on employee satisfaction. The results underscore the need for organizations to implement inclusive policies that foster a sense of belonging among employees. Future research should explore the long-term effects of such policies on organizational performance.”
Step 5: Maintain Consistent Formatting
Ensure the conclusion section adheres to APA formatting rules:
- Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
- Double-space the entire document.
- Use a 12-point, serif font (e.g., Times New Roman).
- Align the text to the left with a ragged right margin.
Step 6: Review APA Guidelines for Clarity
Refer to the latest edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (currently the 7th edition) for specific details. While APA does not explicitly address conclusion headings, it emphasizes the importance of logical structure and consistency.
Example of a Conclusion Section with Heading
Conclusion
The analysis of climate change policies across 50 countries reveals a significant gap between policy implementation and actual emissions reduction. Despite widespread adoption of renewable energy initiatives, many nations struggle to meet their targets due to economic and political barriers. These findings emphasize the need for international cooperation and innovative solutions to address this global challenge. Future research should focus on the role of technology transfer and financial incentives in bridging this gap.
FAQ Section
Is a conclusion heading required in APA style?
+No, APA style does not require a specific heading for the conclusion. However, you can optionally use a level 1 heading labeled "Conclusion" for clarity, especially in non-empirical papers.
Can I include new information in the conclusion?
+No, the conclusion should summarize existing points and provide closure without introducing new data or ideas.
How long should the conclusion be in an APA paper?
+The conclusion should be concise, typically ranging from one paragraph to one page, depending on the length and complexity of the paper.
Should the conclusion be part of the discussion section in empirical studies?
+Yes, in empirical studies, the conclusion is often integrated into the discussion section without a separate heading.
By following these steps, you can format your APA paper’s conclusion effectively, ensuring it aligns with APA standards while providing a clear and concise summary of your work.
