How to Format an APA Abstract Page (7th Edition): Complete Guide & Sample
Master APA 7th Edition abstract formatting rules: word count limits, title placement, keyword formatting, and downloadable .docx template.
Have you ever struggled to condense months of research into a 250-word APA abstract?
An abstract is often the very first section an instructor or peer reviewer evaluates, yet it is where subtle formatting errors frequently occur. In APA 7th Edition, precise rules govern page numbering, title placement, indentation, and keyword formatting.
When Is an Abstract Required in APA 7th Edition?
In APA 7th Edition, abstract requirements depend entirely on paper classification. While professional journal submissions and dissertations require an abstract, most undergraduate student papers do not unless specifically requested by the instructor.
| Paper Category | Abstract Requirement | Running Head Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Student Papers | Optional (only if assigned by course instructor) | No running head (page number 2 flush right only) |
| Professional Papers | Mandatory (placed on page 2) | Running head flush left + page number 2 flush right |
Abstract Layout & Typography Rules
The abstract must appear on its own page immediately following the title page (page 2). Center the section label Abstract in bold at the top of the page. Do not add extra blank lines between the heading and the paragraph.
Unlike body paragraphs, the abstract paragraph is formatted as a single block of text without a first-line indent. The entire paragraph must remain double-spaced with standard 1.0″ margins on all four sides.
Expert Tip: Most students mistakenly indent the first line of their abstract. In APA 7th Edition, the abstract body is flush left. If you want to eliminate manual spacing mistakes automatically, you can format your entire paper with Formatly in under 30 seconds.
How to Format the Keywords Section
Keywords help researchers discover your work in academic databases. Place the keywords line directly beneath the abstract paragraph on a new line.
Indent the label Keywords: by 0.5″, italicize the word, and follow with a colon. List your keywords in lowercase (unless proper nouns), separated by commas, with no terminating period at the end.
Inspect and Download the Verified APA Abstract Sample
To verify your layout against official standards, inspect the interactive specimen preview below. You can view the layout directly or download the editable Word document to use as a starting template.
Eliminate Formatting Stress with Formatly
Spending hours adjusting ruler indents, header unlinking, and margin definitions pulls attention away from your core analysis. Formatly automates your paper’s layout to ensure 100% compliance with official APA 7th Edition rules before submission.
Ready to save time and eliminate grading penalties? Upload your document to Formatly to generate a perfectly formatted paper with tracked changes instantly.
Format your manuscript in under 30 seconds
Stop fighting with margins, headings, and lists. Upload your document and let our engine instantly apply APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard standards — with full tracked changes.