Why Use APA?
Aside from simplifying the work of editors by having everyone use the same format for a given publication, using APA Style makes it easier for readers to understand a text by providing a familiar structure they can follow. Abiding by APA's standards as a writer will allow you to:
provide readers with cues they can use to follow your ideas more efficiently and to locate information of interest to them
allow readers to focus more on your ideas by not distracting them with unfamiliar formatting
and establish your credibility or ethos in the field by demonstrating an awareness of your audience and their needs as fellow researchers.
Who Should Use APA?
APA Style provides fairly comprehensive guidelines for writing academic papers regardless of subject or discipline. However, traditionally, APA is most frequently used by writers and students in:
Social Sciences, such as Psychology, Linguistics, Sociology, Economics, and Criminology
Business
Nursing
If you are a student, consult with an instructor to learn what style your discipline uses before using APA Style in your work. If APA Style is appropriate for your writing project, use the links below to learn more about APA and how to follow its rules correctly in your own work.
Source: Purdue OWL