Convert Google Docs to PDF in APA Format

APA papers require a running head in the header (shortened title in uppercase) and page numbers aligned to the right. Set these up in Google Docs using the header tool with different first-page formatting. The PDF export preserves headers and footers on every page, so verify the running head appears correctly throughout.

APA mandates one-inch margins on all sides and double-spaced text throughout, including the reference list. Set margins under File > Page setup in Google Docs, and apply double spacing to the entire document. The PDF captures these exact measurements, so what you set in Docs is what your professor receives.

APA defines five levels of headings with specific formatting rules: centered bold, left-aligned bold, indented bold italic, and so on. Use Google Docs heading styles mapped to each APA level. The PDF preserves font weight, alignment, and indentation, keeping your heading hierarchy intact.

APA in-text citations follow the author-date format, and the reference list uses a hanging indent. Set hanging indents in Docs using the ruler tool or paragraph settings. After exporting, check that references wrap correctly in the PDF and that each entry's second line is indented half an inch from the left margin.

APA papers include a title page with the paper title, author name, and institutional affiliation centered on the page, followed by an abstract on page two. Confirm that each starts on its own page in the PDF and that the formatting matches your instructor's specific APA edition requirements, whether sixth or seventh edition.