Introduction
APA reference lists need to be formatted in a certain way, the whole list needs to be in alphabetical order according to the authors' surnames, and each reference needs to have what is called a 'hanging indent'. These steps show you how to do that in Microsoft Word.
Alphabetical Order
1. Highlight the references you want to put in alphabetical order
2. On the Home tab, click on the button circled below (the AZ with a little downward arrow)
3. Click the OK button (you do not have to change any of the other settings)
4. Your reference list should now be in alphabetical order
Hanging Indent
Now that your reference list is in alphabetical order, it is time to give them all hanging indents.
1. Highlight your reference list
2. Click the little arrow button in the paragraph section of the home tab.
3. Click on the arrow underneath 'Special' and select 'Hanging indent'. Then click 'OK'. (the default indent size is 1.27cm, which is sufficient, so you do not need to change any of the settings).
4. Your references should now be formatted with a hanging indent.
