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How to Create an APA Style Appendix | Format & Examples
Published on October 16, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 9, 2022.
An appendix is a section at the end of an academic text where you include extra information that doesn’t fit into the main text. The plural of appendix is “appendices.”
In an APA Style paper, appendices are placed at the very end, after the reference list .
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Location of appendices](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/location-of-appendices.png)
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Table of contents
Do i need an appendix, appendix format example, organizing and labeling your appendices, frequently asked questions.
You don’t always need to include any appendices. An appendix should present information that supplements the reader’s understanding of your research but is not essential to the argument of your paper . Essential information is included in the main text.
For example, you might include some of the following in an appendix:
- Full transcripts of interviews you conducted (which you can quote from in the main text)
- Documents used in your research, such as questionnaires , instructions, tests, or scales
- Detailed statistical data (often presented in tables or figures )
- Detailed descriptions of equipment used
You should refer to each appendix at least once in the main text. If you don’t refer to any information from an appendix, it should not be included.
When you discuss information that can be found in an appendix, state this the first time you refer to it:
Note that, if you refer to the same interviews again, it’s not necessary to mention the appendix each time.
Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.
The appendix label appears at the top of the page, bold and centered. On the next line, include a descriptive title, also bold and centered.
The text is presented in general APA format : left-aligned, double-spaced, and with page numbers in the top right corner. Start a new page for each new appendix.
The example image below shows how to format an APA Style appendix.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Example of an appendix in APA format](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/apa_appendix.webp)
If you include just one appendix, it is simply called “Appendix” and referred to as such in-text:
When more than one appendix is included, they are labeled “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” and so on.
Present and label your appendices in the order they are referred to in the main text.
Labeling tables and figures in appendices
An appendix may include (or consist entirely of) tables and/or figures . Present these according to the same formatting rules as in the main text.
Tables and figures included in appendices are labeled differently, however. Use the appendix’s letter in addition to a number. Tables and figures are still numbered separately and according to the order they’re referred to in the appendix.
For example, in Appendix A, your tables are Table A1, Table A2, etc; your figures are Figure A1, Figure A2, etc.
The numbering restarts with each appendix: For example, the first table in Appendix B is Table B1; the first figure in Appendix C is Figure C1; and so on. If you only have one appendix, use A1, A2, etc.
If you want to refer specifically to a table or figure from an appendix in the main text, use the table or figure’s label (e.g. “see Table A3”).
If an appendix consists entirely of a single table or figure, simply use the appendix label to refer to the table or figure. For example, if Appendix C is just a table, refer to the table as “Appendix C,” and don’t add an additional label or title for the table itself.
An appendix contains information that supplements the reader’s understanding of your research but is not essential to it. For example:
- Interview transcripts
- Questionnaires
- Detailed descriptions of equipment
Something is only worth including as an appendix if you refer to information from it at some point in the text (e.g. quoting from an interview transcript). If you don’t, it should probably be removed.
Appendices in an APA Style paper appear right at the end, after the reference list and after your tables and figures if you’ve also included these at the end.
When you include more than one appendix in an APA Style paper , they should be labeled “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” and so on.
When you only include a single appendix, it is simply called “Appendix” and referred to as such in the main text.
Yes, if relevant you can and should include APA in-text citations in your appendices . Use author-date citations as you do in the main text.
Any sources cited in your appendices should appear in your reference list . Do not create a separate reference list for your appendices.
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- How To Write A Research Paper Appendix: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Think of appendices like bonus levels on your favorite video game. They are not a major part of the game, but they boost your points and they make the game worthwhile.
Appendix are important facts, calculations, or data that don’t fit into the main body of your research paper. Having an appendix gives your research paper more details, making it easier for your readers to understand your main ideas.
Let’s dive into how to create an appendix and its best practices.
Understanding the Purpose of an Appendix
![how to add an appendix to a research paper how to add an appendix to a research paper](https://i0.wp.com/storage.googleapis.com/fplswordpressblog/2023/11/Formplus-blog-article-graphic-6-300x300.png?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
If you’re looking to add some extra depth to your research, appendices are a great way to do it. They allow you to include extremely useful information that doesn’t fit neatly into the main body of your research paper, such as huge raw data, multiple charts, or very long explanations.
Think of your appendix as a treasure chest with different compartments. You can include different information including, extra data, surveys, graphs, or even detailed explanations of your methods. You can fit anything too big or detailed for the main paper in the appendix.
Planning Your Appendix
![how to add an appendix to a research paper how to add an appendix to a research paper](https://i0.wp.com/storage.googleapis.com/fplswordpressblog/2023/11/Formplus-blog-article-graphic-1-1-300x300.png?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
Before you dive into making your appendix, it’s a good idea to plan things out; think of it as drawing a map before going on an adventure.
You want your appendix to be organized and provide more context to your research. Not planning it will make the process time-consuming and make the appendix confusing to people reading your research paper.
How to Decide What to Include in Your Research Paper
You have to sort through the content that you will include in your appendix. Think of what your readers need to know to understand your key points. Anything that’s overly detailed, off-topic, or clutters up your paper is a good candidate for your appendix.
Tips for Organizing Your Appendix
Once you’ve figured out what to put in your appendix, it’s time to organize it. Your appendix is a place to add extra information, but it shouldn’t be cluttered or confusing to your readers. Instead, it should make your research paper easier to understand.
Use clear headings, labels, and even page numbers to help your readers find the information they need in the appendix. This way, it’s not a jumbled mess, but a well-organized part of your research paper
Formatting Guidelines
![how to add an appendix to a research paper typical breakdown of how to format your appendix](https://i0.wp.com/storage.googleapis.com/fplswordpressblog/2023/11/Formplus-blog-article-graphic-2-2-300x300.png?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
Yes, your appendix must be formatted. Most of the time, you’ll want to keep the font and margin sizes consistent with your main paper.
However, some universities and journals may have specific guidelines for appendix formatting. Verify if your institution has special guidelines, if they do, follow them, if they don’t use the same format as your main text.
Here’s a typical breakdown of how to format your appendix:
(1) Labeling and Titling
If you have different types of information in your appendix, use letters to label them, such as “Appendix A” and “Appendix B”. Then, give each appendix a title that explains the information inside it.
For example, if the first section of your appendix contains raw survey data, you could call it “Appendix A (Survey Data of People Living with Diabetes Under 18 in Texas)”. If the second section of your appendix contains charts, you could call it “Appendix B (The Effect of Sugar Tax in Curbing Diabetes in Children and Young Adults)”.
(2) Numbering Tables, Figures, and More
If you have tables, figures, or other things in your appendix, number them like a list. For example, “Table A1,” “Figure A1,” and more. This numbering helps your readers know what they’re looking at, sort of like chapters in a book.
Creating Tables and Figures
![how to add an appendix to a research paper how to add an appendix to a research paper](https://i0.wp.com/storage.googleapis.com/fplswordpressblog/2023/11/Formplus-blog-article-graphic-3-1-300x300.png?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
Using tables and figures helps you organize your data neatly in your appendix. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating tables and figures in your appendix:
Choose the Right Format for Your Appendix Data
Before creating tables or figures, you need to pick the right format to display the information. Think about what makes your data most clear and understandable.
For example, a table is better for detailed numbers, while a graph is great for showing trends. The right format makes your information easy to grasp and makes your paper look organized.
How to Create Tables in Your Appendix
You can use a spreadsheet program (like Excel or Google Sheets) to create tables to arrange information neatly. Make sure to give your table a clear title so readers know what it’s about.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating tables with a spreadsheet program:
- Open Google Sheets/Excel : Access Google Sheets or Excel through the web or download the app
- Open a New Spreadsheet or Existing File : Create a new spreadsheet or open an existing one where you want to insert a table.
- Select Data : Click and drag to select the data you want to include in the table.
- Insert Table : Once your data is selected, go to the “Insert” menu, then select “Table.
- Create Table : A dialog box will appear, confirming the selected data range. Make sure the “Use the first row as headers” option is checked if your data has headers. Click “Insert .”
- Customize Your Table : After inserting the table, you can customize it by adjusting the style, format, and other table properties using the “Table” menu in Google Sheets or Excel.
You can use software like PowerPoint, Google Slides, or graphic design tools to create them. If you have a chart or graph, make sure it’s easy to understand and add a title or labels to explain it.
You can use the editing tools for images to change the size and other aspects of the image.
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Including Raw Data
The major reasons for including raw data in your appendix are transparency and credibility. Raw data is like your research recipe; it shows exactly what you worked with to arrive at your conclusions.
Raw data also provides enough information to guide researchers in replicating your study or getting a deeper understanding of your research.
Formatting and Presenting Raw Data
Formatting your raw data makes it easy for anyone to understand. You can use tables, charts, or even lists to display your data. For example, if you did a survey, you could put the survey responses in a table with clear headings.
When presenting your raw data, clear organization is your best friend. Use headings, labels, and consistent formatting to help your readers find and understand the data. This keeps your appendix from becoming a confusing puzzle.
Citing Your Appendix
Referencing your appendix in the main text gives readers a full picture of your research while they’re reading- They don’t have to wait until the end to figure out important details of your research.
Unlike actual references and citations, citing your appendix is a very straightforward process. You can simply say, “See Appendix A for more details.”
In-Text Citations for Appendix Content
If you would like to cite information in your appendix, you usually mention the author, year, and what exactly you’re citing. This allows you to give credit to the original creator of the content, so your readers know where it came from.
For instance, if you included a chart from a book in your appendix, you’d say something like (Author, Year, p. X). Keep in mind that there are different citation styles (APA, MLA, Chicago, and others), so your appendix may look a little different.
Proofreading and Editing
![how to add an appendix to a research paper how to add an appendix to a research paper](https://i0.wp.com/storage.googleapis.com/fplswordpressblog/2023/11/Formplus-blog-article-graphic-4-1-300x300.png?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
Proofreading and editing your appendix is just as important as proofreading and editing the main body of your paper. A poorly written or formatted appendix can leave a negative impression on your reader and detract from the overall quality of your work.
Make sure that your appendix is consistent with the main text of your paper in terms of style and tone unless otherwise stated by your institution. Use the same font, font size, and line spacing in the appendix as you do in the main body of your paper.
Your appendix should also be free of errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting.
Tips for Checking for Errors in Formatting, Labeling, and Content
Here are some tips for checking for errors in formatting, labeling, and content in your appendix:
- Formatting : Make sure that all of the elements in your appendix are formatted correctly, including tables, figures, and equations. Check the margins, line spacing, and font size to make sure that they are consistent with the rest of your paper.
- Labeling : All of the tables, figures, and equations in your appendix should be labeled clearly and consistently. Use a consistent numbering system and make sure that the labels match the references in the main body of your paper.
- Content : Proofread your appendix carefully to catch any errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and content. You can use grammar editing tools such as Grammarly to help you automatically detect errors in your context.
Appendix Checklist
Having an appendix checklist guarantees a well-organized appendix and helps you spot and correct any overlooked mistakes.
Here’s a checklist of key points to review before finalizing your appendix:
- Is all of the information in the appendix relevant and necessary?
- Is the appendix well-organized and easy to understand?
- Are all the tables, numbers, and equations clearly labeled?
- Is the appendix formatted correctly and consistently with the main body of the paper?
- Is the appendix free of errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and content?
Sample Appendix
We have discussed what you should include in your appendix and how to organize it. Let’s take a look at what a well-formatted appendix looks like:
Appendix A. (Raw Data of Class Scores)
The following table shows the raw data collected for the study.
Participant | Age | Gender | Score |
1 | 22 | Male | 88 |
2 | 28 | Female | 78 |
3 | 21 | Male | 72 |
4 | 25 | Female | 90 |
5 | 27 | Male | 91 |
How the Sample Appendix Adheres to Best Practices
- The appendix is labeled clearly and concisely as “Appendix A. (Raw Data of Class Score).”
- The appendix begins on a new page.
- The appendix is formatted consistently with the rest of the paper, using the same font, font size, and line spacing.
- The table in the appendix is labeled clearly and concisely as “Table A1.”
- The table is formatted correctly, with consistent column widths and alignment.
- The table includes all of the necessary information, including the participant number, age, gender, and score.
- The appendix is free of grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Having an appendix easily makes your research paper impressive to reviewers, and increases your likelihood of achieving high grades or journal publication. It also makes it easier for other researchers to replicate your research, allowing you to make a significant contribution to your research field.
Ensure to use the best practices in this guide to create a well-structured and relevant appendix. Also, use the checklist provided in this article to help you carefully review your appendix before submitting it.
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How to Write an APA Appendix
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- When to Use an Appendix
- What to Include
- Basic Rules
If you are writing a psychology paper for a class or for publication, you may be required to include an appendix in APA format. An APA appendix is found at the end of a paper and contains information that supplements the text but that is too unwieldy or distracting to include in the main body of the paper.
APA format is the official writing style used by the American Psychological Association . This format dictates how academic and professional papers should be structured and formatted.
Does Your Paper Need an APA Appendix?
Some questions to ask about whether you should put information in the body of the paper or in an appendix:
- Is the material necessary for the reader to understand the research? If the answer is yes, it should be in your paper and not in an appendix.
- Would including the information interrupt the flow of the paper? If the answer is yes, then it should likely appear in the appendix.
- Would the information supplement what already appears in your paper? If yes, then it is a good candidate for including in an appendix.
Your appendix is not meant to become an information dump. While the information in your appendices is supplementary to your paper and research, it should still be useful and relevant. Only include what will help readers gain insight and understanding, not clutter or unnecessary confusion.
What to Include in an APA Appendix
The APA official stylebook suggests that the appendix should include information that would be distracting or inappropriate in the text of the paper.
Some examples of information you might include in an appendix include:
- Correspondence (if it pertains directly to your research)
- Demographic details about participants or groups
- Examples of participant responses
- Extended or detailed descriptions
- Lists that are too lengthy to include in the main text
- Large amounts of raw data
- Lists of supporting research and articles that are not directly referenced in-text
- Materials and instruments (if your research relied on special materials or instruments, you might want to include images and further information about how these items work or were used)
- Questionnaires that were used as part of your research
- Raw data (presented in an organized, readable format)
- Research surveys
While the content found in the appendix is too cumbersome to include in the main text of your paper, it should still be easily presented in print format.
The appendices should always act as a supplement to your paper. The body of your paper should be able to stand alone and fully describe your research or your arguments.
The body of your paper should not be dependent upon what is in the appendices. Instead, each appendix should act to supplement what is in the primary text, adding additional (but not essential) information that provides extra insight or information for the reader.
Basic Rules for an APA Appendix
Here are some basic APA appendix rules to keep in mind when working on your paper:
- Your paper may have more than one appendix.
- Each item usually gets its own appendix section.
- Begin each appendix on a separate page.
- Each appendix must have a title.
- Use title case for your title and labels (the first letter of each word should be capitalized, while remaining letters should be lowercase).
- If your paper only has one appendix, simply title it Appendix.
- If you have more than one appendix, each one should be labeled Appendix A, Appendix B, Appendix C, and so on.
- Put the appendix label centered at the top of the page.
- On the next line under the appendix label, place the centered title of the appendix.
- If you refer to a source in your appendix, include an in-text citation just as you would in the main body of your paper and then include the source in your main reference section.
- Each appendix may contain headings, subheadings, figures, and tables.
- Each figure or table in your appendix should include a brief but explanatory title, which should be italicized.
- If you want to reference your appendix within the text of your paper, include a parenthetical note in the text. For example, you would write (See Appendix A).
Formatting an APA Appendix
How do you format an appendix in APA? An APA appendix should follow the overall rules on how to format text. Such rules specify what font and font size you should use, the size of your margins, and the spacing of the text.
Some of the APA format guidelines you need to observe:
- Use a consistent font, such as 12-point Times New Roman or 11-point Calibri
- Double-space your text
- All paragraphs should be indented on the first line
- Page numbering should be continuous with the rest of your paper
The appendix label should appear centered and bolded at the top of the page. A descriptive title should follow and should also be bolded and centered. As with other pages in your paper, your APA format appendix should be left-aligned and double-spaced. Each page should include a page number in the top right corner. You can also have more than one appendix, but each one should begin on a new page.
Data Displays in an APA Appendix
When presenting information in an appendix, use a logical layout for any data displays such as tables or figures. All tables and figures should be labeled with the words “Table” or “Figure” (sans quotation marks) and the letter of the appendix and then numbered.
For example, Table A1 would be the first table in an Appendix A. Data displays should be presented in the appendix following the same order that they first appear in the text of your paper.
In addition to following basic APA formatting rules, you should also check to see if there are additional guidelines you need to follow. Individual instructors or publications may have their own specific requirements.
Where to Include an APA Appendix
If your paper does require an appendix, it should be the very last pages of your finished paper. An APA format paper is usually structured in the following way:
Your paper may not necessarily include all of these sections. At a minimum, however, your paper may consist of a title page, abstract, main text, and reference section. Also, if your paper does not contain tables, figures, or footnotes, then the appendix would follow the references.
Never include an appendix containing information that is not referred to in your text.
A Word From Verywell
Writing a paper for class or publication requires a great deal of research, but you should pay special attention to your APA formatting. Each section of your paper, including the appendix section, needs to follow the rules and guidelines provided in the American Psychological Association’s stylebook.
American Psychological Association. Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington DC: The American Psychological Association; 2020.
By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."
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An appendix contains supplementary material that is not an essential part of the text itself but which may be helpful in providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem. An appendix may also contain information that is too cumbersome to be included in the body of the paper. A separate appendix should be used for each distinct topic or set of data and always have a title descriptive of its contents [e.g., Appendix 1: Interview Protocol].
Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
Importance of...
Appendices are always supplementary to the research paper. As such, your study must be able to stand alone without the appendices, and the paper must contain all information including tables, diagrams, and results necessary to understand the research problem. The key point to remember when including an appendix or appendices is that the information is non-essential to understanding the research problem being investigated. In other words, if it were removed, the reader would still be able to comprehend the significance, validity , and implications of your research even if that additional data was missing.
It is appropriate to include appendices for the following reasons:
- Including this material in the body of the paper that would render it poorly structured or interrupt the narrative flow;
- Information is too lengthy and detailed to be easily summarized in the body of the paper;
- Inclusion of helpful, supporting, or useful material would otherwise distract the reader from the main content of the paper;
- Provides relevant information or data that is more easily understood or analyzed in a self-contained section of the paper;
- Can be used when there are constraints placed on the length of your paper; and,
- Provides a place to further demonstrate your understanding of the research problem by giving additional details about a new or innovative method, technical details, or design protocols.
Appendices. Academic Skills Office, University of New England; Chapter 12, "Use of Appendices." In Guide to Effective Grant Writing: How to Write a Successful NIH Grant . Otto O. Yang. (New York: Kluwer Academic, 2005), pp. 55-57; Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
Structure and Writing Style
I. General Points to Consider
When considering whether to include content in an appendix, keep in mind the following:
- It is usually good practice to include your raw data in an appendix, laying it out in a clear format so the reader can re-check your results. Another option if you have a large amount of raw data is to consider placing it online [e.g., on a Google drive] and note that this is the appendix to your research paper.
- Any tables and figures included in the appendix should be numbered as a separate sequence from the main paper . Remember that appendices contain non-essential information that, if removed, would not diminish a reader's ability to understand the research problem being investigated. This is why non-textual elements should not carry over the sequential numbering of non-textual elements in the body of your paper.
- If you have more than three appendices, consider listing them on a separate page in the table of contents . This will help the reader know what information is included in the appendices. Note that some works list appendices in the table of contents before the first chapter while other styles list the appendices after the conclusion but before your references. Consult with your professor to confirm if there is a preferred approach.
- The appendix can be a good place to put maps, photographs, diagrams, and other images , if you feel that it will help the reader to understand the content of your paper, while keeping in mind the study should be understood without them.
- An appendix should be streamlined and not loaded with a lot information . If you have a very long and complex appendix, it is a good idea to break it down into separate appendices, allowing the reader to find relevant information quickly as the information is covered in the body of the paper.
II. Content
Never include an appendix that isn’t referred to in the text . All appendices should be summarized in your paper where it is relevant to the content. Appendices should also be arranged sequentially by the order they were first referenced in the text [i.e., Appendix 1 should not refer to text on page eight of your paper and Appendix 2 relate to text on page six].
There are few rules regarding what type of material can be included in an appendix, but here are some common examples:
- Correspondence -- if your research included collaborations with others or outreach to others, then correspondence in the form of letters, memorandums, or copies of emails from those you interacted with could be included.
- Interview Transcripts -- in qualitative research, interviewing respondents is often used to gather information. The full transcript from an interview is important so the reader can read the entire dialog between researcher and respondent. The interview protocol [list of questions] should also be included.
- Non-textual elements -- as noted above, if there are a lot of non-textual items, such as, figures, tables, maps, charts, photographs, drawings, or graphs, think about highlighting examples in the text of the paper but include the remainder in an appendix.
- Questionnaires or surveys -- this is a common form of data gathering. Always include the survey instrument or questionnaires in an appendix so the reader understands not only the questions asked but the sequence in which they were asked. Include all variations of the instruments as well if different items were sent to different groups [e.g., those given to teachers and those given to administrators] .
- Raw statistical data – this can include any numerical data that is too lengthy to include in charts or tables in its entirety within the text. This is important because the entire source of data should be included even if you are referring to only certain parts of a chart or table in the text of your paper.
- Research instruments -- if you used a camera, or a recorder, or some other device to gather information and it is important for the reader to understand how, when, and/or where that device was used.
- Sample calculations – this can include quantitative research formulas or detailed descriptions of how calculations were used to determine relationships and significance.
NOTE: Appendices should not be a dumping ground for information. Do not include vague or irrelevant information in an appendix; this additional information will not help the reader’s overall understanding and interpretation of your research and may only distract the reader from understanding the significance of your overall study.
ANOTHER NOTE: Appendices are intended to provide supplementary information that you have gathered or created; it is not intended to replicate or provide a copy of the work of others. For example, if you need to contrast the techniques of analysis used by other authors with your own method of analysis, summarize that information, and cite to the original work. In this case, a citation to the original work is sufficient enough to lead the reader to where you got the information. You do not need to provide a copy of this in an appendix.
III. Format
Here are some general guideline on how to format appendices . If needed, consult the writing style guide [e.g., APA, MLS, Chicago] your professor wants you to use for more detail or choose the style you are most familiar with:
- Appendices may precede or follow your list of references.
- Each appendix begins on a new page.
- The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper.
- The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold type.
- If there is a table of contents, the appendices must be listed.
- Depending on the type of information, the content can be presented in landscape format rather than regular portrait format.
- The page number(s) of the appendix/appendices will continue on with the numbering from the last page of the text.
Appendices. The Structure, Format, Content, and Style of a Journal-Style Scientific Paper. Department of Biology. Bates College; Appendices. Academic Skills Office, University of New England; Appendices. Writing Center, Walden University; Chapter 12, "Use of Appendices." In Guide to Effective Grant Writing: How to Write a Successful NIH Grant . Otto O. Yang. (New York: Kluwer Academic, 2005), pp. 55-57 ; Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Lunsford, Andrea A. and Robert Connors. The St. Martin's Handbook . New York: St. Martin's Press, 1989; What To Know About The Purpose And Format Of A Research Paper Appendix. LoyolaCollegeCulion.com.
Writing Tip
Consider Putting Your Appendices Online
Appendices are useful because they provide the reader with information that supports your study without breaking up the narrative or distracting from the main purpose of your paper. If you have a lot of raw data or information that is difficult to present in textual form, consider uploading it to an online site. This prevents your paper from having a large and unwieldy set of appendices and it supports a growing movement within academe to make data more freely available for re-analysis. If you do create an online portal to your data, note it prominently in your paper with the correct URL and access procedures if it is a secured site, or if needed, with clear directions on how to contact the author to obtain access.
Piwowar, Heather A., Roger S. Day, and Douglas B. Fridsma. “Sharing Detailed Research Data Is Associated with Increased Citation Rate.” PloS ONE (March 21, 2007); Wicherts, Jelte M., Marjan Bakker, and Dylan Molenaar. “Willingness to Share Research Data Is Related to the Strength of the Evidence and the Quality of Reporting of Statistical Results.” PLoS ONE (November 2, 2011).
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APA Citation Style 7th Edition
- APA Style Overview
- Sample Documents & Guides
- Multiple Sources With the Same Author and Year
- Websites & Web Documents
- Course Materials (Slides, Lecture Notes, Specialty Software)
- Citing Business Databases
- Film, Videos, & Podcasts
- Art, Photos, Tables & Figures
- Legal Materials & Tax Codes
- Dissertations
- Pamphlet or Brochure
- Interviews, E-mail, Intranet, Religious Works, & Secondary Sources (7th edition)
- Footnotes This link opens in a new window
What goes into an Appendix?
Where is an appendix placed, labeling the appendix, formatting the appendix.
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- Understanding Plagiarism
- RefWorks This link opens in a new window
"Material that supplements the content of the paper, but would be distracting or inappropriate to include in the body of the paper is to be placed in an appendix." This includes "materials that are relatively brief and that are easily presented in print format" ( Publication Manual of the APA: 6th edition , section 2.13; Publication Manual of the APA: 7th edition , section 2.14). Examples include "mathematical proofs, lists of words, a questionnaire used in the research, a detailed description of an apparatus used in the research, etc" ( Purdue OWL .)
An appendix (or appendices) follow the reference list. Use the following order for your paper:
- Abstract ( if required, start on a new page, numbered page 2)
- Text (start on a new page, numbered 3)
- References (start on a new page)
- Tables (start each on a new page)
- Figures (start each on a new page; include caption on page with figure)
- Appendices (start each on a new page)
- If only one appendix, label it Appendix
- If more than one appendix: label each one with a capital letter (Appendix A, Appendix B, etc.) in the order in which it is mentioned in the text
- Each appendix must have a title
- In the text, refer to appendices by their labels:
"produced the same results for both studies (see Appendices A and B for complete proofs)."
- Begin each appendix on a separate page
- At the top of the page, center the word Appendix and the identifying capital letters (A, B, etc.) in the order in which they are mentioned in the text.
- Center the title of the appendix using uppercase and lowercase letter on the next line
- Begin the text of the appendix flush left, followed by indented paragraphs.
A sample appendix is below:
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APA 7th edition - Paper Format: Appendices
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- Mechanics of Style
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How to Format An Appendix - Tutorial
- APA Appendices - JIBC Tip Sheet All you need to know about appendices in APA Style.
Information in this section is as outlined in the APA Publication Manual (2020), sections 2.14, 2.17, 2.24, and 7.6.
Appendices are used to include information that supplement the paper’s content but are considered distracting or inappropriate for the overall topic. It is recommended to only include an appendix if it helps the reader comprehend the study or theoretical argument being made. It is best if the material included is brief and easily presented. The material can be text, tables, figures, or a combination of these three.
Placement :
Appendices should be placed on a separate page at the end of your paper after the references, footnotes, tables, and figure. The label and title should be centre aligned. The contents of the appendix and the note should be left-aligned.
- If you are choosing to include tables and figures in your appendix, then you can list each one on a separate page or you may include multiple tables/figures in one appendix, if there is no text and each table and/or figure has its own clear number and title within the appendix.
- Tables and figures in an appendix receive a number preceded by the letter of the appendix in which it appears, e.g. Table A1 is the first table in Appendix A or of a sole appendix that is not labeled with a letter.
The follow elements are required for appendices in APA Style:
Appendix Labels:
Each appendix that you place in your paper is labelled “Appendix.” If a paper has more than one appendix, then label each with a capital letter in the order the appendices are referred to in your paper (“Appendix A” is referred to first, “Appendix B” is referred to second, etc).
- The label of the appendix should be in bold font, centre-aligned, follow Title Casing, and is located at the top of the page.
- If your appendix only contains one table or figure (and no text), then the appendix label takes the place of the table/figure number, e.g. the table may be referred to as “Appendix B” rather than “Table B1.”
Appendix Titles:
Each appendix should have a title, that describes its contents. Titles should be brief, clear, and explanatory.
- The title of the appendix should be in bold font, centre-aligned, follow Title Casing, and is one double-spaced line down from the appendix label.
- If your appendix only contains one table or figure (and no text), then the appendix title takes the place of the table/figure title.
Appendix Contents:
- Left aligned and indented; written the same as paragraphs within the body of the paper
- Double-spaced and with the same font as the rest of the paper
- If the appendix contains a table and/or figure, then the table/figure number must contain a letter to correlate the table and/or figure to the appendix and not the body of the paper, e.g. “Table A1” rather than “Table 1” to clarify that the table appears in the appendix and not in the body of the paper.
- All tables and figures in an appendix must be mentioned in the appendix and numbered in order of mention.
- All tables and figures must be aligned to the left margin, (not center aligned), and positioned after a paragraph break, preferably the paragraph in which they are referred to, with a double-spaced blank line between the table and the text.
- Each table and figure should include a note afterwards to further explain the supplement or clarify information in the table or figure to your paper/appendix and can be general, specific, and probability. See “Table Notes” in the section “Table and Figures” above for more details.
Referring to Appendices in the Text:
In your paper, refer to every appendix that you have inserted. Do not include an appendix in your work that you do not clearly explain in relation to the ideas in your paper.
- In general, only refer to the appendix by the label (“Appendix” or “Appendix A” etc.) and not the appendix title.
Reprinting or Adapting:
If you did not create the content in the appendix yourself, for instance if you found a figure on the internet, you must include a copyright attribution in a note below the figure.
- A copyright attribution is used instead of an in-text citation.
- Each work should also be listed in the reference list.
Please see pages 390-391 in the Manual for example copyright attributions.
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Appendices – Writing Guide, Types and Examples
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Definition:
Appendices refer to supplementary materials or documents that are attached to the end of a Book, Report , Research Paper , Thesis or other written work. These materials can include charts, graphs, tables, images, or other data that support the main content of the work.
Types of Appendices
Types of appendices that can be used depending on the content and purpose of the document. These types of Appendices are as follows:
Statistical Appendices
Statistical appendices are used to present raw data or statistical analysis that is relevant to the main text but would be too bulky to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include tables, graphs, charts, or other types of visual aids that help to illustrate the data.
Technical Appendices
Technical appendices are used to provide detailed technical information that is relevant to the main text but would be too complex or lengthy to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include equations, formulas, diagrams, or other technical details that are important for understanding the subject matter.
Bibliographical Appendices
Bibliographical appendices are used to provide additional references or sources that are relevant to the main text but were not cited in the main body of the document. These appendices may include lists of books, articles, or other resources that the author consulted in the course of their research.
Historical Appendices
Historical appendices are used to provide background information or historical context that is relevant to the main text but would be too lengthy or distracting to include in the main body of the document. These appendices may include timelines, maps, biographical sketches, or other historical details that help to contextualize the subject matter.
Supplemental Appendices
Supplemental appendices are used to provide additional material that is relevant to the main text but does not fit into any of the other categories. These appendices may include interviews, surveys, case studies, or other types of supplemental material that help to further illustrate the subject matter.
Applications of Appendices
Some applications of appendices are:
- Providing detailed data and statistics: Appendices are often used to include detailed data and statistics that support the findings presented in the main body of the document. For example, in a research paper, an appendix might include raw data tables or graphs that were used to support the study’s conclusions.
- Including technical details: Appendices can be used to include technical details that may be of interest to a specialized audience. For example, in a technical report, an appendix might include detailed calculations or equations that were used to develop the report’s recommendations.
- Presenting supplementary information: Appendices can be used to present supplementary information that is related to the main content but doesn’t fit well within the main body of the document. For example, in a business proposal, an appendix might include a list of references or a glossary of terms.
- Providing supporting documentation: Appendices can be used to provide supporting documentation that is required by the document’s audience. For example, in a legal document, an appendix might include copies of contracts or agreements that were referenced in the main body of the document.
- Including multimedia materials : Appendices can be used to include multimedia materials that supplement the main content. For example, in a book, an appendix might include photographs, maps, or illustrations that help to clarify the text.
Importance of Appendices
Appendices are important components of research papers, reports, Thesis, and other academic papers. They are supplementary materials that provide additional information and data that support the main text. Here are some reasons why appendices are important:
- Additional Information : Appendices provide additional information that is too detailed or too lengthy to include in the main text. This information includes raw data, graphs, tables, and charts that support the research findings.
- Clarity and Conciseness : Appendices help to maintain the clarity and conciseness of the main text. By placing detailed information and data in appendices, writers can avoid cluttering the main text with lengthy descriptions and technical details.
- Transparency : Appendices increase the transparency of research by providing readers with access to the data and information used in the research process. This transparency increases the credibility of the research and allows readers to verify the findings.
- Accessibility : Appendices make it easier for readers to access the data and information that supports the research. This is particularly important in cases where readers want to replicate the research or use the data for their own research.
- Compliance : Appendices can be used to comply with specific requirements of the research project or institution. For example, some institutions may require researchers to include certain types of data or information in the appendices.
Appendices Structure
Here is an outline of a typical structure for an appendix:
I. Introduction
- A. Explanation of the purpose of the appendix
- B. Brief overview of the contents
II. Main Body
- A. Section headings or subheadings for different types of content
- B. Detailed descriptions, tables, charts, graphs, or images that support the main content
- C. Labels and captions for each item to help readers navigate and understand the content
III. Conclusion
- A. Summary of the key points covered in the appendix
- B. Suggestions for further reading or resources
IV. Appendices
- A. List of all the appendices included in the document
- B. Table of contents for the appendices
V. References
- A. List of all the sources cited in the appendix
- B. Proper citation format for each source
Example of Appendices
here’s an example of what appendices might look like for a survey:
Appendix A:
Survey Questionnaire
This section contains a copy of the survey questionnaire used for the study.
- What is your age?
- What is your gender?
- What is your highest level of education?
- How often do you use social media?
- Which social media platforms do you use most frequently?
- How much time do you typically spend on social media each day?
- Do you feel that social media has had a positive or negative impact on your life?
- Have you ever experienced cyberbullying or harassment on social media?
- Have you ever been influenced by social media to make a purchase or try a new product?
- In your opinion, what are the biggest advantages and disadvantages of social media?
Appendix B:
Participant Demographics
This section includes a table with demographic information about the survey participants, such as age, gender, and education level.
Age Gender Education Level
- 20 Female Bachelor’s Degree
- 32 Male Master’s Degree
- 45 Female High School Diploma
- 28 Non-binary Associate’s Degree
Appendix C:
Statistical Analysis
This section provides details about the statistical analysis performed on the survey data, including tables or graphs that illustrate the results of the analysis.
Table 1: Frequency of Social Media Platforms
Use Platform Frequency
- Facebook 35%
- Instagram 28%
- Twitter 15%
- Snapchat 12%
Figure 1: Impact of Social Media on Life Satisfaction
Appendix D:
Survey Results
This section presents the raw data collected from the survey, such as participant responses to each question.
Question 1: What is your age?
Question 2: What is your gender?
And so on for each question in the survey.
How to Write Appendices
Here are the steps to follow to write appendices:
- Determine what information to include: Before you start writing your appendices, decide what information you want to include. This may include tables, figures, graphs, charts, photographs, or other types of data that support the main content of your paper.
- Organize the material: Once you have decided what to include, organize the material in a logical manner that follows the sequence of the main content. Use clear headings and subheadings to make it easy for readers to navigate through the appendices.
- Label the appendices: Label each appendix with a capital letter (e.g., “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” etc.) and provide a brief descriptive title that summarizes the content.
- F ormat the appendices: Follow the same formatting style as the rest of your paper or report. Use the same font, margins, and spacing to maintain consistency.
- Provide detailed explanations: Make sure to provide detailed explanations of any data, charts, graphs, or other information included in the appendices so that readers can understand the significance of the material.
- Cross-reference the appendices: In the main text, cross-reference the appendices where appropriate by referring to the appendix letter and title (e.g., “see Appendix A for more information”).
- Review and revise: Review and revise the appendices just as you would any other part of your paper or report to ensure that the information is accurate, clear, and relevant.
When to Write Appendices
Appendices are typically included in a document when additional information needs to be provided that is not essential to the main text, but still useful for readers who want to delve deeper into a topic. Here are some common situations where you might want to include appendices:
- Supporting data: If you have a lot of data that you want to include in your document, but it would make the main text too lengthy or confusing, you can include it in an appendix. This is especially useful for academic papers or reports.
- Additional examples: I f you want to include additional examples or case studies to support your argument or research, but they are not essential to the main text, you can include them in an appendix.
- Technical details: I f your document contains technical information that may be difficult for some readers to understand, you can include detailed explanations or diagrams in an appendix.
- Background information : If you want to provide background information on a topic that is not directly related to the main text, but may be helpful for readers, you can include it in an appendix.
Purpose of Appendices
The purposes of appendices include:
- Providing additional details: Appendices can be used to provide additional information that is too detailed or bulky to include in the main body of the document. For example, technical specifications, data tables, or lengthy survey results.
- Supporting evidence: Appendices can be used to provide supporting evidence for the arguments or claims made in the main body of the document. This can include supplementary graphs, charts, or other visual aids that help to clarify or support the text.
- Including legal documents: Appendices can be used to include legal documents that are referred to in the main body of the document, such as contracts, leases, or patent applications.
- Providing additional context: Appendices can be used to provide additional context or background information that is relevant to the main body of the document. For example, historical or cultural information, or a glossary of technical terms.
- Facilitating replication: In research papers, appendices are used to provide detailed information about the research methodology, raw data, or analysis procedures to facilitate replication of the study.
Advantages of Appendices
Some Advantages of Appendices are as follows:
- Saving Space: Including lengthy or detailed information in the main text of a document can make it appear cluttered and overwhelming. By placing this information in an appendix, it can be included without taking up valuable space in the main text.
- Convenience: Appendices can be used to provide supplementary information that is not essential to the main argument or discussion but may be of interest to some readers. By including this information in an appendix, readers can choose to read it or skip it, depending on their needs and interests.
- Organization: Appendices can be used to organize and present complex information in a clear and logical manner. This can make it easier for readers to understand and follow the main argument or discussion of the document.
- Compliance : In some cases, appendices may be required to comply with specific document formatting or regulatory requirements. For example, research papers may require appendices to provide detailed information on research methodology, data analysis, or technical procedures.
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How to Write a Research Paper Appendix
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Writing a research paper isn’t just a work of mere writing. Writing the perfect research paper takes a lot of research, analysis, framing, formatting, and much more. Correctly writing one of the most essential and academically popular segments of a research paper, the appendix, is one such effort that goes into a dissertation. In this blog , we will discuss with you the functions of an appendix in-depth and give you some tried and tested tips to craft the perfect appendix section of a research paper! Let’s dive in!
What is an Appendix?
The appendix on a research paper is a supplementary segment at the end of a dissertation or the research paper. This section isn’t considered a part of the main body text of the dissertation, but it is an important part of doing research. Appendices often feature raw data in the form of tables, figures, maps, diagrams and statistics and thus contribute to the credibility of the research and make it a perfect research paper .
Using academic resources, books, and research tools can help frame an appendix better. Appendices are essential since they provide extra support to your research and make the dissertation seem more transparent regarding data.
However, the appendix section of a research paper should only be supplementary; thus, you cannot depend on it to help the reader understand the main text. Your dissertation text should be detailed enough to be understandable without appendices, and they should only be placed to support your arguments presented in the research report.
How to Write an Appendix for a Research Paper
Writing the perfect research paper appendix can be overwhelming if it’s your first time doing so. However, drafting the appendix section of a research paper can be quite fun if you know the basics and understand how exactly you should go about it. Here are our 5 tips on how to write the perfect appendix for your dissertation:
Step 1: Organize the Appendix
With all the raw data, stats, and information, an appendix on a research paper can be difficult to go through and understand if they’re drafted disorganizedly. So, while writing your research paper appendix, make sure you are not just ramming all information into it but organising it well so the reader can utilise it. Structure it well, for it can very well come across as a reflection of your daily choices.
Step 2: Consider Accessibility
A research paper appendix can include non-textual information like tables, diagrams, graphs, images, illustrations, etc. If you’re adding such visual data elements to your appendices, ensure the material is clear and readable so the reader can comprehend the data. You should also ensure you are labelling these elements well and adding brief descriptions to each figure.
Step 3: Review for Relevance
It is easy to lose track of the relevance of your data while preparing appendices since you have to work with many different types of data simultaneously. However, you have to remember that the goal is not to stuff your appendices with data. Rather, craft a precise, careful research paper appendix that can give your reader relevant and additional data that supports your research.
Step 4: Proofread and Revise
When it comes to dissertation writing, typos, grammatical errors, and spelling mistakes can cost you way more than just miscommunication. These seemingly harmless errors can make your work look casual and unprofessional, bringing in questions about the credibility of your work. It is a similar case when it comes to writing an appendix for a research paper.
Step 5: Seek Guidance
It is important to remember that seeking guidance when you feel stuck is pretty normal, and there is nothing to be embarrassed about it. You may feel lost while writing an appendix for a research paper, and it is the perfect time to seek guidance from your peers, advisor or even dissertation committee members.
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How to Format an Appendix
Ensuring proper formatting is crucial for the seamless integration of the research paper appendix into the main body. Follow the guidelines below for a sharp-looking appendix:
Consistency with the Main Body
Formatting elements, fonts, font sizes and margins should have uniformity. Consistent and professional appearance gives your research paper a neat look.
Organisation and Structure
Use headings and subheadings to categorise your data logically. You can also use a well-structured numbering system to facilitate easy navigation.
Descriptive Elements
Introduce each content with short descriptions and paragraphs. Giving additional context makes the information more accessible and interpretable.
Consistent Formatting Style
Use a formatting style that goes well with the rest of your dissertation, along with font styles, sizes, and other formatting guidelines instructed by your academic institution.
Visual Accessibility
Any non-textual elements, such as tables, graphs, or images, should be clear and readable. Label these visual elements and add alternative texts for inclusivity in the digital appendix.
Where does the appendix go in your dissertation?
Although the appendix section of a research paper is an essential part of your dissertation, it is not to be included in the main body of the dissertation. As a compilation of supplementary material and raw data, your research paper appendix should go at the end of the dissertation, typically inserted after the reference lists. Some even present appendices as separate supplementary documents, mostly done in specially requested cases.
The format of the research paper appendix should be similar to the rest of your report for consistency. It should thus be drafted and formatted in the same style as the dissertation in terms of fonts, margins, and font sizes.
What to include in your appendix
While drafting your research paper appendix, remember that it needs to be as precise as possible. Thus, there cannot be unnecessary information in it. Typically, appendices include raw data that supports your research and is referenced in the dissertation you have prepared. Here are some of the elements that you should include in your appendix:
- Research results
- Transcribed interviews
- Survey/questionnaire details
- Table and figures
- Co-respondence
- List of abbreviations used
- Calculations and formulas
Referring appendix in-text
Only adding your appendix to the research paper at the end of the dissertation would not make sense if there are no references to them in the main text. To justify its existence and inclusion in the research report, you should reference the appendix at least once in the whole report. A neatly labelled and properly referred research paper appendix can make your dissertation look more professional and supported.
How to refer to an appendix
Referring to the research paper appendix within the main text is important in highlighting its relevance. Use these five methods for referencing:
In-text references
Specific references embedded in your sentences contextually shape your information. For example, "In Table 2 of Appendix B, the commonality between subjects A and B is illustrated.
Parenthetical references
You can use parentheses for concise references without disrupting the main text's flow. For instance, "The result [refer to Appendix C, Fig. 2] is not consistent with the previous findings."
Referring to the entire appendix
Refer to the entire research paper appendix in your text when appropriate. For example, "The data supporting this conclusion can be found in Appendix B."
Clarity and labelling
References should be clear and well-labelled. Proper labelling ensures easy identification of referenced material within the appendix, polishing your research paper professionally.
Cross-referencing
Cross-referencing helps you establish connections between the main text and the appendix. Phrases like "As discussed in Appendix A" guide readers to supporting material.
Crafting the perfect appendix section of a research paper involves meticulous attention to detail and adherence to formatting and referencing guidelines. As an integral part of your dissertation, the appendix contributes significantly to the transparency, credibility, and overall professionalism of your research. By following the comprehensive guidelines provided in this guide, you can ensure that your appendix not only complements your main text but also serves as a valuable resource for readers seeking additional insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do i write in a research paper appendix, why is an appendix important for a dissertation, where is the appendix placed in the research paper, is writing a research paper appendix difficult, what are the basic guidelines for writing an appendix.
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How to Write an Appendix: Step-by-Step Guide & Examples
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While composing your work, you may stumble upon a question on how to write an appendix.
An appendix is a supplemental section of a research paper that provides additional information, data, or materials to support the main content. The appendix is usually placed at the end of the document and is numbered with letters or numbers, such as "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc. The purpose of an appendix is to provide readers with supplementary details that are not included in the main text but are relevant to the topic.
Once you decide on writing appendices, you should collect additional information and format your text as required. Here, we will talk about how you can work with appendices. We will also show some nuances of their preparation process using a real example. Is the deadline around the corner? Consider using professional research paper help from expert scholars.
What Is an Appendix: Definition
Experienced researchers know what an appendix in a paper is. But aspiring authors often have problems with this section of the work. First of all, you should understand that appendices are an additional section of a dissertation or any other scientific paper that includes additional information. Main points are not placed in an appendix meanwhile at the end of your work it can expand on some context or clarify author’s position on a particular issue. Also, an appendix is often placed after the citation page of a work. It is indicated with the help of references in a main text.
What Is the Purpose of an Appendix
Quite often, authors don’t understand the purpose of an appendix. This usually looks like a table and is not included in a main text. Remember that content of your dissertation should be concise and clear. It is also undesirable if you deviate from your theme so as not to confuse readers. Therefore, you can provide a reference, which will lead a reader to an appendix of a thesis. Typically, the purpose of an appendix is to extra information that is usually not included in the text's body. It expresses author's point of view, and provides additional information. It may not address the immediate topic of your dissertation or expand on current research. As a reminder, your work should be clear even without studying an appendix. So make sure you don't put important details there.
What Can You Include in an Appendix
An appendix in a paper is a supplement to a main text, not a replacement. You can put different elements there. It is better if you separate appendices, highlighting one element in each of them. Don’t forget about separate references in your text. Otherwise it will be difficult for a reader to understand your information better. Thus, the following information can be added:
- diagrams with illustrative figures;
- abbreviations ;
- interviews;
- statistics, and much more.
There are no restrictions on content added to your dissertation's appendices. Theoretically, you can attach absolutely any information that is relevant to your topic. Thus, possibilities for evidence base are almost unlimited. All you need to do is add tables or any other information.
How to Write an Appendix: Full Guide
If you already have experience working on dissertations and other scientific texts, you will not wonder how to make an appendix. However, it is still important that you get some advice on how to properly structure an appendices section. This will help add information that may be redundant in the main part of your paper. We offer 4 simple steps to create an informative and readable appendix block.
Step 1. Make an Appendix: Include Your Data
When creating an appendix, include extra data in their raw form. That is, you might not have used some details in your main paper. But you want a reader to know more information. For example, it can be calculations, some results of which are mentioned in your main text. Or maybe, you can add some statistics that clearly demonstrate your research paper conclusion . You can also include facts from other scientific sources that support your position. One thing is important — information should complement your text but not contradict it.
Step 2. Include Visual Supporting Documents in an Appendix
When you are writing an appendix, you can’t avoid visual additions that clearly demonstrate an information and save an author from lengthy descriptions in the text. Should you need to support your conclusions drawn in the scientific text, these can be used:
Don’t forget: you should quote and indicate the authorship of graphics used in your work. If you took it from any third-party sources, of course. Thus, a reader will be able to find additional data that explains the content of your text. It is good if you personally put results of your research in a graphic form. To do this, you can use Office programs, graphic editors and other programs available to PC users.
Step 3. Describe the Instruments of Your Research in Your Appendices
It is good if your appendix in the research paper has a section for indicating tools that were used during the preparation of your dissertation writing . This way, your reader will understand how you collected information and do it themselves. For example, it could be a dictaphone or tape recorder on which an interview with your expert was recorded. Or you might have used a video camera for recording facts and interviews. In such case, it is advisable to indicate these instruments in your appendix. Specialized equipment for measuring, calculating and making graphics should also be added at the beginning of the appendix. This way, you will demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Research units don’t require extra tools, so make sure they are listed. You can do it even in a short format.
Step 4. Include an Interview and Transcripts in an Appendix
When conducting interviews and surveys for collecting information, make an appendix with photocopies of handwritten materials or electronic copies of digital surveys. Their order is not important. The main thing is that your research text contains references. This will allow you to quickly study the sources. You should not only show that the source contains important data but also explain it. So, even additional content, including questions and answers, needs to be listed. But if you originally had a readable format, you don’t need to do this. In addition to interviews, also add screenshots or photos of correspondences used for surveys. For example, you can refer to a significant researcher with whom you exchanged letters. Or maybe you studied subject, together with this researcher, and they gave some comments on a particular issue. Do not know how to write a discussion section of a research paper ? Do not worry, we have the whole article dedicated to this topic.
Formatting an Appendix: Main Rules
Formatting of appendices is required in any case. First of all, provide correct citations. APA, MLA, and Chicago are the most commonly used standards. Although, you should clarify what formatting requirements your institution has. Correct formatting includes:
- Appendix title. Write it at the top of the content page, indicate its title, using letters or numbers for ordering.
- Sorted by mention. Don’t add appendices randomly, it is better to do it in chronological order. That is, as information from it is given in main text.
- Location after bibliography. This is a general requirement that cannot always be met. For example, if your professor wants the appendices to be put before the bibliography, this will have to be done.
- Page numbers. All dissertation pages should be numbered, even if they are blank. This will make the appendix block the part of main text.
Also, review your appendix before approval. Make sure that its content is clear, error-free, and correctly quoted.
Appendix Example
To do the job successfully, it is recommended to have an example of an appendix at hand. Without it, there are usually problems with a choice of font and mentions that appear in main text. We will show you what the appendix itself looks like at the end of the dissertation using a short interview as an example.
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How to Make an Appendix: Final Thoughts
Thus, we talked about how to write an appendix. It allows you to include additional details, while avoiding writing them in the body of your text. To do this, one can use graphics, transcriptions of conversations, tables and statistics — anything that complements your research. Be sure to clarify formatting requirements of your university. Arrange appendices in an order in which they appear in your text. Try to use your own materials and not take other people's work. In case of unique findings, they can be used in your work.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Appendix Writing
1. how do you add an appendix to an essay.
The inclusion of appendix to an essay is the same as to any other paper. You need to provide references in your text of an essay itself, as well as submit attachments after a bibliography. Don't forget to specify name of an appendix for easy navigation.
2. Do I add references to the appendix?
Yes, this is not only recommended but must be done. In this case the appendix will allow your reader to check the reliability of sources you used. Moreover, if you took any information from third-party sources, this protect you from plagiarism charges.
4. How do you create an appendix in Word?
It is not difficult to prepare an appendix in Word, because this Office program contains all the necessary tools. To get started, choose the same font, font size and indentation that were used in the main text, so as not to visually break away from it. We also recommend that you apply title formatting with built-in Word tools. Place the appendix titles at the top in the center of a page. In this case it will be much easier to navigate the paper.
3. What is an appendix in a report example?
You can include a wide range of information into an appendix in a report. It is better to opt for descriptive formats, though. For example, it can be graphical or mathematical research results, statistics of a certain phenomenon, and questionnaires filled in by other people.
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Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes
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Appendices: When appendices might be necessary
Appendices allow you to include detailed information in your paper that would be distracting in the main body of the paper. Examples of items you might have in an appendix include mathematical proofs, lists of words, the questionnaire used in the research, a detailed description of an apparatus used in the research, etc.
Format of appendices
Your paper may have more than one appendix. Usually, each distinct item has its own appendix. If your paper only has one appendix, label it "Appendix" (without quotes.) If there is more than one appendix, label them "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc. (without quotes) in the order that each item appears in the paper. In the main text, you should refer to the Appendices by their labels.
The actual format of the appendix will vary depending on the content; therefore, there is no single format. In general, the content of an appendix should conform to the appropriate APA style rules for formatting text.
Footnotes and Endnotes: When footnotes/endnotes might be necessary
Because APA style uses parenthetical citations, you do not need to use footnotes or endnotes to cite your sources. The only reasons you need to use footnotes are for explanatory (content) notes or copyright permission. Content footnotes contain information that supplements the text, but would be distracting or inappropriate to include in the body of the paper. In other words, content footnotes provide important information that is a tangent to what you are discussing in your paper.
The footnote should only express one idea. If it is longer than a few sentences, then you should consider putting this information in an appendix. Most authors do not use footnotes because they tend to be distracting to the readers. If the information is important, authors find a way to incorporate it into the text itself or put it in an appendix.
If you are including a quote that is longer than 500 words or a table or figure in your paper that was originally published elsewhere, then you need to include a footnote that acknowledges that you have permission from the owner of the copyright to use the material.
See our APA guidelines on Footnotes and Endnotes for more information.
When to use tables
Tables enable you to show your data in an easy to read format. However, you do not need to present all of your data in tabular form. Tables are only necessary for large amounts of data that would be too complicated in the text. If you only need to present a few numbers, you should do so directly in the text, not in a table.
How to use tables
Each table should be identified by a number, in the order that they appear in the text (e.g., Table 1, Table 2, etc.). When using a table, you need to refer to the table in the text (e.g., "As shown in Table 1,…") and point out to the reader what they should be looking for in the table. Do not discuss every piece of data that is in the table or else there is no point in having the table. Only mention the most important pieces of information from the table.
The table should also make sense on its own. Be sure to explain all abbreviations except standard abbreviations such as M, SD, and df. Don’t forget to identify the unit of measurement.
APA style has a specific format for tables. Tables should appear at the end of your paper, after the reference list and before any appendixes. Every table needs a unique title after its label. The title should be brief but clearly explain what is in the table.
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Organizing Academic Research Papers: Appendices
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- Design Flaws to Avoid
- Glossary of Research Terms
- Narrowing a Topic Idea
- Broadening a Topic Idea
- Extending the Timeliness of a Topic Idea
- Academic Writing Style
- Choosing a Title
- Making an Outline
- Paragraph Development
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- Background Information
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- Secondary Sources
- Tertiary Sources
- What Is Scholarly vs. Popular?
- Qualitative Methods
- Quantitative Methods
- Using Non-Textual Elements
- Limitations of the Study
- Common Grammar Mistakes
- Avoiding Plagiarism
- Footnotes or Endnotes?
- Further Readings
- Annotated Bibliography
- Dealing with Nervousness
- Using Visual Aids
- Grading Someone Else's Paper
- How to Manage Group Projects
- Multiple Book Review Essay
- Reviewing Collected Essays
- About Informed Consent
- Writing Field Notes
- Writing a Policy Memo
- Writing a Research Proposal
- Acknowledgements
An appendix contains supplementary material that is not an essential part of the text itself but which may be helpful in providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem and/or is information which is too cumbersome to be included in the body of the paper. A separate appendix should be used for each distinct topic or set of data and always have a title descriptive of its contents .
Importance of...
Your research paper must be complete without the appendices, and it must contain all information including tables, diagrams, and results necessary to address the research problem. The key point to remember when you are writing an appendix is that the information is non-essential; if it were removed, the paper would still be understandable.
It is appropriate to include appendices...
- When the incorporation of material in the body of the work would make it poorly structured or it would be too long and detailed and
- To ensure inclusion of helpful, supporting, or essential material that would otherwise clutter or break up the narrative flow of the paper, or it would be distracting to the reader.
Structure and Writing Style
I. General Points to Consider
When considering whether to include content in an appendix, keep in mind the following points:
- It is usually good practice to include your raw data in an appendix, laying it out in a clear format so the reader can re-check your results. Another option if you have a large amount of raw data is to consider placing it online and note this as the appendix to your research paper.
- Any tables and figures included in the appendix should be numbered as a separate sequence from the main paper . Remember that appendices contain non-essential information that, if removed, would not diminish a reader's understanding of the overall research problem being investigated. This is why non-textual elements should not carry over the sequential numbering of elements in the paper.
- If you have more than three appendices, consider listing them on a separate page at the beginning of your paper . This will help the reader know before reading the paper what information is included in the appendices [always list the appendix or appendices in a table of contents].
- The appendix can be a good place to put maps, photographs, diagrams, and other non-textual elements , if you feel that it will help the reader to understand the content of your paper, but remembering that the paper should be understandable without them.
- An appendix should be streamlined and not loaded with a lot information . If you have a very long and complex appendix, it is a good idea to break it down into separate appendices, allowing the reader to find relevant information quickly.
II. Contents
Appendices may include some of the following, all of which should be referred to or summarized in the text of your paper:
- Supporting evidence [e.g. raw data]
- Contributory facts or specialized data [raw data appear in the appendix, but with summarized data appearing in the body of the text].
- Sample calculations
- Technical figures, graphs, tables, statistics
- Detailed description of research instruments
- Maps, charts, photographs, drawings
- Letters, emails, and other copies of correspondance
- Questionnaire/survey instruments, with the results appearing in the text
- Complete transcripts of interviews
- Complete field notes from observations
- Specification or data sheets
NOTE: Do not include vague or irrelevant information in an appendix; this additional information will not help the reader’s overall understanding and interpretation of your research and may only succeed in distracting the reader from understanding your research study.
III. Format
Here are some general guideline on how to format appendices, but consult the writing style guide [e.g., APA] your professor wants you to use for the class, if needed:
- Appendices may precede or follow your list of references.
- Each appendix begins on a new page.
- The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper.
- The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold.
- Appendices must be listed in the table of contents [if used].
- The page number(s) of the appendix/appendices will continue on with the numbering from the last page of the text.
Appendices . The Structure, Format, Content, and Style of a Journal-Style Scientific Paper. Department of Biology. Bates College; Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Lunsford, Andrea A. and Robert Connors. The St. Martin's Handbook. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1989.
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If you are adding an appendix to your paper there are a few rules to follow that comply with APA guidelines:
- The Appendix appears after the References list
- If you have more than one appendix you would name the first appendix Appendix A, the second Appendix B, etc.
- The appendices should appear in the order that the information is mentioned in your essay
- Each appendix begins on a new page
- APA Sample Paper - with Appendix (Purdue OWL example)
Quick Rules for an APA Reference List
Your research paper ends with a list of all the sources cited in the text of the paper. Here are nine quick rules for this Reference list.
- Start a new page for your Reference list. Centre the title, References, at the top of the page.
- Double-space the list.
- Start the first line of each reference at the left margin; indent each subsequent line five spaces (a hanging indent).
- Put your list in alphabetical order. Alphabetize the list by the first word in the reference. In most cases, the first word will be the author’s last name. Where the author is unknown, alphabetize by the first word in the title, ignoring the words a, an, the.
- For each author, give the last name followed by a comma and the first (and middle, if listed) initials followed by periods.
- Italicize the titles of works: books, audiovisual material, internet documents and newspapers, and the title and volume number of journals and magazines.
- Do not italicize titles of parts of works, such as: articles from newspapers, magazines, or journals / essays, poems, short stories or chapter titles from a book / chapters or sections of an Internet document.
- In titles of non-periodicals (books, videotapes, websites, reports, poems, essays, chapters, etc), capitalize only the first letter of the first word of a title and subtitle, and all proper nouns (names of people, places, organizations, nationalities).
- If more than one place of publication is listed give the publisher's home office. If the home office is not given or known then choose the first location listed.
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How to Write an Appendix
Last Updated: October 4, 2023
This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been viewed 1,740,591 times.
Like the appendix in a human body, an appendix contains information that is supplementary and not strictly necessary to the main body of the writing. An appendix may include a reference section for the reader, a summary of the raw data or extra details on the method behind the work. You may be required to write an appendix for school or you may decide to write an appendix for a personal project you are working on. You should start by collecting content for the appendix and by formatting the appendix properly. You should then polish the appendix so it is accessible, useful, and engaging for your reader.
Collecting Content for the Appendix
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 1 Include raw data.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c8/Write-an-Appendix-Step-1-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-1-Version-3.jpg)
- Raw data may include sample calculations that you refer to in the body of the paper as well as specialized data that expands on data or information you discuss in the paper. Raw statistical data can also be included in the appendix.
- You may also include contributory facts from other sources that will help to support your findings in the paper. Make sure you properly cite any information you are pulling from other sources.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 2 Put in supporting...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1c/Write-an-Appendix-Step-2-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-2-Version-3.jpg)
- You may include graphs or charts you have created yourself or graphs or charts from another source. Make sure you properly cite any visuals that are not your own in the appendix.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 3 Note your research instruments in the appendix.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a2/Write-an-Appendix-Step-3-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-3-Version-3.jpg)
- For example, you may note in the appendix: “All interviews and surveys were conducted in person in a private setting and were recorded with a tape recorder.”
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 4 Add in interview...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/72/Write-an-Appendix-Step-4-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-4-Version-3.jpg)
- You should also include any correspondences you had with subjects in your research, such as copies of emails, letters, or notes written to or from your research subjects.
Formatting the Appendix
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 1 Title the appendix.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/97/Write-an-Appendix-Step-5-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-5-Version-3.jpg)
- If you have more than one appendix, order them by letter or number and be consistent about the ordering. For example, if you are using letters, make sure the appendices are titled “Appendix A,” “Appendix B,” etc. If you are using numbers, make sure the appendices are titled “Appendix 1,” “Appendix 2,” etc.
- If you have more than one appendix, make sure each appendix begins on a new page. This will ensure the reader is not confused as to where one appendix ends and another begins.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 2 Order the content in the appendix.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/59/Write-an-Appendix-Step-6-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-6-Version-3.jpg)
- For example, if raw data is mentioned in the first line of your paper, place that raw data first in your appendix. Or if you mention interview questions at the very end of your paper, make sure the interview questions appear as the last point in your appendix.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 3 Place the appendix after your reference list.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Write-an-Appendix-Step-7-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-7-Version-3.jpg)
- You should also make sure you list the appendix in your table of contents for the paper, if you have one. You can list it based on title, for example, “Appendix”, or “Appendix A” if you have more than one appendix.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 4 Add page numbers.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Write-an-Appendix-Step-8-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-8-Version-3.jpg)
- For example, if the text ends on page 17, continue numbering from page 17 when you put in the page numbers for the appendix.
Polishing the Appendix
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 1 Revise the appendix for clarity and cohesion.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6c/Write-an-Appendix-Step-9-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-9-Version-3.jpg)
- You may find it helpful to have someone else read through the appendix, such as a peer or a mentor. Ask them if they feel all the included information is relevant to the paper and remove any information they deem unnecessary.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 2 Check for spelling or grammar errors.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0c/Write-an-Appendix-Step-10-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-10-Version-3.jpg)
- Read through the appendix backwards so you can make sure there are no spelling errors. You want the appendix to appear as professional as possible.
![how to add an appendix to a research paper Step 3 Refer to the appendix in the text of the paper.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7a/Write-an-Appendix-Step-11-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Write-an-Appendix-Step-11-Version-3.jpg)
- For example, you may note an appendix in the text with: “My research produced the same results in both cases (see Appendix for raw data)” or “I feel my research was conclusive (see Appendix A for interview notes).”
Sample Appendices
![how to add an appendix to a research paper how to add an appendix to a research paper](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1f/Appendix-for-Essay.png/340px-Appendix-for-Essay.png)
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- ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/appendices
- ↑ http://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/appendices
- ↑ https://askus.library.wwu.edu/faq/116707
About This Article
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The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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To write an appendix, start by writing “Appendix” at the top of the document, using the same font you used for your chapter headings. Then, order the contents, such as graphs, surveys, or interview transcripts, based on the order in which they appear in your paper. Next, number the pages so they follow sequentially, coming after your paper and your reference list or list of sources. Finally, make sure to check for spelling and grammar errors, so everything will look polished and professional. For more tips from our English co-author, including how to refer to the appendix in your paper, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No
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What Is an Appendix In Research and How You Create the One?
![how to add an appendix to a research paper image](https://papersowl.com/wp-content/uploads/thumb/91/b66a31c7e6a0091_40x40.png)
Table of contents
- 1 What Is Appendix in Research Papers, Reports, and Proposals?
- 2 What Detailed Information Should Refer to in the Appendix Section?
- 3 How to Write an Appendix?
- 4 Format an Appendix: Detailed Explanation
- 5.1 Citing Sources in Your Appendix
- 5.2 Common Mistakes You Better Avoid When Writing an Appendix
- 5.3 Conclusion
The appendix is an important part of the academic writing research process since it provides additional material for research papers, reports, and proposals. Thus, this critical component enhances understanding of your work without cluttering the essential material.
Today, the writing service PapersOwl wants to explore the nuances of appendix writing so that your reader enjoys some detailed information at the end of your paper. We will cover:
- Why should you include an appendix to your research paper?
- What and How: The Essential Structure;
- How to format and where to place it:
- The significance of properly citing your sources (appendix in APA or MLA) and keeping your text consistent throughout.
Let’s not wait and get into the details of how to make an appendix effective right away.
What Is Appendix in Research Papers, Reports, and Proposals?
The first question you may ask is: What is an appendix in writing, and why might your reader need it?
Shortly, it serves as supplementary material in any type of academic writing, including an appendix in research, a report, or a proposal . Accordingly, it provides in-depth details to support the main content, enhancing understanding without cluttering the main text.
Basically, appendices provide a complete picture for the audience interested in further in-depth investigation while keeping the main text’s flow and readability.
What Detailed Information Should Refer to in the Appendix Section?
Looking at the appendix in paper definition, one can swiftly understand its importance. Therefore, you should think about the data you would like to include in your appendix for research paper or appendix in report to make it 10/10.
Appropriate appendix in literature content include:
- Raw data sets used for analysis;
- Detailed descriptions of research methodologies and data collection methods;
- Supplementary figures or charts that provide further context;
- Lengthy quotations or excerpts;
- Additional analyses or calculations that support the conclusions.
Moreover, resources such as questionnaires, transcripts of interviews, survey findings, or any other supplementary materials mentioned but not thoroughly covered in the main body of the work can be included in successful appendices example in research paper.
How to Write an Appendix?
Now, we understand what to include in your future work, but how does one write an appendix in a research paper to achieve the best outcome?
Follow a structured approach to ensure clarity and coherence. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to create an appendix you should refer to:
- Determine Supplementary Material. The first step is to decide which materials need to be added, as we did before. This might be any comprehensive material supporting your work’s primary points:
- Long tables.
- Extensive methodology.
- Supplemental figures.
- Interview transcripts.
- Other research explanations.
- Organize Your Content. Organize the contents into a logical appendix section. Create separate appendices if you have many elements, such as distinct data sets or analyses. It prevents overloading any of your readers. It is also vital to consider the type of paper you are writing. Dissertation parts may be considerably longer than research appendices, and the word count may change.
- Label and Title Each Appendix. Clearly label and title each appendix sample to make navigating your appendix section easy for the reader.
- Reference Appendices in the Main Part. Throughout the main body of your appendix section of research paper, reference relevant appendices to direct your reader to supplementary information.
This step-by-step plan will help you produce an appendix in scientific paper that will both give readers access to material supporting your conclusions and improve the overall clarity of your research paper , report, or proposal.
Format an Appendix: Detailed Explanation
There is also one more vital step in the research process ─ formatting .
Indeed, you ensure crucial consistency and readability when you structure an appendix. Guidelines for formatting often depend on the style manual format you follow, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. Generally, appendices in research paper should follow the same formatting rules as the rest of your document. It includes font style and size, margins, and spacing.
Additionally, remember to use precise phrasing. It points readers to the appropriate appendices in research paper. Specific types of appended materials must include:
- Tables, Graphs, and Figures.
- Questionnaires or Surveys.
Any other material included in the appendix in article should be clearly labeled and organized for easy reference.
PapersOwl team promises that adhering to these formatting recommendations will ensure that your research paper appendix:
- Is neatly structured and aesthetically pleasing.
- Improves the overall quality of your work.
Where to Add an Appendix to a Research Paper?
“ Okay, but where should I set up an appendix in my research? ”. PapersOwls hears this question almost every day, but no worries, we found an answer long ago!
The appendix at the end of a paper is the most typical placement on a separate page after your research paper’s reference list or bibliography. Accordingly, this placement ensures that readers can easily access additional material without interrupting the flow of the main text. If you have more than one appendix, you should distinguish them. Use:
→ a multiple pages numbering system (e.g., Appendix 1, Appendix 2);
→ a lettering system (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B).
Citing Sources in Your Appendix
Citing is one of the most important aspects of research and any academic work. Apparently, you should include citations in your research paper appendix!
Therefore, cite credible sources using the same citation style used in the main body of the paper (e.g., APA style, MLA). What is the easiest way to help readers easily locate and verify the sources used in the text citations? Maintain the same citation style as in the main text, whether it is a research proposal appendix or an appendix in a report!
Common Mistakes You Better Avoid When Writing an Appendix
Obviously, we understand that nothing can be perfect, and you are allowed to make mistakes while studying. Nevertheless, we recommend analyzing common errors in writing appendix pieces to avoid doing them! Don’t worry; we did it for you so you could correct everything before submitting your work!
- Overloading With Irrelevant Information. Unneeded material that does not complement the document’s core substance might overwhelm readers.
- Poor Organization. Failing to organize the appendix in a paper can confuse readers. Ensure that materials are grouped and labeled clearly.
- Inconsistent Formatting. Deviating from the formatting guidelines used in the main text can create inconsistency. To avoid this, organize an appendix uniformly in font style, size, margins, and citations.
- Lack of Clarity. Presenting supplementary information in a confusing or unclear manner can hinder understanding. For this reason, be concise and ensure that each item in the appendix of research paper serves a clear purpose.
In a nutshell, the art of an appendix in writing is necessary for creating detailed and organized papers. PapersOwl gave you this small guide so you could:
- Quickly identify relevant extra information.
- Organize content logically.
- Maintain formatting and consistent in-text citations.
In fact, a well-written appendix page improves the primary text’s clarity and adds to the research’s overall credibility. Thus, the appendix for a paper is an important tool for scholars who want to give clear, comprehensive documentation of their work. It may also be proof of your hard work.
With the PapersOwl’s guide, your research paper appendix example will promote deeper comprehension of the study issue!
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General Research Paper Guidelines: Appendices
If you have some information you would like to include in your research but it could potentially be distracting to readers or inappropriate within the body of your research paper, you can always include supplemental information as an appendix to your work. An appendix or appendices should always be inserted after your Reference List; however, the appropriateness of appendix content really depends on the nature and scope of your research paper.
For a more in-depth review of what supplemental materials might be included in a social science appendix, be sure to review Section 2.14 “Appendices” (pp. 41-42) of your 7 th edition APA manual.
Appendices Formatting
APA 7 addresses appendices and supplemental materials in Section 2.14 and on page 41:
- The appendices follow the reference list.
- They are lettered "Appendix A," "Appendix B," "Appendix C," and so forth. If you have only one appendix, however, simply label it Appendix.
- Put figures and tables in separate appendices. The appendix title serves as the title for a table if it is the only table in the appendix.
- If you decide that certain figures and tables should appear in the same appendix, number them A1, A2, A3, and so forth, according to the appendix in which they appear.
- The materials in the appendix must not extend beyond the margins of the rest of the paper: Reduce the appendix materials as needed.
As a general guide, appendices are appropriate for any material that, if presented in the main body of the document, would unnecessarily interrupt the flow of the writing. Note that it is unlikely that you will use appendices in Walden course papers. For doctoral capstone studies, you might include some appendices with supplementary information.
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Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Appendices
- Purpose of Guide
- Writing a Research Proposal
- Design Flaws to Avoid
- Independent and Dependent Variables
- Narrowing a Topic Idea
- Broadening a Topic Idea
- The Research Problem/Question
- Academic Writing Style
- Choosing a Title
- Making an Outline
- Paragraph Development
- The C.A.R.S. Model
- Background Information
- Theoretical Framework
- Citation Tracking
- Evaluating Sources
- Reading Research Effectively
- Primary Sources
- Secondary Sources
- What Is Scholarly vs. Popular?
- Is it Peer-Reviewed?
- Qualitative Methods
- Quantitative Methods
- Common Grammar Mistakes
- Writing Concisely
- Avoiding Plagiarism [linked guide]
- Annotated Bibliography
- Grading Someone Else's Paper
An appendix contains supplementary material that is not an essential part of the text itself but which may be helpful in providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research problem or it is information that is too cumbersome to be included in the body of the paper. A separate appendix should be used for each distinct topic or set of data and always have a title descriptive of its contents.
Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
Importance of...
Appendices are always supplementary to the research paper. As such, your study must be able to stand alone without the appendices, and the paper must contain all information including tables, diagrams, and results necessary to understand the research problem. The key point to remember when including an appendix is that the information is non-essential; if it were removed, the reader would still be able to comprehend the significance, validity , and implications of your research.
It is appropriate to include appendices for the following reasons:
- Including this material in the body of the paper that would render it poorly structured or interrupt the narrative flow;
- Information is too lengthy and detailed to be easily summarized in the body of the paper;
- Inclusion of helpful, supporting, or useful material would otherwise distract the reader from the main content of the paper;
- Provides relevant information or data that is more easily understood or analyzed in a self-contained section of the paper;
- Can be used when there are constraints placed on the length of your paper; and,
- Provides a place to further demonstrate your understanding of the research problem by giving additional details about a new or innovative method, technical details, or design protocols.
Appendices . Academic Skills Office, University of New England; Chapter 12, "Use of Appendices." In Guide to Effective Grant Writing: How to Write a Successful NIH Grant . Otto O. Yang. (New York: Kluwer Academic, 2005), pp. 55-57; Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.
Structure and Writing Style
I. General Points to Consider
When considering whether to include content in an appendix, keep in mind the following:
- It is usually good practice to include your raw data in an appendix, laying it out in a clear format so the reader can re-check your results. Another option if you have a large amount of raw data is to consider placing it online and note that this is the appendix to your research paper.
- Any tables and figures included in the appendix should be numbered as a separate sequence from the main paper . Remember that appendices contain non-essential information that, if removed, would not diminish a reader's ability to understand the research problem being investigated. This is why non-textual elements should not carry over the sequential numbering of non-textual elements in the body of your paper.
- If you have more than three appendices, consider listing them on a separate page at the beginning of your paper . This will help the reader know what information is included in the appendices [always list the appendix or appendices in a table of contents].
- The appendix can be a good place to put maps, photographs, diagrams, and other images , if you feel that it will help the reader to understand the content of your paper, while keeping in mind the study should be understood without them.
- An appendix should be streamlined and not loaded with a lot information . If you have a very long and complex appendix, it is a good idea to break it down into separate appendices, allowing the reader to find relevant information quickly as the information is covered in the body of the paper.
II. Content
Never include an appendix that isn’t referred to in the text . All appendices should be summarized in your paper where it is relevant to the content. Appendices should also be arranged sequentially by the order they were first referenced in the text [i.e., Appendix 1 should not refer to text on page eight of your paper and Appendix 2 relate to text on page six].
There are very few rules regarding what type of material can be included in an appendix, but here are some common examples:
- Correspondence -- if your research included collaborations with others or outreach to others, then correspondence in the form of letters, memorandums, or copies of emails from those you interacted with could be included.
- Interview Transcripts -- in qualitative research, interviewing respondents is often used to gather information. The full transcript from an interview is important so the reader can read the entire dialog between researcher and respondent. The interview protocol [list of questions] should also be included.
- Non-textual elements -- as noted above, if there are a lot of non-textual items, such as, figures, tables, maps, charts, photographs, drawings, or graphs, think about highlighting examples in the text of the paper but include the remainder in an appendix.
- Questionnaires or surveys -- this is a common form of data gathering. Always include the survey instrument or questionnaires in an appendix so the reader understands not only the questions asked but the sequence in which they were asked. Include all variations of the instruments as well if different items were sent to different groups [e.g., those given to teachers and those given to administrators] .
- Raw statistical data – this can include any numerical data that is too lengthy to include in charts or tables in its entirety within the text. This is important because the entire source of data should be included even if you are referring to only certain parts of a chart or table in the text of your paper.
- Research instruments -- if you used a camera, or a recorder, or some other device to gather information and it is important for the reader to understand how, when, and/or where that device was used.
- Sample calculations – this can include quantitative research formulas or detailed descriptions of how calculations were used to determine relationships and significance.
NOTE: Appendices should not be a dumping ground for information. Do not include vague or irrelevant information in an appendix; this additional information will not help the reader’s overall understanding and interpretation of your research and may only distract the reader from understanding the significance of your overall study.
ANOTHER NOTE : Appendices are intended to provide supplementary information that you have gathered or created; it is not intended to replicate or provide a copy of the work of others. For example, if you need to contrast the techniques of analysis used by other authors with your own method of analysis, summarize that information, and cite to the original work. In this case, a citation to the original work is sufficient enough to lead the reader to where you got the information. You do not need to provide a copy of this in an appendix.
III. Format
Here are some general guideline on how to format appendices . If needed, consult the writing style guide [e.g., APA, MLS, Chicago] your professor wants you to use for more detail:
- Appendices may precede or follow your list of references.
- Each appendix begins on a new page.
- The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper.
- The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold type.
- If there is a table of contents, the appendices must be listed.
- The page number(s) of the appendix/appendices will continue on with the numbering from the last page of the text.
Appendices . The Structure, Format, Content, and Style of a Journal-Style Scientific Paper. Department of Biology. Bates College; Appendices . Academic Skills Office, University of New England; Appendices . Writing Center, Walden University; Chapter 12, "Use of Appendices." In Guide to Effective Grant Writing: How to Write a Successful NIH Grant . Otto O. Yang. (New York: Kluwer Academic, 2005), pp. 55-57 ; Tables, Appendices, Footnotes and Endnotes . The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Lunsford, Andrea A. and Robert Connors. The St. Martin's Handbook . New York: St. Martin's Press, 1989; What To Know About The Purpose And Format Of A Research Paper Appendix . LoyolaCollegeCulion.com.
Writing Tip
Consider Putting Your Appendices Online
Appendices are useful because they provide the reader with information that supports your study without breaking up the narrative or distracting from the main purpose of your paper. If you have a lot of raw data or information that is difficult to present in textual form, consider uploading it to an online site. This prevents your paper from having a large and unwieldy set of appendices and it supports a growing movement within academe to make data more freely available for re-analysis. If you do create an online portal to your data, note it prominently in your paper with the correct URL and access procedures if it is a secured site.
Piwowar, Heather A., Roger S. Day, and Douglas B. Fridsma. “Sharing Detailed Research Data Is Associated with Increased Citation Rate.” PloS ONE (March 21, 2007); Wicherts, Jelte M., Marjan Bakker, and Dylan Molenaar. “Willingness to Share Research Data Is Related to the Strength of the Evidence and the Quality of Reporting of Statistical Results.” PLoS ONE (November 2, 2011).
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- Last Updated: Sep 8, 2023 12:19 PM
- URL: https://guides.library.txstate.edu/socialscienceresearch
How to Write an Appendix for a Research Paper: Step-by-Step Guide
When you think of what is an appendix in a research paper and how to write an appendix, be sure you add appropriate information to it. Remember that the body of the paper contains all the essential data while writing an appendix for a research paper provides supplementary information. I.e., the paper’s text is self-sufficing and easily understandable when reading your work. Appendices only provide further disclosures, which are attached to make a more comprehensive presentation. Paying for a research paper is a great way to save time and get the best possible results, but be sure to do your research and select a reliable writing service.
What is a Research Paper’s Appendix?
Let’s start with defining what is appendix in research paper. It is a part of your article which is attached to its main body, often in the form of a separate document. The showings contained in it may be of two types. It is either the content complementing the review, which contains supplementary material that is not an essential part of the text itself. Or it may include links to raw data , tables, examples or pictures which are of special importance for the readers or inappropriate within the body.
The creation of an appendix for a research paper is not a hard job though it demands special knowledge on what to include and how to structure it. Often, it’s easier to address a custom essay writing company and be sure you’ll obtain perfect work written by professionals on time. In this case, all the needed appendices will be attached, so you don’t have to worry about that. But if you want to learn how to create an appendix for a research paper yourself, follow our advice. Perhaps you’ll be the one who performs the best appendices ever!
How Should You Write Your Research Paper’s Appendix?
In general, before starting an appendix, define the research problem/question theoretical framework. The next steps are as follows:
Collect the info
Define what is better to be taken out of the essential part. Think about how it’s better to include it in your appendices and prepare a draft.
Format your appendix
It shall sound and look to the point. Define how the appendix shall look in the formatting pattern you use (e.g., APA style ) and execute it accordingly.
Refine the appendices
Check grammar, sources, tables, and page sequence. You may search the Internet to find examples of professionally executed appendices. The other way is to order professional services at an online research paper writing service and have it altogether done. Both the work and the appendices to it will be executed on time and following all the requirements. If you’re working on academic work with attachments for the first time, this option may be your life jacket and an example for later.
What to Include in The Research Paper’s Appendix?
When estimating how to make an appendix for a research paper, we inevitably come to the question of what information is included in the appendices typically. The background information items comprise calculations, interview transcripts, mathematical proofs for qualitative methods, a reference list, and relevant technical info. It may be in the form of figures, maps, tables, photographs, external links, drawings, charts, graphs, questionnaires, descriptions, etc.
The additional information provided in the appendices may be an illustration of the content or proof of the conclusion. In the case of the latter, check with the professionals on how to conclude research paper . You’ll get tips on how to sound academic and will easily form an appendix that reflects your concluding part. It may contain raw data, links, referred interviews, or detailed study results confirming your findings.
Writing Style and Structure Of The Appendix
We’ve come up with the question of how to set up an appendix in a research paper. The common thing to consider while choosing the info for the appendix is that the academic writing style should be preserved. Your appendices shall be in concise and scientific-looking form to achieve the trustworthiness of your work. This relates not only to general raw info but also to interview transcripts, public discussion results, and copies of private letters, as well as summarised evaluation results.
To do this smoothly, you should take care of a good work outline. Follow the experts’ tips on how to write a research paper outline effectively, and you’ll have examples of narration and terms to be used. The outline will help you arrange your topic idea hierarchy both in the essential part and the appendices. By the way, you may have a lot of separate appendices related to each distinct part in the body of the work.
Appendices may include text, tables, footnotes and other supporting items helpful for the reader. Each of them shall be labeled. The appendices have their own titles too, and each of them is to be mentioned at least once in the text. For a credible work, read about how to write a research paper and get to know how to choose and use powerful sources, authors and figures. The same valuable tips apply to the appendices as well.
Depending on the requirements, appendices may precede or follow your list of references, but remember that each appendix begins on a new page.
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Appendix Writing Checklist
Follow the stages:
- Identify the content related to your research problem but not essential that you wish to show.
- Organize it. Add sample visuals and findings in the form of a table or in other ways, comprehensive for the reader. They should correspond to the topic idea.
- Mention the methods and instruments you used.
- Name the appendix and the items it contains.
- Place the content. It shall look scholarly and clear.
- Revise for clarity and congruence with the research problem.
- Check for errors. Look with the eyes of your professor.
- Number the pages.
- Attach the appendices.
- Specify them in the table of contents.
Plagiarism Prevention
The complexity of creating an academic work is that you should keep it concise, accurate, and not lyrical or vague. On the other hand, you cannot just copy the thoughts expressed by experts.
To avoid plagiarism, and specifically in the info included in the appendix, try to render the information you collect from credible sources. Also, try to use as much literature as possible. Develop your own narration fashion, and avoid imitation. When you’re ready, check the work with your free plagiarism checker online. It’s a perfect tool for analyzing many online resources to determine the uniqueness of your work. Ensure all the questionable places in your work are removed. Writing a research paper can be daunting, but there are services that can write your research paper for you to help make the process easier.
Bottom Line
It is appropriate to include appendices in research papers in the following cases:
- Cumbersome info. The text or data you want to include in the body of the paper is too extensive or contains a reference to external files, thus distracting the reader. In this case, it is wise to prepare the appendix for your research paper with all the necessary data.
- Detailed contents. Your data includes helpful, illustrative information which is, however, non-essential or takes too much space. Put in the form of an appendix, allowing the reader to find relevant information quickly
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Use an Appendix or Annex in Your Research Paper?
'Appendix' and 'annex' are commonly confused in research papers. While the use of an appendix is more common, the annex can also be a valuable way of supplementing your research. The appendix and the annex add supporting/supplementary information. Both are posted online and can be referred to by researchers with a particular interest in your study. The differences between them are context and length.
Updated on July 26, 2022
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The terms “appendix” and “annex” are commonly confused in research papers. While the use of an appendix is more common, the annex can also be a valuable way of supplementing your research.
Both the appendix and the annex add supporting/supplementary information (SI), like tables and graphs, datasets, or transcriptions. Both are posted online and can be referred to by researchers with a particular interest in your study (especially if they're open access).
The main differences between these two forms of data supplement are context and length. Appendixes are common and are part of the study; you likely used them in theses and dissertations. Annexes deal with much longer and more detailed sets of information, and they're additional to the study's content. Let's take a deeper look at the differences so you'll never them confused.
What is an appendix?
An appendix is, according to Merriem-Webster, “supplementary material usually attached at the end of a piece of writing.” The word comes from the Latin appendere, which means “cause to hang (from something).” It's included in the paper at the end, usually after the references or bibliography.
Appendixes/Appendices can be seen as materials that supplement rather than complement the research. Read only by those with a specific interest.
Basics of an appendix
The following are generally true of an appendix.
- Included at the end of the manuscript.
- Written by one more of the paper's researchers. Exceptions are items like letters granting ethical clearance for the research or details of the research tools used (see the example later).
- Ties into the research directly; gives greater detail than the main body of the manuscript.
- Not too long. Of course, that's subjective, but generally speaking, it's a page or two rather than dozens of pages, or more.
What to put in an appendix
Some examples of an appendix are:
- Figures and tables
- Photographs
- Raw data (tables, plots, images)
- Questionnaires and interview questions (especially in qualitative research)
- Ethics approvals such as from the IRB
- Correspondences, such as letters or emails
Most research published as a journal article, and particularly as a thesis, will contain appendices rather than annexes.
This paper (PDF link) includes an appendix that details the instruments used in the research. Each test was used in the study, and the author felt the details were important enough to detail in the appendix, too much information to be presented in the main paper.
This chemistry article also presents supplementary data in the appendix. As it's too lengthy to put in print, a downloadable Word file is available. However, it's only data rather than an article or other full and standalone materials, which is likely why it was made into an appendix rather than an annex.
What is an annex?
Merriam-Webster defines an annex as “an added stipulation or statement.” In the context of research, both academic and commercial, annexes are usually separate additions to the research output and are submitted as separate documents.
Annex comes from the French annexer, which means “to join or attach.” Simply put, an annex comes along with (joining or attached to) a research paper. An example might be a UN report relevant to a manuscript, and that will be added as a supporting document, backing up the research findings. Annexes are used for materials that complement the research.
Basics of an annex
- Attached to the research paper as a separate item.
- Often (but not always) produced by someone outside the research team. If, for example, one of the researchers produced a white paper for the government on the research domain and this might complement the research, this could be an annex.
- Can be many pages long.
- Supports or informs the research that has been done; complements it.
- Is not part of the research output presented in the manuscript's body text.
What to put in an annex
Some examples of an annex are...
- Documents mentioned in the manuscript or that may support the manuscript
- News articles
- Lab reports
- Interviews of people mentioned in the manuscript.
- Data from other studies
Almost always, annexes are added to papers that exceed normal journal article lengths. They're supporting materials to lengthy research output, like those often funded by corporate or government funding.
This World Health Organization guidance paper on HIV/AIDS is itself 21 pages long but comes with separate downloadable annexes. The paper details the findings stemming from the research and describes the processes for the trials. On page 5, the paper notes that the annexes are included to give greater details on the clinical trials mentioned in the paper. In this sense, the annexes are for readers who want greater detail.
The paper reviews the trials done in the annex, but because the trials were not part of the research and was done by others, it was added as an annex.
Should you use an appendix or an annex?
Short answer: you should probably use an appendix. That's because they're much more common. Appendices are placed at the end of a document, while annexes are, technically, separate from it. The former is part of the paper, but the latter is not.
Annexes are often long documents, running even to hundreds of pages. Most often, someone an annex's author is someone who's not part of the research team. Appendices, however, are often by a paper's author(s) and are usually not more than a few pages each (though, in the case of datasets, they technically can be quite long).
Annexes are used to verify the research and provide additional, relevant information. They are documents from credible and relevant sources. They offer further insight into the research topic.
Normally, you'll be using appendices, and that's often because of the journal's word count limits. It may be ideal to include tables or charts in-line in the article, but if there's no room, the appendix can provide extra space.
Handling data: A workflow for dealing with data in your SI
Submission and sharing of data are especially key steps in dealing with your SI in appendixes, annexes, and other formats. When you're submitting your article to a journal, there is a common workflow for this:
- Create additional supplementary files (usually as few as possible, a single file is ideal).
- Upload to the journal site or one of the many ‘approved' online data repositories.
- You'll be given a URL to link back to your data files.
- Add this link to the Acknowledgements section of your paper with some text such as “Additional files in support of this article can be found at https://...”
Some commonly used and ostensibly approved online data repositories:
- Harvard Dataverse
- Open Science Framework (OSF)
- Mendeley Data
But don't get carried away!
Supplementary information, including appendixes and annexes, can also be abused. Additional information may be so long/big/dense that it actually may not undergo full peer review even though the rest of the article does.
A study by Pop and Salzberg asserted that journals' word restrictions may cause authors to move key information outside the main manuscript body. In this way, it can avert proper peer review while also being less accessible to the reader. This hinders further investigation because readers have to wade through huge amounts of supplementary documents to find what they're after.
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It also robs authors cited in the supplementary information of the recognition they would receive from citations in the body text.
Nature commendably lays out specifics for SI – check them here .
Final thoughts
If you're unsure of what needs to be in your supplementary information, or if you even need an appendix or annex, as well as the English quality and style, a scientific edit can be a big help. Explore AJE's extensive editing services here .
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How to Include Appendices in Your Research Paper
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November 01, 2023
Did your professor tell you to have a research paper appendix, but you can’t imagine what goes into it? Don’t fret; we’re about to show you! The appendix is a section at the end of the paper with additional information that doesn’t belong in the main text. It shouldn’t have any arguments, quotes, or conclusions. You must use it to support the claims you already made in your essay — appendices help illustrate everything better. Take a look at ten types of content that will fit right in.
Ten Pieces of Information that Belong in Appendices
You finished your research paper and composed a list with references. Now what? That’s right, now it is time for appendices, especially if your essay has a lot of complex information! Look through our list and include relevant options in your work.
- Supplementary Data. Often, students working on a complex paper include a ton of information. There is no place for any additional illustrations, and this is where an appendix could help you. Were you explaining a tricky market situation to your readers? Add a graph to the appendix that helps demonstrate your point better. Were you listing all the numbers to show growth or decline? Create a table that will let your readers see all the data in one concise section. Raw data always has its place there: it could clutter your paper if you included it in the body in its unprocessed form, but it won’t hurt anyone in the appendix. Charts could also come in handy. Imagine comparing three different companies and analyzing their capabilities and limitations. You already explained their similarities and differences with text and numbers. Is adding a chart for a better illustration of these findings necessary? Not at all. But if it could make the picture clearer visually, why not? That’s what supplementary material is for!
- Research Instruments. Most dissertations and other layered research works involve an experiment of a sort. Students present a hypothesis, and then they need to perform a study to either prove or refute it. They rely on various instruments, such as surveys, quizzes, questionnaires, and other mediums. They are vital but don’t have a place in a paper in their full form. Let’s say you have five interview transcripts from questioning five people about their job satisfaction. This interview had ten questions and required ten expanded answers. You cannot possibly copy-paste them all into a body. No, you’ll reference and summarize them, but you won’t show them entirely. You can do it in the appendix, though! Put your raw data in there, and if your audience feels interested, they will look to see just what you asked your interviewees and what they responded with. It creates transparency because there is no place for double meanings left, and it also gives other researchers a chance to use your questions in their work.
- Detailed Methodology. Methodology is a crucial component of every research. You need to decide if it will be quantitative, qualitative, mixed, or experimental. Every student must mention relevant information about their chosen methodology in a paper: they have to say what they plan to do, in what way, and through which methods. But some of them might want to go beyond this. For instance, your experiment might be complex, or you might be so passionate that you want to share everything you did step by step with your readers. It’s not a problem, do it! Create a fitting appendix title and go ahead. That’s the whole point of appendices: they host extra info. Sometimes, students use unique equipment to do their experiments. If this is your case, describe this equipment in detail and put it at the end of the paper in another appendix. Any interested party can go there and take a closer look.
- Code and Algorithms. This point exists mostly for students who study IT or other similar spheres. If your paper deals with endless codes and tricky algorithms, putting them in the body of the paper is not an option. It’ll stretch for eternity, ruin the readability of your text, and your readers will feel bored very quickly. Creating an appendix and shoveling this info in there is a great solution! You could include the entire source code you made for a program, showing how it exists. Multiple readers appreciate the inclusion of raw data like this. If you’re a bit of a nerd, add a detailed algorithm description in the appendix. Some people will ignore it, but others will enjoy studying it. If you’re having trouble with this paper and you keep thinking, “I’d like to pay someone to write my paper because it’s annoying,” ask for professional help. Our experts are one click away from you: we can perfect your academic writing or show you how to deal with appendices. You only need to mention, “I need someone good to write my research paper today.” One word from you, and we’ll get started.
- Participant Consent Forms. This is a point that many students overlook. Sometimes, professors ask to include complete consent forms personally, but in most cases, it’s up to you. You need to realize why this is essential. You had to find people to test your hypothesis and to write your research paper: most likely, they answered some questions for you or gave you a full interview. You need to prove that you got their consent and didn’t mislead them into participating in your research without telling them everything. This is why consent forms are there and why you must use them. Compose them carefully, covering every detail you shared with your living sample, and then paste this info onto a new page. Yeah, it’ll be the appendix. While your general readers might not be interested in it, we guarantee that your professor will take a look. Ethical considerations are everything where human subjects are concerned, and you should prove that you took them into account when working on your research paper.
- Maps, Images, or Photographs. Another reason appendices are common is their ability to host visual illustrations of your research. If adding photos or images is essential, you could include them in the body, but putting them under your appendix title is a much better idea if there are too many of them or their presence is not required. Did you measure the distance between locations to highlight some historical facts? Add a map to the appendix! It’ll be interesting, especially if you customize it, even if it’s not critical. Maybe you were exploring diseases some people have and how they are displayed. Your research paper mentions symptoms, but for particularly curious readers, you could include images that illustrate everything you described visually. Appendices are a perfect place for this. The same principle applies to photographs. You could take them of your subjects, equipment, and other elements involved in your research. Pasting them within the body isn’t important; it’d distract your audience from your main points, but including them in a separate appendix would do the trick.
- 7) Extended Explanations. Let us warn you, this form of material isn’t the best because most of your readers will find it boring or redundant. But it still exists and is common enough to be mentioned in this list. While it is obvious that you must do everything in your power to explain every point of your research in the body of the paper, sometimes it’s not enough. You might need to provide even more explanations, and this is something you can easily do with appendices. Imagine that you came up with a good formula to solve some task. You quickly explain how you did it, providing the basics and avoiding the boring details. But you want to show every aspect of your work — good news! — appendices allow you to do this. Include your complete formula in there. True, not everyone likes raw data like this, but some will appreciate it, and chances are, your professor will be among them. This is called being thorough. You could do the same with any background information. If you’ve been investigating a psychological profile of someone and this person experienced abuse & shared all the details with you, you can briefly disclose them in the text and then provide a complete overview in the appendix.
- Statistical Analysis. Many students shudder at the thought of doing any calculations, but some love it. Whether you fall into the first or the second category, you might need to write research papers like this, and in this case, you won’t be able to avoid appendices. They might become your best friends. If you had to show how you got from point A to point B, writing down all the formulas and analyses isn’t smart. It’ll turn your essay into a number-filled mess, and by the time people reach the end of the calculation, they’ll forget what they were reading in the first place and what this calculation is for. Place raw statistical data at the end of your research in an appendix. It’ll be there for extra thorough readers who are interested in seeing how you arrived at your conclusions, and, in turn, it won’t be cluttering your main text. As it always is with appendices, include crucial info in a body and mark the rest as supplementary material.
- Supporting Documentation. When students do their research, they accumulate some documentation. It might be full of vague or irrelevant information, but it’s still there, and if it can underline some of your points, you should include it. If you had to organize an extensive interview with your participant, you could have ten or even twenty pages. The most important stuff goes into the body of your essay. All the pages can be linked in an appendix: this will give readers a fuller picture of who the participant is and what they think. If you have some other files, like a case study with all observations or a detailed methodology, you could create multiple appendices and situate all the info there. Make as many of them as you need — unless your professor explicitly restricts it, there are no limits.
- Abbreviations and Acronyms. The last important type of content that has its place in appendices is abbreviations and similar elements. You might be working on a journal-style scientific paper with numerous complex concepts and phenomena. You can spell them out in their complete form once, but doing it repeatedly will be distracting and unnecessary. You’ll make your word count huge for no reason, which might result in a penalty. The solution lies in abbreviating and explaining these concepts on a new page in the appendix. Do the same with acronyms. If, at some point, your readers will forget what this or that abbreviation means, they’ll go to an appendix and look it up.
Format Your Appendices Correctly to Impress Your Readers Further
A clear appendix is a sure way to simplify your info for your readers. They’ll enjoy seeing understandable illustrations of the content they’ve just read. Remember that you could use several appendices simultaneously; there is no rule against it. Some of the materials we listed can go in Appendix A, while others will go to Appendix B. Be thorough, ask for help if you’re in trouble, and keep producing awesome research papers.
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Research Paper Appendix | Example & Templates. Published on August 4, 2022 by Tegan George and Kirsten Dingemanse. Revised on July 18, 2023. An appendix is a supplementary document that facilitates your reader's understanding of your research but is not essential to your core argument. Appendices are a useful tool for providing additional information or clarification in a research paper ...
Appendix format example. The appendix label appears at the top of the page, bold and centered. On the next line, include a descriptive title, also bold and centered. The text is presented in general APA format: left-aligned, double-spaced, and with page numbers in the top right corner. Start a new page for each new appendix.
Text Appendices. Appendices should be formatted in traditional paragraph style and may incorporate text, figures, tables, equations, or footnotes. In an appendix, all figures, tables, and other visuals should be labelled with the letter of the corresponding appendix followed by a number indicating the order in which each appears.
Insert Table: Once your data is selected, go to the "Insert" menu, then select "Table. Create Table: A dialog box will appear, confirming the selected data range. Make sure the "Use the first row as headers" option is checked if your data has headers. Click "Insert.".
Put the appendix label centered at the top of the page. On the next line under the appendix label, place the centered title of the appendix. If you refer to a source in your appendix, include an in-text citation just as you would in the main body of your paper and then include the source in your main reference section.
The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper. The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold type. If there is a table of contents, the appendices must be listed.
Formatting the Appendix. Begin each appendix on a separate page. At the top of the page, center the word Appendix and the identifying capital letters (A, B, etc.) in the order in which they are mentioned in the text. Center the title of the appendix using uppercase and lowercase letter on the next line. Begin the text of the appendix flush left ...
Here's an example of an appendix for a research paper on the topic of "The Effects of Exercise on Mental Health": Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire. This questionnaire was administered to participants in the study "The Effects of Exercise on Mental Health.". Section 1: Demographic Information. Section 2: Exercise Habits.
Information in this section is as outlined in the APA Publication Manual (2020), sections 2.14, 2.17, 2.24, and 7.6. Appendices are used to include information that supplement the paper's content but are considered distracting or inappropriate for the overall topic. It is recommended to only include an appendix if it helps the reader ...
Label the appendices: Label each appendix with a capital letter (e.g., "Appendix A," "Appendix B," etc.) and provide a brief descriptive title that summarizes the content. F ormat the appendices: Follow the same formatting style as the rest of your paper or report. Use the same font, margins, and spacing to maintain consistency.
Step 2: Consider Accessibility. A research paper appendix can include non-textual information like tables, diagrams, graphs, images, illustrations, etc. If you're adding such visual data elements to your appendices, ensure the material is clear and readable so the reader can comprehend the data. You should also ensure you are labelling these ...
Step 1. Make an Appendix: Include Your Data. When creating an appendix, include extra data in their raw form. That is, you might not have used some details in your main paper. But you want a reader to know more information. For example, it can be calculations, some results of which are mentioned in your main text.
4. Insert page numbers that continue the paper's numbering sequence. Although your appendices are a separate section, you'll still use the same page number sequence that you started in the body of your text. Simply add the appendices to your main document and continue the page numbers. [14]
Appendices allow you to include detailed information in your paper that would be distracting in the main body of the paper. Examples of items you might have in an appendix include mathematical proofs, lists of words, the questionnaire used in the research, a detailed description of an apparatus used in the research, etc. Format of appendices
Each appendix begins on a new page. The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper. The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold. Appendices must be listed in the table of contents [if used].
If you are adding an appendix to your paper there are a few rules to follow that comply with APA guidelines: The Appendix appears after the References list; ... Your research paper ends with a list of all the sources cited in the text of the paper. Here are nine quick rules for this Reference list.
4. Add page numbers. You should make sure the appendix has page numbers at the bottom right corner or the center of the page. Use the same page number formatting for the appendix that you used for the rest of the paper. Continue the numbering from the text into the appendix so it feels like part of the whole.
5.3 Conclusion. The appendix is an important part of the academic writing research process since it provides additional material for research papers, reports, and proposals. Thus, this critical component enhances understanding of your work without cluttering the essential material. Today, the writing service PapersOwl wants to explore the ...
An appendix or appendices should always be inserted after your Reference List; however, the appropriateness of appendix content really depends on the nature and scope of your research paper. For a more in-depth review of what supplemental materials might be included in a social science appendix, be sure to review Section 2.14 "Appendices ...
Each appendix begins on a new page. The order they are presented is dictated by the order they are mentioned in the text of your research paper. The heading should be "Appendix," followed by a letter or number [e.g., "Appendix A" or "Appendix 1"], centered and written in bold type. If there is a table of contents, the appendices must be listed.
Remember that the body of the paper contains all the essential data while writing an appendix for a research paper provides supplementary information. I.e., the paper's text is self-sufficing and easily understandable when reading your work. Appendices only provide further disclosures, which are attached to make a more comprehensive presentation.
The terms "appendix" and "annex" are commonly confused in research papers. While the use of an appendix is more common, the annex can also be a valuable way of supplementing your research. Both the appendix and the annex add supporting/supplementary information (SI), like tables and graphs, datasets, or transcriptions.
Did your professor tell you to have a research paper appendix, but you can't imagine what goes into it? Don't fret; we're about to show you! The appendix is a section at the end of the paper with additional information that doesn't belong in the main text. It shouldn't have any arguments, quotes, or conclusions.