how to use specific formatting guidelines, how to cite in the body of the text, and how to write a reference page. Today we will learn how to begin to write a research paper." 2) Show the list of objectives on slide two. [3 minutes] • Understand the primary purpose of an academic research paper. General Format // Purdue Writing Lab Summary: APA (American Psychological Association) style is most commonly used to cite sources within the social sciences. This resource, revised according to the 6 th edition, second printing of the APA manual, offers examples for the general format of APA research papers, in-text citations, endnotes/footnotes, and the reference page.