In APA format, which title page element must include a running head?

The title page in APA format serves as a crucial first point of contact for readers, and the running head plays an important role in that. The correct answer highlights that the running head is an essential component associated with the title of the work. According to the APA guidelines, the running head is a shortened version of the title that appears in the header of each page, including the title page. It is essential for ensuring that readers can identify the paper at a glance, especially in cases where documents may be printed or accessed in multiple formats.

Including the running head with the title is particularly important because it establishes a consistent theme and provides a quick reference for the specific research, especially in academic contexts where multiple papers may be reviewed together. The running head is formatted in all capital letters and typically consists of the first few words of the title, ensuring it succinctly encapsulates the essence of the work while promoting continuity throughout the entire document.

Other elements on the title page, such as the author's name, institutional affiliation, and page number, do not require a running head. Each of these elements serves a different purpose: the author's name and institutional affiliation identify who conducted the work and where they are from, while the page number aids in navigation but does not contribute