In APA style, how should names of authors be formatted in the reference list?

In APA style, the correct formatting of authors' names in the reference list is to list the last name first, followed by the initials of the first and middle names (if available). This structure serves several purposes: it allows for the easy identification of an author by their surname, which is often how they are cited in-text, and it also maintains a consistent format across the reference list, making it straightforward for readers to locate sources.

Using last names followed by initials helps to clearly distinguish between authors with similar names and adheres to the formal conventions of scholarly writing. This style aids in organizing references in a logical manner and facilitates efficient retrieval of sources. It is an important aspect of APA's emphasis on clarity and precision in academic writing.