If you’re writing a paper in APA format, the font you choose isn’t just about looks it’s part of meeting academic standards. APA guidelines specify certain fonts to ensure readability and consistency across scholarly work. Ignoring this can distract readers or even cost you points if your instructor is strict about formatting.

What fonts are officially allowed in APA 7th edition?

The APA Publication Manual (7th ed.) gives you options, not just one “correct” font. You can use:

These fonts were selected for their legibility in both print and digital formats. Some instructors still default to Times New Roman because it’s traditional, but Calibri and Arial are equally acceptable under current rules.

Why does font choice matter in academic papers?

It’s not about personal style. Academic writing needs to be taken seriously, and using an inappropriate font like Comic Sans or Papyrus undermines credibility. More importantly, readable fonts reduce eye strain for reviewers, editors, or professors who may be grading dozens of papers. If your text is hard to read, your argument even if brilliant might get lost.

You’ll also find that many universities have quietly updated their handbooks to reflect APA’s newer recommendations. Check out what top schools suggest for student submissions you might be surprised how many now prefer sans-serif fonts like Calibri for digital reading.

Common mistakes people make with APA fonts

Here’s what trips students up most often:

  • Using decorative or handwritten fonts thinking they “stand out.” They do but not in a good way.
  • Switching fonts mid-document (e.g., Times New Roman for body, Arial for headings). APA requires consistency.
  • Ignoring point size. Even if you pick Georgia, using 9 pt makes it unreadable and noncompliant.
  • Assuming “any serif font” is fine. Not all serifs meet APA’s legibility standard stick to the approved list.

Should you use serif or sans-serif for APA papers?

Both are allowed. Serif fonts like Times New Roman and Georgia are often preferred for printed documents because the small strokes help guide the eye. Sans-serif fonts like Calibri and Arial tend to look cleaner on screens. If your paper will mostly be read digitally (like via LMS platforms), lean toward sans-serif. For print-heavy contexts, serif works well.

If you’re unsure which direction to go, explore serif options commonly used in college essays many overlap with APA’s list.

How to set up your document correctly

Don’t just change the font in the first paragraph and assume it applies everywhere. In Word or Google Docs:

  1. Go to Styles (or Paragraph Settings).
  2. Modify “Normal” style to your chosen APA font and size.
  3. Apply that style globally so headings, body text, and references stay uniform.
  4. Double-check tables, figure captions, and footnotes they often inherit different defaults.

This prevents accidental font shifts and saves you from last-minute panic before submission.

What if your professor has their own preference?

Always defer to your instructor’s guidelines. Some still require Times New Roman regardless of APA updates. If they haven’t specified, default to APA’s official list. When in doubt, ask: “Are there any font preferences beyond APA 7th edition?” It shows attention to detail without overcomplicating things.

Modern alternatives that still follow APA rules

While sticking to the approved list is safest, some newer typefaces mimic the clarity of Calibri or Georgia while feeling more contemporary. If you want something fresh but compliant, see our breakdown of fonts that enhance readability without breaking formatting rules. Just verify compatibility with your institution before switching.

Quick checklist before submitting:

  • Font is from APA’s approved list
  • Size matches requirement (e.g., 12 pt for Times New Roman)
  • No font changes between sections
  • Tables, figures, and appendices use same font
  • Instructor hasn’t overridden APA defaults
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