This book is an accessible guide to the process of writing essays and research reports in psychology subjects. It grew out of the frustrations expressed by psychology staff and students that a straightforward and practical book was not available for students in their early years of study.

The emphasis here is on the process of gathering relevant information and writing the assignment. The students’ primary task is to find sources, data/information and ideas, and write a response to the question or problem posed in their assignment. Once they have a grasp of that process, they can tackle the style and presentation requirements for psychology, as set down by the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association.

Most psychology departments require that students rigorously follow the referencing system of the APA, and it is presented here in some detail. It may or may not be mandatory for students to follow other aspects of the APA style (e.g., font, typesize and position of headings); and some aspects may be countermanded (e.g., most Australian departments want students to use Australian spellings, not American spellings as directed by the APA). These issues are discussed in the book so that students are aware of the alternatives; in most cases, the department or the lecturer will direct which alternative is to be used.

The templates in the book set out summaries of the key points or requirements that are discussed in the text. The examples take samples from the psychology literature, assignments set in psychology subjects, and student papers so that students will have a very clear idea of what is necessary in their work.

Writing is major and complex work, intimately entwined with thinking. Developing skill in writing requires practice and attention. I hope that this guide provides students with a sound understanding of the process and a practical framework for doing the necessary work successfully.

Carla Taines
Melbourne
August 2007