Understanding the Running Head
When you open a textbook or a professional research paper, you often see a brief title or phrase repeating at the very top of each page. This small but essential element is known as a running head. It serves as a navigational tool, helping readers keep track of the book's chapter, the article's title, or the author's name as they flip through a document. While it may seem like a minor detail, mastering the conventions of this feature is crucial for academic and professional writing.
What is a Running Head?
A running head is a heading printed at the top of every page, or sometimes alternating pages, of a book, manual, or academic report. It acts as a consistent guidepost for the reader. In professional publishing, it is often referred to as a "header" or a "running title." The primary purpose of a running head is to provide context without requiring the reader to return to the table of contents or the cover page.
Academic Usage
In academic writing, particularly in formats like APA (American Psychological Association) style, the running head serves a specific function. It is a shortened version of the paper's title that appears in the top margin of each page. Its goal is to identify the pages of a manuscript should they become separated during the editorial or peer-review process.
Grammar and Usage Patterns
The term is a compound noun. When using it in sentences, you will typically find it used in the context of formatting, editing, or typesetting. Here are some natural ways to use the term:
- "Please ensure that your running head does not exceed 50 characters, including spaces."
- "The editor decided to remove the running head from the title page to keep the layout clean."
- "Formatting the running head correctly is a requirement for this specific journal submission."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced writers sometimes struggle with the placement and content of a running head. Here are a few frequent errors:
- Confusing the running head with the header: While they are similar, a "header" is a broad term for any text in the top margin (including page numbers), whereas a running head is specifically a repeating title or subject identifier.
- Excessive length: A running head should be concise. If it is too long, it can look cluttered and distract the reader from the main text.
- Inconsistency: If you use a running head, it should remain consistent in its formatting, font, and placement throughout the entire document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a running head the same as a page number?
No, they are different. A page number tracks the specific location, while a running head provides thematic or identifying information about the content of the page.
Do all documents require a running head?
Not at all. They are most common in academic papers, textbooks, and long reports. Casual documents, like letters or short emails, generally do not require one.
Should the running head be in bold?
This depends on the style guide you are following. In most academic formats, like APA, it is not bolded; it is usually written in the same font and size as the rest of the document.
Can the running head change from page to page?
Yes. In many books, the running head on the left page might show the chapter title, while the one on the right page shows the specific section or sub-heading.
Conclusion
The running head is a subtle yet significant component of professional document design. Whether you are formatting an academic thesis or designing the layout for a new book, understanding how to use this feature effectively helps maintain organization and clarity. By keeping your running head concise and consistent, you provide your readers with a professional, easy-to-navigate experience.