How to Format an Image in Academic Writing (APA, MLA, Chicago)

Introduction: In academic writing, including images, tables, and figures can enhance your argument and provide additional clarity. However, it's essential to format images correctly according to the citation style you're using. Whether you’re working with APA, MLA, or Chicago, each has specific rules for inserting and formatting images. In this guide, we’ll explain how to format images for these citation styles to meet academic standards.

1. Formatting Images in APA Style (7th Edition)

Keywords: APA image formatting, APA figures, APA tables, APA 7th edition image citation

General Guidelines:

  • Labeling: In APA style, images and visuals are referred to as "Figures." Every image, graph, or illustration should be labeled as “Figure” followed by a number (e.g., Figure 1, Figure 2). Ensure that your figure labels are consecutive and in the order they appear in the text.

    • Example: Figure 1. Average Student Performance in Mathematics.

  • Figure Caption: Below the figure, include a caption with a brief description of the image. If the figure is adapted or reproduced from another source, you must provide a citation for the source.

    • Example: Figure 1. Average Student Performance in Mathematics (Smith, 2020).

  • Spacing and Alignment: Place the figure caption below the image and center-align the caption.

  • Size and Placement: The image should be no larger than necessary to convey your message. Avoid using overly large images that overwhelm the text. Ensure that the image does not exceed the width of your page.

Example:

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[Figure 1. Average Student Performance in Mathematics] [Image: A bar chart displaying student performance] Figure 1. Average Student Performance in Mathematics (Smith, 2020).

2. Formatting Images in MLA Style (9th Edition)

Keywords: MLA image formatting, MLA figures, MLA tables, MLA figure caption

General Guidelines:

  • Labeling: In MLA, images are labeled as “Figure” or “Fig.” followed by a number (e.g., Fig. 1, Fig. 2).

    • Example: Fig. 1. Comparison of Global Warming Effects on Weather Patterns.

  • Figure Caption: Below the image, include a brief description of the image. Provide full citation details in the caption if the image comes from a source.

    • Example: Fig. 1. Comparison of Global Warming Effects on Weather Patterns. Reprinted from “Climate Change Research,” by J. Brown, 2020, Environmental Studies Journal, 45(3), p. 125.

  • Spacing and Alignment: Place the image and its caption in the center of the page. Make sure the image does not disrupt the flow of your text.

  • Size and Placement: Images should be placed close to the relevant text for easier reference. Avoid placing too many images on one page, as it may clutter the content.

Example:

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[Fig. 1. Comparison of Global Warming Effects on Weather Patterns] [Image: Line graph comparing global warming effects] Fig. 1. Comparison of Global Warming Effects on Weather Patterns. Reprinted from “Climate Change Research,” by J. Brown, 2020, *Environmental Studies Journal*, 45(3), p. 125.