Do I need to use the trademark symbol?

Answer

The rules for using the trademark symbol for APA style writing are:

  • APA style does not use the trademark symbol.
  • APA does require that the writer capitalize the name of the brand or product or company.
  • APA does not require quotation marks around the trademarked name.

Examples:

  • Starbucks
  • Microsoft Office
  • Barbie

Trademark symbols are primarily used for:

  • Commercial writing purposes, such as for a publication or advertisement.
  • If your project is of a commercial nature, then here is an article that describes when to use which kind of trademark and also how to get the symbols, Using a Registered Trademark.

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  • Last Updated Apr 20, 2023
  • Views 21817
  • Answered By Baker Librarians

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Comments (2)

  1. Thanks for this! Do I need to include an intext reference for the trademarked name and a full reference in the reference list also? Or can I simply use the name with capitals?

    Thanks in advance!
    by Esther on Aug 26, 2017
  2. Trademark symbols are primarily used for commercial writing purposes, such as for a publication or advertisement. The rules for using the trademark symbol for APA style writing are: -APA style does not use the trademark symbol -APA does require that the writer capitalize the name of the brand or product. -APA does not require quotation marks around the trademarked name. Examples: Starbucks Microsoft Office Barbie Please let us know if you have any further questions!
    by Patrick Mullane on Aug 26, 2017

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