APA is a training tool; Know the style for each application

Understanding what goes into citations and references is critical because you will only use APA in some academic settings or when submitting papers to publications requiring APA. 

Critical: APA is a training tool you must use in many academic settings and when submitting papers to academic journals. You're learning the research and attribution process the "client" (your program) requires. In the real world, you must know the style of every application. Different industries, disciplines, publications, and applications require different styles. For example, technical documents may require IEE or another numbered system, while a press release may require Associated Press style. 

Similarly, most magazines have styles unique to their publications. Even the best articles and documents can get rejected with the following statement: "Uses incorrect style." Also, most established organizations have graphic standards and guides designed to protect the brand consistently across media channels.