How to Write a Research Paper |
Writing a good research paper is a tough challenge, but breaking it down into smaller pieces helps a lot.
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![]() | Steps: |
| 1. | Choose a topic that is broad enough to be interesting but narrow enough to be manageable. |
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| 2. | Find your sources. Start with three or four, check their bibliographies for additional sources, and repeat the process until you have enough material to work with. |
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| 3. | Reserve one index card for each source. Record the bibliographic information for the source on its index card, and number each card for ease of future reference. |
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| 4. | Take reading notes on index cards, writing down only the material that is most relevant to your project. Write the source number on each card. |
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| 5. | Organize your index cards by topic and subtopic. |
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| 6. | Use the cards as a basis for an outline (see 'How to Outline a Paper'). |
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| 7. | Write an introduction that grabs the reader and plots out the trajectory of your argument. |
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| 8. | Write the body of the paper, following the structure you created in your outline. Be sure to cite sources. |
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| 9. | Write the conclusion, reviewing how you've made your points. |
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| 10. | Come up with a title after you've written the paper, not before: You don't want the content of the paper to be hamstrung by an inappropriate title. |
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| 11. | Read your paper at least twice to be sure your argument makes sense and is presented logically. |
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| 12. | Proofread carefully; teachers hate typographical errors. Use your word processor's spelling checker, but don't rely on it utterly. |
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![]() | Tips: |
![]() | Don't leave such a difficult task to the last minute. Start early, and work gradually. |
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![]() | Use bibliography software to help manage your sources. Consult a style guide, such as the MLA (Modern Language Association) manual of style, for details on citation of sources. |
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![]() | Consider taking a class on writing a research paper. |
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![]() | Warnings: |
![]() | Be sure to cite your sources whenever you make use of an idea from someone else. (See "How to Avoid Plagiarism in a Research Paper.") |
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![]() | Tips from eHow Users: |
![]() | Canned papers
Don't buy a canned paper and submit it as your work. If you found it, your professor can find it. |
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![]() | Citing Sources by matt
Try to keep your work neat and organized. Trying to read sloppy handwriting can really burn your time. |
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