If you’re in college and ever have to write a research paper, you’ve probably heard of the endless struggle that comes with it. In fact, I hear about this every semester from one of my students. They begin their research, but end up putting it off as they have other priorities, like studying for exams and projects, or just hanging out with friends. Then before they know it, they’re scrambling to finish their paper at the last minute or even worse – turning it in late. Don’t let this be you!
1) Read the Question
Make sure you read the question and skim the entire prompt. Write down your topic, keywords, and any other major points you want to address. Search for research related to your topic so that you know what has already been said on the subject. Look up any unfamiliar words or phrases in the glossary of your library’s database, ask your professor, or look them up in a dictionary. Now it is time to formulate an outline of your paper.
2) Understand the Assignment
Understand the assignment. What are the requirements of the paper? How can you be a research paper writer? Who is your audience? What words should you use? Which sources will you use? How long does it need to be? Will it be formal or informal? It’s important to read the instructions and guidelines in order to know how much time and effort needs to go into researching, structuring, and presenting your paper. Find a Topic: Find an appropriate topic for your research. Remember that this topic must fit with the assignment parameters, but that doesn’t mean that you have to pick something from the reading list. Think about something you’re passionate about and do some research!
3) Start with an Outline
The outline should include what the paper is about, who it is for, and how it will be organized. Make sure you use APA or MLA style and cite all sources in the end of the paper. Create an outline before beginning your paper by making sure that your paper follows both APA and MLA styles. Cite all your sources at the bottom of the page with a bibliography on either an MLA or APA template.
4) Organize your information
Organize your information. Be sure you are looking at the right sources. That way, when it is time for the paper, you will be able to organize your thoughts and ideas before getting started on the paper. Don’t forget to keep all of your research material organized as well, so that it is easy for you to find if you need it later on.
5) Use a Methodology
One of the most important parts of writing is choosing the right methodology. With so many different types of research, it can be hard to choose which one is best for your paper. In order to make that decision, you need to know what each methodology entails and how they work. This guide will help you understand what they are and how they work in detail so you can better choose which one is best for your needs.
6) Proofread, then Proofread Again
Proofread your paper three times before submitting. Read it aloud and look for sentences that don’t make sense or seem out of place. If you’re submitting online, it’s important to be sure your margins are set up properly and that the text is legible. Use bullet points, headings, and subheadings so readers can quickly find what they’re looking for. Be sure to include an introduction, conclusion, and summary at the end of your paper if you’re giving one in class.
7) Create an Official Title
Create an Official Title. Make your title stand out and make it clear what the paper is about in just a few words. It will help you stay on track when writing the paper, and it may also help other readers understand what your paper is about without having to read the whole thing.
8) Be sure to avoid plagiarism
Plagiarism is the act of copying someone else’s work and passing it off as your own. It is important that you avoid plagiarizing others’ work because it can be considered cheating, which will make you ineligible for the grade you deserve. Be sure to include citations so that it is clear where information came from. You should also put quotation marks around any word or sentence that was copied from another source and change some of the words in order to show your personal thoughts and beliefs about that subject.
Conclusion
One of the most important parts of academic success is knowing how to write an effective research paper. Writing a research paper requires you to demonstrate your understanding of the material through an organized and cohesive argument. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to completing an excellent research paper.