Writing a Research Paper

Step 1: ResearchResearchResearchMore ResearchProbably more

DoBrowse and graze as widely as possibleThink about possible sub-topics and connections as you are workingKeep track of page numbers and citation information as you workRead carefully and critically

Don’tTry to narrow your topic too soon. Skip this step.

Step 2 (overlaps with step 1)Start organizing your material as you go along.

Step 3continue organizing, and create an outlineDON’T fall into the “3-point” trap. BUT remember that paragraphs need development.

Step 4 (this can overlap with step 3)Start a “zero draft”

Step 5Create a thesisWrite your introduction

Step 6Write “real” draft

Step 7ReviseReviseRevise some moreConsider doing a bit more research

See why you need more than a couple of days to write a research paper?

FinallySubmit finished copy to instructorHeave a big sigh of relief…