How do I Write a Research Paper?

To write a research paper that will be successful and earn you a top grade, you will need to allow yourself adequate time to gather all the information and materials you require. First and foremost, keep in mind that you should prepare in an organized manner. You need to be consistent and thorough in your findings and in how they are presented in the research paper.

Your first order of business when you plan to write a research paper is to book some time at the library. You need to have materials such as books and reference guides accessible to you as you do your work. It's best to go at a time when you are alert and refreshed rather than when you are feeling tired. Plan on taking a notebook or index cards for jotting down quick notes of reference and possibly organizing your notes by color-coded sections.

Before you sit down to write a research paper, think about the topic you elected or were assigned to write about. If the subject is up to you, choose a topic you feel passionate about; otherwise, a lack of interest may be apparent in your final paper. If you are truly stuck for ideas, read newspapers, almanacs, magazines or periodicals to generate possible topics. Pay close attention to the news, whether it is on television or the Internet or in the newspaper.

When you've decided on an appropriate topic, you need to compose a thesis on your main concept. Using just one sentence, make your main idea precise and clear and argumentative or factual. After that, you might want to write an outline categorizing the sub-topics about which you will write. This typically should be a conjectural outline that starts with a strong introduction. Following the short introduction, you'll want to compose the body of your work.

A thought-provoking summary and conclusion are crucial when you write a research paper. A good course of action is to explain in full detail your beliefs and how you've made this determination and conclusion. Taking a cue from your thesis statement, reiterate the hypothesis and approach. Be sure you don't phrase your conclusion in the same way as your thesis. Instead, be creative and original with your words.

When you write your draft, check everything carefully for typographical and grammatical errors. Check your work to be sure you have used formal speech and written in a third-person perspective. It's best not to reference yourself if possible. Keep in mind that most editors, teachers and professors frown upon repetition, so check for information you've restated. If you are uncomfortable with the final copy, make any necessary revisions before turning it in.