WRITING RESEARCH PAPERS

Preliminaries:

1. Choose a topic

2. Begin to do preliminary reading

3. Narrow the subject

Gathering Data:

1. Compile a working bibliography

2. In the correct form, prepare the bibliography on cards

3. Begin extensive work on the research

a. general bibliographies

b. trade bibliographies

c. indexes -- books and collections, literature in periodicals, newspaper and pamphlet indexes

d. Internet -- Web

Taking Notes:

1. Develop a preliminary outline

2. Evaluate the source materials as primary and secondary

3. Begin taking notes on cards

4. Be sure not to plagiarize

Writing the Paper:

1. Develop the final outline and test it for organization

2. Prepare to write -

a. Put the note card in order with the outline

b. Decide which tense to use for the paper

c. Complete a rough draft

d. Revise and rewrite the paper

e. Edit the paper

f. Complete a final copy

Important Suggestions to get a good grade:

1. Use the word processor

2. Proper format

a. Title page

b. Outline

c. Written research paper

d. Footnote page

e. Bibliography page

3. Last but most important proofread and make corrections