How to Write Paper

Writing Research Papers: A Step-by-Step Procedure

The Preliminaries

___ 1. Choose a topic

___ 2. Begin preliminary reading

___ 3. Restrict the subject

___ 4. Develop a preliminary thesis statement

Gathering Data

___ 1. Compile the working bibliography

___ 2. Prepare the bibliography on cards in correct form (3" x 5" cards)

___ 3. Begin extensive work in the library reference room; be sure to check:

___ a. general bibliographies

___ b. trade bibliographies

___ c. indexes (books and collections, literature in periodicals, newspaper
indexes, pamphlet indexes)

___ d. library electronic catalogue

Taking Notes

___ 1. Develop a preliminary outline

___ 2. Evaluate your source material; which is primary material and which is
secondary material?

___ 3. Begin note-taking on cards (4" x 6" cards)

___ 4. Avoid plagiarism

Writing the Paper

___ 1. Develop the final outline; test your outline

___ 2. Prepare to write:

___ a. put your note cards in the order that your outline is in

___ b. consider your (real and imagined) readers and how their expectations
may affect your tone and style

___ 3. Write the rough draft

___ 4. Check your documentation carefully

___ 5. Revise and rewrite

___ 6. Check the format of the text, citations, notes, and bibliography (most
instructors recommend MLA or APA
format)

___ 7. Proofread