Scotland's Source - How to...Write a Research Paper

How to...
Write a Research Paper

There is no one particular way to write. I learned this back in college from a very gifted writing professor. He squashed many assumptions I originally had about being a scribe. I'm sure you've probably noticed in the things you've read over the years that people don't always follow a certain protocol. And they shouldn't! The greats generally don't do this and you don't see people mocking their works. They're too busy admiring. So the next time you're assigned a paper or short essay, keep in-mind that there can be variation in written expression. I may have learned a distinct method regarding how to write a research paper, but I've definitely evolved my writing methods since the college days.

For those who like it simple, I will lay out a basic format showing how to write a research paper. Start with your topic. You either choose one or it was assigned to you. Now, what do you want to say about this topic? Create a brief outline, breaking your paper down into sections. You should naturally have an introduction and a conclusion. But what about everything in between? Are there certain points you wish to elaborate on? Do you want to compare the topic or contrast certain points? Depending on the length of the paper, you should try and come up with at least three separate sections for the body.

You'll want them to play off of one another as you craft the work. Now it's time to gather sources. The library is generally your best bet. Teachers and professors tend to prefer these textbook sources over what's found in cyberspace. Although, they may allow you to research one or two online sources. But, they must be valid and not some critic's opinion.

You should have an idea of how to write a research paper at this point. It begins with the topic; next comes the outline; incorporate the sources, and follow with a rough draft. Just be sure as you do research to take plenty of notes along the way. And always remember to cite sources properly. Chances are you'll need a bibliography attached. Your instructor will likely specify the style she prefers.

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