A college research paper is a type of academic work that includes in-depth analysis, interpretation, and independent research based on the given/found arguments.
The process of writing a research paper is similar to the one of a college essay. However, research papers are more detailed, longer, and more complex, designed to assess both the quality of your writing and your skills in the chosen field. It is important that you demonstrate a solid knowledge of a college discipline, the paper’s topic, and know how to use various sources to do an original and quality project.
Below, we provide you with some basic steps to take to write a quality research paper, from understanding the topic to editing your work.
Step 1. Ensure You Understand the Task & Set a Schedule
One of the biggest mistakes that students make when they start writing a research paper is that they do not understand the task. Ensure you don’t make the same mistake! In case you have any questions, feel free to approach your tutor, your fellow students, or any cheap online writing website with a “Please, help me write my research papers according to my requirements” request. Some of the key issues to keep in mind are:
- The type of citation that your tutors prefer to see in academic papers.
- How long the term papers, book reviews, essays, or any other projects have to be.
- Whether you have to submit certain parts (the thesis statement, the body section, the outline, etc.) of the project on different days.
- Types and number of information sources that you are allowed to use (articles, books, libraries, websites, and so on).
- Other formatting requirements (double-spacing, footnotes, headings, and sub-headings).
- Set a strict schedule based on the research paper deadline and the amount of time you need to produce each part of the best quality).
Step 2. Choose a Research Paper Topic
When it comes to choosing the topic that you would like to research, you can generate an idea by brainstorming or talking to a tutor or fellow students (perhaps, you will come up with a good idea during a conversation).
As an alternative, consider the so-called free writing technique. The process includes taking a general topic and then writing non-stop for a couple of minutes. As a result, you will identify some interesting and relevant issues that you will agree to discuss in your research paper.
At the same time, you’re welcome to look for inspiration from the research papers written by someone else. If you check the recommendations or discussion sections of the chosen research papers, you may find ideas for other topics that require more research.
Step 3. Develop a Thesis Statement
A thesis statement is a fragment of information that includes the central argument of your research paper. Use it to establish the position and purpose of your project. If you began with providing your research question, use your thesis statement to answer it. What is more, it should also show both reasoning and evidence you will use in order to back up your answer.
Ensure to include a coherent, contentious, and concise thesis statement. In other words, your thesis statement should sum up your argument in 1-2 sentences. Include a claim that needs further solid analysis or evidence. Finally, make sure to make a clear point that is relevant to each section of the research project.
As you conduct more research, you will revise and refine your thesis statement. However, you will use it as a road map for your writing. Ensure to include each paragraph that not only supports but also develops your central claim.
Step 4. Writing the Research Paper
At this point, you are likely to have all the materials on the assigned topic and thoughts you have uncovered while doing your research. With the thesis statement at hand, you can proceed to the process of writing.
Here are some of the key elements of a college research paper:
- The Introduction
In this section, you’re required to present the context and background for the rest of your research paper. Make sure your work includes a strong and hooking opening sentence that makes someone want to keep on reading. Just because you’re working on a research paper for college or university doesn’t mean that your text has to be boring.
Do not forget to state your claim/thesis statement in the introductory section. Provide a sentence or two that showcase your position that you’re going to back up with solid reasoning.
- The Body
Most college and university students tend to struggle with the body of the research paper. First, you have to logically organize the information uncovered during the research stage. Many students seem to get lost in the bunch of facts, stats, and figures when it comes to writing the body of the text. In order to stay on track with all the arguments, play the so-called thesis against topic sentences game. Here’s what you have to check:
- Topic sentences of each paragraph against your thesis;
- Topic sentences of each paragraph against each other (to reveal logical ordering and similarities);
- Topic sentences against every sentence of the paragraph.
Find out if your paper contains paragraphs that include the same things. If two paragraphs happen to cover something similar, do your best to transform them so that they approach your topic differently. It is also important to include logical transitions between sections, paragraphs, and sentences.
- The Conclusion
Now, it’s time to summarize your work. As a rule, students conclude their research papers with restated thesis statements. In other words, you have to mention your thesis again but you have to reword it. Briefly sum up the key points that you made throughout the research paper. Let your readers know why you think those points are crucial to back up your case. At the same time. you’re welcome to explain why your topic requires more research.
Step 5. Edit & Proofread Your Research Paper
When it’s time to revise your work, your task is to edit and proofread your research paper to ensure that you have met all the requirements and that your project is well-structured.
Take into consideration the following issues:
- Check the flow of the paper paragraphs and their logical organization.
- Make sure that your research paper complies with the academic demands given by your professor.
- Check the body paragraphs against the introductory section and your thesis.
Read each paragraph to see if:
- It contains any irrelevant or unnecessary information.
- Every sentence supports the topic sentence of the paragraph.
- You have identified every tech term that your target readers might not know.
Now, check the grammatical mistakes, sentence structure, and formatting of the research paper. Make sure that all the transition words and phrases are used correctly. Cut unnecessary words, look for typos, and ensure the heading formatting is correct.
Finally, check the formatting of your research work to ensure that you have met all the citation style requirements.
