Writing a research paper is likely one of the most overwhelming tasks students face. By breaking it down into manageable steps, the process can feel much less daunting. This guide walks through the entire research paper writing process from start to finish.
Choosing a Topic
The first step is deciding on a topic. This may seem simple, but it’s often where students get stuck. Here are some tips for choosing a topic:
Consider your interests – Choosing something you find interesting will make the lengthy research and writing process more enjoyable. Make sure it’s narrow enough to research thoroughly within the assigned page limit.
Brainstorm potential topics – Jot down a list of broad subjects that interest you. Then identify interesting questions or aspects within those topics that could be narrowed down into research paper topics.
Consult your instructor – If given a choice, see if your instructor has preferences for types of topics or suggests related topics others have researched successfully in the past. Your instructor’s feedback can help validate a topic idea.
Ensure there’s enough research available – Search initial topic ideas online and in the library catalog to ensure there is ample scholarly research to draw from. Having an abundance of sources will make the research experience more productive.
With brainstorming and feedback, you’ll eventually land on a topic focused enough to research thoroughly within the paper requirements. Choosing thoughtfully upfront sets the stage for writing success.
Conducting Research
Begin researching your topic once it’s approved. This bulk of the work involves:
Developing search terms – Compile a list of helpful keyword phrases to search for information on your topic. Play around with variations to optimize search results.
Identifying relevant sources – Search library databases and search engines using your terms. Read through abstracts and introductions to identify the most relevant books, journal articles, reports and other sources to explore further.
Taking effective notes – As you read full texts, take detailed notes summarizing key findings and quoting direct passages you may want to include. Be sure to record bibliographic information for each source to easily create citations later.
Organizing sources – Create a bibliography file solely for your paper where you save full citations and notes on each source as you go. Organize influential sources into files or binders by subtopic for easy retrieving later.
Filling gaps – Going back through your notes, identify areas needing more research. Return to databases and catalogs as needed to strengthen your knowledge on all aspects of the topic.
Thorough source collection and organization during this stage is pivotal for writing a well-rounded paper supported by credible research.
Developing an Argument
After initial researching, you’ll want to start developing your paper’s central argument. Consider:
Identifying gaps, controversies or assumptions needing investigation
Forming a debatable thesis asserting an informed position on some aspect of the topic
Outlining your thesis in a single sentence clearly stating the focus and scope
Anticipating counterarguments other researchers could raise against your thesis
Drafting the Outline
Once you have a clear thesis, build an outline organizing how you’ll present your argument. An effective outline:
Includes the thesis statement
Lists major themes/categories corresponding with main sections or topics needing coverage
Includes subpoints further exploring each major theme or topic in specific detail
Identifies sources supporting each subpoint to remain well-researched
Flows cohesively from general to specific premises as you build your case for the thesis
Outlining ensures all content directly relates back to proving the thesis. You can draft transitions between categories of information to create a logical framework before writing begins. Revisit and revise the outline throughout the drafting process.
Drafting Body Paragraphs
With a solid outline in place, you’re ready to start writing draft body paragraphs exploring each aspect of your argument. The following structure works well:
Topic sentence echoing the subpoint category being discussed
Summary of 1-2 key sources’ findings supporting the subpoint
Direct quotes and paraphrases strengthening your explanation
Analysis tying quoted content back to proving the subpoint
Transition statement bridging to the next paragraph’s subpoint
Stay focused on thoroughly yet efficiently proving each subpoint. Allow enough depth and evidence without going off-topic or exceeding page limits. Use transitions to smoothly move the reader between your subpoints.
Revising and Finalizing
Leave time after your first draft to step away, then return with a critical eye. Look for:
Logical flow and transitions between ideas
Consistent, skillful use of scholarly quoting and paraphrasing of sources
Clear, cohesive language effectively communicating your argument
Proper format and citation of all sources according to your style guide
Grammar, spelling, punctuation and other writing mechanics issues
Revise as needed based on this review. Have peers or your instructor review revisions and provide feedback. Make final changes ensuring your paper polished and ready for submission.
The research paper writing process takes time and effort, but breaking it into manageable steps as outlined above helps students feel informed and in control. With strategic researching, developing a well-supported thesis, clear outlining and focused drafting/revising, any motivated student can successfully complete a rigorous academic paper.
Andrew Stroud