Writing the final draft of a research paper is an important step that requires careful planning and execution. The final draft represents the culmination of all your research and hard work throughout the research process. With solid content, well-constructed arguments, and proper formatting, the final draft can help you earn top marks for your paper. Here are some key points to keep in mind as you write the final draft of your research paper:
Review Your Outline and Thesis. Before starting to draft content in full sentences, review your outline and thesis statement. Does your outline still accurately reflect the organization and flow of ideas for the paper? Refine your outline as needed. Your thesis should be the central argument that all content and evidence in the paper supports. Reviewing these foundational elements will help ensure your final draft is cohesive and on topic.
Conduct Final Research Check. Do one last sweep through your research sources to identify any other useful evidence, quotes, examples or information that could strengthen your arguments. Properly document and incorporate any new research findings into your paper. Make sure all cited sources are accurately referenced in the body of the paper and consistently formatted in your bibliography or works cited list.
Draft the Body Paragraphs. With your outline and sources in hand, begin drafting fully formed paragraphs that analyze and discuss your research. Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence related to proving or expanding on your thesis. Weave relevant evidence, facts, examples and quotes from credible sources throughout each paragraph to support the point being made. Analyze and explain the significance of this evidence and how it connects back to your thesis. Maintain formal academic language and avoid filler words or phrases.
Organize Paragraphs Logically. The order and flow of paragraphs should logically progress the discussion and arguments. Transition between paragraphs to clearly show how each builds upon the last. Consider using techniques like chronological ordering of topics, comparison/contrast, problem/solution or most to least important organizations of content depending on what structure works best for your paper.
Write engaging Introduction and Conclusion Paragraphs. The introduction should establish context for your topic, introduce your thesis in a compelling way and preview how the paper will unfold. The conclusion should briefly restate your thesis, summarize the main points and arguments made in the body, and clearly convey the significance or implications of your overall findings and analysis. Avoid introducing new information and leave the reader with a strong final impression.
Edit and Proofread Thoroughly. Review your entire paper multiple times to edit for clarity, flow, grammar, spelling and consistency. Thorough proofreading is essential at this final stage. Have a friend, peer or writing tutor also proofread your paper with a critical eye. Make edits to strengthen word choice, fix technical errors and improve cohesion. Carefully check citations, quotations and references are accurate and consistent with your chosen style.
Format the Paper Properly. Use the specified formatting guidelines for areas like font style and size, line spacing, page margins, Headers/footers and title page. Include a running header with your last name and page number on each page. Organize and format the bibliography/works cited list consistent with your chosen citation style such as MLA, APA, Chicago or other format. Adhere to all formatting specifications.
Print or Export Final Draft. After your final proofreading and edits are complete, be sure to print or export your paper properly. Print a clean, paginated hard copy to proofread one last time before submission. For electronic submissions, export or save your paper in the required file format and check it opens correctly and shows all formatting properly. Then submit your high quality final research paper on or before the due date! Following these guidelines should help you craft a well-structured and polished final research paper draft. With diligent work researching, organizing and revising, you can feel confident you are submitting your very best work.