Writing a research paper can feel like a daunting task, especially for English as a Second Language (ESL) students. Breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps can help make the process less overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the entire research paper writing process from start to finish while providing tips specifically for ESL students.
Choosing a Topic
The first step is choosing a topic for your research paper. Here are some tips for ESL students when choosing a topic:
Pick a topic that truly interests you. Writing about something you find fascinating will make the research process more enjoyable and the paper easier to write.
Choose a topic that is neither too broad nor too narrow. A topic that is too broad, like “globalization,” would be very difficult to research thoroughly in the length of a typical paper. But a topic that is too narrow may not have enough research material available.
Consider a topic within your major field of study if possible. You will likely already have some background knowledge that can help with research.
Ask your instructor if they have any suggestions for appropriate topics to choose from. They want you to succeed and may have ideas that are suited to the expectations of the assignment.
Brainstorm topics with classmates. Bouncing ideas off others can spark new topic ideas and get feedback on potential topic choices.
Conducting Research
Once you’ve selected a topic, it’s time to start researching. Set aside blocks of time to visit your school library and search their databases and online sources. Here are some research tips:
Use keyword searches in academic databases to find relevant journal articles and studies. Try variations of keywords and related terms.
Search the library catalog for books on your topic. Check the citations/bibliographies at the end of books for additional sources.
Consult reference materials like encyclopedias for background overview information.
Evaluate sources for credibility – choose ones published by academic presses or peer-reviewed journals.
Take detailed notes either on notecards or in a research journal. Record source info like author, title, publisher, date, and page numbers of quotes.
Use both online research and print materials. Searching different mediums will surface a wider range of sources.
Ask a librarian for help if needed. They are trained to assist with research strategies and locating appropriate sources.
Organizing Your Research
As research progresses, it’s important to organize source material and notes. Here are some organizational tips:
Create separate folders or sections in your research journal/notecards for each source type – books, articles, websites, etc.
Within each section, alphabetize sources by author last name.
Note main ideas and keep track of specific page numbers where you found useful quotations or data.
Cite sources in the style recommended by your instructor as you take notes, such as APA or MLA format.
Periodically review and group notes thematically as connections and patterns emerge in the research.
Create an annotated bibliography with source summaries as you work.
Leave time at the end to synthesize key findings, arguments and note common themes across sources.
Developing an Outline
Once a critical mass of research has been conducted, you’ll want to create an outline. This helps to logically organize your main ideas and structure the paper. Follow these steps:
Identify your thesis statement – the main argument you will make and prove using evidence.
Include the major topic headings/sections to break your paper into.
List the specific points and subpoints you want to make in each section to support your thesis.
Consider how to introduce your topic and background information.
Plan a concluding paragraph to tie everything together at the end.
Rearrange topic sections and supporting details as needed to flow well.
Leave space under each heading to note source quotations or data that will fit there.
Have others review your outline to check for clarity and flow before writing the paper.
Writing the First Draft
Begin writing your first draft using your outline as a guide. Here are some best practices:
Start with your introduction paragraph that interests readers and states your thesis clearly.
Write clearly and concisely using your own words as much as possible.
Directly reference and discuss sources to support each point in your outline.
Use transition words like “furthermore” or “in addition” between paragraphs for coherence.
Vary sentence structure and keep paragraphs focused on one main idea each.
Follow the formatting guidelines, writing in third person generally.
Proofread each completed section before moving on to flow better.
Leave time for writing a solid conclusion that restates your thesis and key findings.
Remember that the first draft need not be perfect – it gets the ideas down on paper.
Revising and Finalizing the Paper
Revising allows you to refine and strengthen your paper. Reserve time to:
Step away for a break before re-reading with fresh eyes to edit.
Check that each paragraph and section clearly relates back to your thesis.
Ensure topic sentences are clear for readers and flow logically.
Verify all sources cited match references listed at the end.
Eliminate repetitive words or phrases and consolidate where needed.
Correct any grammatical errors, inconsistent verb tenses, or spelling issues.
Have classmates or tutors review for readability and provide feedback.
Make final adjustments based on reviews received before submission.
Leave yourself time to proofread the final version carefully one last time.
Following all these steps will help ESL students produce a high-quality research paper and aid in the learning process. Be sure to ask your instructor if you have any other questions along the way too. With planning and organization, you can successfully complete the assignment.
Andrew Stroud