Writing a lengthy research paper can seem like an intimidating task, but taking it step-by-step and paying attention to the details will help make the process manageable. Here is a recommended process for writing a 10-15 page research paper:
Choosing your topic: The topic you choose will have a significant impact on the length and depth of the research required. Ideally, you want a topic that is narrow enough to be reasonably researched in the allotted time but also broad enough to fill 10-15 pages of content. Brainstorm potential topics that interest you and meet these parameters. Run potential topics by your instructor if guidance is needed on topic selection.
Researching your topic: Now that you have a topic selected, it’s time to start researching. Plan to spend at least a few weeks gathering sources. Search library databases and google scholar for academic books and journal articles on your topic. Evaluate sources for credibility, date of publication, relevance to your specific research question, and viewpoint diversity. Keep thorough bibliographic records of every source in your chosen citation style (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.). Aim to gather around 20 credible sources to adequately support a 10-15 page paper.
Creating an outline: Once you have completed initial research, take time to construct a detailed outline for the paper’s structure. A typical research paper outline would include: an intro paragraph with a thesis statement, 3-5 topic sentences for the body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph. Within each body paragraph, jot down at least 3-5 supporting points/evidence from your research to address the topic sentence. Consider ordering body paragraphs from least to most important. Leave space under each point to record page numbers of sources for quotes/ideas.
Drafting the introduction: Use your outline to begin drafting the actual paper. Focus your introduction on introducing the topic, providing context and background information, and stating your clear thesis argument. Your thesis should be a single sentence at the end of the intro that presents the conclusion or main point you will prove over the course of the paper.
Filling in body paragraphs: Now expand on each outline point with a fully developed paragraph. Start with the topic sentence and then incorporate direct quotes and paraphrases from your research to support the points made. Properly attribute quotes and ideas using in-text citations. Weave citations into your own analysis and context. Maintain a formal, academic writing tone throughout. Each body paragraph should be 3-5 thoughtfully written sentences beyond the introductory topic sentence.
Writing the conclusion: The conclusion does not present any new information but rather summarizes the main points made in the body paragraphs as they relate back to and support the central thesis. Restate the thesis, provide a brief recap of the 3 key topics/arguments covered in the body paragraphs, and finish with a final comment on the implications or importance of this issue. The concluding paragraph should be 2-3 sentences total.
Editing and proofreading: Once the initial draft is complete, set it aside for a day or two before thoroughly editing and proofreading. Check that introduction and conclusion bookend the paper as intended. Review body paragraphs for coherence of ideas, logical flow and transitions between topics, and make sure sources are properly cited. Carefully proofread for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors as well. Ask peers to also review the paper for overall structure, clarity and readability.
Formatting the references page: Use the citation style references or works cited page to list full bibliographic entries for every source cited in the paper. Arrange in proper alphabetical order. Double check that all in-text citations match entries on the references page one for one.
Finalizing and submitting: Print or submit your final paper making sure to include title page, page numbers and references page at the end. Papers between 10-15 well-written and thoroughly-researched pages demonstrating a command of sources on the topic should meet the basic requirements for a quality, college-level research paper. Schedule a meeting with your instructor if any part of the process requires clarification or additional guidance.
This step-by-step process covers the major components needed to successfully complete a research paper between 10-15 pages in length through careful topic selection, credible source gathering, outlining, drafting, editing, and final presentation. Following these guidelines and allowing sufficient time at each stage will help any student produce a research paper that effectively communicates their perspective and ideas about a complex topic. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional specific questions as you begin working on your own paper.