Writing a Research Paper: A Step By Step Procedure
The Preliminaries
___ 1. Choose a topic
___ 2. Begin preliminary reading
___ 3. Restrict the subject
___ 4. Develop a preliminary thesis statement
Gathering Data
___ 1. Compile the working bibliography
___ 2. Prepare the bibliography on cards in correct form (3" x 5" cards)
___ 3. Begin extensive work in the library reference room; be sure to check:
___ a. general bibliographies___ b. trade bibliographies
___ c. indexes (books and collections, literature in periodicals, newspaper indexes, pamphlet indexes)
___ d. library electronic catalogue
Taking Notes
___ 1. Develop a preliminary outline
___ 2. Evaluate your source material; which is primary material and which is secondary material?
___ 3. Begin note-taking on cards (4" x 6" cards)
___ 4. Avoid plagiarism
Writing the Paper
___ 1. Develop the final outline; test your outline
___ 2. Prepare to write:
___ a. put your note cards in the order that your outline is in___ b. consider your (real and imagined) readers and how their expectations may affect your tone and style
___ 3. Write the rough draft
___ 4. Check your documentation carefully
___ 5. Revise and rewrite
___ 6. Check the format of the text, citations, notes, and bibliography (most instructors recommend MLA format)
___ 7. Proofread
