Research Papers

Here is a very basic how-to for writing research papers. Planning is important - it's a step-by-step process that makes writing easier. See your English teacher for more details - these are just very basic steps you cannot skip.

1-develop an idea for a topic - do some reading

2-get index cards, a card file holder, and some category cards

3-get initial references. Write each reference on a separate card in MLA or APA style. Sort alphabetically and place under "references" in your card file

3-make basic categories, including introduction and conclusion, for your card file.

4-read and take notes on cards, noting at the top which source you used, and sorting them by category in your card file

5-begin writing your first draft. You will have all notes in your card file, sorted in sequence, and the sources at your fingertips!