Research Papers: A Step-by-Step List

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Writing Research Papers: A Step-by-Step Procedure

Brought to you by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab

For more information about writing research papers, see our overview page on this subject. For extensive documentation covering all aspects of the research process in detail, see our new handbook-style workshop on research papers.

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 or APA format)

___ 7. Proofread

Most of this format is based on the process described by James D. Lester in Writing Research Papers: A Complete Guide, 2nd ed. (1971; rpt. Glenview, Illinois: Scott, Foresman, 1976).

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