GETTING STARTED How to begin writing research papers
GETTING STARTED How to begin writing research papers.
What is the assignment asking for? �Before you begin, first consult your instructor’s assignment description. �What type of paper are they looking for you to write? �How large in scope is the paper? �How long does the paper need to be? �How many sources are required?
What format is required? �Typically, academic papers composed at GSU are in APA or MLA style. �Though similar, there some distinct differences in how these papers are formatted. �The writing center’s website has helpful resources for both APA, and MLA style papers. �Visit govst. edu/owl and click the documentation styles side tab for more tools.
Focus statement �Perhaps the most important aspect of a paper is your focus/thesis statement. �What is your central focus, point, or purpose for writing this paper? �What is it that you hope to accomplish by writing this paper? �Your focus statement should encapsulate all your paper seeks to do in 1 or 2 sentences in your introduction.
What makes a good focus statement? �Is this something that can be proved, or argued effectively? �Is there sufficient interest in the academic community to still write about it? �Put another way, is your topic still relevant? �Is their sufficient secondary research to support your claim?
Researching your topic �After you have chosen a solid topic, and constructed a good focus statement, it is time to research! �Make sure your sources are credible and avoid using sources that are not peer reviewed such as Google search results, and Wikipedia. �Books and database journal articles are the best.
Where to go for research �Governors State’s library has many resources for you beyond print books. �Research librarians are here to help! �http: //libguides. govst. edu/index. php �A vast collection of academic journals are available through our databases �http: //libguides. govst. edu/databases
Research tips �Collect more sources than required so you more to choose from. �Read abstracts of articles to see if this piece will be relevant to your work before your read the entire piece. �Search a wide variety of databases and books, and keep an open mind about your topic, your focus statement, may change greatly based on the research your find.
Writing Strategies �Give yourself plenty of time to complete your work. �Write a little bit every day, and set attainable goals so you don’t get overwhelmed. �Set aside specific time to focus in on your research, and your writing.
Outlining �Another good method to keep you on track, and to brainstorm ideas is to form an outline. �Outlines do not need to be formal, it can be a simple concept map to help you form ideas on where you might go with your writing.
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