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Steps to writing a paper (NEW): 1. Get started +

Students often stress about writing research papers, associating them with the daunting task of finding books and articles. However, breaking the writing process into manageable steps can simplify the task.

This guide presents eight steps to assist your writing process. Feel free to adapt or reorder them as needed to suit your research approach.

What is a research paper?

A research paper analyzes a perspective and/or argues a point. When finished, a research paper should present your own thinking (interpretation or analysis) backed up by information and ideas from others.

A research paper is differs from an essay in that an essay emphasizes the writer's own ideas and perspectives, instead of relying on the ideas and information from other sources.

What are the traits of a research paper?

In general, research papers have:
  • Short and focused thesis statements.
  • Credible sources (e.g. scholary or peer reviewed articles, books, interviews, etcetera).
  • Well organized arguments and main points, which are supported by facts and examples.
  • Opposing viewpoints that presented and refuted, showing why the writer's claim is more valid
  • Properly cited sources with both in-text citations and reference page citations

What are some assignment details I should know?

  • Topic guidelines (what you can or cannot write about)
  • Paper length (minimum page or word count)
  • Required citation style (APA, MLA)
  • Types of sources required or allowed to use (articles, books, websites, blogs, etcetera)
  • Number of sources required
  • Due date of the assignment
  • Are there different due dates for different parts of the assignment (outline due date, rough draft due date, final draft due date)

Take some time to carefully read the directions for your assignment in the class syllabus or in your Canvas modules before diving in. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructor for clarification.

You can also reach out to your classmates or visit the Student Success Center if you need additional help understanding the assignment.

Are you writing an argumentative or review style research paper? Know the difference.

"Writing Research Papers Part 2" by Dalhousie Libraries , Dalhousie University is licensed under CC BY 3.0