Simple Tips on How to Write a College Research Paper
Students are taught the elements of a research paper from a young age, since this type of writing assignment is likely to appear multiple times each school year. The good news is that all the practice makes these writing assignments easy once you know what you are doing. Keep reading to learn some tips on how to write a college research paper the easy way.
#1: Choose the Right Topic
The right topic for your writing assignment will be interesting, specific, and will fit within the assignment requirements. Have a short brainstorming session where you list several topics. Then, choose the best 2-3 and conduct preliminary research. Choose the one that interests you the most and has available information. Use the information you have found to broaden or narrow your topic of focus to fit within the assignment guidelines.
As you take the above steps, remember that your topic should be one that interests you. This will stop procrastination and make it so you can enjoy working on your assignment.
#2: Break Your Assignment into Parts
The reason that college students often find themselves scrambling before their writing assignment is due is because they fail to plan. Instead of looking at the due date as a looming deadline far off in the distance, break up your assignment into parts. Set individual deadlines for finding the information for your writing assignment, composing the outline, writing the rough draft, and finishing the assignment. Remember to give yourself leeway for emergencies. Otherwise, hold yourself accountable for completing the different parts on the deadlines you have given yourself.
#3: Don’t Burn Yourself Out
It can be easy to become too immersed in your paper. Instead of working on your writing assignment for hours on end, remember to take breaks. Stretch and get a drink after an hour of work. If you are worried about not coming back, set an alarm and give yourself a break for a set amount of time. Taking breaks will keep your mind fresh and your writing at its highest potential.
#4: Proofread in Two Steps
Proofreading sentence style and ideas uses the right side of the brain, while checking for spelling, grammar, and other errors uses the left. To keep your brain from switching back and forth and becoming confused, complete proofreading in two steps. Focus on your ideas and readability first, then proofread for errors.
The above tips should guide you through any research writing assignment. As you write, remember to keep these in mind to make the entire process easier and more enjoyable.