Research papers can seem overwhelming, but attacking them step by step makes them approachable.
While research papers are among the most dreaded school assignments, a methodical, step-by-step approach makes the process bearable. Each step in the process must be completed; more importantly, writers must always be ready to return to a previous step. Writing is a recursive process, which means it is often necessary to re-research, re-draft or rewrite. Not taking the time to backtrack will result in future steps taking longer.
Planning
To determine a research topic that is neither too general nor too specific, it is best to start with a cluster diagram or an idea web. The topic of the paper should have a reasonable number of subtopics on the web: enough to cover the assigned paper length, but not so many that a complete essay would be double the target length. The planning process ends with drafting a thesis statement. While the thesis will be revised after research is complete, this provides a starting point for the research.
Questioning
When the thesis is looked at from a reader's perspective, questions will arise. A researcher takes on the role of a skeptic, and lists all the major questions that must be answered to prove the truth of the preliminary thesis. These questions are the subtopics to be researched; numbering them will simplify the prewriting step.
Researching
While researching, each source should be listed and coded with a letter for tracking. Each note card will then be coded with the both the information source and the subtopic. The best practice for recording information is including an exact quote from the source and a paraphrase, to avoid both plagiarism and misunderstanding quotes taken out of context.
Pre-Writing
Pre-writing begins with sorting out note cards. Cards are broken out by subtopic, and subtopics put into the most logical order. Then, cards within each subtopic pile are put in a logical order for writing. Cards with information that is duplicative of other cards or no longer relevant can be set aside. Gaps in the information are noted and re-researched.
Writing
The most efficient way to write a research paper is to begin with the body. Once the body is complete, the thesis should be revisited, to make sure the information reported still supports it. Once all the information is in place, it will be clear what information needs to be introduced in the introduction and summarized in the conclusion.
Revising and Editing
Writing should never be revised immediately after it has been written; any assignment should rest for a minimum of 24 hours, preferably more. The best revision also allows a second person to read and comment. Revision is an attempt to "re-see" the paper, to find any remaining gaps in logic or information. This is distinct from editing, which involves finding and correcting errors in grammar, spelling and mechanics.
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