MHS Research Guide

Instructions for Writing Research Papers
Parts of the Research Paper
1.  Title

2.  Outline

3.  Text of the Paper

4.  List of Works Cited
Preparation of the Research Paper
A research paper (sometimes called a library or term paper) is usually a formal, well-documented composition based on outside readings or a combination of original research supported by outside readings.  The usual steps in writing a research paper are as follows:

1.  selecting and limiting the topic;

2.  collecting a working bibliography on 3 x 5 cards;

3.  preparing a tentative outline of major points to be covered;

4.  formulating a thesis;

5.  spotting and evaluating useful passages and taking notes;

6.  writing a detailed, revised outline;

7.  writing the rough draft using in-text documentation;

8.  revising the content, structure, and mechanics of the paper;

9.  preparing the list of works cited.
Preparing the Research Paper for Final Presentation
  1. Format
  2. Title Page
  3. Pagination
  4. Incorporation of Quotations
  5. Tenses