Many students find writing a research paper intimidating so they delay this moment. Many people suffer from writer’s block, while others just lack experience. Sometimes, students don’t even know how to start their first paragraph. That’s why experts from writers-house.com decided to write this guide so ере you can approach the writing process prepared.
If you’re not sure that you’re able to produce a good paper, the best solution is to order it. However, you can also learn more about the requirements, choose an interesting topic, research it, and convey your thoughts in the right way. Let’s consider this process in more detail.
How to Start a Research Paper
If you think that you’ll never write a good thesis statement without sacrificing your sleep and sweat, we hope that this guide will help you. You may spend many hours trying to understand what you should write about and how to do it when using obsolete methods and tools. However, if you prepare, everything will get easier.
1. Read your guidelines
Usually, professors provide certain guidelines. Not only should your paper meet the requirements, but you can also get some ideas on what sources to use in these guidelines.
2. Choose a topic
It can also be a difficult task. Your topic should match your interests and be manageable — you should be able to address it using the required number of words. You should also make sure that your topic is approved by the professor.
3. Do your research
You need to support all of your claims with examples and facts, so you have to gather the necessary information about the topic. If you cannot find some information even before searching for it on the internet, talk to your professor and ask for advice. However, don’t forget to visit a library first.
4. Write an outline
Write down the main ideas and decide in which order you will present them. Note what sources you’re going to use to support different claims.
5. Write a thesis statement
This is the most important element not only because it will serve as a basis for the whole paper but also because it will navigate you while writing.
First, brainstorm on your topic and write down several possible theses. Make sure that your hypothesis is clear and logical. All readers will evaluate your work based on this statement, which is a reason why you need to provide all the necessary supporting information.
Try to make your thesis as good as possible. You may also try various thesis statement generators to get some new ideas.
6. You need a perfect introduction
An open clause may be a very difficult part to write. However, you can simplify this task if you prepare, write an outline, and familiarize yourself with the subject. When you have the necessary background information and the thesis statement, you can figure out what a strong hook might look like.
7. Finally, write your paper
Use your notes, write your claims and support them with evidence. Stick with your outline and make sure that everything you write is directly related to the topic and your thesis statement.
8. Citing sources
Mention all the books, articles, media, and online sources that you’ve used when writing your paper and make sure that this section is formatted according to the required citation style.
The Introduction Paragraph
Not only does the whole research paper have a certain standard structure, but also the introduction itself. We recommend that you write your introduction according to the following structure:
- Start by explaining the background of the topic;
- Mention a particular issue related to your topic to narrow it down to your thesis statement;
- At the end of your thesis, present your thesis statement.
Keep in mind that your thesis should reflect both the topic in general and a particular issue that you address in the thesis statement.
A great research paper will be appreciated even by readers who don’t understand some of its aspects. It shouldn’t be confusing or too long. Your readers should understand how the beginning of your work, central part, and conclusion are connected. Don’t forget to explain any terms that may raise questions among your readers.
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