Verify that you absolutely understand what your professor wants and expects before you start. Byrne attests: "Make certain you have a very clear grasp of the topic you're expected to write about, the length (words/pages) requirement, and writing style needed."
Distinguish your opinions from those of your research. While a college paper may pass simply by regurgitating the beliefs found in research, professors expect grad school papers to demonstrate a plethora of critical thinking, each paper boasting a complex and original thesis.
State your thesis early on. At the latest, state your thesis by the end of your first page. Inform the reader as soon as possible why you're writing and your position on a given subject.
Find out the publication guidelines that your professors accept or expect, be it MLA, Chicago, APA or another. Follow the guidelines closely when citing or referring to original work or research.
Quote other sources correctly. Instead of using them as a crutch, as an undergraduate might, a grad school paper should include quotes in such a way that they enhance the paper. Always identify the person quoted with his or her qualifications and always maintain your opinion in response to the quote.
Define all potentially unknown or nebulous terminology. Though complex, a grad paper should be highly readable and easy to follow. Identify all terms and technical jargon in plain English.
Write a conclusion which summarizes your ideas in a new way. You must recap your arguments to remind the reader, especially if this is a long paper. However, you want to do so in a manner that does not sound like you are repeating yourself.