Select a topic that is specific with a determined focus. Narrow down the subject matter, taking the questions: why, how and when into consideration. Consider causes and effects, contrasts, comparisons, relationships and solutions. Brainstorm these ideas, formulating them in your mind.
The topic options are limitless but focus on a few sources to narrow down the search. Newspaper and magazine articles provide innumerable current topics. Radio and television newscasts are also a reputable source. When listening to or reading these resources, concentrate on the issues and problems being presented. If a topic interests you, make sure there is enough information available for a research paper of 1,000 to 2,000 words.
Another source for topics is class work you are already familiar with. Decide whether a class topic can be expanded upon with in depth research. Personal interest also makes for fascinating research papers.
State your purpose and develop an outline. The outline is the preliminary work that guides the writing. The working outline should be completed before going to the library or other sources for research. The outline helps you find your way and directs your research. This doesn't mean that you can't change the outline as you go along but it is a guided plan toward the finished paper.
Make sure your outline answers the questions that your research paper needs to answer. It is easier to write the outline if you make a list of the questions your research paper will deal with before you begin. The questions are used as the headings for the outline. When the questions are complete, you are left with the preliminary outline.
The two different types of research sources are primary and secondary. Primary sources are first-hand materials obtained from interviews, surveys or written letters. Secondary sources are second-hand information written after an event takes place.
Secondary sources are dictionaries, encyclopedias, indexes, yearbooks, handbooks, almanacs, biographies, directories, atlases, bibliographies and periodicals. You can find these using the catalog systems at libraries. Secondary sources also include computer Internet searches and computer catalogs. Use all the materials at your disposal for researching your paper.
The introduction sets the tone for the rest of the research paper, states your purpose and reveals your thesis. It prepares readers for the topic they are about to read. The introduction often contains background information and some definitions if you are using any technical terms that are unfamiliar to the general public.
As you write the body of the research paper, make notes on all the sources used and the page numbers. Every source must be mentioned in the bibliography at the end of the paper. Following your outline gives you the paragraph divisions. Stick to the outline and do not wander off the topic. Analyze each paragraph as you write, making sure that everything mentioned supports the topic sentence. Then decide if you need to add more facts or delete unnecessary information.
The conclusion summarizes the important ideas of the paper, leaving the reader satisfied that you proved the thesis statement. The conclusion should reflect back to the introduction. Stating an opinion, decision, resolution or deduction is also included in the conclusion.
Choose a straightforward title, avoiding clichés and silly quips. The title suggests what the topic is and reflects the tone or the paper. Select a title that sticks to the topic and its purpose.
Read over the research paper, making any revisions necessary. Check the content for tone, unity, paragraph structure, sentence structure, word choice, and mechanics. When you are satisfied with the final draft, follow the instructor's guidelines for the final manuscript and retype following the specifications. Gather all the notes on the sources used and develop the bibliography. Add this to the end of the research paper.