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How to Write a Paper

How to Write a Paper

1. Determine your topic.

Select a topic that is broad enough so that you will find information, but focused enough to keep things under control. Pick a topic that interests you so that you’re motivated to write about it.

The question What makes me curious? with the word me in blue text.
An image displaying the text feeling strongly not equal to being curious.
A scattering of question marks in black, grey, and blue.
Text explaining how to find a gap in research by looking for something new or different.

Get Curious

Avoid Strong Opinions

Ask Questions

Find Gaps

2. Analyze the assignment

What exactly are you being asked to do? Are you writing a basic research report, or something more complex, such as an argumentative essay?

Learn about the different types of writing assignments.

3. Prepare an outline or diagram of your ideas

Put your ideas on paper to help you get organized. You might prefer a more logical structure like an outline, or a more free-flowing diagram like a mind map.

4. Write your thesis statement

Your thesis statement tells the reader what your paper is about. It’s the main point of the paper and is typically found at the end of the introduction.

 

Text defining a thesis statement as your point, the thing you're trying to prove, or your main claim.
Text reading provable and true separated by a red crossed-out airplane symbol.
A diagram labeled good thesis statement divides the concept into main claim and organization of argument.
A diagram labeled good thesis statement divides the concept into main claim and organization of argument.

Debatable

Provable

Educational

The Mechanics

Example of a Thesis Statement

An example of a thesis statement is, “E-cigarettes are a safer alternative to smoking.” For a thesis to be effective, it needs to be debatable. For example, “Smoking is harmful to your health” is not a good thesis statement because science has long proven that smoking is harmful. However, “E-cigarettes are a safer alternative to smoking,” is a debatable claim because the science isn’t settled on e-cigarettes. Check out the video playlist below for more information about writing effective thesis statements.

5. Do the research

Research can seem intimidating sometimes, but like many things, it is a learned skill that will get easier with practice. Visit the Bryan Library to get started.

6. Be careful not to plagiarize

Plagiarism can be confusing. Follow our Plagiarism Guide to make sure that you don’t plagiarize accidentally.

7. Write the body

For the body of your paper, write the main points, write the sub-points, and then elaborate on the sub-points.

A list of six basic elements: introduction, context, definitions, subclaims and evidence, refutation, and conclusion.
The text who is your audience is above three black silhouette icons of people.
The image defines context as basic background information that helps readers understand your argument and why it matters.
A diagram showing building blocks of a research paper including subclaims and evidence.

Beyond 5 Paragraphs

Audience

Context

Subclaims

8. Write the introduction and conclusion

The introduction is the first section of your paper. It should attract the reader’s attention while introducing them to the essay’s focus. The conclusion summarizes your points and completes your essay.

An infographic explains that introductions should capture interest, show why readers care, and state the main claim.
Bold text conclusion appears above italic text reiterate the strongest points of your argument.

Introduction

Conclusion

9. Revise and add finishing touches

Check the organization and formatting of your paper. Proofread and use a spell-check/grammar check before turning it in.

Global Revision logo with a globe icon, the text the big stuff, and red lightbulb and list icons.
Graphic showing an essay structure with parts labeled introduction, context, definitions, subclaims, refutation, and concl...
Diagram showing a scale from weakest to strongest with numbered red bars.
Scissors next to a document with the text My paper.

Global Revision

Basic Ideas

Organization

Cutting

Local Revision logo featuring a map pin icon and the text the small stuff paragraphs and sentences.
Slide asking if each paragraph makes a clear point and connects to a subclaim.
Red arrows point at passive voice text showing it adds extra words and weakens sentences.
A vertical list of the words therefore, although, as a result, and nevertheless.

Local Revision

Paragraphs

Sentences

Words

Graphic stating citation styles govern every formatting aspect like margins, paragraphs, and citations.
Three documents with grey and red lines, featuring red circles highlighting specific sections.
An infographic displaying a checklist and alarm clock with the phrase it's finished when in the center.
The ProQuest Research Companion logo featuring overlapping orange and teal arrows.

Formatting

Why Revise?

When Are You Done?

All video content retrieved from the ProQuest Research Companion

10. Check your citations and reference list

Visit the APA Style Write & Cite Guide for details on how to cite.

11. Reflection

After you’ve submitted your paper, think back on what worked well, what you learned, and what you might do differently next time.

A surprised student holding books stands next to a paper graded with an A plus.
Illustration of a person holding a clipboard with text reading positive comments highlight the things you should do more of.
A diagram asks why people procrastinate and shows a worried woman labeled anxiety.
Text reading stuff I did beside a blue circle containing text reading stuff I can do better.

Final Product

Final Product (cont.)

Your Process

Your Process (cont.)