How to Write a Research Paper: From Topic Selection to Citations

Introduction

Research papers are a cornerstone of academic study. This guide will walk you through the entire process.

Choosing a Topic

Pick a topic that is:

• Interesting to you
• Narrow enough to cover in your paper
• Has enough available sources
• Approved by your instructor

Conducting Research

Primary vs. Secondary Sources

• Primary: Original documents, data, interviews
• Secondary: Analysis and interpretation of primary sources

Evaluating Sources

Check for:

• Author credentials
• Publication date
• Bias and objectivity
• Peer review status

Creating an Outline

Organize your paper:

1. Introduction with thesis
2. Literature review (if required)
3. Body sections with evidence
4. Discussion/analysis
5. Conclusion
6. References

Writing the First Draft

• Don't aim for perfection
• Focus on getting ideas down
• Leave citations for later
• Write the introduction last

Citing Your Sources

Common citation styles:

• APA (social sciences)
• MLA (humanities)
• Chicago (history)
• Harvard (various)

Use citation tools to help format correctly.

Editing and Revising

• Check for clarity and flow
• Verify all facts and quotes
• Proofread for grammar and spelling
• Get someone else to review

Conclusion

Writing a research paper is a process that improves with practice. Follow these steps, and you'll produce quality academic work.