By following this process, he or
she whom is writing a research paper should find valuable information that
directly relates to a topic that the writer finds intriguing. Databases are
essential to finding valuable sources that provide information which, along
with the writer’s opinion, can become the backbone of any type of research
paper.
1.
Choose
three possible topics
Select topics or subject that I don’t know
enough about.
2.
Preliminary
research
Start simple research to frame the topics
& point you in the right direction.
3.
Write a
thesis for all three
Find your stance on the possible topics.
4.
Choose
best out of all three
Choose the topic that you find yourself
most passionate about. Make sure you aren’t writing a paper about something you
don’t believe in, this will lead to very poor quality research and voice.
5.
Dig
deeper
Search databases for primary
sources—original records created during its time period; i.e. a picture—and
secondary sources—an analysis or evaluation of primary source information,
after the event.
6.
Create an
outline
Map out the basics of the paper and what
sources will be used.
7.
Expand
research
Continue research to find extra details
that could prove valuable to this paper.
8.
Write a paper
While entwining the information
gathered in the previous steps, make sure the bulk of this paper includes your
voice!
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, SITE YOUR SOURCES!
Geisel. "What is a primary source." Youtube. 21 May 2008
Price, P. "Researching Online for College Students: Five Easy Steps." Youtube. 4 April 2008.
