Research Paper Guidelines

Research Paper Guidelines

One paragraph paper proposal due: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5th
→ Make sure to formulate the proposal in the form of a question

Bibliography due: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13th

Final Paper due: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20th

This research assignment asks you to:
a) Pose a question worth exploring
b) Read widely in search of possible answers
c) Draw your own conclusions based on a rational assessment of the evidence (your thesis)

Follow a good search strategy. Start with a source that gives you an overview of your subject, such as encyclopedias or textbooks (although you cannot use it as a source in your bibliography) then move on to a source that will supply you with more specialized information, such as books and scholarly articles.

As you read through your sources, take notes systematically.
Record the author's name, the title and the page where information that will not in any way pertain to your research. Be selective! You should only gather information that you will be able to use as evidence to support your thesis. Just because you read something, it does not mean that it automatically belongs in your paper. At all cost, avoid the temptation to go beyond your theme, or you may end up back at the broad topic with which you started.

Keep in mind that your paper has a theme! Everything that you include should evolve around the theme.

Last piece of your research is your outline.
At this point you have finished your research. Now it is time to organize all the information in a logical way. Re-read your notes. Get rid of unnecessary, redundant information. Create a detailed timeline.

Now you can start writing your research paper!
Follow your outline closely. Traditional format is required. (Introduction, body, conclusion) Refer to the attached sheet on how to properly use citations.

Just when you think you are finished, think again! PROOFREAD! PROOFREAD! PROOFREAD!
Do not rely on spell check alone. Read your paper out loud. Correct spelling and grammar mistakes, but most importantly make sure it makes sense. Have a friend or a family member read it as well. If it doesn't make sense to you, chances are the reader will be just as confused.

You are free to choose any topic within the scope of 18th century U.S. history. Since it is a research paper you are required to use at least 4-5 sources for your bibliography. Only ONE internet source is permitted. Follow a proper format for in-text citations and works cited.
The length of the paper should be anywhere between 4-5 pages, not including the bibliography.
It should be typed and double-spaced using standard margins and font.
If you have any questions, come see me in my office in room 2032.