Knowing how to write a well-written paper is essential for all students at Trident Technical College, regardless of your chosen major.
Finding a process makes the assignment less complicated. Writing an essay or a paper is not simply the compilation of paragraphs on a single topic. In a manner of speaking, there is a method to the madness of writing. Finding a formula that works for you is essential in writing a good paper. For example, a love song doesn’t just go on and on about love. It has verses, a chorus, vamp/bridge, and a closing. “How” the song is written on the topic of love is just as important as the words in the song. The same is true for a writing assignment. The “how” is just as important as the words. Consider the following steps when writing a paper:
Brainstorm
Find an area that is suitable for brainstorming and begin by taking notes. Do not allow distractions to interrupt your process or cause a writer’s block.
Search & Find a Topic
Research the topic thoroughly. Even if the subject is easy, always verify the information with a reliable source to confirm the accuracy of the information you plan on including in your paper.
List It!
Make a list of points to present in the paper. Start with several ideas about the topic, highlighting facts, ideas, etc.
Pick n Choose
Choose 3-4 perspectives/points that will have the most impact on the paper. The length of the paper will be determined by the requirements your instructor assigns.
Thesis a Thesis
Create a thesis statement that includes the perspectives/points. Be sure to keep this statement to one sentence. A thesis statement may sound similar to this:
“Water has the ability to maintain temperature, transport intercellular activity, and aid in the homeostasis process of organisms.”
Get it, Write!
The opening statement of the first paragraph allows the reader to warm up to your topic. The first paragraph includes the thesis statement as the final sentence in the paragraph.
Meat n Cheese
The paragraphs that follow the introductory or first paragraph can be considered the “meat and cheese”, because it is the bulk of the paper.
Elaborate on the points that are made in the thesis statement in the order listed with one or two paragraphs each. Interject findings from the research and be sure to include the proper citation and sources.
Wrapping it Up
You should creatively restate your thesis statement in the final paragraph. Do not introduce any new ideas. The conclusion should end the final paragraph.
Clean & Proof
Check the document for grammatical and spelling errors. Little mistakes can add up to big deductions and cause a good paper to appear poorly written. Make all corrections for a polished paper.
Out of Order
Read the paper out of sequential order. Reading the paper out of the order that it is written will further reduce mistakes not found in the proofing stage.
Name and Send
The title should be appropriate for the paper. An interesting title draws the reader into what they are about to read.
Congratulations, You’re Done!
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