How to Write a Research Paper: Lesson One

New Year, New Format!

Each week, PowerPapers will present a three-part series of lessons designed to assist students in typical writing, research, editing, and related academic tasks. We begin with the research paper.

How to Write a Research Paper: Lesson One

The learning experiences for college and universities will require students to know how to write a research paper. Unlike high school, undergraduate education will demand that a student perform this task with a greater depth and breadth of knowledge for the academic subject. The first task required in demonstrating that you know how to write a research paper will be choosing a topic. Depending on the class subject, you may have some leeway in deciding what topic to cover. Start by listing all the broad areas of interest to you and then consult with your professor to narrow the list and define the specific areas to present.

Once a topic is chosen you can begin your preliminary research with a general Internet search. The important step here in the process of writing a research paper is to pay attention to the domain extensions. Research that comes from sites that end in .com, .biz, .info, and such are considered commercial sites and will not be highly regarded as reliable sources for college and university level research papers. If you are unsure how to proceed at this step, a professional writing service can provide the guidance you may need to complete a successful writing assignment.