How to Research a Paper
Got a big research paper? It’s not nearly as daunting if you break it down into steps.
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Hit the books more effectively -- and get more A's -- with these study tips.
You Will Need
- Good Library
- Notebook
- Internet Access
- Expert to Interview
Steps
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Step 1
Decide your objective
Spend some time thinking about what you want your paper to accomplish. Do you want it to prove your viewpoint? Explain a topic? You’ll want to have a clear focus before you begin your research.
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Step 2
List key words
Make a list of key words that will be helpful in locating information when you conduct online and offline searches.
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Step 3
Go to the library
Go to the library. Yeah, we know—you think you can find everything you need with your laptop. But to get an actual book on a topic, plus find academic papers, journals, and other subscriber-only materials, you’ll need to head to a library.
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If your library doesn’t have a book you need, ask the librarian to borrow it from another branch.
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Step 4
Check library indexes
Use the library’s indexes to find articles in periodicals, like trade journals and magazines. They’ll contain the very latest information on your subject.
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Note your sources carefully as you go along to make the bibliography easier—and to prevent plagiarism!
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Step 5
Go online
Okay, now you can do some online research by plugging in those key words you listed at the start. Only take information from reputable sites and organizations.
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Consider interviewing an expert in the field you’re researching. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your professor.
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Step 6
Find statistics
While you’re researching the facts, don’t forget the figures. Find useful statistics.
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Helpful search words for stats include 'percent of,' 'Census Bureau,' and 'survey results.'
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Step 7
Don't forget the videos
Don’t forget the videos. See if there are any documentaries on your topic.
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Step 8
Start writing
Organize your research, mull it over, and then start writing!
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Did you know? One study found that students who frequently used the library got higher ACT scores and performed better on reading and writing exams.
