Process of writing a research paper:

Most students undergo the phase of research paper writing. They often get anxious and

nervous which may lead to confusion. Research paper writing can be rewarding in an

academic set up. It is very important because most of the students continue to research all

through their careers. You can become an expert research writer only through practice.

The following can be summarized as the process;

Genre

Selecting a topic

Identifying an audience

Where to start

Genre:

A research paper provides exceptional knowledge to the student in that field. It can be

thought of as a living thing. It grows as the student evaluates, explores and interprets

sources that are related to the topic. There are primary and secondary sources that

nourished the paper. It is not a book or an opinion piece. It requires the writer to

investigate, evaluate and interpret the sources. It is not written as information for the

reader about things that others say regarding a topic. The write is expected to offer

thoughtfully a unique perspective about the issues.

There are two types of genres in writing a research paper. Analytical research paper is

usually in explorative and evaluative styles. The student may offer critical interpretation

of sources all through the paper. The statements are fluid. Argumentative research paper

contains an introduction, where the writer introduces the topic to his audience. The topics

are most often than not controversial and debatable.

Selecting a topic:

The write should be aware that the selection of a good topic forms the foundation of

writing a research paper. Careful selection of a topic that interests the writer is very

vital. There are various methods to choose a topic for your research paper.

Brainstorming is one such way of choosing a topic.

Identifying an audience:

The student should consider the instructor as only one of the member in the audience. It

is commendable if the student is keen that the audience should benefit from his/her

research paper. This will lift the usefulness of the paper itself. After all the objective of

a research paper is to add knowledge to the already existing academic community.

Understanding of the audience will grow with practice.

Where to start:

There are no shortcuts in research paper writing. The student should understands the

topic that he is about to write. He should be skilled in drafting, revising, researching and

outlining. Drafting falls as the last but one stage in the process. The student needs to draft

his paper keeping in mind his thesis statement. Proofreading is a very important step.

Editing or proofreading should be done at the final stage. The student should correct

minor errors in typography, punctuation, consistency of voice and tone and spelling.

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