1. Deciding on a topic:

~ Choose a subject that interests you.

~ Choose a subject that has plenty of information available about it.

~ Choose a subject that the professor approves of.

2. Finding information:

~ Make sure that the information comes from a source that is valid and reputable.

~ Gather as many sources that you need in order to meet the criteria and fulfill the assignment.

3. Scanning and evaluating the information:

~ Look at the introductions and conclusions of the sources.

~ Does the source provide the correct kind of information?

~ Does the source provide enough information about the topic?

4. Stating a specific thesis:

~ What is your main point?

~ Who is your target audience?

~ What are you trying to accomplish by writing this paper?

5. Creating an outline:

~ What are the major and minor points of the topic?

~ What is the order or steps that the subject should take?

6. Organizing your notes:

~ Decide what is the most important information in the sources that you gathered.

~ Decide what sequence the information should be in.

7. Beginning the writing process:

~ Write a clear and compelling introductory sentence and paragraph.

~ Continue to write paragraphs that back up and support your introduction.

~ The information that you include should lead to a comprehensible and logical conclusion.

8. Writing an abstract:

~ The abstract is a condensed version of the information provided in the paper.

~ The abstract is normally one full paragraph in length.

9. Avoid using direct quotes, paraphrase as much as possible:

~ Professors prefer paraphrasing over direct quotes.

~ By paraphrasing, it allows you to think through and more fully understand the subject.

~ The fewer direct quotes that your paper has, the more the paper is your own work.

10. Proofreading, editing, and revising:

~ Read and re-read the entire manuscript.

~ Correct all spelling, punctuation, grammar, and sentence structure.

~ Check the continuity and flow of the paper.

11. Handling the stress of deadlines:

~ Begin the project immediately.

~ Pace yourself according to how much time you have to complete the assignment.

~ Make an effort to take time to work on it everyday.