How to Write an "A" College Paper When You've Been Given the Topic

Writing an "A" paper doesn't have to be a huge ordeal. In fact, the harder you work, the more you impede your progress. Follow these steps to get that "A" paper.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• great idea
• understanding of the topic
• available writing resources (consultants and such)

1. You've just been assigned a paper topic. The professor has set out the basic criteria for you, but, if you haven't found out already, some professors tend to be a bit vague about what they require.
   
   So, the first thing you do is ask for clarification on any issues regarding the following: whether or not you need a cover page, how many pages the paper should be, should the pages be numbered, how sources should be cited, etc.

2. Next, be sure that you are absolutely clear on the topic of the paper.
   
   One thing you will want to try is to restate the topic as you understand it. That gives the professor the opportunity to see if you do understand the topic and what is being asked of you. If you find that your questions about the topic are eating up too much class time, then make an appointment to see your professor and share what you learn with your classmates (they will definitely want to know).

3. I'm not the type of person who writes rough drafts or outlines very often, however, I know that is crucial to the success of some people as they write papers and such.
   
   In that spirit, see if your professor will review any outlines and rough drafts of the paper in order to ensure that you are remaining on topic. This is a good way to make sure that you give the professor the information he or she is seeking.

4. If you have received a paper back from this professor before with less than an A, at least see the professor so that you can find out what you can do to make it better. This shows interest in doing well not only in that particular class but also as a student in general.

5. If the professor is unable, for whatever reason, to help you with early stages of your paper, then seek out the help of your campus academic resource center.
   
   I know, you think that's where people go when they are failing and such, but most students who take advantage of their services have high GPAs. Usually these offices offer tutoring and some sort of writing help. And the help is usually free.

6. If you can't get the help you want/need from the academic resource office, consider finding a tutor who specializes in your subject or in writing. They may be able to offer you more individualized service and things the academic office can't. You may have to pay a little for it, but I think tutors provide a wonderful service and are often overlooked and undervalued.

7. Lastly, see if you can submit your paper early. You will want to finish the paper at least 3 days before it's due. This is to avoid any last minute emergencies such as lost files, empty printer cartridges, broken printers, etc. You know what I mean. Also if you find yourself ill and not able to make it to class, you may be able to drop it off, email the paper, or send it with a classmate so that your assignment is on time.
   
   However, if for some reason you run into a real emergency and may not finish the paper on time, contact your professor immediately to explain the situation and see if alternate arrangements can be made.

8. To review:
   - be sure you understand all of the elements required for the paper, including the topic
   - try to get the professor to review an outline and/or rough draft to ensure you are on the write path
   - get help outside of the classroom from on campus or a tutor/writing consultant

9. Enjoy your A!

Tips & Warnings

• Finish the final paper at least 3 days early.
• Be absolutely sure you understand what is required of you.
• All of the steps above do not take the place of doing due diligence in whatever research is necessary for your topic.
• Do not try to have someone write the paper for you. You want it to reflect your own findings on the subject.
• Don't stress.

Resources

• Writing Consultant and Tutor

[cweis]

on 3/17/2009 Very thorough information! 5 stars!