How to Start Writing a Term Paper
The thought of writing a term paper can be overwhelming, but with the help of guidelines and some planning you can complete the task in an organized way. It is impossible to write your paper before doing research. As you read about your topic, questions and ideas will come to mind. Try to focus on an aspect of the topic that particularly interests you.
Instructions
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Remember that your term paper will present a thesis statement and research to back it up. You must support your statement with facts and arguments. Read widely about your topic and use a variety of resources to support your thesis statement. A primary source is more worthwhile than a secondary source.
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Use the index card method for collecting information. Assign each source (book, magazine, website, etc.) a number, and write the number on the front of the index card. For books, note the name of the book and the author, along with the date and place of publication. Websites should include the specific page, not just the homepage. Take notes from that source on the back of the card. If you have six cards with information from source number two, all six cards will have the number two on the front and you will know that your notes came from that source. Remember to record the page number for the information you collect.
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When you use information in your term paper, be very specific about giving credit where credit is due. If you are using a direct quote, use quotation marks. If you paraphrase ideas, attribute them to the author. Parenthetical citations are used within the text of your paper to attribute a quote or idea to an author.
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After developing a thesis statement and accumulating information to support the thesis, you are ready to organize your term paper. Some people can go directly to an outline at this point, but if you must, create a web of ideas first to suggest an outline. For your outline, include an introduction (which states the thesis and the main ideas of supporting paragraphs), body paragraphs that support the thesis, and a conclusion, which restates the thesis with insights contained in your term paper. The conclusion can also add a broader view and connect the topic to your reader in an interesting way.
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Now you are ready to write. Write your term paper straight through to the end, and then edit for a second draft. You will need several sessions to complete the process.
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Tips & Warnings
Think about your topic after researching and before you start writing. Sometimes the best ideas come when you are relaxed and out for a walk or a drive. Speak to your teacher about your choice of topic and thesis statement before you begin to make sure you are on the right path. You may also want to check in periodically for advice. Use the library, which provides you with a quiet place to research and access a range of reference and research materials. Consult a style sheet or follow your teacher's directions for writing your term paper and citing sources. Before writing a second draft, it is often best to let the paper sit for a couple of days so you can look at it with "fresh eyes."
Avoid plagiarism by attributing quotes, paraphrases and ideas properly. Term papers take time. Be sure to allow enough time for editing and rewrites.
