Steps to Writing the High School Research Paper

I.            Select an appropriate topic approved by your teacher.
II.          Locate information on your topic in the library.
III.        Skim magazine and journal articles, chapters in books, outlines of books, articles in reference
               books.  (If your topic can be located in an encyclopedia, begin with the encyclopedia.)
IV .        Prepare bibliography (source) cards using index cards (preferably 4" x 6") using the
               samples provided.  Follow the MLA  or APA guide (consult your teacher).
V .         Select your best sources from which to take your notes.
VI.        Prepare a "working" or tentative outline ( i.e. one subject to many changes.)  The outline may be
              a topical or a sentence outline.
VII.      Prepare notes on note cards using the samples provided.  Remember:  the topic on each card
              should match a topic on the outline.
VIII.    Revise your outline.  Topical points may be rewritten as complete sentences.   
IX.        Write a thesis sentence to control the focus of your paper.
X.          Write the first draft of your paper following the outline closely.  Remember to give credit to
               your sources using the MLA or APA guide.
XI.        Proofread and edit the rough draft.
XII.      Write the final draft and type in according to teacher's specifications.

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Steps to Writing the High Schools Research Paper

West Port High School