Tips on writing a research/formal paper:
This is not meant to be a comprehensive guide on writing a formal paper for my class. Be sure and refer to a standard research
paper guide. HOWEVER, the standards below will supersede any other guide.
- Presentation is everything. If you submit a paper that LOOKS bad, don't expect a good grade.
- Staple or permanently affix pages (no dog eared). Do NOT use paperclips.
- Your font MUST be 10 characters per inch (cpi). This is NOT font size (for example, 10-points). Your best bet is to try
"Courier." To be sure, take out a ruler and count the charters in a typical inch. Make sure the font you use is not proportional.
It should have a ragged right edge.
- Avoid typos. I'll take off ten points for EACH one. Computer spell checkers are NOT perfect.
- It needs to be written in a formal style. Street talk, sloppy grammar, etc. is unacceptable.
- Number your pages. (the first page is generally NOT numbered)
- The margins should be one inch on all sides.
- Don't ask me "how many pages should it be." Although I may give you a general guide, quality is always important!
Sources:
- Anytime you use quotation marks, chances are it needs to be cited.
- Don't quote the textbook used in the class. I don't care if you refer to the text, just don't cite it or put it in the bibliography!
- AVOID THE INTERNET. Do something unique...go to the library!
These could make your paper interesting:
- Illustrations
- An appendix with additional material not appropriate for the paper
Writing:
- Use active voice (not passive). Example: "The man hit the ball." (Active). "The ball was hit by the man" (passive).
- Don't mix first, second or third person. Keep it consistent. Ex: "I ..."
followed later by "You..." then "They..."
Avoid:
- Jargon
- Imprecise words or phrases
- Writing in second person ("you")
- Avoid clichés and idioms.
- his/her
- Handwriting.
Avoid wordiness:
- Replace "had no existence at all" with: "did not exist"
- Replace "found their emergence" with "emerged"
- Replace "A man by the name of John Smith..." with: "John Smith..."
Content:
- For an "A," do original research. If you rely on books, magazines, the Internet (ycch!), etc., your grade will be no better than a
"C".
Some additional helps:
Purdue University: Online Writing Lab:
Dr. David Spiceland
Appalachian State University