Writing The Research Paper: A Step-By-Step Approach

This is the book I'd want with me on a desert island – if I had to write a research paper while I was there. This wonderfully comprehensive and helpful worktext takes you step by step through the entire process – a scary one if it's your first time, through. Each of the ten steps is thoroughly covered and includes instruction, examples and exercises. For instance, in Step 3 (Take Notes) there is instruction on creating a working outline, avoiding plagiarism, taking notes, and three kinds of notes (direct quotations, paraphrases, summaries). Examples are included for each along with fourteen different exercises to practice skills. The Ten Steps will sound familiar: choose a topic, locate sources, take notes, write a thesis statement and a title, write a final outline, write a first draft, document sources, revise the draft, find and correct errors, and publish your research. Each step is introduced with a cartoon and concluded with a checklist. Timetables (for 10, 8, 6, and 4 week deadlines) provide time for each step broken down into days and weeks. Appendices include: what every research paper writer needs, writing across the curriculum and APA style. One of the great features of this book is the e-writing options – interactive online tutorials and YouTube referrals. The Teacher Guide provides both answers and helpful guidance for the teacher/writing mentor role. Student – 192 pgs; TG – 42 pgs; both pb. ~ Janice