#starlight posts

hello all! i have written quite a few research papers during my time in university, and these are some of the tips and tricks i’ve used while writing! (disclaimer: these are from the perspective of a history and spanish major so the process may be different for other majors and of course everyone is different! this is just what helps me)

1. spend time at the library

this is the most important tip in this post, hence its spot as number 1. not only is it great to spend time writing in the library to help you focus, but there are countless resources at your university’s library that will help you write the paper. depending on your university, you may have archives, an extensive array of books on the subject, and staff members specifically hired to help students do research. take advantage of these resources!

2. write an outline

having an outline is immensely helpful while writing a research paper. it helps you organize your thoughts and write more cohesively, especially when the paper is 8+ pages long. another important part of outlines is coming up with a clear thesis before you start writing so research is guided by a main point. 

3. go to your professor’s office hours

going to office hours can be helpful in multiple ways. your prof can help you identify a topic, can read over a rough draft, and give you research tips. as professors, they have done research themselves and can help point you in the right direction. plus, professors love when students visit their office hours because a majority of their students don’t, so your professor will appreciate it!

4. give yourself time to revise a rough draft

including myself, we have all procrastinated. the last couple years of school have been really hard, so don’t blame yourself if you find yourself behind on your work. but, if you can, writing a rough draft ahead of time and working on the paper throughout the semester can make the final product so much better! try to find a friend (or your professor!^) to read the rough draft to get multiple eyes on the paper. some professors will even require that you submit a rough draft for the class.

5. do research at an archive

✽ nov. 9 2022 ✽