"The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret to getting started is breaking your complex, overwhelming tasks into small, manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one."  Mark Twain.

The typical college student often dreads the research paper. However, researching allows students to make real discoveries and provides them with a deeper understanding of their subject. With computer technology, beginning a research assignment has become easier, and procrastinating makes little sense.

Some students dislike research papers because they believe research stifles their creativity. However, good research papers showcase the writer’s creativity. If a student’s mind is not engaged, the paper will sound as if the student is simply repeating the research of others. A good research paper follows specific guidelines and formatting, but within these constraints, a student can demonstrate his or her creativity by developing a unique thesis based on solid interpretations of the material and by choosing clear, concise, accurate language to express those ideas. Anyone can write a sloppy research paper. Your challenge is to write a successful research paper based on meaningful discoveries and reporting. We recommend following the steps below.

• Develop A Focus
• Go to the Library
• Select Your Material
• Learn How to Take Notes
• Categorize Your Research
• Create a Working Thesis Statement
• Do Not Forego an Outline
• Write Your Paper
• Works Cited