1. Advice and templates to help you write
The Argumentative research paper

2. Maintain a formal style.
Do not use “you” in any form.
Use “I” sparingly, only when you need to distinguish your opinion from someone else’s.
Do not use slang expressions.
Do not use general words like “good”, “bad”, or “thing.”
Do not rely on “This” to explain your points.

3. Use transitions effectively.

4. Use transitions effectively

5. Cite the texts and integrate quotations correctly.
Use one of these templates, to introduce an idea that you are paraphrasing
or a statement that you are directly quoting. Cite the text in parenthesis.
To summarize, X argues ___________(Text 3).
X urges us to _____________(Text 2).
X states, “…_ (Text 2).
According to X, “____” (Text 4).
X agrees when she/he writes, “______________” (Text 3).
In her editorial/his essay, X maintains that, “_____” (Text 4).

6. Explain direct quotations
Use one of the following templates after a direct quotation to reveal your understanding of the quotation and to help you explain how it helps you to defend your position/claim:
Basically, X is saying ___________.
In other words, X believes _____________.
In making this comment, X urges us to ________________.
X’s point is that ________________.

9. Proofreading checklist
No fragments, run-ons, or comma splices.
Check for missing apostrophes and commas, especially in the following cases
Insert comma after introductory phrases
Insert a comma when you us a dependent clause to begin a sentence.
Insert a comma before using a FANBOY to join two independent clauses
Be careful to use correct capitalization.
Italicize title of novel. Wrap title of articles in quotations marks.
Use correct diction:
Definitely vs. defiantly
Here, hear
Their, there, they’re