1. Getting Started Writing Center

2. Find Your Style Learn what methods of writing work for you Write all your thoughts down until you reach a topic Brainstorm Concept mapping Write a focus first and organize Research to find a focus that interests you

3. Before you write Know what is being asked of you Read instructions Know the format Choose your topic Find a topic that interests you within the confines of your requirements

4. Focus Write your focus statement This will include your topic and the subtopics in the order you will address them This should be a clear, concise sentence Your reader should be able to tell what the paper will be covering from this sentence

5. Organization Write an outline It does not have to be a formal outline, but write it down Keep the subtopics in the same order as the focus statement Plug in your research information into the appropriate area into the outline Remember to use transitions between each section

6. Research Gather your information Be sure you have enough information to support your claim Make sure you fully understand the topic before writing Know how many sources your instructor requires for this paper Only use scholarly sources in formal academic writing Textbook Peer-reviewed articles Websites that end in.gov Do not Google your topic – use the library database or Google Scholar