A term paper is a major project that allows the student to delve deeply into one topic that the course covers. Term papers require a great deal of the student's time and effort; therefore, the student who writes a well-executed term paper works on the paper throughout the term. Procrastination is the enemy of the well-executed term paper.
A term paper progresses through five stages: choice of topic, research, organization, writing, and editing. First, the student chooses a topic, whether from his or her own ideas or from a list that the teacher has provided. Most importantly, the student must choose a topic narrow enough to cover well; if the topic is too broad, the student will not be able to discuss each aspect of the topic fully.
Second, the student researches the topic. Term papers usually require that students gather and read relevant books and articles, but they also may require that students interview professionals, conduct scientific experiments, or develop and test their own ideas.
Third, the student must organize his or her thoughts and research. If the student writes a detailed outline in this stage, it will significantly increase the ease and coherence of the writing stage. Although academic disciplines vary in their organizational requirements for a term paper, the organization often follows this pattern: introduction, thesis, presentation of evidence or argument, and conclusion.
Fourth, the student writes the term paper. The student, working from the outline, discusses the topic thoroughly. The student must pay attention to grammar and syntax, use of research, argumentation, and flow. If a sentence or paragraph does not make sense, the student must revise it.
Finally, the student edits the term paper. He or she combs the writing for grammatical and rhetorical errors. The student ensures that he or she has properly cited each source and that the format matches the instructor's requirements.
If the student allows plenty of time and works systematically through the five stages, he or she will be able to submit an excellent term paper.
