How to write a research paper: 10 steps from topic to final draft
The steps from choosing a topic to handing in a polished research paper, with worked examples of a research question, a thesis and a body paragraph.
Writing guides
Practical guides to research papers, essays, citations and academic writing, grouped by topic.
Research papers
Research paper outline: what goes in each section
A section-by-section guide to outlining a research paper, with a complete sample outline, a template and tips for humanities and science papers.
What is a literature review? Definition, structure and example
What a literature review is, what it is for and how to write one that synthesizes sources, with an original example excerpt and a step-by-step method.
Essay writing
Argumentative essay outline: structure and example
How to outline an argumentative essay, including where the counterargument and rebuttal go, with a full sample outline and a reusable template.
Essay outline: how to plan an essay before you write it
How to outline an essay step by step, with a full sample outline, a fill-in template and the checks that tell you the plan is ready to draft.
Academic writing
What is paraphrasing? How to paraphrase and cite it properly
What paraphrasing is, how it differs from summarizing and quoting, and how to paraphrase a source honestly in five steps, with before-and-after examples.