Overcoming Challenges in Writing

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key components of academic paper writing.
• Choose between MLA and APA styles.
• Describe pre-writing research.
• Demonstrate paper revision steps.

Main Parts of Writing Process:

• Steps may be repeated and not necessarily in order.
• Identify subject, brainstorm ideas.
• Conduct research.
• Discover a thesis statement.
• Create a plan.
• Write the draft.
• Revise, edit, verify citations, proofread, and share with a tutor.

Citation Styles:

• Use MLA or APA format.
• A missing works cited page may lower your grade.
• Include page citations.

Doing Research:

• Plan research.
• Adhere to a schedule.
• Take notes and bookmark sources.

Brainstorming:

• Write down all opinions and questions related to the topic to identify what you know and what you need to find.

Writing Thesis Statement:

• The thesis should contain the driving main idea that reveals patterns and variations behind the evidence to be used.
• It needs to take history into account and help the reader to know what you plan to argue.
• Thesis should contain one idea and be supported by academic sources.
• It should answer the research question or prompts, be clear, and understandable.
• All sentences in the paper must support the thesis.

Revising an Academic Work:

• Get feedback from others.
• Review professor's requirements.
• Outline the draft.
• Ensure each sentence supports the thesis.
• Check each paragraph supports its topic.
• Anticipate reader questions and comments.

Editing Your Paper:

• Read aloud for repetitions and misprints.
• Check spelling and grammar online.
• Ensure proper sentence structure.

Proofreading Your Work:

• Proofread with fresh eyes after a break.
• Contact a tutor.

Time Schedule:

• Research.
• Read notes.
• Outline.
• Write first draft.
• Revise for completeness, conciseness, and clarity.
• Edit and proofread.