Straightforward, step-by-step approach offers comprehensive coverage that won't overwhelm students. By presenting the research process as a series of simple steps -- using easy-to-understand explanations, helpful illustrations, and a friendly tone -- Writing Research Papers makes the process easy to navigate and less intimidating for students.
Frequent and substantial student examples offer concrete illustrations of steps in the research process. Four sample student papers from a variety of disciplines are annotated to show both rhetorical features and the use of various documentation styles. (Two use MLA style, one APA style, and one Chicago style.) Throughout the book, the authors refer to these papers and to the student writers' experiences in working on them. Students will relate to the examples of first-time researchers facing -- and solving -- common problems.
Easy-to-use design helps students find the information they need quickly. A practical reference, the book offers uncluttered pages, manageably-sized chapters, color tabs for each part, shaded pages for the MLA and APA documentation sections (in separate colors), and a quick-reference table of contents inside the back cover.
Comprehensive coverage shows students that a successful research project involves more than just collecting information. With the most detailed running examples of students completing the early steps of the research process, Writing Research Papers provides a unique focus on developing and refining the hypothesis -- a powerful tool that guides the search for sources. The book includes an extended example of effective note-taking and detailed treatment of organizing, drafting, revising, and formatting the final paper.
Thorough coverage of documentation provides clear guidance in citing a wide variety of sources. The authors explain in detail how to avoid plagiarism; what constitutes common knowledge; and how to cite print and online sources using MLA, APA, Chicago, and other formats.
An up-to-date appendix of print and online reference sources directs students to reliable starting points for research.