Get Better At Writing Academically | St. Raymond Academy
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Get Better At Writing Academically | St. Raymond Academy
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Academic writing is one of the most important skills you will use in college and in your future career. Good writing helps you show your knowledge, present your ideas clearly, and build strong arguments. It also shows respect for your reader because it makes your message easy to follow. Many students, especially those who speak English as a second language, find academic writing difficult at first. The rules may feel strict, and the style may seem different from everyday speaking or writing online.
This guide create by
AssignmentGeek writers
together with the staff of St. Raymond Academy will give you step by step help to improve your writing. You will learn how to understand assignments, plan and organize ideas, use sources correctly, and check grammar and style. Each section includes examples so you can see what works and what does not. The goal is not just to finish one paper but to build habits that will help you write better in all classes.
Clear academic writing is more than grammar. It includes thinking carefully, asking questions, and supporting your points with evidence. By practicing these skills, you will become more confident and independent as a student. Good writing will also prepare you for jobs where reports, proposals, and professional communication are required.
Keep this guide with you as you study. Use it when you start a new assignment, when you draft your paper, and when you make your final edits. Improvement takes time, but each paper you write is a chance to grow. With patience and practice, academic writing will become a tool that helps you succeed.
What is an academic paper?
An academic paper is a factual essay that draws on previously published material to support its numerous claims. These essays frequently focus on an issue within the student’s field of study to gauge their ability to apply learned concepts to a specific challenge.
Unlike blogs, academic papers have a set format with chapters that each contribute to the analysis of a particular topic.
What is academic research?
Academic research is the term used to describe the methods used to investigate to verify a hypothesis. Depending on your topic of study, this research could be qualitative or quantitative. Academic research is common in master’s theses and doctoral dissertations.
Types of academic papers
Throughout your studies, you may encounter a variety of academic paper forms. Opinion essays, case studies, argumentative essays, research papers, and brief reports are a few of the most popular kinds of writing.
As the name implies, opinion essays showcase your position on a given subject. To avoid emotive reasons that are likely to be critiqued by your tutor, each point in this article should, however, be backed up by a substantial number of academic sources.
Guide to Types of Academic Papers
Type of paper
Purpose in simple words
Typical parts
Short example
Argumentative essay
Take a clear side on a topic and support it with reasons and evidence
Intro with thesis, body paragraphs, counterargument, conclusion
Argue that public transport should be free for students
Persuasive essay
Try to convince the reader to agree or to act
Hook, thesis, appeals to logic and emotion, call to action
Ask the city to build more bike lanes near campus
Expository essay
Explain a concept in a clear and balanced way
Intro, body with facts and examples, conclusion
Explain how photosynthesis works
Compare and contrast essay
Show similarities and differences between two things
Intro, criteria sections, side by side points, conclusion
Compare online classes and face to face classes
Cause and effect essay
Explain why something happens and what results follow
Intro, causes, effects, links between them, conclusion
Causes and effects of exam stress in college
Descriptive essay
Describe a person, place, object, or event with vivid detail
Intro, sensory details, strong images, conclusion
Describe the campus library during finals week
Narrative essay
Tell a true story with a lesson
Setting, characters, conflict, events, reflection
First day in a new country and what you learned
Definition essay
Give a deep meaning of a term with examples and limits
Term, background, examples, what it is and what it is not
What academic integrity really means
Research paper
Study a question using sources and your analysis
Title, abstract, intro, methods, results, discussion, references
How sleep length affects memory in first year students
Term paper
Large course paper that shows what you learned
Intro, literature overview, analysis, conclusion, references
History of renewable energy policy in the EU
Literature review
Summarize and evaluate what other scholars wrote
Scope, themes, compare studies, gaps, conclusion
What research says about social media and anxiety
Systematic review
Use a strict method to collect and assess studies on one question
Protocol, search strategy, inclusion rules, synthesis
Review of trials on apps for language learning
Meta analysis
Combine data from many studies to find an overall effect
Systematic review parts plus statistics across studies
Do tutoring programs raise grades across subjects
Annotated bibliography
List of sources with a short note for each
Citation, summary, evaluation, how you will use it
Five sources on climate migration with notes
Book review
Summarize a book and judge its value
Summary, strengths, limits, examples, recommendation
Review of a sociology monograph for a theory class
Article review
Summarize and evaluate a journal article
Key question, methods, results, critique, takeaway
Review a study on bilingual education outcomes
Critical analysis
Study a text, film, or idea and present your interpretation
Thesis, close reading or evidence, discussion, conclusion
Analyze symbolism in a short story
Reflection paper
Connect a reading or experience to your own thinking
Summary, personal response, lessons, future action
Reflect on a service learning project
Response paper
Give a brief view on a text and support your points
Summary, reaction points with quotes, conclusion
Response to a TED Talk on AI in education
Position paper
State your position on a policy and support it with sources
Issue background, stance, evidence, counterpoints, conclusion
Position on campus mental health funding
Policy brief
Give short advice for decision makers
Issue, why it matters, options, clear recommendation
Brief on plastic use in the cafeteria
Case study
Examine one case in depth to learn lessons
Case background, problem, analysis, solutions
Case study of a startup that failed to scale
Lab report
Present a science experiment and what you found
Title, abstract, intro, methods, results, discussion
Report on enzyme activity at different temperatures
Technical report
Share methods and results for an applied project
Executive summary, methods, results, discussion, appendices
Report on building an app for campus maps
Project report
Explain goals, process, and results of a course project
Background, goals, tasks, timeline, outcomes, next steps
Report on a marketing plan for a local cafe
Research proposal
Show what you plan to study and how you will do it
Question, background, methods, plan, expected results
Proposal to study screen time and sleep
Prospectus
Early plan for a thesis or project to get approval
Topic, rationale, key sources, method, schedule
Prospectus for a senior thesis on food waste
Conference paper
Short paper prepared for a talk at a conference
Abstract, brief literature, method, key results, slides
Paper on a new survey of study habits
White paper
Teach readers about a problem and offer a solution
Problem, analysis, solution, benefits, evidence
White paper on open textbooks to cut costs
Commentary or opinion
Give a short expert view on a current issue
Context, main argument, support, implications
Comment on new grading policies
Short communication
Share a brief new finding that is important
Intro, key result, short discussion
Note on a new enzyme behavior
Data paper
Describe a dataset so others can reuse it
Data source, methods, fields, limits, access info
Campus survey dataset with codebook
Practice based report
Explain what you did in a real setting and what worked
Context, actions, results, lessons
Report on a tutoring pilot in the writing center
Reflective journal
Track your learning over time with regular entries
Entries with events, thoughts, lessons, next steps
Weekly reflections during an internship
Thesis
Long study for a bachelor or master degree
Proposal, chapters, methods, results, discussion, references
Master thesis on bilingual education outcomes
Dissertation
Original research for a doctoral degree
Proposal, literature, methods, results, discussion, defense
PhD study on machine learning for health data
Tip for ESL students:
before you start, ask your teacher which type they expect. Check the parts in this table. Use clear topic sentences and simple words. Add citations when you use ideas from sources. Proofread at the end.
Case studies examine a phenomenon to educate the reader about a new development. These essays frequently investigate different facets of a problem to provide the reader with a thorough understanding of the issue at hand.
Similar to opinion essays, argumentative essays are prepared in favor of or in opposition to a particular position. Your opinions are not allowed in these articles, though, and each assertion must be supported by solid research. Last but not least, research papers use several academic research methods to test a hypothesis and showcase the data obtained on a specific subject.
How to Write an Academic Paper Step by Step
This guide shows clear steps from first idea to final paper. Each step has examples.
1. Understand the assignment
Read the prompt two times. Highlight task words like analyze, compare, argue, evaluate.
Note the type of paper, length, style guide, due date, required sources.
Example prompt:
Analyze how social media affects sleep in first year students. Use at least five peer reviewed sources. 1500 words. APA style.
2. Choose and narrow your topic
Start broad, then make it focused and clear.
Broad:
Social media and health
Narrow:
TikTok use and sleep quality among first year students
3. Write a research question and a working thesis
Research question:
What is the effect of late night TikTok use on sleep quality in first year students
Working thesis:
Late night TikTok use is linked with shorter sleep and lower morning alertness in first year students because it delays bedtime and increases cognitive arousal.
Tip:
The thesis is one clear sentence that answers the question.
4. Plan the structure
Common structures:
Humanities essay:
Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion
Research paper:
Title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, references
Mini outline example:
I. Introduction thesis about TikTok and sleep
II. Background what sleep quality means
III. Evidence studies that link screen time and sleep
IV. Counterpoint some students report no change
V. Discussion why results differ limits
VI. Conclusion what to do next
5. Find and judge sources
Use library databases, Google Scholar, government and university sites.
Check for author, date, method, and bias. Prefer recent peer reviewed work.
Save full citation info while you read.
Search string example:
“short sleep” AND “screen time” AND students
6. Read and take notes
Note three items for each source: key idea, useful quote, how it helps your thesis.
Use your own words when you paraphrase.
Paraphrase example:
Source idea: Students who used screens after 23:00 slept less.
Your paraphrase: Students who used screens after 11 pm reported shorter sleep time.
7. Build a detailed outline
Write a topic sentence for each paragraph.
Add evidence lines under each topic sentence.
PEEL model:
Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link to thesis.
8. Draft the introduction
Hook a short fact or question
Context key terms or numbers
Thesis your main claim
Sample introduction:
Many first year students check TikTok before sleep. Late night use can push bedtime later and reduce sleep quality.
This paper argues that late night TikTok use is linked with shorter sleep and lower morning alertness because it delays
bedtime and raises cognitive arousal.
9. Write body paragraphs
One main idea per paragraph.
Use signal phrases like According to Smith or A recent study found.
Explain how the evidence supports your thesis.
Sample body paragraph:
Topic sentence Late night viewing delays bedtime.
Evidence A study of 300 first year students found that each extra 30 minutes on TikTok after 23:00
was linked to 12 minutes less total sleep.
Explanation The platform offers endless short clips that keep attention high.
Link This supports the idea that late use reduces sleep time.
10. Write the conclusion
Restate the thesis in new words.
Sum up the strongest points.
Add a clear takeaway or next step.
Sample conclusion:
Late night TikTok use is linked to less sleep and lower alertness. Students can set a device curfew at 22:30 and use night mode to protect sleep.
11. Use evidence and cite correctly
Match every in text citation with a full reference entry. Here are simple patterns.
APA in text:
(Author, Year) or Author (Year)
MLA in text:
(Author Page)
Chicago notes:
add a footnote number and write the full note below
Examples:
APA: Screen time can delay sleep (Chen, 2024).
MLA: Screen time can delay sleep (Chen 45).
Chicago: Screen time can delay sleep.
1
12. Format the paper
Use an easy font like Times New Roman 12 or Arial 11. Double space the text.
Use 1 inch or 2.54 cm margins. Add page numbers in the header.
Follow the heading rules for your style guide.
13. Revise for content and flow
Do a reverse outline. Write a short label for each paragraph. Check order and logic.
Cut parts that do not support the thesis. Add missing steps in reasoning.
Check that every paragraph links back to your main claim.
14. Edit for clarity and grammar
Use short sentences where possible.
Use active voice when it fits. Example: Researchers tested 50 students.
Check common ESL points: articles a an the, subject verb agreement, prepositions.
Clarity example:
Weak There are many factors that are important. Better Two factors matter most sleep time and wake time.
15. Build the reference list
Start on a new page. Use hanging indent 0.5 inch. Sort by author surname.
APA examples:
Book
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Journal article
Chen, L., & Novak, A. (2024). Short videos and sleep in first year students.
Journal of Student Health, 18(3), 210 to 224. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
16. Final checks
Title matches the content.
Figures and tables have numbers and titles.
Every in text citation has a matching reference entry.
Word count meets the requirement.
Save as PDF unless your teacher asks for DOCX. Use a clear file name.
Simple 7 day timeline
Day
Task
Day 1
Read prompt, choose topic, write research question
Day 2
Find sources, skim, save citations
Day 3
Deep reading and notes, build outline
Day 4
Draft introduction and two body sections
Day 5
Draft remaining sections and conclusion
Day 6
Revise content and flow, add visuals if needed
Day 7
Edit grammar and format, final checks, submit
Mini sample page
Title: Late Night TikTok Use and Sleep in First Year Students
Introduction
Short hook, context, clear thesis.
Methods
Participants, measures, procedure.
Results
Main findings in clear language. Include a table if needed.
Discussion
Meaning of results, limits, next steps.
References
Full entries in the chosen style.
Final tip:
Start early, write in small steps, and ask for feedback from your teacher or writing center. Clear structure and simple language make your ideas strong.
Format of academic paper
Key elements of an academic research report include the following:
Abstract
The purpose, methods, and findings of the study are frequently summarized in the abstract.
Your thesis should be included in this summary, which should also highlight your major discoveries and research findings.
Introduction
The background information is necessary to identify a research gap that justifies your study is included in the introduction to the research paper. The primary issue your study seeks to address as well as any additional research goals you want to accomplish through your experiment should be highlighted in this section.
Methods
This section outlines the factors in your research and your research methodology so that other researchers can replicate your findings.
Results
The findings of your experiment are shown in the results section as summaries and graphs. Results, in contrast to other sections of your research report, do not include any supporting data and instead ask you to discuss your conclusions.
Discussion
The discussion is the heart of an academic paper; it connects your findings to the hypothesis and refers to other sources you came across during your literature review. Here, you can make deductions about how the facts relate to one another and how the findings support or refute certain claims.
Conclusion
Your research paper’s conclusion summarizes your findings and makes suggestions for further research on the subject. The main points of your case should be emphasized in this chapter, and any novel concepts that weren’t covered throughout your research should be avoided.
Academic Paper Formatting Checklist
Goal:
Use this checklist before you submit your paper. It covers general format, headings, citations, tables and figures, and the final review. Simple rules and short examples help you check fast.
1. Document setup
Page size is A4 or US Letter as your teacher asks
Margins are 1 inch on all sides or 2.54 cm
Font is easy to read like Times New Roman 12 or Arial 11
Line spacing is double for the main text
Paragraphs start with a first line indent 0.5 inch or 1.27 cm
Text is left aligned not justified
Page numbers appear in the header top right unless your style guide says different
File name is clear like
Surname_Course_PaperTitle_Date.pdf
Save as PDF unless your teacher asks for DOCX
2. Title page and header
Title is clear short and informative
Include your name course teacher and date if required
Running head or short title used only if your style asks for it
Simple title page example:
Paper Title: Effects of Sleep on Memory
Student: Ana Novak
Course: PSY 101
Instructor: Dr. Kranjc
Date: 10 October 2025
3. Headings and structure
Use clear levels of headings. Do not skip levels
Headings are short. Use nouns or short phrases
Example layout:
H1 Introduction
H2 Background
H2 Research Question
H1 Methods
H2 Participants
H2 Procedure
H1 Results
H1 Discussion
H1 References
4. Numbers lists and emphasis
Use numbered lists for steps and bulleted lists for items
Use italics for terms at first use not bold for long parts of text
Spell out numbers zero to nine if your style asks for it. Use digits for 10 and above
List example:
Collect data
Analyze results
Write discussion
5. Quotes and block quotes
Short quote under 40 words stays inside the paragraph with quotation marks
Long quote 40 words or more becomes a block quote. New line. Indent. No quotation marks
Always add a citation after the quote
Short quote example APA:
Sleep benefits memory consolidation
(Walker, 2017, p. 45)
Block quote format:
This is a long quotation that takes more than one sentence and
shows the exact words of the author. It is indented from the left
and right in some styles. No quotation marks are used. Citation goes at the end.
6. Tables and figures
Each table and figure has a number and a clear title
Place the table or figure close to the first mention in text
Add a note with the source if you did not create it
Use simple labels and units like cm kg s
Example caption:
Table 1. Sample characteristics
Source note example:
Note. Data from Smith 2024
7. In text citations quick check
Follow the style your teacher asks for. If not sure ask. Here are simple patterns.
APA 7 in text
Paraphrase format:
(Author, Year)
Quote format:
(Author, Year, p. Page)
Examples:
Paraphrase:
Sleep improves memory consolidation (Walker, 2017)
Quote:
Sleep is a key factor in learning (Walker, 2017, p. 45)
MLA 9 in text
Paraphrase and quote format:
(Author Page)
no comma
Examples:
Paraphrase:
Sleep improves memory consolidation (Walker 45)
Quote:
Sleep is vital for learning (Walker 45)
Chicago notes and bibliography in text
Use footnotes. Insert a superscript number after the sentence
Example:
Sleep supports memory
1
1
Full note appears at the bottom of the page
8. Reference list or Works Cited
Start on a new page at the end of the paper
Use hanging indent 0.5 inch for each entry
Order alphabetically by the first author surname
Match every in text citation with a full entry
APA 7 reference examples
Book
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Journal article
Smith, J., & Lee, K. (2024). Sleep and grades in first year students.
Journal of Student Research, 12(2), 100 to 115. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
MLA 9 Works Cited examples
Book
Walker, Matthew P. Why We Sleep. Scribner, 2017.
Journal article
Smith, John, and Kai Lee. "Sleep and Grades in First Year Students."
Journal of Student Research, vol. 12, no. 2, 2024, pp. 100 to 115, doi:xx.xxx.
Chicago bibliography examples
Book
Walker, Matthew P. 2017. Why We Sleep. New York: Scribner.
Journal article
Smith, John, and Kai Lee. 2024. "Sleep and Grades in First Year Students."
Journal of Student Research 12, no. 2: 100 to 115. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
9. Equations and symbols
Write variables in italics like
n
and
p
Add a legend for symbols the first time you use them
Center equations on their own line if long
Example:
M = Σxᵢ / n
where
M
is the mean and
n
is the number of values
10. Appendices
Put long items in an appendix like survey questions or raw tables
Label as Appendix A Appendix B and so on
Refer to the appendix in the text
11. Final review before submit
Title matches the content
Headings follow a clear order
All figures and tables have numbers and titles
All citations have matching references
Spell check and grammar check complete
Word count meets the requirement
File opens and the layout looks correct
12. Mini sample page layout
Header right: Page 1
Title: Effects of Sleep on Memory
Introduction
Topic sentence starts the paragraph. Lines are double spaced.
First line is indented.
Methods
Participants
Procedure
Results
Discussion
References
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Tip:
If any rule is not clear check the style guide that your teacher chose. When in doubt ask early. Small fixes now save points later.
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Academic writing is one of the most important skills you will use in college and in your future career. Good writing helps you show your knowledge, present your ideas clearly, and build strong arguments. It also shows respect for your reader because it makes your message easy to follow. Many students, especially those who speak English as a second language, find academic writing difficult at first. The rules may feel strict, and the style may seem different from everyday speaking or writing online.
This guide create by
AssignmentGeek writers
together with the staff of St. Raymond Academy will give you step by step help to improve your writing. You will learn how to understand assignments, plan and organize ideas, use sources correctly, and check grammar and style. Each section includes examples so you can see what works and what does not. The goal is not just to finish one paper but to build habits that will help you write better in all classes.
Clear academic writing is more than grammar. It includes thinking carefully, asking questions, and supporting your points with evidence. By practicing these skills, you will become more confident and independent as a student. Good writing will also prepare you for jobs where reports, proposals, and professional communication are required.
Keep this guide with you as you study. Use it when you start a new assignment, when you draft your paper, and when you make your final edits. Improvement takes time, but each paper you write is a chance to grow. With patience and practice, academic writing will become a tool that helps you succeed.
What is an academic paper?
An academic paper is a factual essay that draws on previously published material to support its numerous claims. These essays frequently focus on an issue within the student’s field of study to gauge their ability to apply learned concepts to a specific challenge.
Unlike blogs, academic papers have a set format with chapters that each contribute to the analysis of a particular topic.
What is academic research?
Academic research is the term used to describe the methods used to investigate to verify a hypothesis. Depending on your topic of study, this research could be qualitative or quantitative. Academic research is common in master’s theses and doctoral dissertations.
Types of academic papers
Throughout your studies, you may encounter a variety of academic paper forms. Opinion essays, case studies, argumentative essays, research papers, and brief reports are a few of the most popular kinds of writing.
As the name implies, opinion essays showcase your position on a given subject. To avoid emotive reasons that are likely to be critiqued by your tutor, each point in this article should, however, be backed up by a substantial number of academic sources.
Guide to Types of Academic Papers
Type of paper
Purpose in simple words
Typical parts
Short example
Argumentative essay
Take a clear side on a topic and support it with reasons and evidence
Intro with thesis, body paragraphs, counterargument, conclusion
Argue that public transport should be free for students
Persuasive essay
Try to convince the reader to agree or to act
Hook, thesis, appeals to logic and emotion, call to action
Ask the city to build more bike lanes near campus
Expository essay
Explain a concept in a clear and balanced way
Intro, body with facts and examples, conclusion
Explain how photosynthesis works
Compare and contrast essay
Show similarities and differences between two things
Intro, criteria sections, side by side points, conclusion
Compare online classes and face to face classes
Cause and effect essay
Explain why something happens and what results follow
Intro, causes, effects, links between them, conclusion
Causes and effects of exam stress in college
Descriptive essay
Describe a person, place, object, or event with vivid detail
Intro, sensory details, strong images, conclusion
Describe the campus library during finals week
Narrative essay
Tell a true story with a lesson
Setting, characters, conflict, events, reflection
First day in a new country and what you learned
Definition essay
Give a deep meaning of a term with examples and limits
Term, background, examples, what it is and what it is not
What academic integrity really means
Research paper
Study a question using sources and your analysis
Title, abstract, intro, methods, results, discussion, references
How sleep length affects memory in first year students
Term paper
Large course paper that shows what you learned
Intro, literature overview, analysis, conclusion, references
History of renewable energy policy in the EU
Literature review
Summarize and evaluate what other scholars wrote
Scope, themes, compare studies, gaps, conclusion
What research says about social media and anxiety
Systematic review
Use a strict method to collect and assess studies on one question
Protocol, search strategy, inclusion rules, synthesis
Review of trials on apps for language learning
Meta analysis
Combine data from many studies to find an overall effect
Systematic review parts plus statistics across studies
Do tutoring programs raise grades across subjects
Annotated bibliography
List of sources with a short note for each
Citation, summary, evaluation, how you will use it
Five sources on climate migration with notes
Book review
Summarize a book and judge its value
Summary, strengths, limits, examples, recommendation
Review of a sociology monograph for a theory class
Article review
Summarize and evaluate a journal article
Key question, methods, results, critique, takeaway
Review a study on bilingual education outcomes
Critical analysis
Study a text, film, or idea and present your interpretation
Thesis, close reading or evidence, discussion, conclusion
Analyze symbolism in a short story
Reflection paper
Connect a reading or experience to your own thinking
Summary, personal response, lessons, future action
Reflect on a service learning project
Response paper
Give a brief view on a text and support your points
Summary, reaction points with quotes, conclusion
Response to a TED Talk on AI in education
Position paper
State your position on a policy and support it with sources
Issue background, stance, evidence, counterpoints, conclusion
Position on campus mental health funding
Policy brief
Give short advice for decision makers
Issue, why it matters, options, clear recommendation
Brief on plastic use in the cafeteria
Case study
Examine one case in depth to learn lessons
Case background, problem, analysis, solutions
Case study of a startup that failed to scale
Lab report
Present a science experiment and what you found
Title, abstract, intro, methods, results, discussion
Report on enzyme activity at different temperatures
Technical report
Share methods and results for an applied project
Executive summary, methods, results, discussion, appendices
Report on building an app for campus maps
Project report
Explain goals, process, and results of a course project
Background, goals, tasks, timeline, outcomes, next steps
Report on a marketing plan for a local cafe
Research proposal
Show what you plan to study and how you will do it
Question, background, methods, plan, expected results
Proposal to study screen time and sleep
Prospectus
Early plan for a thesis or project to get approval
Topic, rationale, key sources, method, schedule
Prospectus for a senior thesis on food waste
Conference paper
Short paper prepared for a talk at a conference
Abstract, brief literature, method, key results, slides
Paper on a new survey of study habits
White paper
Teach readers about a problem and offer a solution
Problem, analysis, solution, benefits, evidence
White paper on open textbooks to cut costs
Commentary or opinion
Give a short expert view on a current issue
Context, main argument, support, implications
Comment on new grading policies
Short communication
Share a brief new finding that is important
Intro, key result, short discussion
Note on a new enzyme behavior
Data paper
Describe a dataset so others can reuse it
Data source, methods, fields, limits, access info
Campus survey dataset with codebook
Practice based report
Explain what you did in a real setting and what worked
Context, actions, results, lessons
Report on a tutoring pilot in the writing center
Reflective journal
Track your learning over time with regular entries
Entries with events, thoughts, lessons, next steps
Weekly reflections during an internship
Thesis
Long study for a bachelor or master degree
Proposal, chapters, methods, results, discussion, references
Master thesis on bilingual education outcomes
Dissertation
Original research for a doctoral degree
Proposal, literature, methods, results, discussion, defense
PhD study on machine learning for health data
Tip for ESL students:
before you start, ask your teacher which type they expect. Check the parts in this table. Use clear topic sentences and simple words. Add citations when you use ideas from sources. Proofread at the end.
Case studies examine a phenomenon to educate the reader about a new development. These essays frequently investigate different facets of a problem to provide the reader with a thorough understanding of the issue at hand.
Similar to opinion essays, argumentative essays are prepared in favor of or in opposition to a particular position. Your opinions are not allowed in these articles, though, and each assertion must be supported by solid research. Last but not least, research papers use several academic research methods to test a hypothesis and showcase the data obtained on a specific subject.
How to Write an Academic Paper Step by Step
This guide shows clear steps from first idea to final paper. Each step has examples.
1. Understand the assignment
Read the prompt two times. Highlight task words like analyze, compare, argue, evaluate.
Note the type of paper, length, style guide, due date, required sources.
Example prompt:
Analyze how social media affects sleep in first year students. Use at least five peer reviewed sources. 1500 words. APA style.
2. Choose and narrow your topic
Start broad, then make it focused and clear.
Broad:
Social media and health
Narrow:
TikTok use and sleep quality among first year students
3. Write a research question and a working thesis
Research question:
What is the effect of late night TikTok use on sleep quality in first year students
Working thesis:
Late night TikTok use is linked with shorter sleep and lower morning alertness in first year students because it delays bedtime and increases cognitive arousal.
Tip:
The thesis is one clear sentence that answers the question.
4. Plan the structure
Common structures:
Humanities essay:
Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion
Research paper:
Title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, references
Mini outline example:
I. Introduction thesis about TikTok and sleep
II. Background what sleep quality means
III. Evidence studies that link screen time and sleep
IV. Counterpoint some students report no change
V. Discussion why results differ limits
VI. Conclusion what to do next
5. Find and judge sources
Use library databases, Google Scholar, government and university sites.
Check for author, date, method, and bias. Prefer recent peer reviewed work.
Save full citation info while you read.
Search string example:
“short sleep” AND “screen time” AND students
6. Read and take notes
Note three items for each source: key idea, useful quote, how it helps your thesis.
Use your own words when you paraphrase.
Paraphrase example:
Source idea: Students who used screens after 23:00 slept less.
Your paraphrase: Students who used screens after 11 pm reported shorter sleep time.
7. Build a detailed outline
Write a topic sentence for each paragraph.
Add evidence lines under each topic sentence.
PEEL model:
Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link to thesis.
8. Draft the introduction
Hook a short fact or question
Context key terms or numbers
Thesis your main claim
Sample introduction:
Many first year students check TikTok before sleep. Late night use can push bedtime later and reduce sleep quality.
This paper argues that late night TikTok use is linked with shorter sleep and lower morning alertness because it delays
bedtime and raises cognitive arousal.
9. Write body paragraphs
One main idea per paragraph.
Use signal phrases like According to Smith or A recent study found.
Explain how the evidence supports your thesis.
Sample body paragraph:
Topic sentence Late night viewing delays bedtime.
Evidence A study of 300 first year students found that each extra 30 minutes on TikTok after 23:00
was linked to 12 minutes less total sleep.
Explanation The platform offers endless short clips that keep attention high.
Link This supports the idea that late use reduces sleep time.
10. Write the conclusion
Restate the thesis in new words.
Sum up the strongest points.
Add a clear takeaway or next step.
Sample conclusion:
Late night TikTok use is linked to less sleep and lower alertness. Students can set a device curfew at 22:30 and use night mode to protect sleep.
11. Use evidence and cite correctly
Match every in text citation with a full reference entry. Here are simple patterns.
APA in text:
(Author, Year) or Author (Year)
MLA in text:
(Author Page)
Chicago notes:
add a footnote number and write the full note below
Examples:
APA: Screen time can delay sleep (Chen, 2024).
MLA: Screen time can delay sleep (Chen 45).
Chicago: Screen time can delay sleep.
1
12. Format the paper
Use an easy font like Times New Roman 12 or Arial 11. Double space the text.
Use 1 inch or 2.54 cm margins. Add page numbers in the header.
Follow the heading rules for your style guide.
13. Revise for content and flow
Do a reverse outline. Write a short label for each paragraph. Check order and logic.
Cut parts that do not support the thesis. Add missing steps in reasoning.
Check that every paragraph links back to your main claim.
14. Edit for clarity and grammar
Use short sentences where possible.
Use active voice when it fits. Example: Researchers tested 50 students.
Check common ESL points: articles a an the, subject verb agreement, prepositions.
Clarity example:
Weak There are many factors that are important. Better Two factors matter most sleep time and wake time.
15. Build the reference list
Start on a new page. Use hanging indent 0.5 inch. Sort by author surname.
APA examples:
Book
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Journal article
Chen, L., & Novak, A. (2024). Short videos and sleep in first year students.
Journal of Student Health, 18(3), 210 to 224. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
16. Final checks
Title matches the content.
Figures and tables have numbers and titles.
Every in text citation has a matching reference entry.
Word count meets the requirement.
Save as PDF unless your teacher asks for DOCX. Use a clear file name.
Simple 7 day timeline
Day
Task
Day 1
Read prompt, choose topic, write research question
Day 2
Find sources, skim, save citations
Day 3
Deep reading and notes, build outline
Day 4
Draft introduction and two body sections
Day 5
Draft remaining sections and conclusion
Day 6
Revise content and flow, add visuals if needed
Day 7
Edit grammar and format, final checks, submit
Mini sample page
Title: Late Night TikTok Use and Sleep in First Year Students
Introduction
Short hook, context, clear thesis.
Methods
Participants, measures, procedure.
Results
Main findings in clear language. Include a table if needed.
Discussion
Meaning of results, limits, next steps.
References
Full entries in the chosen style.
Final tip:
Start early, write in small steps, and ask for feedback from your teacher or writing center. Clear structure and simple language make your ideas strong.
Format of academic paper
Key elements of an academic research report include the following:
Abstract
The purpose, methods, and findings of the study are frequently summarized in the abstract.
Your thesis should be included in this summary, which should also highlight your major discoveries and research findings.
Introduction
The background information is necessary to identify a research gap that justifies your study is included in the introduction to the research paper. The primary issue your study seeks to address as well as any additional research goals you want to accomplish through your experiment should be highlighted in this section.
Methods
This section outlines the factors in your research and your research methodology so that other researchers can replicate your findings.
Results
The findings of your experiment are shown in the results section as summaries and graphs. Results, in contrast to other sections of your research report, do not include any supporting data and instead ask you to discuss your conclusions.
Discussion
The discussion is the heart of an academic paper; it connects your findings to the hypothesis and refers to other sources you came across during your literature review. Here, you can make deductions about how the facts relate to one another and how the findings support or refute certain claims.
Conclusion
Your research paper’s conclusion summarizes your findings and makes suggestions for further research on the subject. The main points of your case should be emphasized in this chapter, and any novel concepts that weren’t covered throughout your research should be avoided.
Academic Paper Formatting Checklist
Goal:
Use this checklist before you submit your paper. It covers general format, headings, citations, tables and figures, and the final review. Simple rules and short examples help you check fast.
1. Document setup
Page size is A4 or US Letter as your teacher asks
Margins are 1 inch on all sides or 2.54 cm
Font is easy to read like Times New Roman 12 or Arial 11
Line spacing is double for the main text
Paragraphs start with a first line indent 0.5 inch or 1.27 cm
Text is left aligned not justified
Page numbers appear in the header top right unless your style guide says different
File name is clear like
Surname_Course_PaperTitle_Date.pdf
Save as PDF unless your teacher asks for DOCX
2. Title page and header
Title is clear short and informative
Include your name course teacher and date if required
Running head or short title used only if your style asks for it
Simple title page example:
Paper Title: Effects of Sleep on Memory
Student: Ana Novak
Course: PSY 101
Instructor: Dr. Kranjc
Date: 10 October 2025
3. Headings and structure
Use clear levels of headings. Do not skip levels
Headings are short. Use nouns or short phrases
Example layout:
H1 Introduction
H2 Background
H2 Research Question
H1 Methods
H2 Participants
H2 Procedure
H1 Results
H1 Discussion
H1 References
4. Numbers lists and emphasis
Use numbered lists for steps and bulleted lists for items
Use italics for terms at first use not bold for long parts of text
Spell out numbers zero to nine if your style asks for it. Use digits for 10 and above
List example:
Collect data
Analyze results
Write discussion
5. Quotes and block quotes
Short quote under 40 words stays inside the paragraph with quotation marks
Long quote 40 words or more becomes a block quote. New line. Indent. No quotation marks
Always add a citation after the quote
Short quote example APA:
Sleep benefits memory consolidation
(Walker, 2017, p. 45)
Block quote format:
This is a long quotation that takes more than one sentence and
shows the exact words of the author. It is indented from the left
and right in some styles. No quotation marks are used. Citation goes at the end.
6. Tables and figures
Each table and figure has a number and a clear title
Place the table or figure close to the first mention in text
Add a note with the source if you did not create it
Use simple labels and units like cm kg s
Example caption:
Table 1. Sample characteristics
Source note example:
Note. Data from Smith 2024
7. In text citations quick check
Follow the style your teacher asks for. If not sure ask. Here are simple patterns.
APA 7 in text
Paraphrase format:
(Author, Year)
Quote format:
(Author, Year, p. Page)
Examples:
Paraphrase:
Sleep improves memory consolidation (Walker, 2017)
Quote:
Sleep is a key factor in learning (Walker, 2017, p. 45)
MLA 9 in text
Paraphrase and quote format:
(Author Page)
no comma
Examples:
Paraphrase:
Sleep improves memory consolidation (Walker 45)
Quote:
Sleep is vital for learning (Walker 45)
Chicago notes and bibliography in text
Use footnotes. Insert a superscript number after the sentence
Example:
Sleep supports memory
1
1
Full note appears at the bottom of the page
8. Reference list or Works Cited
Start on a new page at the end of the paper
Use hanging indent 0.5 inch for each entry
Order alphabetically by the first author surname
Match every in text citation with a full entry
APA 7 reference examples
Book
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Journal article
Smith, J., & Lee, K. (2024). Sleep and grades in first year students.
Journal of Student Research, 12(2), 100 to 115. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
MLA 9 Works Cited examples
Book
Walker, Matthew P. Why We Sleep. Scribner, 2017.
Journal article
Smith, John, and Kai Lee. "Sleep and Grades in First Year Students."
Journal of Student Research, vol. 12, no. 2, 2024, pp. 100 to 115, doi:xx.xxx.
Chicago bibliography examples
Book
Walker, Matthew P. 2017. Why We Sleep. New York: Scribner.
Journal article
Smith, John, and Kai Lee. 2024. "Sleep and Grades in First Year Students."
Journal of Student Research 12, no. 2: 100 to 115. https://doi.org/xx.xxx
9. Equations and symbols
Write variables in italics like
n
and
p
Add a legend for symbols the first time you use them
Center equations on their own line if long
Example:
M = Σxᵢ / n
where
M
is the mean and
n
is the number of values
10. Appendices
Put long items in an appendix like survey questions or raw tables
Label as Appendix A Appendix B and so on
Refer to the appendix in the text
11. Final review before submit
Title matches the content
Headings follow a clear order
All figures and tables have numbers and titles
All citations have matching references
Spell check and grammar check complete
Word count meets the requirement
File opens and the layout looks correct
12. Mini sample page layout
Header right: Page 1
Title: Effects of Sleep on Memory
Introduction
Topic sentence starts the paragraph. Lines are double spaced.
First line is indented.
Methods
Participants
Procedure
Results
Discussion
References
Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep. Scribner.
Tip:
If any rule is not clear check the style guide that your teacher chose. When in doubt ask early. Small fixes now save points later.
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