Research Paper Analysis

        I have written research papers in the past, but this experience was completely different. I liked that we were able to choose our topics because it is easier to invest a significant amount of time in a project that I care about. It has made my writing better on this paper. I do not believe that writing the first annotated bibliography was helpful to start with because I wasted time writing about sources that did not relate to my ultimate proposal. I will say that the revised annotated bibliography was helpful because it allowed me to see how I could incorporate my research into the paper. Next, we wrote a proposal. This assignment was useful because, again, it allowed me to write the big picture behind my idea. And, I ended up using sections from that in the introduction to my paper. Then, we wrote an outline followed by a draft. Outlining is an effective first step to writing because it makes writing a large paper easier.

         I propose that the research paper writing process should progress in the following sequence: annotated bibliography, proposal, outline, draft, second draft, and final. Between writing the outline and draft, resources such as Strunk & White and the quote paradigm should be introduced. Time should be provided in class to write or revise. Additionally, the class should partner up for peer editing after composing the outlines. Having the opportunity to discuss the arguments with another person will allow for writers to address potential counter arguments that were overlooked.

         Overall, the writing process has been at times overwhelming but at other times smooth. Following a structured writing process will mitigate the daunting task of writing a 10-12 page paper. This assignment is a great foundation for developing argument, research, and composition skills.