Library Guide

 

Planning for Your Research Paper

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Scenario: You have a research paper in Religious Studies due November 30. You have to find a minimum of 5 sources, only 2 of which can be web sites.

 

• Q: How does research make you feel? How do you react to this news? Write down your thoughts.

 

One important means of managing any anxiety or worries you may have about an upcoming research paper is to start well in advance.

 

• Q: How many days before the paper is due do you typically begin your research? Write down your response.
• Q: How many days before the paper is due to you think you should begin your research? Write down your response.

 

 Use the Assignment Calculator to generate a plan for your research paper. Start by entering:   

 

• An assignment start date of November 15; and then 
• An assignment start date of November 26. 

 

Read the two suggested research schedules carefully. Are you surprised by anything? Are there any steps you hadn't considered?

 

How does starting the assignment sooner or later impact the schedule? How do you think it impacts any anxieties you may have and your own success on the paper?