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College Essays

If you grow up to be a professional writer, everything you write will first go through an editor before being published. This is because the process of writing is really a process of re-writing —of rethinking and reexamining your work, usually with the help of someone else. So what does this mean for your student writing? And in particular, what does it mean for very important, but nonprofessional writing like your college essay? Should you ask your parents to look at your essay? Pay for an essay service?

If you are wondering what kind of help you can, and should, get with your personal statement, you've come to the right place! In this article, I'll talk about what kind of writing help is useful, ethical, and even expected for your college admission essay . I'll also point out who would make a good editor, what the differences between editing and proofreading are, what to expect from a good editor, and how to spot and stay away from a bad one.

Table of Contents

What Kind of Help for Your Essay Can You Get?

What's Good Editing?

What should an editor do for you, what kind of editing should you avoid, proofreading, what's good proofreading, what kind of proofreading should you avoid.

What Do Colleges Think Of You Getting Help With Your Essay?

Who Can/Should Help You?

Advice for editors.

Should You Pay Money For Essay Editing?

The Bottom Line

What's next, what kind of help with your essay can you get.

Rather than talking in general terms about "help," let's first clarify the two different ways that someone else can improve your writing . There is editing, which is the more intensive kind of assistance that you can use throughout the whole process. And then there's proofreading, which is the last step of really polishing your final product.

Let me go into some more detail about editing and proofreading, and then explain how good editors and proofreaders can help you."

Editing is helping the author (in this case, you) go from a rough draft to a finished work . Editing is the process of asking questions about what you're saying, how you're saying it, and how you're organizing your ideas. But not all editing is good editing . In fact, it's very easy for an editor to cross the line from supportive to overbearing and over-involved.

Ability to clarify assignments. A good editor is usually a good writer, and certainly has to be a good reader. For example, in this case, a good editor should make sure you understand the actual essay prompt you're supposed to be answering.

Open-endedness. Good editing is all about asking questions about your ideas and work, but without providing answers. It's about letting you stick to your story and message, and doesn't alter your point of view.

Think of an editor as a great travel guide. It can show you the many different places your trip could take you. It should explain any parts of the trip that could derail your trip or confuse the traveler. But it never dictates your path, never forces you to go somewhere you don't want to go, and never ignores your interests so that the trip no longer seems like it's your own. So what should good editors do?

Help Brainstorm Topics

Sometimes it's easier to bounce thoughts off of someone else. This doesn't mean that your editor gets to come up with ideas, but they can certainly respond to the various topic options you've come up with. This way, you're less likely to write about the most boring of your ideas, or to write about something that isn't actually important to you.

If you're wondering how to come up with options for your editor to consider, check out our guide to brainstorming topics for your college essay .

Help Revise Your Drafts

Here, your editor can't upset the delicate balance of not intervening too much or too little. It's tricky, but a great way to think about it is to remember: editing is about asking questions, not giving answers .

Revision questions should point out:

• Places where more detail or more description would help the reader connect with your essay
• Places where structure and logic don't flow, losing the reader's attention
• Places where there aren't transitions between paragraphs, confusing the reader
• Moments where your narrative or the arguments you're making are unclear

But pointing to potential problems is not the same as actually rewriting—editors let authors fix the problems themselves.

Bad editing is usually very heavy-handed editing. Instead of helping you find your best voice and ideas, a bad editor changes your writing into their own vision.

You may be dealing with a bad editor if they:

• Add material (examples, descriptions) that doesn't come from you
• Use a thesaurus to make your college essay sound "more mature"
• Add meaning or insight to the essay that doesn't come from you
• Tell you what to say and how to say it
• Write sentences, phrases, and paragraphs for you
• Change your voice in the essay so it no longer sounds like it was written by a teenager

Colleges can tell the difference between a 17-year-old's writing and a 50-year-old's writing. Not only that, they have access to your SAT or ACT Writing section, so they can compare your essay to something else you wrote. Writing that's a little more polished is great and expected. But a totally different voice and style will raise questions.

Where's the Line Between Helpful Editing and Unethical Over-Editing?

Sometimes it's hard to tell whether your college essay editor is doing the right thing. Here are some guidelines for staying on the ethical side of the line.

• An editor should say that the opening paragraph is kind of boring, and explain what exactly is making it drag. But it's overstepping for an editor to tell you exactly how to change it.
• An editor should point out where your prose is unclear or vague. But it's completely inappropriate for the editor to rewrite that section of your essay.
• An editor should let you know that a section is light on detail or description. But giving you similes and metaphors to beef up that description is a no-go.

Proofreading (also called copy-editing) is checking for errors in the last draft of a written work. It happens at the end of the process and is meant as the final polishing touch. Proofreading is meticulous and detail-oriented, focusing on small corrections. It sands off all the surface rough spots that could alienate the reader.

Because proofreading is usually concerned with making fixes on the word or sentence level, this is the only process where someone else can actually add to or take away things from your essay . This is because what they are adding or taking away tends to be one or two misplaced letters.

Laser focus. Proofreading is all about the tiny details, so the ability to really concentrate on finding small slip-ups is a must.

Excellent grammar and spelling skills. Proofreaders need to dot every "i" and cross every "t." Good proofreaders should correct spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and grammar. They should put foreign words in italics and surround quotations with quotation marks. They should check that you used the correct college's name, and that you adhered to any formatting requirements (name and date at the top of the page, uniform font and size, uniform spacing).

Limited interference. A proofreader needs to make sure that you followed any word limits. But if cuts need to be made to shorten the essay, that's your job and not the proofreader's.

A bad proofreader either tries to turn into an editor, or just lacks the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job.

Some signs that you're working with a bad proofreader are:

• If they suggest making major changes to the final draft of your essay. Proofreading happens when editing is already finished.
• If they aren't particularly good at spelling, or don't know grammar, or aren't detail-oriented enough to find someone else's small mistakes.
• If they start swapping out your words for fancier-sounding synonyms, or changing the voice and sound of your essay in other ways. A proofreader is there to check for errors, not to take the 17-year-old out of your writing.

What Do Colleges Think of Your Getting Help With Your Essay?

Admissions officers agree: light editing and proofreading are good—even required ! But they also want to make sure you're the one doing the work on your essay. They want essays with stories, voice, and themes that come from you. They want to see work that reflects your actual writing ability, and that focuses on what you find important.

On the Importance of Editing

Get feedback. Have a fresh pair of eyes give you some feedback. Don't allow someone else to rewrite your essay, but do take advantage of others' edits and opinions when they seem helpful. ( Bates College )

Read your essay aloud to someone. Reading the essay out loud offers a chance to hear how your essay sounds outside your head. This exercise reveals flaws in the essay's flow, highlights grammatical errors and helps you ensure that you are communicating the exact message you intended. ( Dickinson College )

On the Value of Proofreading

Share your essays with at least one or two people who know you well—such as a parent, teacher, counselor, or friend—and ask for feedback. Remember that you ultimately have control over your essays, and your essays should retain your own voice, but others may be able to catch mistakes that you missed and help suggest areas to cut if you are over the word limit. ( Yale University )

Proofread and then ask someone else to proofread for you. Although we want substance, we also want to be able to see that you can write a paper for our professors and avoid careless mistakes that would drive them crazy. ( Oberlin College )

On Watching Out for Too Much Outside Influence

Limit the number of people who review your essay. Too much input usually means your voice is lost in the writing style. ( Carleton College )

Ask for input (but not too much). Your parents, friends, guidance counselors, coaches, and teachers are great people to bounce ideas off of for your essay. They know how unique and spectacular you are, and they can help you decide how to articulate it. Keep in mind, however, that a 45-year-old lawyer writes quite differently from an 18-year-old student, so if your dad ends up writing the bulk of your essay, we're probably going to notice. ( Vanderbilt University )

Now let's talk about some potential people to approach for your college essay editing and proofreading needs. It's best to start close to home and slowly expand outward. Not only are your family and friends more invested in your success than strangers, but they also have a better handle on your interests and personality. This knowledge is key for judging whether your essay is expressing your true self.

Parents or Close Relatives

Your family may be full of potentially excellent editors! Parents are deeply committed to your well-being, and family members know you and your life well enough to offer details or incidents that can be included in your essay. On the other hand, the rewriting process necessarily involves criticism, which is sometimes hard to hear from someone very close to you.

A parent or close family member is a great choice for an editor if you can answer "yes" to the following questions. Is your parent or close relative a good writer or reader? Do you have a relationship where editing your essay won't create conflict? Are you able to constructively listen to criticism and suggestion from the parent?

One suggestion for defusing face-to-face discussions is to try working on the essay over email. Send your parent a draft, have them write you back some comments, and then you can pick which of their suggestions you want to use and which to discard.

Teachers or Tutors

A humanities teacher that you have a good relationship with is a great choice. I am purposefully saying humanities, and not just English, because teachers of Philosophy, History, Anthropology, and any other classes where you do a lot of writing, are all used to reviewing student work.

Moreover, any teacher or tutor that has been working with you for some time, knows you very well and can vet the essay to make sure it "sounds like you."

If your teacher or tutor has some experience with what college essays are supposed to be like, ask them to be your editor. If not, then ask whether they have time to proofread your final draft.

Guidance or College Counselor at Your School

The best thing about asking your counselor to edit your work is that this is their job. This means that they have a very good sense of what colleges are looking for in an application essay.

At the same time, school counselors tend to have relationships with admissions officers in many colleges, which again gives them insight into what works and which college is focused on what aspect of the application.

Unfortunately, in many schools the guidance counselor tends to be way overextended. If your ratio is 300 students to 1 college counselor, you're unlikely to get that person's undivided attention and focus. It is still useful to ask them for general advice about your potential topics, but don't expect them to be able to stay with your essay from first draft to final version.

Friends, Siblings, or Classmates

Although they most likely don't have much experience with what colleges are hoping to see, your peers are excellent sources for checking that your essay is you .

Friends and siblings are perfect for the read-aloud edit. Read your essay to them so they can listen for words and phrases that are stilted, pompous, or phrases that just don't sound like you.

You can even trade essays and give helpful advice on each other's work.

If your editor hasn't worked with college admissions essays very much, no worries! Any astute and attentive reader can still greatly help with your process. But, as in all things, beginners do better with some preparation.

First, your editor should read our advice about how to write a college essay introduction , how to spot and fix a bad college essay , and get a sense of what other students have written by going through some admissions essays that worked .

Then, as they read your essay, they can work through the following series of questions that will help them to guide you.

Introduction Questions

• Is the first sentence a killer opening line? Why or why not?
• Does the introduction hook the reader? Does it have a colorful, detailed, and interesting narrative? Or does it propose a compelling or surprising idea?
• Can you feel the author's voice in the introduction, or is the tone dry, dull, or overly formal? Show the places where the voice comes through.

Essay Body Questions

• Does the essay have a through-line? Is it built around a central argument, thought, idea, or focus? Can you put this idea into your own words?
• How is the essay organized? By logical progression? Chronologically? Do you feel order when you read it, or are there moments where you are confused or lose the thread of the essay?
• Does the essay have both narratives about the author's life and explanations and insight into what these stories reveal about the author's character, personality, goals, or dreams? If not, which is missing?
• Does the essay flow? Are there smooth transitions/clever links between paragraphs? Between the narrative and moments of insight?

Reader Response Questions

• Does the writer's personality come through? Do we know what the speaker cares about? Do we get a sense of "who he or she is"?
• Where did you feel most connected to the essay? Which parts of the essay gave you a "you are there" sensation by invoking your senses? What moments could you picture in your head well?
• Where are the details and examples vague and not specific enough?
• Did you get an "a-ha!" feeling anywhere in the essay? Is there a moment of insight that connected all the dots for you? Is there a good reveal or "twist" anywhere in the essay?
• What are the strengths of this essay? What needs the most improvement?

Should You Pay Money for Essay Editing?

One alternative to asking someone you know to help you with your college essay is the paid editor route. There are two different ways to pay for essay help: a private essay coach or a less personal editing service , like the many proliferating on the internet.

My advice is to think of these options as a last resort rather than your go-to first choice. I'll first go through the reasons why. Then, if you do decide to go with a paid editor, I'll help you decide between a coach and a service.

When to Consider a Paid Editor

In general, I think hiring someone to work on your essay makes a lot of sense if none of the people I discussed above are a possibility for you.

If you can't ask your parents. For example, if your parents aren't good writers, or if English isn't their first language. Or if you think getting your parents to help is going create unnecessary extra conflict in your relationship with them (applying to college is stressful as it is!)

If you can't ask your teacher or tutor. Maybe you don't have a trusted teacher or tutor that has time to look over your essay with focus. Or, for instance, your favorite humanities teacher has very limited experience with college essays and so won't know what admissions officers want to see.

If you can't ask your guidance counselor. This could be because your guidance counselor is way overwhelmed with other students.

If you can't share your essay with those who know you. It might be that your essay is on a very personal topic that you're unwilling to share with parents, teachers, or peers. Just make sure it doesn't fall into one of the bad-idea topics in our article on bad college essays .

If the cost isn't a consideration. Many of these services are quite expensive, and private coaches even more so. If you have finite resources, I'd say that hiring an SAT or ACT tutor (whether it's PrepScholar or someone else) is better way to spend your money . This is because there's no guarantee that a slightly better essay will sufficiently elevate the rest of your application, but a significantly higher SAT score will definitely raise your applicant profile much more.

Should You Hire an Essay Coach?

On the plus side, essay coaches have read dozens or even hundreds of college essays, so they have experience with the format. Also, because you'll be working closely with a specific person, it's more personal than sending your essay to a service, which will know even less about you.

But, on the minus side, you'll still be bouncing ideas off of someone who doesn't know that much about you . In general, if you can adequately get the help from someone you know, there is no advantage to paying someone to help you.

If you do decide to hire a coach, ask your school counselor, or older students that have used the service for recommendations. If you can't afford the coach's fees, ask whether they can work on a sliding scale —many do. And finally, beware those who guarantee admission to your school of choice—essay coaches don't have any special magic that can back up those promises.

Should You Send Your Essay to a Service?

On the plus side, essay editing services provide a similar product to essay coaches, and they cost significantly less . If you have some assurance that you'll be working with a good editor, the lack of face-to-face interaction won't prevent great results.

On the minus side, however, it can be difficult to gauge the quality of the service before working with them . If they are churning through many application essays without getting to know the students they are helping, you could end up with an over-edited essay that sounds just like everyone else's. In the worst case scenario, an unscrupulous service could send you back a plagiarized essay.

Getting recommendations from friends or a school counselor for reputable services is key to avoiding heavy-handed editing that writes essays for you or does too much to change your essay. Including a badly-edited essay like this in your application could cause problems if there are inconsistencies. For example, in interviews it might be clear you didn't write the essay, or the skill of the essay might not be reflected in your schoolwork and test scores.

Should You Buy an Essay Written by Someone Else?

Let me elaborate. There are super sketchy places on the internet where you can simply buy a pre-written essay. Don't do this!

For one thing, you'll be lying on an official, signed document. All college applications make you sign a statement saying something like this:

I certify that all information submitted in the admission process—including the application, the personal essay, any supplements, and any other supporting materials—is my own work, factually true, and honestly presented... I understand that I may be subject to a range of possible disciplinary actions, including admission revocation, expulsion, or revocation of course credit, grades, and degree, should the information I have certified be false. (From the Common Application )

For another thing, if your academic record doesn't match the essay's quality, the admissions officer will start thinking your whole application is riddled with lies.

Admission officers have full access to your writing portion of the SAT or ACT so that they can compare work that was done in proctored conditions with that done at home. They can tell if these were written by different people. Not only that, but there are now a number of search engines that faculty and admission officers can use to see if an essay contains strings of words that have appeared in other essays—you have no guarantee that the essay you bought wasn't also bought by 50 other students.

• You should get college essay help with both editing and proofreading
• A good editor will ask questions about your idea, logic, and structure, and will point out places where clarity is needed
• A good editor will absolutely not answer these questions, give you their own ideas, or write the essay or parts of the essay for you
• A good proofreader will find typos and check your formatting
• All of them agree that getting light editing and proofreading is necessary
• Parents, teachers, guidance or college counselor, and peers or siblings
• If you can't ask any of those, you can pay for college essay help, but watch out for services or coaches who over-edit you work
• Don't buy a pre-written essay! Colleges can tell, and it'll make your whole application sound false.

Ready to start working on your essay? Check out our explanation of the point of the personal essay and the role it plays on your applications and then explore our step-by-step guide to writing a great college essay .

Using the Common Application for your college applications? We have an excellent guide to the Common App essay prompts and useful advice on how to pick the Common App prompt that's right for you . Wondering how other people tackled these prompts? Then work through our roundup of over 130 real college essay examples published by colleges .

Stressed about whether to take the SAT again before submitting your application? Let us help you decide how many times to take this test . If you choose to go for it, we have the ultimate guide to studying for the SAT to give you the ins and outs of the best ways to study.

Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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Term paper definition

Term paper, as defined by the Cambridge Dictionary, is the main research paper written by a student for a particular class or subject during the academic year. A term paper needs to be well-researched and written with technical proficiency. In order to effectively demonstrate your understanding of a particular course, this academic writing assignment must be well-written, analytical, and organized, which can be quite difficult for the majority of students. Essentially, a long, research-based assignment on a particular topic is a term paper.

How to write a term paper?

Term papers typically include between 15 and 25 pages since any less is regarded as being incompetent and any more is excessive for any professor to read. Ideally, you should be able to choose the topic for your term paper, but avoid using topics professors find boring (You have better chances with a term paper entirely about the British term for toilet paper). Most term papers aim to assess your ability to construct and defend your arguments as well as situate yourself within a specific theoretical framework. So, your term paper outline should look like this:

• Cover page: Format the text that includes your name, the course number, the name of your teacher, and the due date.
• Abstract: Typically less than a page long and describes your work. It explains to readers the purpose of the term paper, the problem at hand, and why you thought the topic was fascinating or significant enough to write about.
• Introduction: The issue that will be discussed should be stated in the introduction. Write about the importance of the subject or issue at hand and how you intend to discuss or solve it.
• Body: The essential ideas from your research should be included in the text's body. Give background information about the subject so that the reader can comprehend the discussion.
• Results: Describe the reasons behind your beliefs about your subject based on your research. Bring everything you've been saying together with what you said in the introduction.
• Discussion: Conclude by summarizing and drawing a conclusion regarding the subject at hand, that encourages the reader to carry out further research on the topic.

Is there a service where I can buy a term paper online?

We completely understand if you are struggling with your college papers, and we are here to solve this. We are a team specializing in writing term papers and other assignments for college students and all other types of customers who need a helping hand in its making. We cover a great range of topics, offer perfect quality work, always deliver on time and aim to leave our customers completely satisfied with what they ordered. The ordering process is fully online, and it goes as follows:

• Select the topic and the deadline of your term paper.
• Provide us with any details, requirements, statements that should be emphasized, etc.
• Leave the email address, where your completed order will be sent to.
• Select your prefered payment type, sit back and relax!

With lots of experience on the market, professionally degreed writers, online 24/7 customer support and incredibly low prices, you won't find a service offering a better deal than ours.

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Everything You Need to Know to Write an A+ Term Paper

Last Updated: March 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Term Papers

Researching & outlining.

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Expert Q&A

This article was co-authored by Matthew Snipp, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . C. Matthew Snipp is the Burnet C. and Mildred Finley Wohlford Professor of Humanities and Sciences in the Department of Sociology at Stanford University. He is also the Director for the Institute for Research in the Social Science’s Secure Data Center. He has been a Research Fellow at the U.S. Bureau of the Census and a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences. He has published 3 books and over 70 articles and book chapters on demography, economic development, poverty and unemployment. He is also currently serving on the National Institute of Child Health and Development’s Population Science Subcommittee. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,240,175 times.

A term paper is a written assignment given to students at the end of a course to gauge their understanding of the material. Term papers typically count for a good percentage of your overall grade, so of course, you’ll want to write the best paper possible. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to write an A+ term paper, from researching and outlining to drafting and revising.

Quick Steps to Write a Term Paper

• Hook your readers with an interesting and informative intro paragraph. State your thesis and your main points.
• Support your thesis by providing quotes and evidence that back your claim in your body paragraphs.
• Summarize your main points and leave your readers with a thought-provoking question in your conclusion.

• Think of your term paper as the bridge between what you’ve learned in class and how you apply that knowledge to real-world topics.
• For example, a history term paper may require you to explore the consequences of a significant historical event, like the Civil War. An environmental science class, on the other hand, may have you examine the effects of climate change on a certain region.
• Your guidelines should tell you the paper’s word count and formatting style, like whether to use in-text citations or footnotes and whether to use single- or double-spacing. If these things aren’t specified, be sure to reach out to your instructor.

• Make sure your topic isn’t too broad. For example, if you want to write about Shakespeare’s work, first narrow it down to a specific play, like Macbeth , then choose something even more specific like Lady Macbeth’s role in the plot.
• If the topic is already chosen for you, explore unique angles that can set your content and information apart from the more obvious approaches many others will probably take. [3] X Research source
• Try not to have a specific outcome in mind, as this will close you off to new ideas and avenues of thinking. Rather than trying to mold your research to fit your desired outcome, allow the outcome to reflect a genuine analysis of the discoveries you made. Ask yourself questions throughout the process and be open to having your beliefs challenged.
• Reading other people's comments, opinions, and entries on a topic can often help you to refine your own, especially where they comment that "further research" is required or where they posit challenging questions but leave them unanswered.

• For example, if you’re writing a term paper about Macbeth , your primary source would be the play itself. Then, look for other research papers and analyses written by academics and scholars to understand how they interpret the text.

• For example, if you’re writing a paper about Lady Macbeth, your thesis could be something like “Shakespeare’s characterization of Lady Macbeth reveals how desire for power can control someone’s life.”
• Remember, your research and thesis development doesn’t stop here. As you continue working through both the research and writing, you may want to make changes that align with the ideas forming in your mind and the discoveries you continue to unearth.
• On the other hand, don’t keep looking for new ideas and angles for fear of feeling confined. At some point, you’re going to have to say enough is enough and make your point. You may have other opportunities to explore these questions in future studies, but for now, remember your term paper has a finite word length and an approaching due date!

• Abstract: An abstract is a concise summary of your paper that informs readers of your topic, its significance, and the key points you’ll explore. It must stand on its own and make sense without referencing outside sources or your actual paper.
• Introduction: The introduction establishes the main idea of your paper and directly states the thesis. Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing sentence to intrigue your readers, and provide any necessary background information to establish your paper’s purpose and direction.
• Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on a different argument supporting your thesis. List specific evidence from your sources to back up your arguments. Provide detailed information about your topic to enhance your readers’ understanding. In your outline, write down the main ideas for each body paragraph and any outstanding questions or points you’re not yet sure about.
• Results: Depending on the type of term paper you’re writing, your results may be incorporated into your body paragraphs or conclusion. These are the insights that your research led you to. Here you can discuss how your perspective and understanding of your topic shifted throughout your writing process.
• Conclusion: Your conclusion summarizes your argument and findings. You may restate your thesis and major points as you wrap up your paper.

Drafting Your Term Paper

• Writing an introduction can be challenging, but don’t get too caught up on it. As you write the rest of your paper, your arguments might change and develop, so you’ll likely need to rewrite your intro at the end, anyway. Writing your intro is simply a means of getting started and you can always revise it later. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
• Be sure to define any words your readers might not understand. For example, words like “globalization” have many different meanings depending on context, and it’s important to state which ones you’ll be using as part of your introductory paragraph.

• Try to relate the subject of the essay (say, Plato’s Symposium ) to a tangentially related issue you happen to know something about (say, the growing trend of free-wheeling hookups in frat parties). Slowly bring the paragraph around to your actual subject and make a few generalizations about why this aspect of the book/subject is so fascinating and worthy of study (such as how different the expectations for physical intimacy were then compared to now).

• You can also reflect on your own experience of researching and writing your term paper. Discuss how your understanding of your topic evolved and any unexpected findings you came across.

• While peppering quotes throughout your text is a good way to help make your point, don’t overdo it. If you use too many quotes, you’re basically allowing other authors to make the point and write the paper for you. When you do use a quote, be sure to explain why it is relevant in your own words.
• Try to sort out your bibliography at the beginning of your writing process to avoid having a last-minute scramble. When you have all the information beforehand (like the source’s title, author, publication date, etc.), it’s easier to plug them into the correct format.

Revising & Finalizing Your Term Paper

• Trade in weak “to-be” verbs for stronger “action” verbs. For example: “I was writing my term paper” becomes “I wrote my term paper.”

• It’s extremely important to proofread your term paper. If your writing is full of mistakes, your instructor will assume you didn’t put much effort into your paper. If you have too many errors, your message will be lost in the confusion of trying to understand what you’ve written.

• If you add or change information to make things clearer for your readers, it’s a good idea to look over your paper one more time to catch any new typos that may have come up in the process.

• The best essays are like grass court tennis—the argument should flow in a "rally" style, building persuasively to the conclusion. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If you get stuck, consider giving your professor a visit. Whether you're still struggling for a thesis or you want to go over your conclusion, most instructors are delighted to help and they'll remember your initiative when grading time rolls around. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• At least 2 hours for 3-5 pages.
• At least 4 hours for 8-10 pages.
• At least 6 hours for 12-15 pages.
• Double those hours if you haven't done any homework and you haven't attended class.
• For papers that are primarily research-based, add about two hours to those times (although you'll need to know how to research quickly and effectively, beyond the purview of this brief guide).

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.binghamton.edu/counseling/self-help/term-paper.html
• ↑ Matthew Snipp, PhD. Research Fellow, U.S. Bureau of the Census. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44525
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/planresearchpaper/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/thesis_statement_tips.html
• ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/outline
• ↑ https://gallaudet.edu/student-success/tutorial-center/english-center/writing/guide-to-writing-introductions-and-conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26731827
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/
• ↑ https://www.ivcc.edu/stylesite/Essay_Title.pdf
• ↑ https://www.uni-flensburg.de/fileadmin/content/institute/anglistik/dokumente/downloads/how-to-write-a-term-paper-daewes.pdf
• ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185937
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

If you need to write a term paper, choose your topic, then start researching that topic. Use your research to craft a thesis statement which states the main idea of your paper, then organize all of your facts into an outline that supports your thesis. Once you start writing, state your thesis in the first paragraph, then use the body of the paper to present the points that support your argument. End the paper with a strong conclusion that restates your thesis. For tips on improving your term paper through active voice, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Term Paper

How to Write a Term Paper - Getting to the Basics

A term paper is generally structured with an opening introduction, followed by several body paragraphs, and culminates with a conclusion. It articulates a central thesis statement, bolstered by corroborative evidence and critical analysis. The writing is formal in nature, adheres to a designated formatting style like APA or MLA, and is complemented by accurate citations and a comprehensive bibliography.

Writing a term paper is a structured process that demands careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach to guide you:

• Understand the Assignment : Ensure you grasp the requirements, the topic's scope, and the deadline.
• Choose a Topic : Select a topic that is interesting to you and meets the assignment's criteria. It should be narrow enough to explore fully within the paper's constraints.
• Conduct Preliminary Research : Gather background information to further refine your topic, develop a thesis, and create a research question.
• Develop a Thesis Statement : This is the central argument or claim of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and arguable.
• Create an Outline : Organize your main points and supporting details into an outline. This will serve as a roadmap for your term paper.
• Conduct Detailed Research : Use credible sources to collect evidence and information that support your thesis. Take careful notes and keep track of your sources for citations.
• Write the Introduction : Start with a hook to grab the reader's interest, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
• Write the Body : Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence and analysis to back up each point.
• Write the Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate the thesis in the context of the evidence you provided. Discuss the implications of your findings or future directions for research.
• Revise and Edit : Look for any gaps in logic or content, check for clarity and flow, and ensure each part of the paper supports your thesis. Edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format Your Paper : Follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) for your discipline, and ensure your paper adheres to all formatting guidelines.
• Final Review : Give your paper a final read-through, checking for coherence, structure, and formatting.
• Submit : Turn in your paper by the deadline, and ensure you have a copy saved for your records.

You always hear the word “term paper,” and in the most basic sense, it is the paper that sums up everything you have learned in a term or semester. Think of it as the ‘gate pass’ for a checkpoint in a game: you need to secure one by finishing one important challenge.

As every game requires, that particular challenge is not similar to other challenges you have encountered. Thus, you must conserve every remaining energy and time to prepare for the challenge.

Going back to our topic, term papers require your knowledge, effort, and time. You can only produce a faultless and astounding term paper once you have mastered the fundamental things you will continuously see in every paper you will be crafting in the coming semesters.

Research-Based

In a term paper, you may not want to ditch your personal experiences or observations when integrating what you have learned in a single term or semester. Most of the time, integrating salient findings and concepts from literature and other scholarly sources may be required depending on the type of paper you are asked to write.

A topic, especially if it is purely theoretical or academic, may warrant you to do a literature review and background research. Fret not, though, as this blog will guide you through making your term paper a work of research.

Since a term paper is research-based, it is almost always impossible not to involve critical thinking and analysis on a certain topic. After all, the best way to discuss a topic, especially if it is complex, is to break it down into pieces. Once disassembled, you can evaluate the evidence, examine its validity, and draw reasoned conclusions based on your findings.

Thesis Statement

You might be able to equate a term paper to an essay. They seem to get along, especially with the structure and purpose of writing. However, you can never go wrong with formulating a good thesis statement for your term paper.

As it is more similar to a research paper, a term paper can be quite long, so having a good thesis statement reinstates the main argument or purpose of your writing. It guides the entire direction of your paper and helps your reader grasp its focus– no matter how long and winding his or her experience will be.

Logical Flow

We may love a fun, creative, and often chaotic way of writing, especially when reading a narrative essay as a coursework assignment. Sorry to burst your bubbles, but a term paper may not follow the same route.

As a standard term paper is full of concepts, terms, arguments, and ideas, it deserves great attention to logic and organization. This means that each section of the paper must build up from the previous one, and transitions between paragraphs and sections should observe smoothness and coherence.

What is a Term Paper In Terms of Its Various Types and Forms

Writing a term paper entails preparation. You can only wish that you have a ton of brain cells and resources to help you finalize your paper that is good for submission– and a stellar score.

However, preparation is only one thing in the long-lasting process of term paper writing.

The term paper structure will still depend on the scope of analysis, as well as the categories of the term paper. Yes, you saw it correctly: types or categories of term papers may have different structures or, in most cases, purposes.

This part of your journey in term paper writing will acquaint you with different types of term papers according to purpose and structure. 

Analytical Paper

From the word itself, an analytical paper requires you to break down a concept, theory, or phenomenon into several parts. These parts may come in the form of elements, experiences, principles, and many other related components.

An analytical paper aims to examine these parts critically and evaluate them accordingly. Analytical papers are often found in social sciences and humanities, and they are mostly requested for a term paper writing service .

Possible topics that resemble your future topic under the mentioned fields are critiquing a philosophical theory or analyzing globalization's impact on a specific country's pop culture.

Argumentative Paper

What is a term paper without presenting a stance? In an argumentative term paper, your professor might give you a debatable or controversial topic that requires your critical thinking and persuasive skills to be utilized.

In this type of term paper, you must integrate a literature review and empirical evidence to support your stance and counter several opposing views. Argumentations are often found in several branches of the social sciences, such as law, ethics, and literature.

You may stumble upon topics like augmenting a controversial public policy or defending a particular interpretation of a literary piece.

Descriptive Paper

Fulfilling this type of term paper entails more than injecting fancy adjectives, imageries, and vivid narrations. When dealing with descriptive term papers, you must provide a detailed overview of a particular topic, event, phenomenon, or concept.

If you ask me how to format a term paper of this kind, the descriptive language used must be realistic and accurate, not just merely ornamental. This orientation would provide a seamless and truthful picture for the reader of your paper.

Although your term paper may be descriptive, objectivity should not be taken away. Descriptive term papers are mostly required in the natural sciences, such as physics, chemistry, Earth science, and biology. A perfect example is the description of the geological features of a national park. 

Comparative Papers

True to its name, this type of term paper compares and contrasts two or more theories, subjects, schools of thought, and approaches.

Upon taking the two major steps, you will need to analyze the similarities and differences between the elements, and you may formulate conclusions regarding their significance or implications. Comparative term papers are commonly seen in economics, political science, literature, sociology, and history.

A prime example might be comparing two distinct economic systems or analyzing the similarities and differences between political theories, such as Republicanism and Democracy.

Expository Papers

How to start a term paper of this type? We just have to take a hint at its name: it ‘exposes’ a piece of information. Elaborating on this, term papers adhering to this type explain or inform the prospective audience about a specific topic, concept, process, or phenomenon.

Since we are dealing with information, it has to be ensured that the latter must be accurate, truthful, and sufficient. Writing expository papers may also entail a handful of related writing tasks, such as defining key terms and organizing information according to related themes.

The fields that most likely require expository term papers are education, communication arts, journalism, and several liberal arts areas.

Grasping each type of term paper above may be quite a handful. Apart from preparing a term paper, you are confronted with a big challenge to choose a type or, in some cases, integrate one type into another.

Regardless of your writing decisions, you are always in for a treat: your term paper proposal will not be a failure if you are more than familiar with your purpose of writing one.

In addition, writing services like Studyfy let you access term paper help like no other. From your term paper outline to the final touches, an array of professional writers are present to provide personalized writing services for negotiable pricing.

What’s The Proper Term Paper Format? From the Ground Up

I am fully aware that you have been wired up with all the information you need to know about term papers, but do not falter yet, as we are just in the most needed part of this blog: formatting your term paper.

Writing a term paper will not be as polished and organized if you do not prepare your format ahead of your writing preparations. So, from conceptualizing your title to proofreading your paper, our tips and tricks will propel you to the towering heights of marks you have always aimed for.

Start Strong with Your Title Page

A well-established term paper will not be realized without a strong facade through a title page. Many students are seen as not focusing on this part of the paper, thinking that it does not hold as much importance as other parts, but if you are thinking the same, you need to change your mind.

Some instructors and professors look at the title page to check if you adhere to the formatting guidelines. If you are less likely to notice such inconsistencies, your professor might think you are not keen enough to eye important details in the rest of your paper.

Pro-Tip: As early as creating your title page, be sure to follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your professor or academic institution, such as font size, spacing, and margin specifications.

Abstract– Concise Yet Complete

An abstract is likewise an important component of a term paper, just as in a research paper. It encapsulates the crucial pieces of information that the reader must know. It includes the background of the paper, methods, results, and implications of the findings.

While the abstract may require a specific word count that differs from one academic institution to another, it is generally preferred to keep everything short yet complete. Remember: the term paper itself will likely become wordy and extensive, so let us spare space for urgency on the paper’s abstract.

Pro-Tip : Keep everything concise and elaborate on the findings more than the background. The usual word count for an abstract is 150-200 words.

Term Paper’s Background: Where the Thesis Statement is Cleared Its Way

Term paper writing will get as fired up at this point since this part introduces the rationale or context of the paper, asking the question, “What is the topic all about?” In presenting the background, the introduction of the paper's main argument is given– the thesis statement.

This crucial part of the paper is often written as a declarative sentence or a question. To make everything clear and articulated, the paper’s background must provide an extensive exploration of the topic that could lead to formulating the thesis statement. There should be a profound connection between the rationale of the paper and its main purpose.

Pro-Tip : Term papers are more flexible than research papers and journal articles in terms of structuring their introduction. You may hook the reader's attention by putting an engaging opening sentence or anecdote.

Arranging Lit Review: To Each Its Own

Regardless of whether the literature review section of a term paper is separated or integrated into the introduction, this part must provide an extensive overview of existing research and scholarship relevant to the topic.

While one can put empirical and observational studies into the review, it is important to put a premium on reputable articles and research reports that are peer-reviewed and published in indexed journals. When no single guideline talks about a window period for acceptable literature, you may set one for yourself as a guide. 

Pro-Tip: Arrange the literature review thematically, chronologically, or topically, depending on the ways that you desire to highlight some aspects of your term paper.

To an Extensive Results and Discussion Section

Term papers will not be complete without the discussion section. This part seals the deal and is an important piece of a complex puzzle. It interprets the results in conjunction with the questions at hand and assesses their value by comparing them with previous studies according to their agreement or disagreement. 

Pro-Tip: When sourcing previous studies as points of reference for the results, always strive to find ones that both agree or disagree with them. This ensures the polarity and absence of bias in the reporting of the results.

Closing the Curtains with the Paper’s Conclusion

When concluding your term paper writing, always restate the thesis statement. It always feels right and justifiable if the main purpose of the entire term paper is reiterated in the last part of the paper. Apart from that, recommendations and final thoughts may be included in this section.

The conclusion section, deemed shorter than other key sections in the term paper, may come in a short paragraph or bullet format, depending on your guidelines.

Pro-Tip: New information that is not previously included in the paper is not welcome in the conclusion. You might need to write my term paper again if I committed a mistake. You may instead synthesize the key points and results and leave a lasting impression on your reader by either providing a strong closing statement or a reinforcement of the main argument of the term paper.

References and Appendices: Two Pieces That Complete

One may argue that writing term papers may not need references and appendices sections, but the material they provide may prove otherwise. Without the references, sources will not be identified nor assessed, leaving no room for integrity on the writer's part. 

Having no appendices section, on the other hand, does not provide enough context or additional information about the important plans that were executed during the creation of the paper. It is in these sections that small things matter.

Pro-Tip: Double-check the veracity of the references and appendices section. This may entail using the proper citation style for the reference titles and labeling the materials under the appendices section.

What’s a term paper? How to write a successful term paper?

A: A term paper is a type of academic paper that a student, typically from a higher academic institution such as a university, completes at the end of a semester or a term. Since it is considered a terminal requirement, writing a term paper requires one to conduct research, utilize higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, and present findings on a topic or subject by incorporating the knowledge and skills throughout the entirety of the term. 

Since a term paper qualifies as an academic paper, writing services offer custom term paper assistance whenever needed. It is only through tailor-fit writing assistance and professional guidance from seasoned writers that you can achieve a stellar grade without getting down a rough route, thanks to Studyfy.

How to write a term paper if there is a word count?

A word count may be a bummer for some, but it can motivate you to budget how you will use your words efficiently. Make sure to allocate several words strategically. It is recommended that the discussion section gets the highest allocation among all the term paper sections.

Your research and writing process can be influenced by the term paper format and word count. As academic papers often have a specific set of rules, make sure to follow them to the dot.

What is the general structure of a term paper? Is it the same as a research paper?

The universally accepted structure of a term paper is quite similar to a research report: title page, rationale/background, literature review, methodology, results and discussion, and references. An appendices section is optional but necessary for other fields of interest.

A good term paper is like a good research paper. Research papers, like other academic papers, follow the named predictable pattern; just make sure to present your own research through engaging body paragraphs and state primary and secondary sources, including other research papers you used while writing.

Are term papers similar to research papers? How similar and different is the writing process?

Term paper writing is similar to research writing in terms of structure and purpose. However, they differ in scope, audience, and length. While a term paper has a broader scope and is meant to be seen by the course instructor, a research paper has a narrower scope and is written for a wider academic audience. However, what's crucial is the thorough research process.

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How to write a term paper

Published September 27, 2020. Updated June 1, 2022.

Term Paper Definition

A term paper is usually the culmination of a semester-long class and is meant to synthesize the information that you learned.

Overview of term paper

To start writing a term paper, you should first choose a topic that you are interested in that is related to the class. Then, do some pre-searching to identify preliminary sources that you could potentially use. Write a thesis statement addressing your topic that is arguable and provable. Thorough research should be conducted to identify a variety of credible sources. Recording and citing the sources as you go helps to make sure nothing is missed. An outline should be created before you write to make sure that the structure and organization of the paper are logical. After completion of the paper, make sure to read each section carefully and edit your draft. Double-check if all the required rules are followed for in-text citations and formatting. In addition to self-editing, it is also a good idea to get another person to read it and provide feedback if possible.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

This page will cover the following points:

Key takeaways

Choosing a topic, writing a thesis statement, read, analyze, and take notes, organize your ideas into categories and create an outline, write the paper, edit your draft.

• Turn in your paper and relax !
• Choose a term paper topic that you are interested in and have knowledge of, and then do some pre-searching to identify preliminary sources that you could potentially use.
• Write a thesis statement that is arguable, provable, adequately addresses your topic, and is not too broad or narrow.
• Conduct thorough research to identify a variety of credible sources and begin recording and citing your sources as you go to make sure nothing is missed.
• Create an outline before you write to make sure that the structure and organization of your paper is logical.
• Be sure to edit your draft and have another person read it and provide feedback if possible.

The magic of writing lies in writing about what you know. A term paper is the culmination of a semester’s worth of learning, so you should already have a good head start if you’ve been paying attention in class. In order to choose a strong topic, the following tips will help:

• Consult your class syllabus carefully.
• Clarify what the professor is asking you to do.
• Utilize your professor’s office hours to ask questions if confused.

Finding clarity at the beginning of the project will lead to smoother sailing throughout the journey.

In the process of writing the term paper, perhaps no step is more important than PRE-searching. After carefully reading the syllabus and clarifying what is expected of you, take some time to examine your own interests and skills that align with the assignment. In other words, what do you already know about the topic that would make a good term paper? Is there anything related to this topic that you feel passionate about?

Pre-searching involves asking yourself a few pointed questions:

• Do I fully understand what is expected of me with this project?
• What skills do I already possess surrounding this topic?
• What do I already know about the topic that would make a good term paper?
• What am I passionate about?

The more you already know, and the more invested you are in the project, the easier it will be. Once you start narrowing down your topic, your pre-search should also include some quick online searching to ensure that you will be able to find valid sources on your chosen topic. Taking time at this stage to ensure a solid topic with viable sources will save you time and aggravation in the future.

A thesis statement is the road map for your paper. There are several tips for writing a good thesis statement:

• Write a provable, arguable statement. You are not stating a fact; you are stating a debatable idea. You will use the rest of your paper to prove this statement.
• Usually, it is written in the third person.
• It should address the requirements and topic of your assigned project.
• Too broad: Plastic straws are bad.
• Too narrow: Because plastic straws with stripes harm marine life and contribute to Atlantic ocean pollution, so we should consider banning them in coastal towns with populations of more than 60,000.
• Just right: Because plastic straws harm marine life and contribute to ocean pollution, we should consider banning them.
• Put your thesis statement at the end of your first paragraph.
• Understand that your thesis statement will grow and change. As you research and learn more, it’s natural to tweak your thesis statement to account for new information and conclusions.

The art of research cannot be overstated. Working smarter and not harder is the key to your success here.

• Use your college library’s databases. Most of these can be accessed in the library or online. Since these databases have been vetted by librarians, you can trust the sources you find on them.
• Evaluate any sources you find via an online search engine. Though there are some great sources online (government data, newspaper articles, etc.), you have to be careful about what you choose to use. Not every source is reputable enough to include in a term paper.
• Use a mix of sources. You don’t want to only cite one or two sources over and over again or only cite sources from the same author. The more variety you have, the stronger your argument will be. At the college level, some academic journal articles should definitely be included (these can be found in the above–mentioned databases).
• Make a bibliography of your sources as you research. It’s easier to record your sources from the start rather than forgetting a source later on and being accused of accidental plagiarism.

What makes a good source? One guide to consider following is the CRAAP method of evaluating sources:

• Currency: How recent is your source? Does it present the most up-to-date information? Does it have information from a time period you’re focusing on? Check the copyright, posting date, or publication date carefully.
• Relevance: Your source needs to contain pertinent information for the topic you have chosen. It should also be at an appropriate scholarly level for the assignment.
• Authority: The source’s author needs to be credible. Check the author’s credentials, as well as the publisher’s or website’s background. Avoid personal blogs and random sources that are not written by experts.
• Accuracy: Your information needs to give you solid evidence to write your paper. Analyze a source’s use of language and information to make sure it is accurate.
• Purpose: You need to determine why your source was written. Was it written by an objective expert, or did an author or company with a vested interest in the topic write the article? Avoid articles with heavy bias.

One final note on research: Now is a good time to note that the word “research” means just what it sounds like. The prefix “re-” means ¨to do again,¨ so research means to search and search again. Don’t become discouraged if it takes a while to find good sources. The more work you do on the front end of the project, the better off you will be.

Want to look at a sample paper first? Check out this example term paper .

Once you have your sources, the hard work begins. You will need to read and analyze your source information. Taking notes is a MUST. In order to organize your thoughts and prove what you are trying to prove, you need to take detailed, relevant notes. Here are some reading strategies that will help streamline the process:

• Read your source through once to get a general idea of what it is talking about.
• Read it a second time to take notes and focus on the points you want to include in your paper.

The kind of notes you take could range from summarizing the material to making bullet points of useful facts to jotting down direct quotes. There are also specific note-taking approaches you can follow. If you’re interested in learning more, visit this helpful site .

The next step in the process is to organize the information you have gathered in your note-taking stage. There are several tips that will help you stay on track in this stage:

• Organize your notes into categories.
• Take the information in each category and decide what order to put it in to create the strongest argument.
• Write an outline. After organizing your notes, writing a phrase or full-sentence outline will really help you organize your thinking and keep your writing focused. You can be as informal or formal as you like, but this step is a lifesaver when it comes time to compose.

Consider using this outline template:

Creative Title of Research Paper

• Opening Statement (this is the “hook” for your reader)
• Thesis Statement
• ______________________________
• Recap thesis statement
• Summarize argument

At this point, you already have all the hard work done. All you have to do now is build out the sections in your outline using the research you’ve collected and analyzed.

Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your writing time:

• Format the paper according to the professor’s guidelines. You will probably use MLA or APA style.
• Use formal writing and strong vocabulary throughout.
• Use transition words like “therefore” and “additionally” to connect ideas.
• Use transition sentences at the beginning and/or end of each paragraph to set the reader up for what comes next.
• Create in-text citations as you go along to give credit for your information.
• Double–check your work.

After all of this time and effort, do yourself a favor and edit carefully. Read each section closely and double-check that you’re following all of the proper rules for in-text citations and formatting. There are two great tricks for editing that will help you catch errors:

• Reading your paper out loud will help you catch mistakes, especially words you accidentally skipped.
• Reading each sentence backwards from the end of your paper to the beginning will also help you polish your work. Although they might sound bizarre, these two tricks will really help!

In addition to self-editing, it’s always a good idea to get an outside opinion. There are many options:

• Ask a friend or classmate to read through your paper.
• Visit your university writing center in-person or online and use their review services.
• Submit your paper to an online paper checker like Chegg Writing. This option is great when you’re in a time crunch.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

Turn in your paper and relax!

After going through this process, your fear will melt away and you will have a solid paper to show for your efforts. Imagine what you can learn and produce when you put your mind to it and follow a few simple steps!

Example term paper on Geoffrey of Monmouth

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Apr 19, 2024

Mastering Term Papers: The Essential Guide From Start to Finish

Forget those groans and sighs whenever a term paper is assigned. Think of them as an incredible opportunity to take a deep dive into a topic you find fascinating, flex your research skills, and produce a piece of work that truly showcases your academic growth. 

This guide will walk you through every step of the process, simplifying term papers and empowering you to achieve your best possible results.

Understanding Term Papers

Term papers are a cornerstone of academic life, but are they the same as research papers? Not quite! While both involve research and writing, term papers hold a specific weight in your academic journey.

What is a Term Paper?

A term paper, also known as a course paper, is an extended research essay assigned towards the end of a term. It goes deeper than a typical essay, requiring you to present a comprehensive grasp of the course material.

Unlike a book report that summarizes information, a term paper demands critical analysis, where you explore a specific topic within the course framework. It's your chance to not just regurgitate facts, but to engage with the subject, form an argument, and support it with credible evidence.

Key Elements of a Term Paper: Building a Strong Foundation

Every successful term paper rests on a solid foundation. Here are the essential components you'll need to master:

Thesis Statement: This is the central argument of your paper, acting as a roadmap for your reader. A strong thesis statement is clear, concise, and directly addresses the prompt or topic.

Argument Structure: Think of your paper as a well-constructed building. Your arguments act as the supporting beams, holding your thesis statement aloft. Each body paragraph should focus on a single point that strengthens your overall argument.

Evidence Base: Facts, statistics, and expert opinions are the bricks and mortar of your argument. Ensure your evidence comes from credible sources, such as academic journals, scholarly books, and reputable websites. Don't forget to properly cite your sources to avoid plagiarism.

Differentiating Term Papers from Other Academic Works

While different academic assignments share similarities, each has a unique flavor. Let's unravel how term papers differ from their scholarly cousins:

Term Paper vs. Research Paper: They overlap significantly, yet depth is the key differentiator. Term papers focus on demonstrating knowledge acquired during a course. Research papers delve deeper, expecting original research, analysis, and a novel contribution to the field.

Term Paper vs. Dissertation: Dissertations are doctoral-level behemoths compared to the smaller-scale term paper. Dissertations involve far more extensive original research, with broader implications across a discipline. Term papers often build the research muscle needed for such larger projects.

Term Paper vs. Essay: Think of essays as sprints, while term papers are marathons. Essays are shorter, with a more focused thesis and narrower argument. Term papers require you to sustain a thesis over a greater length and offer more comprehensive analysis.

Choosing a Topic for Your Term Paper

Selecting the right topic is like finding the right key to unlock the door of a compelling term paper. Here's your toolkit:

Brainstorming with Bounds: Start by mind-mapping concepts covered in your course. Remember, your instructor wants to see your grasp of the material, so stay within those parameters.

Finding Your Passion: What intrigued you in class discussions or readings? A passion for the topic fuels your research and makes the writing process more enjoyable.

Scope Matters: Be realistic about the time and resources you have. Choose a topic that is narrow enough to research thoroughly but broad enough to support a substantial argument.

The Goldilocks Zone: Your topic shouldn't be so general that you drown in information, nor so specific that research hits a dead end. Find that perfect "just right" balance.

Get Feedback Early: Run your topic ideas by your instructor. Their insights can save you from a path strewn with frustration.

Research Strategies for Term Papers

A well-researched term paper stands out. Here's how to navigate the ocean of information for that academic treasure:

Library Power: Your campus library is your ally! Librarians are masters at guiding you to the best databases, books, and journals for your field. Don't hesitate to ask for help.

Digital Databases: Academic databases like JSTOR and Google Scholar are goldmines of peer-reviewed articles, essential for credible research.

Beyond Textbooks: Expand your worldview! Consider primary sources (e.g., interviews, archival documents), government reports, and credible news websites to add depth.

Notes Are Your Lifeline: Effective note-taking isn't just copying information. Summarize key points in your own words, note the source and page number for easy referencing, and tag information based on how it fits your argument.

Organization is Key: Create an outline or mind map to see the big picture of your research. Digital tools like Evernote or OneNote can be lifesavers for managing a large project.

The Importance of Originality and Plagiarism Avoidance

Your unique insights are what make your term paper valuable. Here's how to safeguard your work and reputation:

The Art of Attribution: Whenever you use someone else's ideas or words, credit them through citations. Use the citation style required by your instructor (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

Paraphrase with Care: Even if you rephrase an idea in your own words, it still needs citation. Aim to primarily express your original thoughts and analysis.

When in Doubt, Cite: It's far better to over-cite than accidentally slip into plagiarism.

Is It Necessary to Use Plagiarism Detection Software for Every Term Paper?

Plagiarism detection tools like Turnitin or Grammarly are your failsafe. They help identify unintentional plagiarism, such as missed citations or poorly paraphrased passages. Consider it a step in ensuring your hard work reflects your originality and understanding.

Important Note: These tools are not foolproof, and should not replace your own careful citation practices. Use them as part of your editing process, not as a shortcut.

Selecting a Topic

Choosing a compelling topic is the first step to a successful term paper. Here's where originality and research scope become your guiding lights.

We already outlined how you can select the best topic for your term paper (see above), but you can also look for connections between your ideas and the broader themes in your field to make this process easier. This can create a deeper understanding and even pave the way for future research, like a dissertation or capstone project, that explores the topic in greater detail.

Can Any Topic Be Suitable for a Term Paper as Long as It's Well-Researched?

While thorough research is essential, topic suitability plays a crucial role. Here's why:

Alignment Matters: Your topic should align with the course objectives and the professor's expectations. Check the assignment guidelines carefully to ensure your chosen subject fits the scope of the course.

Finding the Sweet Spot: Consider research availability. Can you find enough credible sources to support a comprehensive analysis? Conversely, is the topic so narrow that locating sufficient information becomes a challenge?

Term Paper Format

Term papers have a specific format that ensures clarity and professionalism. Here's a breakdown with practical tips to set you apart:

Title Page: This is your first impression, so make it count! Include the title of your paper, your name, your instructor's name, course number, and the due date.

Abstract (Optional): A concise summary (100-200 words) highlighting your thesis statement, key arguments, and main points.

Introduction: Hook your reader with a captivating introduction that introduces the topic, presents the research question, and outlines your thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your overall argument. Use clear transitions to connect your ideas and integrate evidence effectively. Remember to properly cite your sources according to the required style guide (e.g., APA, MLA).

Conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate your thesis in a new way, and leave the reader with a lasting impression.

References: This is where you meticulously list all the sources you used in your paper. Formatting should be consistent with the chosen style guide. ( Tip: Use a reference management tool like Zotero or Mendeley to streamline this process!)

Research Papers

Term papers and research papers share some similarities, but also have distinct purposes and structures:

Term Papers: Focus on demonstrating your understanding of course material through critical analysis and synthesis of existing research.

Research Papers: Delve deeper, often requiring original research, a more complex argument, and a contribution to a specific field of study.

The skills you hone while writing term papers, like crafting a strong thesis statement, conducting effective research, and properly citing sources, are invaluable for tackling research papers later in your academic journey.

Writing Process: Transforming Ideas into a Polished Paper

A term paper isn't born overnight. Here's a step-by-step journey to guide you through the process:

Research and Exploration: Dive deep into your sources, take meticulous notes, and organize your findings around your potential thesis statement.

Outlining: Create a skeleton of your paper, mapping out your introduction, body paragraphs (each with clear topic sentences), and conclusion. This helps with structure and avoids wandering arguments.

Drafting the Rough Cut: Let the words flow! Focus on getting your main ideas on paper. Don't worry about perfection at this stage; focus on the big picture of your argument.

Revision – Part 1: The Big Picture. Step back for a few hours (or even a day!) then reread your draft with a critical eye. Does the structure flow? Are there areas that need better evidence? Does your thesis shine through clearly?

Revision – Part 2: The Nitty Gritty. Focus on sentence structure, clarity, and word choice. Read out loud to catch awkward phrasing. Double-check your citations to ensure accuracy.

Proofreading with a Fresh Eye: Enlist a classmate or use a tool like Grammarly for a final polish. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and clarity issues.

Position Papers: Term Papers as a Foundation

The skills you develop in drafting a term paper translate directly to persuasive writing formats like position papers :

Building a Strong Argument: In both term papers and position papers, your ability to develop a clear thesis and support it with evidence is essential.

Organization is Key: Both formats demand a structured presentation, with clear introductions, supporting paragraphs, and impactful conclusions.

Power of Persuasive Language: Term papers help you sharpen your writing for impact. Apply that skill in position papers to convince readers of your perspective.

Crafting an Effective Outline: The Blueprint for Your Paper

A robust outline is like your term paper's compass. Here's how to create one that'll steer you towards a polished final product:

Start Simple, Get Detailed: Begin with your thesis statement at the very top. Then, list your main points (think Roman numerals - I, II, III). Under each main point, break down supporting arguments or evidence (using capital letters - A, B, C).

Flexibility is Key: Outlines are fluid! As your research progresses, add more supporting points or rearrange them as your understanding of the topic solidifies.

Digital Tools to the Rescue: Consider apps like OneNote, Evernote, or even good old Google Docs to easily rearrange sections, add notes, and keep your outline dynamic.

Does an Outline Need to Include Every Detail That Will Appear in the Term Paper?

Your outline should not be a word-for-word preview of your term paper. It's a roadmap, highlighting the major points, supporting arguments, and overall structure. Including every tiny detail leads to a cumbersome outline that hinders your writing flow.

Understanding the Purpose of an Outline: Benefits Beyond Structure

Outlining does more than organize your thoughts. Here's why it's worth the effort:

Early Warning System: A well-made outline can reveal gaps in your research early on. Did you find enough evidence to support Point III? Time to hit the library again!

Time Saver: A clear outline makes the writing process smoother. You know what to write about next, reducing time spent staring at a blank screen.

Combats Overwhelm: Seeing your term paper broken down into smaller chunks makes the entire project seem less daunting.

A Living Document: Don't be afraid to revisit and revise your outline as you research and your ideas evolve.

Components of a Term Paper Outline

A well-structured outline is the backbone of a successful term paper. Here's a breakdown of its key components:

Thesis Statement: This is the foundation of your entire paper, so prominently position it at the top of your outline. It should be a concise and clear statement of your central argument.

Introduction: Briefly outline the key points you'll cover in the introduction, such as background information, the research question, and a preview of your thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs: This is the heart of your outline. Break down each body paragraph by:

Main Topic: Identify the main point you'll address in each paragraph.

Key Arguments: List the sub-points or arguments that will support your main topic.

Evidence: Briefly mention the sources (e.g., author, publication) that you'll use to substantiate your arguments. Don't worry about full citations here, just enough detail to jog your memory.

Conclusion: Outline the key takeaways you'll emphasize in your conclusion, including a restatement of your thesis in a new way and the significance of your findings.

Selecting Main Topics and Subtopics

Choosing strong main topics and subtopics is crucial for a clear and coherent outline. Here's how to navigate this step:

Brainstorming Power: Start by listing all the relevant points you want to cover in your paper. Group related points together to form potential main topics.

Prioritization is Key: Order your main topics logically, ensuring they flow smoothly from one point to the next and build towards your thesis.

Subtopics – Your Supporting Cast: Each main topic needs strong subtopics to develop your arguments. Ensure they directly connect back to your main topic and provide specific evidence for your claims.

Integrating Research and Sources

Your outline should reflect how you'll use research to support your arguments. Here are some tips:

Source Integration: As you identify relevant sources, jot down brief notes about their main points and how they align with your subtopics.

Avoid Information Overload: Don't try to list every detail from your sources. Focus on how they support specific arguments you'll make in the body paragraphs.

Credibility Check: Briefly evaluate the credibility and relevance of each source as you incorporate it into your outline.

Should You Cite Every Source You Consult During Your Research Process?

Yes, you should develop a comprehensive reference list that includes all the sources you consult during your research, even if you don't directly quote them in your paper. Here's why:

Credit Where Credit is Due: Citing all your sources acknowledges the work of others and avoids plagiarism.

Evaluation Matters: Consulting a variety of sources demonstrates a thorough investigation of the topic. However, use your critical thinking skills to evaluate the credibility and relevance of each source before incorporating it into your paper.

Tip: Use a reference management tool like Zotero or Mendeley to keep track of your sources and streamline the citation process!

Outline Formatting and Styles

The right outline format helps bring clarity and organization to your term paper. Here's a look at common styles and when to use them:

Alphanumeric Format: This classic format uses a combination of Roman numerals, letters, and numbers to create a hierarchy.

I. Introduction

A. Background

B. Thesis Statement

Decimal Format: A purely numerical system that creates a clear visual outline. Ideal for complex papers with many subtopics.

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background

1.2 Thesis Statement

Choosing the Right Style:

Complexity: For straightforward term papers, alphanumeric may suffice. If multiple levels of supporting points are necessary, the decimal format keeps things organized.

Instructor Preference: Always check with your professor for any specific requirements or guidelines they may have.

Revision and Refinement of the Outline

Your initial outline may not be perfect. Here's how to refine it throughout your writing journey:

Research-Driven Refinement: As you delve into your sources, you may discover new subtopics or need to rearrange sections. Continuously adapt your outline to reflect your evolving understanding.

Feedback Loop: Submit your outline to your professor early for valuable feedback. Their guidance can steer you in the right direction from the start.

Don't Be Afraid to Reorganize: If a particular section isn't flowing well, try restructuring it in your outline. Experiment until you find a logical and persuasive argument flow.

Capstone Project

The rigorous research and organizational skills you hone with term papers directly translate to the grand culmination of your academic program – the capstone project . Here's how:

Research Base: Capstones demand in-depth, original research. Your term paper experience will help you effectively navigate scholarly sources and synthesize information.

Time Management: Large projects benefit from strong planning. Outlining skills developed through term papers aid in structuring a capstone's complex timeline.

Writing Foundation: Capstones require clear, persuasive writing – something you've practiced consistently in term papers.

Critical Thinking: Term papers teach you to analyze and interpret information. This skill is vital when tackling the complex, real-world issues often addressed in capstone projects.

Advanced Academic Writing Techniques

While term papers lay a solid foundation, advanced academic writing techniques elevate your work to a new level. Let's explore strategies that can be applied across various academic papers:

Nuances of Argumentation: Go beyond simply stating your argument. Anticipate counterarguments and address them head-on, demonstrating a well-rounded understanding of the topic.

Evidentiary Strength: Proof matters! Utilize a variety of credible sources, from peer-reviewed journals to primary sources when applicable, to support your claims and add depth to your analysis.

Coherence is Key: Ensure a seamless flow of ideas. Transitions between paragraphs and sections should be clear and logical, guiding the reader through your argument effortlessly.

Engaging with the Conversation: Don't write in a vacuum. Reference and engage with the works of scholars in your field. Show how your work contributes to the ongoing academic dialogue.

Are Advanced Writing Techniques Essential for the Success of an Undergraduate Term Paper?

While not strictly mandatory, advanced writing techniques can improve your term paper. Here's how:

Stronger Arguments: Anticipating counterarguments demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the overall persuasiveness of your work.

Impressing Your Professor: Professors appreciate well-researched and well-argued papers. Advanced techniques showcase your dedication and understanding of the subject matter.

Standing Out from the Crowd: A well-crafted term paper with advanced elements can distinguish you from your peers, especially in competitive programs.

Dissertations or Thesis: Building on Your Expertise

The skills you refine with term papers become the cornerstone for tackling more complex projects like dissertations or theses . Here's how your experience translates:

Research Prowess: Term papers hone your research skills, preparing you for the more intensive research required for dissertations or theses.

Organizational Mastery: Outlining and structuring term papers prepare you for the even more intricate planning involved in a dissertation or thesis.

Critical Thinking Powerhouse: Analyzing and synthesizing information is a core skill practiced in term papers, essential for dissecting complex issues in a dissertation or thesis.

Academic Papers: A Spectrum of Skills in Action

The skills you develop through term papers are valuable across a range of academic writing formats :

Research Papers: Term papers build a strong foundation for research papers, which delve deeper into a specific topic and often require original research.

Literature Reviews: Analyzing and synthesizing sources in term papers translates directly to the comprehensive literature review process required for many academic endeavors.

Grant Proposals: Clear and persuasive writing, honed through term papers, is essential for crafting compelling grant proposals to secure research funding.

Securing Academic Success Through Effective Term Paper Writing

Term papers, while sometimes daunting, are powerful tools in your academic arsenal. Mastering the art of crafting a compelling term paper increases your grades and opens a broader gateway to scholarly achievement.

Remember these key takeaways:

Originality Matters: Developing your unique voice, analyzing sources critically, and avoiding plagiarism set your work apart and demonstrate your understanding of the material.

Research is Your Foundation: Dedicating time to exploring high-quality sources elevates your arguments by adding depth and credibility.

Structure Brings Clarity: A well-organized outline and clear writing guide your reader through your thought process and make your arguments more impactful.

By prioritizing these strategies, you'll create term papers that meet the requirements and demonstrate a commitment to learning and understanding. This dedication pays off – the skills acquired in term paper writing translate directly to improved performance in future academic pursuits, whether that be in research papers, capstone projects, or even graduate-level dissertations.

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Home » Write the Perfect Term Paper – A Step-by-Step Guide

Write the Perfect Term Paper – A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task – especially if you’re a student who’s never written one before. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for writing the perfect term paper. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right topic to crafting the perfect conclusion. So, let’s get started!

What is a term paper?

A term paper is an academic paper that is usually written at the end of the school year. It requires students to conduct thorough research on a given topic and compile their findings into a well-structured paper. It often requires students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

The length of a term paper can vary. However, it is typically longer than a regular essay and can take anywhere from 10 to 20 pages. It is important to note that a term paper is not the same as a research paper . While there are some similarities, a term paper is more focused on the student’s own opinion, whereas a research paper is more focused on existing research and data.

What to consider when choosing a topic

Choosing the right topic is one of the most important steps in writing a term paper. You want to make sure that you select a topic that is interesting, relevant, and has enough research material available.

When choosing a topic, make sure to consider your interests and the course material. It’s important to pick a topic that you have an understanding of and can easily research. It’s also helpful to pick a topic that is not overly broad or narrow.

If you’re having trouble deciding on a topic, it can be helpful to brainstorm ideas. You can also talk to your professor or classmates to get their input.

Preparing to write the term paper

Before you begin writing your term paper, it’s important to do some preparation. This includes gathering all of the research materials you need and organizing them in an easy-to-access way.

Make sure you have access to all of the resources you need to research your topic, such as books, journals, and websites. You should also create a bibliography of all of the sources you use so you can easily reference them in your paper.

You should also take some time to familiarize yourself with the topic. This will help you to better understand and analyze the material you’re researching.

Structuring your term paper

Once you’ve done your preparation, it’s time to start structuring your term paper. A good term paper should have a clear structure that makes it easy to follow.

The structure of a term paper typically consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and explain why it is important. The body paragraphs should provide an in-depth analysis of the topic and use evidence to support your argument. The conclusion should summarize your findings and reiterate why the topic is important.

Creating an outline for your term paper

Creating an outline for your term paper is an important step in the writing process. An outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you stay on track.

Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You should also include a list of the sources you plan to use.

We recommend using the following format for your outline:

• Introduction
• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Paragraph 1
• Paragraph 2
• Paragraph 3
• Reiteration of the thesis
• Bibliography/Sources

Writing the introduction

Now that you have an outline, it’s time to start writing your introduction. The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and explain why it is important.

The introduction should also include a thesis statement, which is a sentence or two that summarizes the main point of the paper. This will help guide the rest of your paper and make it easier to stay focused.

It’s important to keep your introduction short and to the point. You don’t want to give too much away or get too bogged down in detail. The goal of the introduction is to provide a general overview of the topic and to draw the reader in.

Developing an argument

Once you’ve written your introduction, it’s time to start developing an argument. This is where you will use evidence to support your claims and explain why your argument is valid.

When developing your argument, make sure to use facts and evidence from reliable sources. It’s also important to include counterarguments to show that you are aware of other perspectives.

It’s also helpful to use a variety of sources, such as books, articles, and websites. This will help make your argument more convincing.

Writing the body of the paper

The body of the paper is where you will expand on your argument and provide evidence to support it. Each body paragraph should have a clearly defined topic sentence that explains the point of the paragraph.

Make sure to use evidence from reliable sources to back up your claims. You should also make sure to explain how the evidence supports your argument. This will help make your argument more convincing.

You should also use transitions between paragraphs to make the paper flow more naturally. This will help the reader follow your argument more easily.

Crafting the conclusion

The conclusion is where you will summarize your argument and explain why it is important. It should also include a call to action, which is a statement that encourages the reader to take a certain action.

Start your conclusion by summarizing the main points of your argument. You should also explain why your argument is important.

Next, you should reiterate your call to action. This can be a statement that encourages the reader to further explore the topic or take a certain action.

Finally, make sure to end your conclusion on a strong note. This can be a powerful quote or a statement that wraps up the paper.

Revising and editing your term paper

Once you’ve written your paper, it’s important to take some time to revise and edit it. This is where you will make sure that your paper is clear and concise.

First, read through your paper and make sure that it flows logically. Look for any areas where the argument could be strengthened and make sure your evidence is accurate and up-to-date.

Next, read through your paper for any grammar or spelling mistakes. It’s important to make sure that your paper is free of errors before you submit it.

Finally, have someone else read your paper to get their feedback. This can be helpful in identifying any areas that need improvement.

Final tips for writing the perfect term paper

Writing a perfect term paper requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Here are a few final tips to help make the process a bit easier:

• Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start writing your paper. Give yourself plenty of time to research, write, and edit your paper.
• Stick to the structure: Make sure to follow the structure of your paper. This will help ensure that your paper flows logically.
• Take breaks: Writing a term paper can be a long and tedious process. Make sure to take regular breaks to give your mind a rest.
• Get help: If you’re having trouble writing your paper, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to your professor or classmates for assistance.
• Use reliable sources: Make sure to use reliable sources when researching your topic. This will help ensure that your paper is accurate and up-to-date.
• Proofread your paper: Take the time to read through your paper for any grammar or spelling mistakes before submitting it.

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task – but it doesn’t have to be. By following our step-by-step guide, you can easily write the perfect term paper. Just remember to start early, stay organized, and use reliable sources.

If you’re having trouble writing your term paper, AcademiaWriting.com can help. Our team of experienced writers can help you get the perfect term paper written quickly and efficiently. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your term paper today!

By Erin Cross

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How To Write a Term Paper: A Guide That Works

30 June, 2020

16 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Once you’ve started your university career, you are going to be asked to present a term paper. What’s the difference between a term paper and a research paper? How can you write a good term? What’s the best way to structure it? Where can you find some tips to make the writing process faster? In this article, we’ll discuss a few tips to help you prepare a term paper quickly and professionally.

What Is a Term Paper… And What Is The First Step?

A term paper is a critical and analytical report on the topic or subject that you covered within the course of studies. It usually consists of two separate but equally important aspects: your own thoughts about the topic and a demonstration of your understanding of the existing literature. The main goal of this assignment is to summarize the material you learned and showcase your understanding of the topic. This aspect makes the term paper a universal instrument for assessing a student’s proficiency. It also explains why term papers cost so many points of your course grade.

We usually associate a term paper with a research paper , but although the concepts are quite similar, a research paper requires a more academic approach and a deeper investigation into the literature of your field of study.

To write an outstanding college term paper, you must understand that your professor has requested it in order to test your analytical thinking skills. You must collect relevant data, analyze it, and then make a summary or solve a particular problem. Such skills are highly relevant to the business world, so this type of the task is as practical as it is educational.

So, let’s start the preparation!

Before you begin writing

Unfortunately, there is no magical recipe that allows you to get everything done fast. You will need to choose the best way forward in whatever situation you find yourself, but here are some tips to help you prepare for the assignment.

To begin with, take the research stage seriously . Sometimes, when students are really interested in a topic, they only want to present their personal ideas about the problem. Unfortunately, if you’re not completely familiar with all the data from the various sources, you will need to reinvent the bicycle.

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In the initial stages of your research, investigate everything you can find on the topic . This may sound like a tall order, but you’ll find that it doesn’t actually entail that much reading. At this point you are only compiling the research, so you will be skimming through numerous prospects rather than reading them completely. Bear in mind that your aim is to get acquainted with the various aspects of your problem. The term paper summarizes the knowledge you gained within a course and requires to familiarize yourself with the research that other people have already made on your topic.

Thinking that your opinions are completely original and unique is quite egocentric, and it can get you into trouble. So, “your” thoughts about the problem are usually just somebody else’s statements that you have rephrased (or even a well-established academic concept!). Remember that your professor will be familiar with all the literature surrounding the issue: if you merely rewrite someone else’s thoughts and present them as your own (even if you don’t realize doing it), be prepared for criticism!

Applying a Structure To Your Term Paper

Once you have read all the leading authors and their approaches to your problem, it’s time to create a structure for your work. This is not yet an outline; you just need to decide what to write about. Sketch out the topic for the theoretical portion of your work and think about practical aspects and how you can approach the research in the best possible way.

At this point, you really need to call or email your supervisor . Your professor will have seen hundreds of term papers like yours (i.e., they have not yet been written, but a definite idea exists!) and will be prepared to give you feedback and advice. He or she will tell you what literature you have omitted, offer suggestions about what you should read, and give you feedback about your paper. It may well be that your approach has already occurred to somebody else, in which case there is no need to repeat it.

Choosing a Topic: Easy as Riding a Bike?

When you choose your topic, make sure you choose something that you are interested in . That’s our advice if you want a painless term paper. If you prefer to investigate a field that you’ve never really explored before, you can challenge yourself to do that, too. That might be sophisticated, but why not?

If you decide to investigate a topic or a problem that you are pretty familiar with, your writing will be more fluid. You will focus your attention on a specific aspect of the chosen field and expand your knowledge within that scope. On the contrary, choosing an unfamiliar subject matter can wash out your expertise.

Be prepared to change the topic if you find out that your research isn’t going anywhere. It might occur that you presuppose that your topic has a potential but somewhere at the stage of initial research, you find that it just won’t work. It’s always a good idea to consider two or three topics when you kick off the term paper writing – even if they are just different ways of examining the same problem. By doing this, you will be able to choose the best version, which may not be the one you started with at all!

Related Post: 100 Persuasive essay topics

Formulating a Thesis statement

Writing a proper thesis statement can also be challenging. To begin with, write down a couple of prominent ideas or concepts, then try to make rough drafts of them to see how they’ll work in the structural framework. You will probably find that one idea fits your style, interests, and knowledge base: you can choose that one as your thesis statement.

Remember that the thesis statement is the skeleton, the central concept of your paper. It is the elemental attribute of almost any academic paper – from master’s thesis to a simple five paragraph essay. If you do a thorough job on it, you will find that writing (and defending!) your argument is much easier.

Be aware that all of these stages are parts of a procedure – one leads to another. When writing a term paper, you should collect the material and wrap it up at the same time.

Planning – The Key To Success

Some people claim that they can write a term paper without any planning. In our opinion, this is impossible. If you don’t have a postgraduate degree and you aren’t a certified genius, you need to prepare an outline for your project. It may come as a surprise, but even people who claim otherwise actually prepare outlines – in their heads. But if you don’t have that much experience, use a pencil and your notebook to ensure that you don’t forget anything.

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That’s when we get to preparing your first draft . There’s only one thing to add here: do as many drafts as you need in order to achieve your goal. Understand that your aim is to create an excellent term paper and keep working at it until you are satisfied.

Term Paper Outline: Write Everything In The Proper Section!

In the Introduction , state the topic that you are going to investigate and the context of your work. This is the critical ‘selling’ moment of your work. In a nutshell, your introduction combined with a conclusion should give a sneak peek into what the whole paper is about. If your introduction is well-prepared, it will be quite complacent about the body of your project. The introduction must include an abstract that presents your thesis statement . You should explain your motivation (why should the reader be concerned about this problem?) , your methods (what scientific tools did you use?) , and the results (what you achieved) .

The Literature Review totally corresponds to its name – it is here to review the literature you compiled. Your professor will double check it to make sure that you understand the context of your argument. One more thing to add is: collect all the information you can! Ideally, you should read or at least glance through every book and author that you can find on the topic. Think of your task as a fascinating journey: if you approach it like that, reading hundreds of pages won’t seem like that much of a challenge.

In the Discussion , you must present the interpretations of the problem. Be honest, explain what you pieces of data you don’t agree with and what ideas and concepts you support. This section connects the dots between theory and practice when writing a term paper. Wherever possible, provide several interpretations of the subject matter, then choose the one(s) that are most relevant to the case you are presenting.

In the Body , focus on those arguments that prove your thesis statement. This section must be absolutely logical. If you have chosen a more complicated topic, use heading and sub-headings to improve the appearance of this section. While writing the body, keep your target audience (your professors) in mind. In other words, don’t just record the obvious causes/effects/solutions but also showcase your own findings – what you have discovered and how that proves your thesis statement. Demonstrate that you are familiar with the details and you will stun your readers with the prolific mastery of the topic.

Now, the Conclusion   is her to summarize both the content and the purpose of the paper. The most challenging part is not to make it too dry. Reiterate your thesis statement and briefly show how your results justified your proposition. At the very end, you can suggest a call to action or pose a rhetorical question or statement that leaves your reader wanting more.

What to do next?

When you have finished, reread your work a couple of times. You will almost certainly find a few faults, whether they are contextual, factual, syntactical, grammatical, or even simple spelling mistakes. A very useful tip is to wait for two or three days after writing your final draft to proofread it afterward. Your brain will have time to process the information, and you’ll be able to look at it with a fresh view.

When proofreading, take care to polish the structural problems. The skeleton (the logic and the thesis statement) should make sense. If they don’t, try to approach the problem from another perspective. The changes may take some time, but bear in mind that your objective is to produce professional work. Be patient!

After that, print the term paper. The human eye processes information differently on the paper than on a computer screen; that’s why you need to print it and take one final look for any possible mistakes. Even if you don’t see any serious defects, pay attention to formatting, punctuation, and synonyms. It’s an academic text, so make it shine!

Term Paper Sample

Be sure to check the sample of a term paper, completed by our writers. Use it as an example to perfect your own writing. Link:  Term Paper Sample: Consumer Buying Behavior .

The Do’s and Don’ts of Term Paper Writing

There you have the most important tips to help you succeed in writing a term paper. Now it’s up to you to stop reading and start writing!

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How to Write a Successful Term Paper

By: Tasha Kolesnikova

Studying at college or university, you have to deal with a variety of assignments. They are necessary to gain new knowledge, skills, and experience important for your future career. Some tasks may be pretty easy, while others require a lot of time and effort. However, you should challenge yourself because it is when you’re developing and becoming better.

Can I Ignore the Length Requirements?

Introduction, make sure you have enough time, start by creating an outline, use a strong tongue, don't forget about proofreading, how to write a term paper proposal, how to start a term paper, how to finish a term paper, term paper apa formatting, term paper mla formatting, term paper chicago formatting, social issues topics.

Regardless of the major you choose, each discipline has a specific structure and goals. You’ll have lectures, practical lessons, internships, and so on. Your professor may use different strategies to test your knowledge, and writing is one of them.

It is not so hard when it goes about regular essays. But the term paper is something the most students are afraid of. It is a voluminous piece that synthesis all your knowledge received during the course.

We’re ready to provide you with an ultimate guide to write a term paper. Let’s start from the beginning.

Definition of a Term Paper

A term paper is a research document that you write after a semester or year of work. This assignment helps you determine your understanding of the course content and the aspects required by the curriculum.

Writing a term paper has other purposes as well. Working on your task, you delve deeper into the discipline, get acquainted with its main problems and challenges. It also improves your analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills, which are useful both during your studies and after university.

Your professor can assign you a specific topic, depending on the material being studied. Sometimes the choice is up to you, or you can choose a narrower theme from a broader list of options.

Regardless of the title, it would help if you delved in. We’ve prepared some actionable tips to come up with outstanding writing. You may follow them or send us your “ write my essay ” message if you need professional assistance. Our authors are eager to share their experiences and help you to boost academic performance.

How Long Is a Term Paper?

There is no universal standard for the volume you should adhere to. It depends on the requirements of your institution.

If you search for this information on the Internet, you will see that different sources offer different data. One website claims that you need to submit a 10-page document, while another writes about 45 pages. This is why it is important to read your professor's requirements carefully.

The volume determines which approach you take to writing. For example, if your paper is short, you need to state your thoughts concisely and clearly, going straight to the point. If it is long, do not fill the pages with hot air, but try to do thorough research and look at the issue from different angles.

You may write about 10% less or more, but overall try to adhere to the particular number of pages or words. All students are in identical conditions, so your article should be standardized. If you don’t know what to write about, ask your professor about additional instructions.

It would also be a great idea to read some examples written by other students or professional authors. Filter out the documents with the same volume as you need and pay notice to the paper writer's structure .

Term Paper and Research Paper - Differences

We understand if you are confused after reading our introduction. If you need to conduct research, why are you writing a term paper and not a research one?

Many students confuse these two types of assignments. But certain aspects indicate the differences between them.

Writing a research paper takes months or even years. It covers various aspects of the topic, up to the development of new strategies and innovative ideas.

The term paper should be submitted by the end of the semester or year. Its content is based on the material covered. Of course, you can use additional resources, but in general, custom term paper assignment is only relevant to the themes you discussed in class.

The purpose is another crucial difference between the two assignments.

When you work on a research paper, you need to work through the problem and find a viable solution. You are dealing with a hypothesis that needs to be confirmed or refuted.

The term papers have the task of reflecting your knowledge of the discipline. It is more straightforward but influences the final score much more.

What Are Parts of Term Paper?

Each student paper has its structure you should strictly adhere to. It is useful to organize your thoughts and to provide your readers with a clear and understandable text. Here is the list of the main parts you should include in your term assignment.

The cover or title page is necessary to introduce your paper and provide the basic information about it, including your data, professor’s name, topic, etc. More detailed requirements depend on the particular formatting style, so read your instructions carefully.

This part is something like a short introduction to your paper. It lets your readers understand the overall direction, the issue you explore, and why you have decided to choose this particular theme. If you have additional comments that may be interesting for your audience, provide them here as well.

Start your paper with an exciting and engaging statement. The main thing you should know about the thesis is that it is a pivot point of your writing. You build all body paragraphs and the primary research around it.

If you don’t know how to write a thesis , you may read some articles or ask for professional help.

The body consists of the main paragraphs. The traditional essay structure includes 3 of them; however, if you’re writing a 10-pages or even 40-pages paper, you should change your structure according to requirements.

You should develop your findings, ideas, or arguments, considering the final goal. For example, if your task is to analyze some issues and perceive readers to accept your point of view, you should provide compelling evidence-based arguments. If you need to explore the theme, write down, and develop the main ideas it covers. Make sure each paragraph is devoted to one aspect only.

This part is of great significance because you should show particular progress. Have you accepted certain things about your topic? Have you changed your view from the moment you started working on the piece? Any insights you’ve gained you should describe in the Results section. If you’re not satisfied with them, you can explain the reasons here as well.

It is a conclusion chapter where you can wrap up. You should analyze your text and provide readers with the next steps one should follow to continue one’s research on the subject you’re working through.

As an unusual essay conclusion, the discussion doesn’t contain any new information.

Main Tips to Write a Killer Term Paper

Do not hope that you will complete this task in a day or an hour. Some students make the mistake of starting paper right away. This is a beginner's mistake. You may think that if you have already written a few lines, this indicates significant progress. But these proposals will be weak, meaningless.

Any work takes time. Think of it as a project with specific goals. You can split a task into multiple milestones and set a deadline for each one.

If you realize that you cannot write this piece on time, hire an experienced writer. The more experience you have, the faster the process lasts.

So, you've gathered enough information. We understand if you don't know what to do next and what your first step should be.

Get a sense of control with a paper outline. This is your plan that describes all stages of the process. It also helps you organize your time and information.

In the end, you can come back to this plan again to check how the final version matches your initial expectations. If you have developed a high-quality outline, you can quickly determine which aspects of the document are needed and which are just filling the space.

You should write the term paper competently. You have done the research, collected enough information, analyzed it. Any of your doubts will indicate a lack of professionalism.

This is why you need to keep an eye on your writing style. Formal academic writing involves an active voice, professional vocabulary, and no fluffy words. You don't need to write something that doesn't make any sense for the main task.

Remember, we said that writing a term paper is long and complicated? Most students hate this. They spent a lot of time writing all sections of the article and do not feel like proofreading the entire text.

But if you have not yet encountered academic writing, you may not imagine how many mistakes a text can contain. Even if you are a very literate person, you may not notice some typos and occasional flaws. Of course, this does not make you incompetent, but readers can lose confidence in your paper.

Proofread the piece very thoroughly and carefully. Wait a few days before doing this; your brain should not be tired.

How to Make a Term Paper Outline

An outline is the part of the writing process that deserves a little more attention.

Use it as the guiding map that is always ready to point you in the right direction if you get confused.

There are several ways to design an outline, and you can download different templates from the Internet.

Some methods are suitable for people who like to organize all information in a coherent plan. But if you are a creative person, you can also choose a suitable template for yourself. For example, a mind map.

An outline is not something that your professor will check, so you don't have to worry about the exact format and details. The main thing is to make sure that you fully understand the content and use it for your writing.

Even before you start researching a topic and writing, you need to prepare a college term paper proposal. This is a document that will help you defend your idea in front of the professor. Even before starting the main work, you will submit this proposal to get approval.

You need to show the importance of this theme by including recent data with correct links. Why do you think your piece will correlate with the course syllabus? How is it useful for you and your fellow students?

Set goals for your college assignment and organize your ideas into one article. This will let the professor know that you have understood the assignment correctly.

It's okay if you fail at this stage. It is needed just so that the professor checks whether you are on the same wavelength and can provide you with any further instructions.

So, you received confirmation from your professor, came up with a topic, conducted initial research, and made an outline. What's next?

• Try to narrow down your topic. You need a learning perspective that allows you to organize and structure your thoughts.
• Create bait for your readers. Have a brainstorming session and write down different ideas: rhetorical questions, anecdotes, statistical facts, etc
• Come up with a thesis statement. If you cannot summarize your article's main idea in 1-2 sentences, you need to return to the first step and think about narrowing the topic.
• Check out the style requirements. Your piece must be in a standardized format. Below you will learn more about APA format and others.
• Do more research. You can go deeper because now you know your goals better. Use quality and trusted sources only.
• Write the first sentence. If you worry too much, just start. You may delete the first sentences later, but don’t look for a perfect moment: start as soon as you have enough information.

You may think that the conclusion chapter is not so important because it doesn’t provide your readers with any new information. However, each section has its tasks and goals, so don't relax too early.

The last paragraphs should provide an answer to a fundamental question. This question is “So what?”. Just imagine your regular reader who finishes the text and doesn’t understand what is next. Was your text just a pleasant evening reading? Is it one more piece to improve academic performance? Or is it something more that was created to contribute to the field you’ve studied?

If you don’t have strict instructions from your professor, you can decide on your own. Think about questions your work creates, and provide the audience with steps to follow.

Term Paper Format

All college and university papers must be standardized. The requirements are the same for all students regardless of their educational institutions. If you plan to pursue a scientific career, you’ll deal with these standards all the time.

Formatting is not the most straightforward task because you need always be concentrated on some details that seem to be useless for you. It is clear why you should develop a unique thesis statement, but some students can’t get why they should use the particular font type or double-spacing.

That’s why formatting is one of the most popular writing services. While you’re working on tasks you like, the professional author and editor provide you with quality formatting.

Several styles are typical for the modern scientific society. Let’s look at them to get a basic understanding.

If you are studying psychology or other social sciences, the APA format is your choice. Here's a shortlist of the main things to consider:

• White A4 sheet 8.5 x 11 inches.
• Times New Roman or other easily readable 12 point font.
• Double spacing for all text.
• 1 "margins on the left, right, top, and bottom of the sheet.
• Indent the paragraph by 1/2 inch.
• The first-page heading, which includes the capitalized running head and the page number.

The MLA style is the preferred guideline for dealing with the humanities such as English and Literature, Arts, etc. Some of the features of this style are:

• Times New Roman, Arial or similar, 12 point font.
• Double spacing for the entire document. Get rid of single or one and a half intervals.
• Enter your contact details and instructor in the upper left corner.
• Take care of 1 "padding on all sides of the sheet.
• Add your last name and page number to all pages in the upper right corner.
• Align the title of the article in the center. Don't use bold, italic, quotation marks, underlines, etc.
• Align the entire article to the left.
• Indent all paragraphs to the right 1/2 inch.

Chicago or Turabian styles are used when it goes about the law assignments. The requirements are similar, but there are some differences as well. Take a look at this list:

• Times, Times New Roman 12 pt font.
• 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Double-spacing.
• Left-justified text with a ragged right edge.
• 12 inch indent for the first sentence of each paragraph.
• Provide page numbers in the top right corner.

Of course, we can’t provide you with all the format requirements in this article. You should have an official relevant guide with all details and examples to follow. Ask your professor if you have any questions. And don’t forget about correct citing, it is necessary to avoid plagiarism.

• The main arguments for and against the death penalty.
• What is more important: national identity or globalization?
• Social isolation and its consequences.
• Should church and state function together?
• Could modern advertising be dangerous?

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A Quick-Start Guide on How to Write a Term Paper

[Post information was updated in April, 2024]

Writing a term paper may be a hard task. We don’t want to sugarcoat it. Creating term papers and other academic papers can be frustrating, and cause worries who can write my term paper . There is a learning curve and you may not be pleased with your first paper.

In the article below you will find recommendations and detailed tips on how to write a term paper. In addition, you will find out what term paper format looks like, and an excerpt of a written term paper sample.

What is a term paper

A term paper is an academic paper that can take the form of a report or research paper. Typically it is assigned at school, college, and university at the end of the term. The term paper has a great value in the final score for the subject.

Every course typically has various requirements for writing a term paper. In the following guide we offer a standard approach and elements to writing a term paper.

Typical term paper format

Before we get too deep into how to start a term paper and how to find the best topic for it, here is the typical format of term paper.

Structure matters. All well-written academic papers have a clear structure, as it helps the reader easily absorb information from the text. Also, a good structure will help you not to get lost in the variety of information and write a concise paper. Let’s look at the format below.

Title page. This page usually contains the title, name of the student, course and code, instructor’s name, and the date. Abstract (optional). The abstract is a short summary of the main ideas, theoretical approaches, and findings you are going to highlight in the paper. Table of contents. This section is needed for easy navigation between the paper sections. Generally includes headings of every section and page numbers. Introduction. This is the opening paragraph that tells the reader basic information about the paper. Main sections. This part of the paper may consist of several sections, as the topics of term papers are diverse. The parts should follow each other in a logical framework. Conclusion. The conclusion is the last part that ties the paper up in a logical ending. Here the author needs to restate the main findings and indicate the importance of these findings to the current circumstance. References. All sources that were used and cited in the paper should be listed in the reference list in alphabetical order. Appendix (optional). The purpose of the appendix is to provide information that would be distracting in the body of the paper. Typically authors place in the appendix large tables, questionnaires, images, and other documentation and materials.

Also, you can add a list of figures, tables, or abbreviations if needed. Some term papers have a lot of information that can’t be placed in the text, so it can be attached after the references.

Term paper structure

This example hits all the right paragraphs to create a well-structured term paper. Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s up to you to determine the best way to write the term paper.

Before writing a term paper

If you want to make something great, you need to prepare greatly. As the term paper is usually a longer paper than essays, you will need to make a more detailed plan before writing it.

Carefully read the assignment. To realize what the instructor wants to see from a term paper, just read the instructions attentively, like each essay writer does before writing a paper.

• Highlight the keywords. You should have already faced such assignments that begin with: analyze, comment, compare, describe, discuss, etc.
• Rewrite the requirements. It may happen that you will skip an important point when briefly skimming over the instructions. Rewrite the assignment directions in your own words and try to keep the same meaning. You can also print the requirements and place them before your eyes.
• Point out questions that should be addressed in the paper. On the basis of your assignment you can make a list of questions that should be addressed in the paper.

Conduct research. The research should be aimed at finding a distinct amount of information for the chosen topic. During this stage you need to use these skills: active reading, effective note-taking, and critical thinking.

• Find out and analyze the existing information related to the topic. While reading, always keep in mind the sole question. Consider the author’s main point and how he or she supports that point. Decide what sources you can use as a basis for your paper.
• Make notes as you read and mark the most significant information and quotes that you can use in your paper. Don’t forget to mention where you have found the information.
• Use mind-mapping, charts, diagrams, and clustering to get more ideas about the topic and gather the main points in one place.

Make an outline. On the basis of the obtained information, you can create a plan. As you can see in our “Term Paper Format” section, you can give titles to each section of your future paper. Also, we recommend you to add topic sentences to each section – this will ease the writing process.

Create a calendar. Divide the paper writing process into several steps and list them in your calendar. Term papers take more than one night to write, so make sure that you have planned enough time for it. You can make a hard copy of the timetable or save it on your computer.

How to pick sources for a term paper

Every builder knows that the foundation is the core part of the building. Without a strong foundation, the building may quickly fall to ruin. The same refers to academic writing. Without reliable sources and information, you will construct a poor paper, and will look for someone to write a term paper for cheap .

On the internet and at the library you may find tons of information related to your topic. How can you pick a reliable source? Imagine that you are Sherlock Holmes and you need to find the truth hidden in the text. You don’t need superpowers to learn how to do it.

Use your critical thinking skills while looking through each source. Let’s see what you need to pay attention to:

• Design and layout. Check whether the source looks professional.
• Date. Define whether the information is relevant.
• Author. It should be easy to find the author of the source. Think on what you know about the authors and their credentials.
• Objectivity. It should be clearly seen that the source was created for an educational or professional purpose. If you notice that the source tries to sell something, skip it.
• Writing style. If you have noticed grammar mistakes or typos, there is a high probability that the source is unreliable.
• Amount and quality of information. Look how much information is presented in the source and whether it contains graphic information, numbers, a reference list, etc. Broken links and the absence of external links may indicate a poor source.
• Suitability for your topic. Think about whether the source meets the limitations of your topic.
• Reputation. Check whether the source is non-biased. Use a fact-checking website that uses only authoritative sources.

Tip: Reading general texts from the journals and articles can help you clarify your thoughts at the beginning of your research and deciding what point you can consider on your paper.

Tip: Most search engines use the data from your web browser to sort information according to your preferences. It is also known as a “filter bubble.” Delete your browser history and cookies, and tune into the incognito mode to get another list of search results.

When you obtain a certain amount of information, you can create an extended outline. What does it mean? Take your old outline and add any new points that you have found in the sources. Think in what section you can incorporate new facts, examples, quotes, or expert opinions.

Writing the first draft of a term paper

There are many approaches to writing a term paper. The key to success is simple: be prepared before you start. Have a clear purpose, a thesis statement, enough background information, and a clear plan. If you can’t choose a good topic, use our college essay title generator to have more ideas for writing.

1. Write the abstract.

This first section should focus on what your research is about. But the best decision will be writing it after all subsequent sections. Mention major findings in your research so even a person unfamiliar with the topic can read and understand it. Keep it simple and informative.

A good abstract should consist of the following sections:

• Intro. State the issue you are addressing in your paper. Explain why the chosen topic is important. What practical, scientific, or theoretic purpose does your research have?
• Body. Highlight the major points of the research and what investigating strategy you have chosen. Describe the nature of the results.
• Conclusion. Explain how the results can be implicated.

To write an abstract, you need to reread your paper and underline the key statements related to research objectives, methods, results, and conclusions. Copy these sentences and you will receive the first draft of the abstract.

Tip: The abstract should be limited to 120-250 words (depending on assignment instructions).

What is the difference between the introduction and abstract? An abstract presents the essence of the paper: it lists the main points of the paper, including results and conclusions. The introduction provides background information on the topic, gives the proposition (or thesis statement), and outlines key issues that will be discussed in the paper.

2. Write the introduction.

Strong introductions can make it harder to put the paper down. Think about how you can “sell” your paper to the reader. What is the main point of your term paper?

• Grab attention. A good introduction starts with an interesting fact, surprising statement, contradiction, or a statement that points out the importance of the topic.
• Provide an overview. The introduction should provide a brief description of the issue and state the goal of the paper. Also, it is important to mention how this specific topic meets a broader context.
• Write the thesis statement. Tell the reader what you are arguing or what question you are addressing in your paper. Don’t announce your intentions.

The introduction should contain only general information about the paper. Its aim is to give an overview of the term paper. Examples, quotations, and excess details are not accepted.

Tip: Don’t be boring or too general. Immediately dive into the essence of the topic and draw the reader’s attention deeper into the paper.

3. Write the body sections: generating ideas and text.

Once you have received certain research results and notes, take a look at what you’ve found. Record the outcomes of your research and cut unnecessary materials.

One of the best ways to start writing body sections is drafting topic sentences referring to the outline. Write complete sentences on its basis and add supporting details.

The number of paragraphs will depend on the topic and assignment instructions. Frequently, a term paper body section consists of a literature review and the research itself.

Tip: Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence. It should be a very clear introduction of the paragraph’s main idea.

How can you write a literary review? Present the analysis of the literature you have found on the topic. You need to present what materials you have found and how you have connected this information to the context of your research. Summarize the arguments and theories of various authors you agree with. Also, you need to highlight what points were absent or not considered in the author’s research.

Here are general recommendations while writing the body sections:

• The text should be well-structured and divided into sections or subsections. Each chapter should have a title and refer to one particular idea or main point.
• Develop arguments gradually. All your ideas should move from the general to specific.
• A good academic text needs evidence. All quotations, ideas, and data should be referenced according to the required formatting style.
• Prioritize the following points depending on your assignment instructions and objectives: analysis of primary and secondary sources, current issues and state of research, and personal point of view.
• Avoid simple summaries of existing information. Incorporate citations to prove your own point of view on the topic.
• Don’t rely on the sources only. It is your paper and it should contain your original idea about the topic. Keep the balance between the source material and your own ideas.
• Avoid writing lengthy body paragraphs. If you want to put a great amount of information into the paragraph, it would be better to divide it into subsections.

4. Write the conclusion.

When you finish writing the main part of the term paper, it’s time to summarize what information you have received and discuss the further implication of your research. Consider the following points in your conclusion:

• Refresh the points that you have already highlighted in the body paragraph and restate the thesis statement.

Note: Don’t present any new information in this paragraph.

• Describe the final results of your research.
• Explain the implication for future studies.

How can I evaluate my research results? What meaning does my research have? Does my topic intersect other topics or areas?

• Write the concluding sentence.

For example: “Forgiveness therapy is a new approach in psychology and has much need for testing, but it is an important practice in the treatment of many psychological disorders.”

Revising and polishing the first draft

If you have succeeded in writing your first draft and have some time left, it’s time to proofread your text. Don’t neglect the possibility of reading the term paper once more. Many professors perceive misspellings, as well as punctuation and grammar errors as a personal insult. These mistakes may draw more attention than your original ideas and significant results. So, how can you make your text look better?

First, you need to read your first draft and think about how you can make your paper cleaner or more convincing. Look at the ideas that don’t fit the context and remove or modify them. Then, look at what points need more detailed support. And finally, add transitional phrases or words to connect ideas. If you can’t cope with all these steps on your own, use EssayShark essay rephraser to save your nerves.

Second, when the content is logical and well-structured, it’s time to check for errors. Correct all grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.

Last, check whether your paper has the right format and layout. Make sure that pages are numbered correctly. Images, tables, diagrams, and other visual materials also should be numbered and titled appropriately. So, check the same things you check when you finish write my essay process.

How to write a term paper in 7 steps – infographic

How to write a term paper in 4 hours: video guide

Mistakes to avoid in term paper writing

• Using unreliable sources. This means that all sources you have based your work on should be professional. Use newsprint, magazines, statistical data, and publications.
• Plagiarism. Whenever you are reusing someone’s ideas or incorporating expressions from other sources as your own thoughts, this is considered plagiarism. Pay attention to correct citation style and document outside sources.
• Not supporting your statements. Always back up your point of view with references or your own findings.
• Using nested sentences, repetitions, and passive voice. The text should be objective, clear, and correct.
• Choosing a topic too broad. As a result, it will be hard to meet the word limit and highlight the topic in the right way. Also, you will face the problem of having excessive amounts of information on the topic. A good term paper requires a narrow topic.
• Failing to proofread the paper. Even editing the text once may not be enough. Don’t rely on the computer’s spell check. Ask a friend or someone else to read your paper.

How to find excellent term paper topics

Paper instructions that you receive from a teacher typically provide a list of term paper topics to choose from. Luckily, sometimes students are given the freedom of choice.

First, you can start with a fairly broad idea of the area you want to research, such as “body image.” As you can see, the topic is too general and if you start googling about this topic over the internet you will get a great amount of information. You can narrow it down considering other areas:

Narrowing down the topic will make your research more manageable. You can add more limitations to your research:

Sometimes it’s difficult to pick a topic on your own, as there are so many interesting topics to write about! We are happy to propose you a list of interesting term paper topics that you can reuse for your own paper.

• Analyze the influence of the shadow economy on the productivity of a country (your choice) from a macroeconomic perspective.
• What is the meaning of inflation/deflation/hyperinflation? Explain the causes and consequences. Support your claims with evidence.
• Define the meaning of middle class. What is the economic meaning of the middle class?

Legal Issues

• Discuss the approaches to providing censorship in social media and over the internet.
• Compare government regulation for physical desecration of national symbols in various countries.
• Discuss the meaning of mental disorder defense. What are the peculiarities?
• Is it the right idea to hide the truth from a dying patient in palliative care?
• Find out the reasons, consequences, and legal regulations of organ donation.
• Is it ethically right to test new drugs on dying patients?
• Should parents determine what the school should learn?
• Should the discipline in the school be more strict?
• Discuss streamlining in the context of the educational system of a particular country.

Tip: On our blog you can find more information on how to choose topics for term paper writing and get inspired with a list of term paper topics on technology, economics, political science, sports, media and culture, and health.

Term paper topic ideas

Term paper sample about healthy lifestyle promotion

In the text below you can see a portion of a term paper written by our college essay writer . It should help you understand the theoretical approaches that we have written above. Also check the comments below.

Title: The Promotion of a Healthy Lifestyle Through Social Media

This paper discusses the growing popularity of healthy lifestyles in social media. It looks into the methods of health promotion through evolving technologies. The research was built on questionnaires and existing information on the issue. The paper presents a plan for actions aimed to keep the topics about health popular over social media. (…)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction 2. Overview of Social Media 3. Plan of Action 4. Conclusion 5. References

Introduction

Social networks are some of the most popular websites over the internet. Social media use has been increasing in health promotion because it removes geographic and physical barriers. However, social media still has the potential to increase the influence of healthy lifestyles. (…)

Overview of Social Media

According to articles published in NBC Statistics, the most popular social media sites estimate more than a billion visits every day. The statistics show that more than 77 percent of people in the US have a social media profile. The majority of Americans use Facebook and Youtube on a daily basis.(…)

One of the researches has measured the change in knowledge, attitudes, behavior, eating habits, weight, energy and fat intake, self-efficacy, and sharing in social media (Hoshi, 2017). The amount of information, even in small doses, has an influence on promotion of healthy habits.

Welch et al. (2016) studied the effectiveness of health promotion campaigns in social media as Facebook, Twitter, and video sharing like YouTube. The research has shown the increased effectiveness of social media interventions in improving healthy habits among youth and older adults. (…)

Plan of Action

Social media campaigns should relate to the specific topic and plan ahead. To construct an effective campaign, we should collect the relevant information, pictures, videos, and texts.

Facebook activities. This social media platform has a wide list of events that can be used for promotion.

• Wellness events
• Health volunteers
• Sharing healthy recipes
• Tips for improving health habits
• Healthy competitions and challenges (…)

A healthy lifestyle is one of the main things that every person should apply in everyday life. To help the person make the right choice, government and organizations should spread the information about tools and advice to promote a healthy lifestyle. (…)

Hoshi, T. (2017). SES, Dietary and Lifestyle Habits, Three Health-Related Dimensions, and Healthy Survival Days. International Perspectives on Aging the Structure of Healthy Life Determinants , 121-141.

Smith, A., & Anderson, M. (2018, September 19). Social Media Use 2018: Demographics and Statistics. Pew Research Center . Retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/2018/03/01/social-media-use-in-2018/

Welch, V., Petkovic, J., Pardo, J. P., Rader, T., & Tugwell, P. (2016). Interactive social media interventions to promote health equity: An overview of reviews. Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada: Research, Policy and Practice , 36(4), 63–75.

FAQ about term paper writing

1. what is the format of a term paper.

Speaking about the format standard for a term paper, we need to mention MLA, APA, and Chicago/Turabian as the most common format types.

In addition, students may create a specific format of term paper when it comes to its structure. The format will include several obligated elements such as title page, abstract, introduction, conclusion, and references.

2. How many pages should a good term paper be?

The standard term paper must contain at least 10-12 double-spaced pages. Term papers of 15-20 pages are also appropriate, but you must consider the quality of the content. It is always better to make the paper shorter but informative than make it longer with bland, repeated statements.

3. What is the difference between a term paper and a research paper?

The core difference between a term paper and a research paper is in the approach to sourcing. A research paper assumes a deeper investigation of a topic and analysis. When it comes to structuring, there are specific differences as well. A term paper consists of such core elements as an introduction, the main body, a conclusion, and a bibliography. A search paper includes methods, results, discussion, and other aspects of a deep analytical paper.

4. Want is the fastest way to write a term paper?

If you have a strict and short deadline, you must act quickly, skipping the outlining stage. Start with a brief brainstorm. Afterward, you will require providing research on a chosen topic. You will then have to draft a paper and quickly polish it. If you have some minutes left, read your paper to edit it or skip the proofreading stage.

5. How many citations are considered suitable for a term paper?

It depends on the discipline and the topic involved; skilled authors suggest supplementing a term paper with at least five citations, with a maximum of ten.

Term paper writing help from industry experts

Want more term paper examples? Check out our EssayShark blog. If you compare our examples, you will see that they all share three qualities: they are interesting to read, they have good grammar and style, and contain in-text references to reliable sources.

We know how writing a term paper can be a struggle. A lack of time, missed deadlines, a sudden flu, tons of homework, and other troubles may spoil even the most accurate writing plan. There is no need to get discouraged while you have a trusted term paper writing service at hand.

Even if you have never tried such services, you need to know that it’s the ultimate solution for students who need urgent help with their assignments. EssayShark experts can help you with term papers for any course, discipline, and school. Also, our experts can help you pick the right topic for the term paper, write missing paragraphs for existing parts of the paper, and edit your first draft.

Get a unique and polished term paper help before the deadline and live your life to the fullest!

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I have got good ideas for my first term paper preparation. Thank you so much.

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How to Write a Term Paper 101: A Tutorial to Takeover

As the end of the semester draws closer, many students are losing their sleep over the thought of writing a term paper. But you’re worrying pointlessly because  PaperPerk  has brought expert help to your doorstep! 

Our comprehensive guide on how to write a term paper is sure to help you with every step. So read this article thoroughly because we cover everything from definition to steps on composition and templates with examples.

Table of Contents

What Is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a written project required at the end of a semester. It is designed to evaluate a student’s knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. Typically, it takes the form of a discussion or analysis of an assigned topic. 

But it can also resemble a scientific report,  reflective essay , or even a research paper. As an essential component of a student’s academic journey, a term paper is characterized by its in-depth exploration of a specific subject matter.

Key Characteristics

One of the key features of a term paper is that it requires a significant amount of research , as it aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This research-intensive nature of the term paper sets it apart from other academic assignments. 

Additionally, term papers demand technical writing skills, as they need to be well-organized, structured, and adhere to specific formatting requirements. A high-quality term paper should be well-written, thoroughly researched, and analytical. 

It should demonstrate critical thinking and provide valuable insights into the subject matter. With an Impactful term paper, a student showcases their ability to synthesize and analyze information, ultimately contributing to their overall academic success.

How to Write a Term Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

The biggest step in learning how to write a term paper is to understand the importance of creating a term paper outline. This  research paper outline  is the beacon that will guide through your writing process. The following part of this post contains steps on composing an outline and its component. 

How to Write a Term Paper: Outlining a Term Paper

Below are the essential components of an outline. Once you gather your information, you’ll incorporate it within these compartments to avoid creating a chaotic cluster of random data. 

Introduction

Let’s look at these a bit more closely and understand how to use these elements in the best way. 

Also known as the  title page , the cover page of a term paper is the first impression of the paper. It provides all the necessary information about the paper along with a neat and professional look. It should include the following information:

• Title of the paper
• Course name and code
• Instructor’s name
• Date of submission

Steps to compose a cover page:

• Centrally align the title of your paper in the middle of the page.
• Add your name, course name, and number below the title.
• Include your instructor’s name and the date of submission at the bottom.

You might be required to add more than these common elements if your professor asks you to. Many students additionally write the name of the university, department or other relevant details. 

The abstract is a brief summary of your term paper, usually between 150-250 words. It should highlight the main points, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions. 

Using an  abstract  optimally allows readers to quickly grasp the main points and significance of your term paper. The abstract is usually placed at the beginning of the paper, right after the cover page. 

Steps to compose an abstract:

• Write a concise summary of your paper’s purpose and research question.
• Briefly describe the methods used in your research.
• Summarize the main findings or results.
• Conclude with a brief statement of your paper’s implications or significance.

Ensure that all the information you incorporate within your abstract accurately reflects the content and findings within your paper. Double-check that there is consistency between the abstract and the main body of the paper in terms of the research objectives, methodology, and conclusions. 

The  introduction  sets the stage for your term paper. It provides background information, states the research question, depicts the purpose of the study and explains the paper’s significance. 

Steps to compose an introduction:

• Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention.
• Provide background information on your topic.
• Clearly state your research question.
• Explain the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.

The body of your term paper is where you present your arguments , evidence, and analysis. It should be organized into sections or subheadings, each focusing on a specific aspect of your research.

Steps to compose the body:

• Organize your content into logical sections or subheadings.
• Present your arguments and support them with evidence from your research.
• Analyze the evidence and explain its relevance to your research question.
• Use appropriate citations to acknowledge the sources of your information.

The results section presents the outcomes and the findings of your research study. It should be clear, concise, and focused on the data collected during your study.

Steps to compose the results section:

• Summarize the data collected during your research.
• Use tables, charts, or graphs to visually represent your findings.
• Describe any patterns, trends, or relationships observed in the data.
• Ensure that your results are relevant to your research question.
• Avoid repetition of any information. 

The  discussion section  interprets the results of your term paper and explains their implications. It should also address any limitations of your research and suggest areas for future study.

Steps to compose the discussion section:

• Interpret your results and explain their significance.
• Discuss any limitations or weaknesses in your research.
• Compare your findings to previous studies and explain any differences.
• Suggest areas for future research based on your findings.

The  conclusion  brings your term paper to a close by summarizing the main points. This final section of your paper also restates the significance of your research.

Steps to compose a conclusion:

• Restate your research question and summarize the main points of your paper.
• Emphasize the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.
• Offer recommendations or suggestions for future research.
• End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can write a well-structured and impactful term paper that demonstrates your understanding of the subject and contributes valuable insights to the field.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal: A Tutorial

A term paper proposal serves as a blueprint for your research. It helps in organizing your thoughts and ideas. Lets focus on the essential features of a term paper proposal and understand steps on how to compose each part.

Essential Features of a Term Paper Proposal

Relevance and importance.

The title of your term paper proposal should attract your readers and provide them with a clear idea of your work. It should be clear, concise, and accurately reflect the subject of your research.

Steps to compose a title:

• Identify the main topic or theme of your research.
• Choose relevant keywords that represent the key concepts of your research.
• Combine these keywords to create a clear and informative title.
• Ensure that your  title  is not too long or overly complex.
• Consider your audience’s ability to understand your title.

The objectives section outlines the specific goals of your research. These goals should be clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.

Steps to compose objectives:

• Begin by stating the general purpose of your research.
• Break down this purpose into specific, measurable objectives.
• Ensure that your objectives are achievable within the timeframe and resources available for your term paper.
• Keep your objectives focused and relevant to your research question.

The relevance and importance section demonstrates the significance of your research within the context of your field of study. It should explain why your research is necessary and how it contributes to the existing body of knowledge.

Steps to compose the relevance and importance section:

• Explain the context of your research by providing background information on the topic.
• Identify gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Explain how your research contributes to the field by offering new insights or perspectives.
• Emphasize the potential impact of your research on the broader academic community or society as a whole.

Putting It All Together: Writing a Term Paper Proposal

Now that you clearly understand the essential features of a term paper  proposal , it’s time to put it all together. Follow these steps to create a well-structured and compelling proposal:

• Begin by writing a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the subject of your research.
• Compose a brief introduction that overviews your research topic and its significance. This introduction should also include a clear statement of your research question.
• Outline the specific objectives of your research, ensuring that they are clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.
• Explain the relevance and importance of your research by demonstrating its significance within your field of study. Highlight the gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Provide a brief overview of your research methodology, including the methods you plan to use for data collection and analysis.
• Include a tentative timeline for your research, outlining the milestones and deadlines for each project stage.
• Conclude your proposal with a summary of the main points and a restatement of the significance of your research.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can create a well-structured and persuasive term paper proposal that demonstrates the importance of your research and sets the stage for a successful term paper.

How to Write a Term Paper: Formatting

A term paper format refers to the set of rules and standards that dictate the structure and presentation of a term paper. Formatting is essential to learn how to write a term paper as it ensures consistency, enhances readability, and maintains a professional appearance. 

A proper structure allows readers to concentrate on the content rather than the presentation. Several formatting styles are used in term papers, with the American Psychological Association (APA) style and the Modern Language Association (MLA) style being the most common.

Using APA Style in a Term Paper:

• Choose a standard font, such as 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, or 12-point Times New Roman.
• Apply double-spacing throughout the paper, including the abstract, main text, quotes, tables, figures, and references.
• Create a title page containing the paper’s title, author’s name, affiliated institution, and a running head.
• Organize the content using headings that adhere to  APA guidelines for different heading levels.
• Incorporate the author-date citation method for in-text citations and format the reference list according to APA guidelines.

Using MLA Style in a Term Paper:

• Opt for a standard font, such as 12-point Times New Roman.
• Double-space the entire paper, including the main text, quotes, and the Works Cited page.
• Include a header with the last name of the author and page number on the top right corner of all pages.
• Use parenthetical citations within the text and format according to  MLA guidelines .
• Follow MLA guidelines for formatting headings and subheadings, if applicable.

Adhering to the appropriate style guide when formatting term papers is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and ensuring that your work is easily comprehended and properly cited.

Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topics

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, but choosing the right term paper topics can make all the difference. In this part, we will provide you with some useful tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible.

The Starting Point

In most cases, students are assigned term papers by their professors. These topics are related to course outline to assess pupil’s understanding of the course material. As well as their ability to think critically and conduct research on a specific subject. 

Other times, teachers provide students a chance to choose a topic of their liking. But before you go on and pick a topic for your term paper, put the following concerns at the forefront. 

• The course objective 
• Your own interest. 

The Course Objective

Your term paper is essentially assigned to assess your command on the subject. Prioritize your course outline or objective before picking your  research paper topics . This will ensure that your paper is relevant and reflects what you have learnt so far about the subject. 

Your Interests

Your personal interests play a significant role in the success of your term paper. When you choose a topic that genuinely interests you, you are more likely to engage in  writing a research paper . This enthusiasm will not only make the writing process more enjoyable but also result in a higher quality term paper. 

Before picking a specific topic, make sure to conduct thorough research and align your personal liking to your course objective. The following tips on how to pick the perfect term paper topic will assist you in acing your grade.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topic

While picking a topic for yourself, be mindful of certain things:

Adjusting Topic Length

Consider if the topic would adjust your required length for a term paper. Suppose you’re to write a  10-page research paper , what kind of topic would adjust within those 10 pages? Registering the narrowness or broadness of the topic can help.

Authentic Resources

The second thing you need to consider is the resources of your information. Check if the source you’re working with is authentic. Reliable  sources for a research paper  include academic journals, books, think tanks, and reputable websites.

Complexity of the Subject

To ensure the clarity of your topic, consider its complexity. It is important that the chosen subject can be effectively presented to your audience. Additionally, ensure that you have a solid understanding of the subject matter yourself.

By considering the length, resources, and complexity of your chosen topic, you can ensure that your term paper is engaging, informative, and well-researched. So, take the time to select the perfect topic and get ready to ace your term paper!

How to Write a Term Paper: A Template With Example

This template also contains examples that are highlighted in a different color. 

Title Page 

Abstract 

• Remember to never exceed the abstract more than 250 words.

1.1 Background

1.2 problem statement, 1.3 objectives, 2. literature review, 3. methodology, 5. discussion, 6. conclusion, 7. references.

• The references section uses the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

8. Appendices

• If necessary, this section includes additional material such as raw data, survey questionnaires, interview transcripts, or any other supplementary information that supports the research.

This guide on how to write a term paper must have been helpful to you. But we understand that wrapping your head around something so detailed can be difficult when you’re stressed out. And most students are stressed out by the end of the semester due to multiple deadlines.  That’s why we have brought you our  term paper writing service  so you can relax and focus more on your upcoming exams. Our experts are dedicated to helping students excel academically with quality content and on-time submission. Check us out today and bid goodbye to academic worries!

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Everything You Need to Know About Term Papers

If you've recently enrolled in university and have heard about this term before, welcome to this exciting new phase of your education! University is more than just cramming from lots of books. Additionally, it should ideally encourage critical thinking, educate you on how to effectively explain your arguments, and support the growth of your research abilities. And in order to produce a fantastic term paper, you'll need all three of these! But wait for a second: What are term papers ?

Term Paper Definition

A term paper is more like a research paper that students write at the end of the session or semester. Professors evaluate the student's understanding level with the help of term papers. Term paper is an assignment that teachers assign to students at the end of the semester.

Writing a term paper can be frustrating and can cause stress. But fret not! Nerdpapers has a team of experts who are available 24/7 to assist your ' write my term paper ' needs.

Difference between term papers and research papers

Many students are confused about these two types of assignments. However, a few aspects show their differences:

☑️Reading suggestion: How to write a research paper

How long is a term paper?

There is no universal standard for the term paper length that you should follow. It totally depends on the requirements of your teacher or institution. If you conduct an Internet search for this information, you will observe that many sources provide different information. One website specifies a 10-page document requirement, while another specifies 45 pages. That's why it's crucial to read your professor's instructions thoroughly.

The college term paper volume determines your writing style. For instance, if your paper is brief, you must convey your ideas in a concise manner, getting right to the point. If it is lengthy, attempt to conduct in-depth research and consider the problem from various perspectives rather than stuffing the pages with junk.

Term Paper Outline

The term paper outline is the main element that makes your term paper excellent. Irrespective of length, the term paper outline must follow the specific criteria. In other words, term papers must have an engaging introduction, an in depth body paragraph, and a strong conclusion.

Introduction

The term paper introduction section should briefly cover the topic and tell its significance to society. Don't include specific details and facts in this part. 

Following that, you should start delving further into the topic covered in the body sentences. In doing so, the topic is narrowed, increasing the information's clarity for the reader. Finally, the last sentence of the Introduction, also known as the thesis statement, is the core of the whole paper, which you must defend. This is typically an undiscovered claim in term papers that needs to be supported by evidence, also known as research and analysis.

The term paper body paragraphs are commonly known as the 'meat' of the paper. There are several reasons behind this name. This part is strictly dedicated to explaining and proving your thesis statement. The number of pages in the body paragraphs of a term paper can vary from 1 to 100, depending on the length of the assignment . It also depends on the depth of the thesis statement you have written. Break up your body paragraphs into smaller parts because your main idea (thesis statement) should be strong enough to make sense when looked at from different angles.

In addition to supporting your thesis statement, consider incorporating a literature review within your body paragraphs. A literature review provides context and support for your argument by examining existing research on the topic.

In conclusion, firstly, restate your thesis statement confidently. This shows to the reader that you fully believe what you have written and that it makes perfect sense! Next, summarize your essential points in a few sentences. In other words, summarize each of your arguments in just a phrase. This will give your reader a summary of the points you made throughout your essay. Finally, make a general closing statement.

✅Here is a term paper outline example:

✔️Introduction

• Define topic purpose
• Thesis statement
• Methodology
• Facts and figures
• Recommendations and limitations

✔️Conclusion

• Summary of main points
• Restate thesis statement
• A summative statement

What is the structure of term papers?

It is very important to know about term paper structure. Different subjects have specific requirements. For some term papers, it may be required to write an abstract or to use illustrations and diagrams. Other term papers won't require you to include an abstract and will ask you to utilize as few images as feasible.  

The following are the common elements of college term paper format:

Title or Cover Page: This page contains your name, course title, course code, instructor name, and submission date. Align this information in the center. 

Abstract: An abstract is a summary of the whole term paper and includes its goal, problem, and significance. Normally, it is a few paragraphs long but shorter than a page.

Introduction: A good term paper introduction starts with a hook statement about the topic. It then describes how the problem will be discussed, along with possible solutions. There is no set number of words for the introduction. However, it will typically be longer than the abstract. An approximate range for its word count is 5–10% of the paper's overall word count, or 200–400 words.

Term Paper Main Body: A brief history of the idea, arguments, or problem is written first to provide context for the reader. The key elements of the idea, argument, or problem are then supported with references. Also, their impact and effects are discussed, along with potential solutions. The reader is presented with various subject viewpoints as well as an analysis of research findings. This portion, which is the longest in the essay and has 2400-3200 words, will make up roughly 60–80 % of the entire word count.

Results: This section discusses why the research results suggest a solution or answer the question. It is usually between 200 and 400 words in length (5 to 10% of the total word count). This is comparable in length to the introduction.

Conclusion: The conclusion contains a brief summary of the main facts and conclusions regarding the answer or solution to the question or problem. This part should normally be around 10-15% of the total word count.

Reference List: On a new page, make an alphabetical list of all the materials used throughout the term paper. It won't count towards the word count. It must be prepared in accordance with the citation style specified by the instructor.

Note: Word counts given in this blog post are general and approximate. To get precise information on word counts, speak with your instructor at school or in college.

How to write a term paper?

Have you ever wondered how to start a term paper and could not figure out the initial step? Don’t worry! You are not alone in this difficulty. It becomes discouraging and terrifying for you when you start to write a term paper for the first time. Your frustration may even urge you to get help in writing term papers, which is cool. But isn't it more cool to learn how to write a term paper on your own? 

✔️Do brainstorming & make an outline

When writing academic papers, this is the actual research. Write down the first idea or thought that comes to your mind. Choose the most innovative yet creative topics. For reliable scholarly research, consult sites like Jstor . Sometimes, professors assign topics to students. In this case, conduct detailed research on your topic and make an outline.

✔️Write a convincing introduction

Start your introduction with a strong opening statement. Try to engage your audience from the first line of your term paper. Write a precise description of the topic or issue which you are going to address in your term paper. Then, write your thesis statement in a clear and concise way. Keep in mind that the term paper introduction should be inviting and concise. Avoid adding irrelevant information or excessive examples.

✔️Body Paragraphs

An efficient writing method for the body paragraphs is to begin by creating topic sentences based on your outline. Then, develop those topic sentences into whole paragraphs by adding relevant information to support your claims. The length and number of paragraphs in your term paper body section depend on the specific topic and your professor's instructions. Start each paragraph with a well-crafted topic sentence. It is a very helpful tip for maintaining clarity and coherence. 

✔️Craft the Conclusion

When you've finished the main body of your term paper example, it's critical to give a thorough and concise conclusion. This conclusion should include a summary of the data you've presented and a discussion of the larger implications of your study. Remember the following point when writing your term paper conclusion:

• Do not introduce any fresh information in this section.
• Define your research's end results.
• Explain the consequences for upcoming research.

At the end, wrap everything up with a strong and memorable closing statement.

What are the possible term paper formats?

When writing a term paper, your teacher may ask you to follow specific writing formats. For instance, the most typical formatting styles are Chicago/Turabian, MLA, and APA. Each style has its own special rules you need to follow.

Term Paper APA Format

APA is an American Psychological Association format commonly used in social sciences. An APA title page, abstract, introduction, methodology, findings, discussions, and references are all included in the APA format term paper. Here is how you can style your term paper in APA format .

• Write content on A4 white paper with 8.5’’x 11" elements.
• Time new Roman font 12 points.
• Use double spacing throughout the paper.
• 1" margin on all sides of the paper.
• Use the tab button on your word processor to set the passage indentation to ½ inches.
• Include a header and page number on your term paper title page. 

MLA Term Paper Format

MLA is a Modern Languages Association format often used in the humanities, arts, and literature. It includes proper formatting of citation sources. You need to include the publication date, name, and location for proper referencing. The MLA format for your term paper is as follows:

• Use Times New Roman text style and 12-point font size.
• Double-space all text.
• List your name, professor name, date, and class at the upper left corner of your first page.
• Term paper has one inch edge on each side of your paper.
• Add your last name and page number to the upper right corner of each page.
• Your term paper title should be centered under the heading details. Never underline your paper title. Moreover, don't apply bold or italic as well as quotation marks
• on your term paper title.
• Set passage indent to ½ inches.
• Align all your content to the left side of the paper. 

Chicago/Turabian Format

Chicago format style is used in case of law assignments. Requirements of this format style are:

• Times New Roman font 12 points.
• Apply margins of 1’’ on all sides.
• Double-spacing.
• Text is justified to the left, with a ragged right edge.
• The first sentence of each paragraph should be indented by ½ inches.
• In the upper right corner, include page numbers.

By following the appropriate format and citation style, you’ll ensure that your term paper is well organized. Always pay close attention to the requirements specified by your professor. 

How do you choose sources for term paper writing?

When you start writing a term paper, your top priority is to search for effective sources. Before writing a term paper, you should compile an annotated bibliography of all the sources you require. They will help you alot in term paper writing . But the question here is how to find reliable sources.

Only use credible databases: Google Scholar and Jstor are examples of reliable sources you can consider while writing a term paper. They both speed up your research while containing the most recent peer reviewed papers.

Pay attention to the website's URL: Links ending in .gov, .org, and .edu are trustworthy sites from which you can gather the data. Avoid sources like blogs, Wikipedia, and news portals. They frequently include personal ideas but lack proper justification. 

Attempt to conduct unbiased research: The authors usually express social and political opinions in their writings. You require the least biased source for your term paper samples. Check out the background information of the author before deciding to use that resource.

Look for sources that are no more than five years old:  The research field is ever-evolving. But if you are writing a term paper for science subjects, you should pick the most recent research. 

Stick to term paper topic: Keep in mind that the topic you choose for term paper writing must be discussed. This way, your paper may be great. But it's not a good fit for your paper if the source only talks a little bit about the topic. 

Mistakes to Avoid While Writing a Term Paper

Lack of focus: Before you begin writing your term paper, make sure you have a clear question that you're trying to address. You should also keep coming back to this question as you write. When writing a lengthy post, it can be easy to lose concentration, so check the title regularly and consider whether everything you have written is still relevant.

“DIY” attitude: Term paper writing can be difficult, especially if it's your first one. When you are stuck on your term paper, do not hesitate to contact your instructor for assistance. 

Plagiarism: You will consult a variety of sources for your future research. To prevent plagiarism, make sure you cite all of your sources. 

Poor Term Paper Structure: A poorly structured term paper can undermine the quality of your work and negatively impact your grades. To avoid this problem, you need to know what makes a term paper structure bad and how to fix it.

Tips for Writing a Killer Term Paper

Let's have a look at some guidelines that will help you to write a term paper successfully and avoid mistakes.

• If you get a chance to choose a topic for a term paper, then choose a topic of your interest.
• Make sure that you have enough time for term paper writing. It is an effort and time consuming task.
• Don't add irrelevant information to the term paper. Try to maintain relevancy to the course for which you are writing a term paper.
• Use a reflecting and neutral tone.
• Always proofread your term paper thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the structure of the term paper example pdf.

Typically, a term paper has an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. It also contains a thesis statement, an analysis, and facts. Term paper formats and structures may vary based on the academic institution and your instructor's requirements. It is vital that you follow the specified guidelines. 

What is the fastest way to write a term paper?

If you have a limited amount of time, you must act rapidly. Starting early is the key to writing a term paper quickly. You must successfully manage your time. You can also divide your task into smaller, more doable pieces. Concentrate on writing the entire paper, and make sure to proofread and edit for typos.

How many pages should a term paper be?

The length of a term paper may differ widely based on your educational background, the topic, and the precise guidelines set forth by your instructor or institution. Term papers often range in length from five to twenty pages or more. 

Final Thoughts

We know that writing a term paper can be challenging. Lack of time, missed deadlines, and tons of homework may spoil the writing plan. But there is no need to worry when there is a reliable write my essay for me service in hand. Seek guidance if required and express your unique perspectives confidently. You can do this. Happy writing!

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Persuasive essay topics – how to choose one for you, how to write a persuasive essay- expert tips.

How to Write a Term Paper: A Step-by-Step Guide + Examples

Jun 11, 2024 | 0 comments

Jun 11, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

  Term papers  are a way to check how well a student knows and researches a topic. Writing them, though, can be hard.

Writing a term paper is a common requirement for students in high school and college. It involves researching a specific topic, developing a thesis statement, conducting research, and presenting your findings in a structured format. This type of academic writing allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task for many students. Whether you are in high school, college, or graduate school, understanding how to write a term paper is essential for academic success. 

In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of writing an academic paper from start to finish.

Throughout this guide, we will discuss the various components of a term paper, including how to conduct research, organize your thoughts, and write a compelling argument. 

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to writing a high-quality term paper that meets academic standards and earns you top marks. 

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The Key Takeaways of Writing a Term Paper

• Term papers  are a critical part of a student’s final grade, so they’re important assignments.
• Usually, you’ll get one term paper to do in a term, but this can change depending on the school.
• Writing a term paper is like other writing projects but with a lot of focus on research, planning, and fixing mistakes.
• Picking a topic that’s interesting and doing deep research on it are steps that can make your term paper stand out.
• It’s vital to follow the right  term paper format , which includes things like the  title page ,  abstract , and  references . This helps you meet your teacher’s requirements.

What’s the difference between a term paper and a research paper?

Term papers and research papers are both types of academic writing assignments, but they have some key differences.

One major distinction is in the level of research involved. While a research paper requires extensive research and analysis, a term paper may focus more on synthesizing existing information.

Another difference lies in the paper format . Research papers typically follow a more rigid structure, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. On the other hand, term papers may have a more flexible structure, depending on the requirements of the assignment.

Additionally, research papers often require a  paper proposal before starting writing , while term papers may not always have this requirement. Both types of papers should include a reference list to properly cite sources and give credit to the original authors.

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Step 1: Choose a Topic and Narrow It Down

The first step is to select a broad topic that interests you. It could be related to history, literature, science, or any other subject area. Once you have a broad topic, narrow it down to a more specific focus.

For example, if you’re interested in environmental issues, you might choose to focus on “The Impact of Climate Change on Marine Ecosystems.”

This step is crucial, as it ensures your term paper has a clear direction and scope.

How to Find Excellent  Term Paper  Topics

Selecting the right term paper topic is the first crucial step in your writing journey. After all, a well-crafted term paper must start with a strong foundation. 

First and foremost, consider your comprehension of the course material and your areas of particular interest. What topics have piqued your curiosity or challenged your understanding? Jot down any ideas that align with the course objectives and could lead to a good term paper. Remember, your term paper topic should be specific enough to allow for in-depth exploration yet broad enough to support a well-structured term paper.

Next, conduct some preliminary research on your potential term paper topics. Scour the course materials, academic journals, and reliable online sources to gather information and gauge the available resources. This will help you assess the viability of your ideas and identify any major points that warrant further investigation.

As you explore different topics for your term paper, consider the following:

• Relevance : Ensure that your term paper topic is directly relevant to the course content and addresses the assignment prompt.
• Originality : Aim to find a unique angle or perspective that sets your  term paper  apart from others.
• Scope : Choose a topic for your term paper that is neither too broad nor too narrow, allowing you to delve into the subject matter in depth.
• Accessibility : Make sure you can access the necessary resources and data to write a good term paper on your chosen topic.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to get your instructor’s approval. Schedule a meeting or send an email outlining your proposed term paper topic and the rationale behind your choice. This feedback will be invaluable in starting a term paper that meets the expectations of your course.

Step 2: Develop a Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the central argument or claim of your term paper. It should be a specific, focused statement that reflects your position on the topic.

A strong thesis statement should be clear, concise, and debatable. It should also be supported by evidence from your research.

For example:

“The increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide due to human activity have led to significant climate change, resulting in rising global temperatures and sea levels.”

Step 3: Create a Term paper structure and outline

Crafting an effective  term paper  is essential for academic success, and it all starts with a well-structured outline. 

The  term paper outline  is the backbone of your  written work , guiding you through the  body of the paper  and ensuring a cohesive, logical flow. Begin by carefully considering your  term paper topic  and the  main idea of your paper . This will serve as the foundation for your outline and help you stay focused throughout the writing process.

Next, divide your  term paper  into the following sections:

• Term Paper Introduction : This is where you’ll hook your reader and provide context for your paper’s discussion. Your term paper introduction should clearly state your thesis statement and give an overview of the key points you’ll be exploring.
• Body Paragraphs : Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your main idea, with supporting evidence that backs up your arguments. Organize your body paragraphs in a logical, coherent manner.
• Term Paper Conclusion : Your conclusion should summarize the key points of your term paper and leave the reader with a lasting impression. This is also a good place to suggest future research or the potential implications of your findings.

As you develop your  term paper outline , be sure to:

• Carefully read  any assignment instructions or rubrics to ensure you’re meeting all the requirements.
• Conduct a  case study  or  begin your research  to gather relevant information and data to support your  main idea .
• Determine the  paper length  and  word count  required, and structure your outline accordingly.
• Leave room for a  term paper proposal  or introduction, which you can refine later in the writing process.

Standard term paper format

The typical term paper format consists of the following essential components:

• Title of the term paper
• Course information (course name, instructor’s name, and date)
• A concise summary of the paper discusses, including the main idea, key findings, and conclusions.
• A structured list of the major sections and subsections of your  term paper , with corresponding page numbers.
• Provide background information and context for your term paper topic.
• Clearly state your thesis statement and the main idea of your paper.
• Outline the key points you will be exploring throughout the body of the paper.
• Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your main idea.
• Use well-researched supporting evidence to back up your arguments.
• Maintain a logical, coherent flow throughout the body of the paper.
• Summarize the key takeaways from your term paper.
• Discuss the significance of your findings and their potential real-world applications.
• Suggest areas for future research or further exploration of the topic.
• A comprehensive list of all the sources you cited in your term paper.
• Additional materials, such as data sets, diagrams, or supplementary information, that support your main idea.

Remember, the term paper format is not set in stone, and some instructors may have specific guidelines or requirements that you need to follow. It’s always a good idea to carefully read the assignment instructions and reach out to your instructor if you have any questions or need help with a term paper.

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Step 4: Conduct In-Depth Research

One of the most crucial steps in the term paper writing process is conducting thorough, well-rounded research. After all, your paper is only as strong as the evidence and insights you’re able to gather and incorporate. 

Begin by reviewing any specific research requirements or guidelines outlined in your assignment. Some instructors may have preferences for the types of sources they expect you to use, such as scholarly journals, books, or reputable online resources. Familiarize yourself with these parameters to ensure that your research aligns with the expectations.

Next, start by delving into your term paper topic through a wide range of sources. Scour academic databases, such as Google Scholar or your university’s library, to uncover relevant journal articles, conference papers, and books. Don’t limit yourself to the most obvious or readily available resources; instead, be proactive in seeking out diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research that can lend depth and nuance to your written work.

As you gather your sources, be sure to carefully evaluate their credibility, accuracy, and relevance to your main idea. Ask yourself questions like: Is the author a recognized expert in the field? Is the information current and up-to-date? Does this source directly address the key points I’m trying to make in my term paper?

Once you’ve amassed a solid collection of sources, it’s time to start synthesizing the information. Carefully read through each source, taking notes and identifying the major points, theories, and empirical findings that can be used to support your thesis. Be mindful of any contradictions or counterarguments that you’ll need to address in your term paper.

Step 5: Write the Introduction: How to Start a Term Paper Correctly

Now that you’ve selected an engaging term paper topic and created a solid outline, it’s time to dive into the writing process. One of the most crucial components of a successful term paper is the introduction, as it sets the tone for the rest of your written work.

Begin your term paper with a hook: an attention-grabbing statement or question that immediately draws the reader in. This could be a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking quote, or a personal anecdote that relates to your term paper topic. The goal is to pique the reader’s interest and make them want to delve deeper into your paper’s discussions.

Next, provide some background information on your term paper topic. This context helps the reader understand the significance and relevance of your main idea. Consider including a brief overview of the historical, social, or cultural context surrounding your topic for your term paper.

Once you’ve set the stage, it’s time to present your thesis statement. This is the central argument or main point that your term paper will explore and support. Your thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific, providing a roadmap for the rest of your written work.

Finally, outline the major points you’ll be addressing in the body of the paper. This gives the reader a sense of the scope and structure of your term paper, helping them follow your train of thought as you apply that knowledge to real-world topics and make your text shine.

Step 6: Develop the Body Paragraphs of Your  Term Paper

With a strong  term paper introduction  in place, it’s time to tackle the heart of your written work: the body paragraphs. This is where you’ll delve into the major points of your  term paper topic  and provide the evidence and analysis to  support your thesis .

To craft effective body paragraphs, start by revisiting your  term paper outline . Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect of your main idea and follows a logical, well-structured flow. Remember, your goal is to guide the reader through your knowledge of real-world arguments clearly and compellingly.

Begin each body paragraph with a clear  topic sentence  that introduces the main point you’ll be exploring. This sets the stage for the supporting evidence and analysis that will follow. Avoid simply restating your  thesis statement ; instead, present a focused, self-contained argument that contributes to the overall narrative of your term paper.

Next, provide  supporting evidence  from your research to make your text more convincing and authoritative. This could include relevant quotes, statistics, case studies, or your analysis of the topic. Be sure to apply that knowledge to real-world scenarios or historical consequences to demonstrate the significance and relevance of your arguments.

As you develop your body paragraphs, remember to:

• Maintain a clear and logical flow : Use transitions and topic sentences to guide the reader through your  term paper .
• Analyze and interpret your evidence : Don’t just present facts; explain how they support your  main idea .
• Address counterarguments : Acknowledge and respond to potential objections to your position, showing your nuanced understanding of the topic.
• Vary your sentence structure and writing style : Keep your paragraphs engaging and easy to read.

Step 7: Craft a Strong Term Paper Conclusion

As you near the end of your term paper writing journey, the conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. This section of your paper should tie together the key points you’ve explored and leave the reader with a clear understanding of the significance and implications of your work.

Begin your term paper conclusion by briefly summarizing the main idea and the major points you’ve covered throughout your written work. This concise recap ensures that the reader leaves with a clear understanding of your central argument and the supporting evidence you’ve provided.

Next, consider the broader context and significance of your term paper topic. How do your findings relate to real-world issues or the larger academic discourse surrounding the subject? Expand on the potential implications of your research and the consequences it may have for individuals, communities, or society as a whole.

Don’t be afraid to get a bit creative in your term paper conclusion. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression on the reader and to demonstrate your ability to think critically and see the bigger picture. Consider ending with a thought-provoking question, a call to action, or a bold statement that challenges the reader to re-examine their own beliefs or assumptions.

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Step 8: Revise, Edit, Proofread, and Format Your Term Paper

Congratulations! You’ve made it through the bulk of your term paper writing process. Now, it’s time to put on your editor’s hat and ensure that your written work is polished, professional, and ready for submission.

The revision and editing stage is crucial for transforming your term paper from a solid first draft into an exceptional piece of academic writing. Start by carefully reviewing your paper for any inconsistencies, redundancies, or gaps in logic. Ask yourself: Does the main idea come across clearly and compellingly? Have I provided sufficient supporting evidence to back up my thesis? Are there any areas that need further clarification or expansion?

As you review your term paper, be ruthless in your edits. Don’t be afraid to restructure paragraphs, reword sentences, or even remove entire sections if they don’t serve the overall narrative. Remember, the goal is to create a well-structured term paper that flows seamlessly and leaves a lasting impression on your reader.

Once you’re satisfied with the content and organization of your written work, it’s time to move on to proofreading. Carefully read through your term paper, checking for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. You may also want to ask a friend or family member to review your paper with a fresh set of eyes. A second (or third) pair of eyes can often catch mistakes or inconsistencies that you may have overlooked.

Finally, ensure that your term paper is properly formatted according to the guidelines set forth by your instructor or the academic institution. This may involve adhering to a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago), formatting your title page, and creating a references section. Pay close attention to the details, as proper formatting can make a significant difference in the overall impression of your written work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Term Paper Writing

Writing your first term paper can be a challenging task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can avoid common mistakes. Here are some of the most frequent errors students make and strategies to prevent them:

Mistake 1: Choosing a Broad or Vague Topic

Students often make the mistake of selecting a broad or vague topic, which makes it difficult to focus their research and develop a strong thesis statement. To avoid this, choose a specific and focused topic.

For example, instead of “The History of the United States,” narrow it down to “The Impact of the Civil War on the Southern Economy.” This focused topic allows for a more in-depth analysis and provides a clear direction for your research.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Outline

Some students skip the outline step, thinking it’s unnecessary. However, this often leads to disorganized and poorly structured term papers.

To avoid this mistake, create a detailed outline. It will help you organize your ideas, ensure a logical flow of information, and make the writing process easier.

Mistake 3: Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a serious issue, and students may unintentionally commit it by not properly citing their sources. To avoid this, always use quotation marks for direct quotes and provide in-text citations for paraphrased or summarized ideas.

Use a citation style guide, such as APA or MLA, to ensure proper formatting. Additionally, consider using a plagiarism checker to identify any accidental plagiarism.

Mistake 4: Lack of Focus

Students sometimes struggle with maintaining focus, veering off-topic, or trying to cover too much ground. To prevent this, choose a specific aspect of your topic and stick to it.

For example, if you’re writing about the Civil War, focus on a specific battle or event rather than trying to cover the entire war. This will help you explore the subject in more depth and provide a more detailed analysis.

Mistake 5: Weak Thesis Statement

A weak or vague thesis statement is a common pitfall. Students may state an opinion or fact instead of a clear, arguable claim.

To avoid this, please make sure your thesis statement is specific, debatable, and supported by evidence from your research.

For instance, instead of saying that “The Civil War was a significant event in American history,” try to say that “The Civil War’s impact on the Southern economy revealed the region’s resilience and adaptability.”

Mistake 6: Insufficient Evidence

Some students rely solely on their opinions or personal experiences without providing sufficient evidence. To avoid this, conduct thorough research and cite credible sources to support your arguments.

Use academic journals, books, and reliable websites as sources. Also, consider including personal anecdotes or interviews to add a unique perspective.

Mistake 7: Poor Formatting

Students sometimes neglect the formatting requirements, resulting in a messy and unprofessional-looking term paper.

To prevent this, please be sure to familiarize yourself with the required formatting style, such as APA or MLA. Pay attention to font, margins, headings, and citations. Also, proofread your work to catch any formatting errors.

Mistake 8: Lack of Revision

Students often submit their term papers without revising and editing them. To avoid this, set aside time to revise and refine your work. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Read your paper aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences. Also, consider feedback from a friend or mentor, as they may spot areas for improvement.

Mistake 9: Rushing the Process

Rushing through the writing process can lead to a disorganized and poorly written term paper.

To prevent this, start early, set realistic deadlines, and create a writing schedule. This will allow you to conduct thorough research, develop your ideas, and revise your work effectively.

Mistake10: Lack of Engagement

Students sometimes approach the term paper as a mere requirement, resulting in a lack of engagement and enthusiasm. To avoid this, choose a topic that genuinely interests you.

This will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and meaningful. Please remember that your term paper is an opportunity to explore a subject that interests you and contribute your unique insights.

Helpful Term Paper Examples

• Examining the Dual Influence of Mass Media on Women’s Empowerment and Stereotypes
• Optimizing Childcare Staffing: Strategies for Success
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Writing a term paper is a rewarding process that allows you to dive deep into a topic and contribute your insights and analysis. By following the steps outlined above, you can craft a well-structured, compelling term paper that demonstrates your critical thinking and research skills.

Remember to choose a focused topic, conduct thorough research, develop a strong thesis statement, and logically organize your ideas. With careful planning, revision, and attention to detail, you can write a term paper that showcases your academic prowess.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can set yourself up for success when writing your first term paper.

Through my engaging and informative blog posts, I aim to provide helpful tips on topics such as essay writing, research skills, and academic planning, empowering students to thrive in their academic pursuits.

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Home » Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Term paper is a type of academic writing assignment that is typically assigned to students at the end of a semester or term. It is usually a research-based paper that is meant to demonstrate the student’s understanding of a particular topic, as well as their ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources.

Term papers are usually longer than other types of academic writing assignments and can range anywhere from 5 to 20 pages or more, depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the assignment. They often require extensive research and the use of a variety of sources, including books, articles, and other academic publications.

Term Paper Format

The format of a term paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of your professor or institution. However, a typical term paper usually consists of the following sections:

• Title page: This should include the title of your paper, your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and the date.
• Abstract : This is a brief summary of your paper, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of your topic, the research question or hypothesis, your methodology, and your main findings or conclusions.
• Introduction : This section should introduce your topic and provide background information on the subject. You should also state your research question or hypothesis and explain the importance of your research.
• Literature review : This section should review the existing literature on your topic. You should summarize the key findings and arguments made by other scholars and identify any gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
• Methodology: This section should describe the methods you used to collect and analyze your data. You should explain your research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
• Results : This section should present your findings. You can use tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate your data.
• Discussion : This section should interpret your findings and explain what they mean in relation to your research question or hypothesis. You should also discuss any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research.
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your main findings and conclusions. You should also restate the importance of your research and its implications for the field.
• References : This section should list all the sources you cited in your paper using a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Appendices : This section should include any additional materials that are relevant to your study but not essential to your main argument (e.g., survey questions, interview transcripts).

Structure of Term Paper

Here’s an example structure for a term paper:

I. Introduction

A. Background information on the topic

B. Thesis statement

II. Literature Review

A. Overview of current literature on the topic

B. Discussion of key themes and findings from literature

C. Identification of gaps in current literature

III. Methodology

A. Description of research design

B. Discussion of data collection methods

C. Explanation of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

A. Presentation of findings

B. Analysis and interpretation of results

C. Comparison of results with previous studies

V. Discussion

A. Summary of key findings

B. Explanation of how results address the research questions

C. Implications of results for the field

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

B. Significance of findings

C. Future directions for research

VII. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

How to Write Term Paper

Here are some steps to help you write a term paper:

• Choose a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your course. If your professor has assigned a topic, make sure you understand it and clarify any doubts before you start.
• Research : Conduct research on your topic by gathering information from various sources such as books, academic journals, and online resources. Take notes and organize your information systematically.
• Create an outline : Create an outline of your term paper by arranging your ideas and information in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write a thesis statement: Write a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea of your paper. Your thesis statement should be included in your introduction.
• Write the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention, provide background information on your topic, and introduce your thesis statement.
• Write the body : The body of your paper should provide supporting evidence for your thesis statement. Use your research to provide details and examples to support your argument. Make sure to organize your ideas logically and use transition words to connect paragraphs.
• Write the conclusion : The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread your term paper carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format and cite your sources: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your professor and cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style.
• Submit your paper : Submit your paper on time and according to the instructions provided by your professor.

Term Paper Example

Here’s an example of a term paper:

Title : The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Traditional security measures are no longer enough to protect against these threats. This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, including how AI can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, the challenges of implementing AI in cybersecurity, and the potential ethical implications of AI-powered security systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their cybersecurity strategies.

Introduction :

The increasing number of cybersecurity threats in recent years has led to a growing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity. AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. Additionally, AI can automate responses to threats, allowing for faster and more effective mitigation of security incidents. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for large amounts of high-quality data, the potential for AI systems to make mistakes, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in security.

Literature Review:

This section of the paper reviews existing research on the use of AI in cybersecurity. It begins by discussing the types of AI techniques used in cybersecurity, including machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. The literature review then explores the advantages of using AI in cybersecurity, such as its ability to detect previously unknown threats and its potential to reduce the workload of security analysts. However, the review also highlights some of the challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for high-quality training data and the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks.

Methodology :

To better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with using AI in cybersecurity, this paper conducted a survey of cybersecurity professionals working in a variety of industries. The survey included questions about the types of AI techniques used in their organizations, the challenges they faced when implementing AI in cybersecurity, and their perceptions of the ethical implications of using AI in security.

The results of the survey showed that while many organizations are interested in using AI in cybersecurity, they face several challenges when implementing these systems. These challenges include the need for high-quality training data, the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks, and the difficulty of integrating AI with existing security systems. Additionally, many respondents expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in security, such as the potential for AI to be biased or to make decisions that are harmful to individuals or society as a whole.

Discussion :

Based on the results of the survey and the existing literature, this paper discusses the potential benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity. It also provides recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their security strategies, such as the need to prioritize data quality and to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable.

Conclusion :

While there are challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, the potential benefits of using these systems are significant. AI can help organizations detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of security breaches. However, it is important for organizations to be aware of the potential ethical implications of using AI in security and to take steps to ensure that these systems are transparent and accountable.

References:

• Alkhaldi, S., Al-Daraiseh, A., & Lutfiyya, H. (2019). A Survey on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Cyber Security. Journal of Information Security, 10(03), 191-207.
• Gartner. (2019). Gartner Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/gartner-top-10-strategic-technology-trends-for-2020/
• Kshetri, N. (2018). Blockchain’s roles in meeting key supply chain management objectives. International Journal of Information Management, 39, 80-89.
• Lipton, Z. C. (2018). The mythos of model interpretability. arXiv preprint arXiv:1606.03490.
• Schneier, B. (2019). Click Here to Kill Everybody: Security and Survival in a Hyper-Connected World. WW Norton & Company.
• Wahab, M. A., Rahman, M. S., & Islam, M. R. (2020). A Survey on AI Techniques in Cybersecurity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(2), 22-27.

When to Write Term Paper

A term paper is usually a lengthy research paper that is assigned to students at the end of a term or semester. There are several situations when writing a term paper may be required, including:

• As a course requirement: In most cases, a term paper is required as part of the coursework for a particular course. It may be assigned by the instructor as a way of assessing the student’s understanding of the course material.
• To explore a specific topic : A term paper can be an excellent opportunity for students to explore a specific topic of interest in-depth. It allows them to conduct extensive research on the topic and develop their understanding of it.
• To develop critical thinking skills : Writing a term paper requires students to engage in critical thinking and analysis. It helps them to develop their ability to evaluate and interpret information, as well as to present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
• To prepare for future academic or professional pursuits: Writing a term paper can be an excellent way for students to prepare for future academic or professional pursuits. It can help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary for success in higher education or in a professional career.

Purpose of Term Paper

The main purposes of a term paper are:

• Demonstrate mastery of a subject: A term paper provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. It requires students to research and analyze the topic, and then present their findings in a clear and organized manner.
• Develop critical thinking skills: Writing a term paper requires students to think critically about their subject matter, analyzing various sources and viewpoints, and evaluating evidence to support their arguments.
• Improve writing skills : Writing a term paper helps students improve their writing skills, including organization, clarity, and coherence. It also requires them to follow specific formatting and citation guidelines, which can be valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
• Contribute to academic discourse : A well-written term paper can contribute to academic discourse by presenting new insights, ideas, and arguments that add to the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic.
• Prepare for future research : Writing a term paper can help prepare students for future research, by teaching them how to conduct a literature review, evaluate sources, and formulate research questions and hypotheses. It can also help them develop research skills that they can apply in future academic or professional endeavors.

Advantages of Term Paper

There are several advantages of writing a term paper, including:

• In-depth exploration: Writing a term paper allows you to delve deeper into a specific topic, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
• Improved writing skills: Writing a term paper involves extensive research, critical thinking, and the organization of ideas into a cohesive written document. As a result, writing a term paper can improve your writing skills significantly.
• Demonstration of knowledge: A well-written term paper demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, which can be beneficial for academic or professional purposes.
• Development of research skills : Writing a term paper requires conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and synthesizing information from various sources. This process can help you develop essential research skills that can be applied in many other areas.
• Enhancement of critical thinking : Writing a term paper encourages you to think critically, evaluate information, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills can be useful in many areas of life, including personal and professional decision-making.
• Preparation for further academic work : Writing a term paper is excellent preparation for more extensive academic projects, such as a thesis or dissertation.

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How to Write a Term Paper: A Complete Guide With Examples

You just got your term paper assignment and have no idea what to do or how to start? This guide will navigate you through every step of the process, from idea formation to final editing and proofreading. We will start with outlining, drafting and brainstorming, and get you through the writing part in no time. So, let’s dive into the question of how to write a term paper.

If you want to know everything you will need about term papers, this guide, written by the writers at the best essay writing service will help you along.

Table of Contents

What is a term paper.

A term paper is an academic milestone more so than anything else. As a student, you are tasked with learning and then transmitting that knowledge to others. A term paper is just that, a way to show what you have learnt, and disseminate the knowledge to others. Unlike other types of academic writing , a term paper is more detailed, requires more research, and is generally seen as the hardest piece of written work aside from a thesis.

The aim of a term paper is to showcase your understanding of the subject matter and how well you handle pressure and deadlines. In this context, a term paper proves invaluable. In terms of scope, term papers may zero in on an important historical event – if you’re studying history – a scientific concept, or a contentious argument. The choice hinges on the prompt created by your academic advisor. The typical length of a term paper can stretch to five or seven pages, and is generally the prerequisite to attend end-of-semester examination. But, it is also a part of the weighted grade you’ll receive, which only adds to its importance.

For the average student, writing a term paper takes around two weeks, and is a process many do not fully understand. Term paper starts from a very basic element, a question.

Say your teacher wants you to analyze the arguments for and against US involvement in World War II. How would you start? By asking a question; something like: Why did the US enter the war? Or, why did the US waive its neutrality and entered the war.

This opens the door for you and allows you to find an article or two that then leads to the second step, and so on and so on, until you are done. The problem is many students do not know how the process works, or what skills are needed to get the job done. To write an excellent paper you need to plan carefully, adapt to new conditions, be analytical yet persuasive, and understand how referencing works. In addition, the paper has to be formatted to specifications of your chosen citation style – APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, etc. This is a lot of work!

What is the Purpose of a Term Paper

At its core, a term paper serves to test your ability to understand arguments and defend them using written constructs within a pre-determined time period. Put simply, it tests your ability to navigate complex ideas when faced with a deadline – something that comes in handy in almost every job you’ll ever have later in life. If you can understand a complex event, a scientific theory, or a debatable stance, based on the directive from your academic mentor, you can manage pretty much anything that is thrown your way.

A typical term paper will be between five to seven pages, and represents the pinnacle of writing tasks in the semester. The process of term paper writing, even when the topic is prescribed, can be an arduous and time-consuming undertaking. To succeed you need meticulous planning, good composition skills, and scrupulous analysis, structure, and edit

Doing the Basics Right Saves You Time

As Seneca famously said, “Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity.” In short, prepare, prepare, prepare. To create a perfect term paper you need to know, well in advance, how it will look, what will it be about, and how will it be structured. This then allows you to simply fill in the blanks as you go. But, if you start a day before submission, you’re toast – or, you can always ask for help from us J – because the result will be Red Bull frenzy induced compilation of internet’s best hits. And trust me when I say, your teacher has those stored in memory; you’re not the first student to turn a deaf ear on old Seneca….

So, let’s see how to start your term paper:

• Select your topic – If possible choose something that you’re personally interested in. When you choose early, all the good topics are still free, so keep that in mind.
• Research your topic – Once chosen, sit at your computer and run through Google Scholar or your University Library for anything that pops up when you type in your exact topic.
• Create an outline – When you have a basic understanding of the topic, prepare an outline. It’s always going to be fairly standard, so once you get it right, you can re-use whenever you need to in the future.
• Thesis statement – Now starts the tricky part. Just kidding, this is still the Top Lane, we’re not even close to the Jungle. Thesis statements are always pretty similar. Jolt down your guiding question and then, based on what you’ve read, write a one sentence argument. For example, if writing about solar and wind, you might go with: Solar and wind power are the future of energy production because fossil fuels are unsustainable.
• Topics, topic sentences, and paragraphs – Every paragraph starts with a topic sentence that describes what the paragraph is talking about. The easiest way to understand is this. If writing a paper about wind and solar, you would need at least three topic sentences – 1)Wind 2)Solar 3)Benefits of using wind and solar. Naturally, a term paper needs much more than just three, but you get the idea.
•   Conclusion – Once you’ve written down the topic sentences and outlined the paper, note your own expectations of what you’ll find in the conclusion. This will help you understand what is happening, and when you’re actually writing the conclusion it will tell you if you were right or wrong.

Pro tip: If all of this is too much for you, there is always the possibility of asking professionals for help. Our team of term paper writers are here to help, so feel free to reach out!

Structure of a Term Paper

As you’ve probably guessed by now, every paper has to have a specific structure. In general, you can expect to have at least three parts – introduction, body, and a conclusion. However, longer papers may need several sub-sections, perhaps even an abstract or a summary, and a page dedicated to bibliography.

A typical term paper has three to five body paragraphs that form the backbone of your arguments and analytical discourse. A bibliography is always needed, even if your sources predominantly comprise course materials or excerpts from consulted textbooks. Depending on the chosen style, you will need either a Works Cited page (MLA), a Reference page (APA) or a Bibliography (Harvard, Chicago). Given its pivotal role in determining your final course grade, make sure to adhere to the highest writing and editing standards.

Term Paper Outline

• Title page – this is where you enter your name, teacher name, school, class, and date. The formatting will depend on your chosen style
• Introduction – Introduction sets the stage for your arguments. This is where you present statistics, define helpful terms, and finally present your thesis statement. IMPORTANT: Thesis statement is always the last sentence in the introduction.
• Body 1: Historical setting or development
• Body 2: Current state of knowledge about the problem
• Body 3: Main argument and potential implications
• Body 4: Argument for
• Body 5: Argument against
• Body 6: Summary
• Conclusion : Bring all of the body arguments together and restate your thesis statement.
• Bibliography : Provide references for all sources cited in the term paper using the style of your choice

Now let’s get to the nitty gritty of the writing process.

Topic Selection – In most cases teachers or instructors will provide students with a list of pre-approved topics to choose from. But, in some cases you will get the opportunity to choose for yourself. This is both a blessing and a curse, because it can lead you into a deep pit of despair if you are not careful.

Length – Every paper will have an assigned length. You should never go under the minimum or the maximum word/page count, as that will take points away from your final score. If the prompt asks for 10 pages, write that.

Sources – Consult your school library, Google Scholar, and any other database that has access to journals and books on your topic.

Simplify – While it is admirable to be able to write in a high-brow voice, it’s much better to use plain language as much as possible, but staying within the confines of academic jargon. No don’t’s, couldnt’s, or should’ve. If something is too complicated to explain simply, you do not understand it properly. Ask for clarification.

Do not be afraid to wander – Choosing a common topic may be a safe bet, but your teacher will grade you higher if you take a topic nobody else even though about. Brownie points are there for the taking. Just make sure you know what you’re talking about!

Don’t overextend – While the entire combined histories of all monastic orders may seem like an interesting topic (well, to us at least), it is waaaaaaay too broad to cover in 5 or 10 pages. Heck, that would probably take an entire compendium with multiple volumes. In short, don’t be a megalomaniac and choose a topic that fits in 5 pages.

How to Write a Term Paper: The Writing Process

Before starting your write up, the teacher will expect a proposal. This is a very short summary of the topic, your thesis statement, and a few sources. The goal is to present a topic that you can defend and ask the teacher to approve it.

So how do you write a proposal? Start by writing down your thesis statement and guiding question. Then identify three to four sources and jolt down key statistics and pieces of information that are linked to your thesis statement. The goal is to show you’ve done the work. The proposal will generally have a full outline (see above) so that the teacher knows what you are planning to do. If you explain what the topic is and why it is important in writing , the teacher will accept the proposal.

Introduction, well, Introduces the Term Paper

Your essay has to start strong, which is why 99.99%  of all introductions start with a hook that captivates the audience. A hook can be anything, a statistic (like 40% of people in the US have no savings whatsoever, which means around 140 million people are completely broke – now that’s a hook, line, and sinker).

Once you know the reader is hooked, you present a brief overview of the topic you will discuss. This is where you bring statistics, data, and broader theories or concepts that may relate.

The end of the introduction is always reserved for the thesis statement, which is the last sentence of the introduction.

Try to be concise – not more than ¾ of a page (cca 200-250 words), but detailed enough so that the reader understands what the paper is about.

Writing the Body Sections

When you are certain you can understand the concepts and arguments presented in the literature, it’s time to write your body paragraphs.

The goal is to provide the reader with enough context and argumentation to prove your point. So, if you’re writing about the advantages of nuclear energy, you have to provide evidence from the literature as well as a thorough analysis of all benefits and drawbacks. The goal is to be as objective as possible, while ensuring your results are accurate.

Do not dwell on too much detail, you cannot fit all of the information in a 5 – 10 page paper. Isolate the most important pieces of evidence, maybe 3-4 and focus on those.

As a rule of thumb, you will aim for 4 – 5 body paragraphs minimum, but in most cases you will need more. The first section should be the literature review, where you analyze state-of-the-art of the topic you are writing about.

Following the literature review is your analysis, which draws from the information you’ve collected. It’s important to note, do not try and make up new stuff, or draw conclusions in this section. Simply analyze and summarize the findings in your own voice.

The last paragraph of the body section can be your own summary, where you present a different opinion. Be concise and do not go into too much detail, simply note if you think there are any discrepancies in the literature.

Remember : Always start your paragraphs with a topic sentence and try to contain the information within the paragraph to the topic.

Writing the Conclusion

Conclusion is the most important part of the term paper, even though many do not give it enough attention. This is where you put everything you’ve written together and summarize key findings.

Important : Conclusion is not the place to add new information or knowledge!

To write a good conclusion keep in mind your initial research question and thesis statement. The goal of the term paper is to answer the question and prove your thesis statement is correct. Has your paper done this? Write it down and explain why or why not your initial proposal was correct. A thesis statement can be wrong, and you must acknowledge this in your conclusion.

In the conclusion:

• Summarize your findings
• Discuss implications for future reseasrch

Editing and Finalization

The final word of the conclusion has been written, references added and alphabetized, the paper and the title page formatted. You are finally done. Or, maybe not! Now is the time for the final edit.

Teachers, above everything else, hate reading papers with spelling mistakes and poor grammar. To make sure your paper does not annoy the teacher (you don’t want a lower grade), make sure it is completely free of any errors.

The best way to do this is by using a machine learning tool combined with close reading on your own. The machine will weed out the glaring errors, and you will finish the job.

Read through the draft carefully. Remove any fluff or excess words that add nothing to the argument. You will likely find several sentences you will want to change. Do this now. Once done, start the second read-through.

In this read-through you will hone in on the arguments. Do they make sense? Are statistics properly cited, and do you sound coherent? If the answer is no, you will want to fix the mistakes until satisfied.

Now, finally, you are done! Congratulations. Pat yourself on the back. Oh, wait, we forgot about the abstract!

Abstract Comes First, or Last

In no uncertain terms, do not write the abstract before you’ve completed the term paper. This is always the last part of the writing process, but strangely enough the one your paper starts with. Go figure.

When you do get to this stage, use our secret formula. Well, it’s not really secret but we like to think so. The abstract needs three parts to work well, the introduction, the method/procedure, and the conclusion/findings. Depending on the topic these will vary slightly but you will always find them in an abstract.

Introduce your topic and what you plan to do in two to three sentences.

Describe what method you will use – such as literature review, an experiment, or something else. Two to three sentences.

Define the results you obtained after using the method. Two to three sentences.

Remember : The abstract should be between 120 and 200 words in length, no more is needed.

No, they are not. A research paper is an original piece of writing that comes after some type of original research has been done. Maybe you’ve found a new civilization during a dig, or a new chemical element. The research paper is meant to publicize this finding so other scientists can critique, refute, or confirm its validity. A term paper is a much simpler version that requires no original research. But, a term paper is your preparation for writing a research paper later in life.

This will depend on your teacher. In many cases, you will get a pre-defined format to follow, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. If not, we recommend using APA or Harvard, as they are relatively simple to learn and have a ton of resources to help you along.

It is important to remember you are not writing a book, so keep the topic narrow. For example, if writing about renewable energy, choose only one type of energy or just one region. Do not try to cram everything into 5-10 pages; it won’t work.

Writing a term paper is certainly a challenge, but it is also manageable if you dedicate yourself to the process. Prepare well in advance, read a lot, and do not be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. Your teachers are paid to help you, so email them if you get stuck. Above everything, make sure you are interested in the topic, as that will make the process so much easier.

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A term paper is an extensive research paper typically assigned at the end of a semester or academic term, allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and in-depth knowledge of a particular subject. It involves thorough research, analysis, and synthesis of information from various sources to address a specific topic or question, culminating in a comprehensive written report. Term papers are designed to assess students’ critical thinking, research skills, and ability to communicate their findings effectively, often accounting for a significant portion of their final grade. Essential components include a Thesis Statement for Research Paper , a Research Paper Cover Letter , and adherence to the Research Paper Format .

What is Term Paper?

A term paper is a detailed research paper written by students over an academic term, contributing significantly to their final grade. It demonstrates their understanding and analysis of a specific topic, includes a thesis, supporting arguments, and evidence, and requires citations from academic sources.

Term Paper Format

Title of the Paper Student’s Name Course Name and Number Instructor’s Name Date of Submission

A brief summary of the paper (150-250 words) Key points, objectives, methods, results, and conclusions

Introduction

Introduction to the topic Thesis statement Purpose and objectives Paper overview

Literature Review

Overview of Existing Research Key Theories and Studies Gaps in the Literature Relevance to the Current Study

Methodology

Research design Data collection methods Sample selection Analysis techniques

Presentation of findings Use of tables and figures (if applicable)

Interpretation of results Comparison with existing literature Implications and limitations

Summary of key findings Restatement of thesis Future research implications

List of All Sources Cited Formatted According to a Specific Citation Style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)

Appendices (if applicable)

Additional Material Raw Data Questionnaires Detailed Calculations

Formatting Guidelines

Font: Times New Roman, 12-point Spacing: Double-spaced Margins: 1 inch Page numbers: Top right corner Consistent headings and subheadings

Term Paper Examples for Students

• The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems
• The Role of Social Media in Modern Marketing Strategies
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Philosophy on Western Thought
• Cybersecurity Threats and Solutions in the 21st Century
• The Effectiveness of Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• The Relationship Between Diet and Mental Health
• An Analysis of Shakespeare’s Use of Tragic Heroes
• The Evolution of Women’s Rights in the United States
• The Economic Impact of Immigration Policies
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• The History and Future of Space Exploration
• The Psychological Effects of Video Games on Children
• The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
• The Cultural Significance of Traditional Festivals in Japan
• The Impact of Globalization on Local Economies
• The Role of Renewable Energy in Combating Climate Change
• The Effects of Substance Abuse on Family Dynamics
• An Examination of Modernist Architecture
• The Influence of the Harlem Renaissance on American Literature
• The Legal and Social Implications of Data Privacy Laws
• The Role of Sports in Promoting Social Integration
• An Analysis of Economic Inequality in Developing Countries
• The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health Recovery
• The Development and Impact of the Internet of Things (IoT)
• The Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance

Simple Term Paper Examples

• The Effects of Video Games on Child Development
• The History and Impact of the Civil Rights Movement
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Benefits and Risks
• The Influence of Greek Philosophy on Western Thought
• The Impact of Immigration on the U.S. Economy
• The Role of Education in Reducing Poverty
• The Ethics of Animal Testing in Medical Research
• Mental Health Stigma and Its Social Implications
• The Evolution of E-commerce and Online Shopping
• The Importance of Early Childhood Education

Types of Term Papers

1. analytical term papers.

• Definition: Analyzes a specific issue or topic, breaking it down into its components and examining them in detail.
• Purpose: To provide a deep understanding of the subject through detailed analysis.
• Example: “The Economic Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture”

2. Argumentative Term Papers

• Definition: Presents an argument on a particular topic, supporting it with evidence and reasoning.
• Purpose: To persuade the reader of a specific viewpoint or stance.
• Example: “The Case for Renewable Energy Sources over Fossil Fuels”

3. Definition Term Papers

• Definition: Explores the meaning and implications of a specific concept or term.
• Purpose: To clarify and define a concept in depth.
• Example: “Defining Social Justice in Modern Society”

4. Compare and Contrast Term Papers

• Definition: Examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects.
• Purpose: To highlight comparative aspects and provide insights into the subjects.
• Example: “Comparing Online Education with Traditional Classroom Learning”

5. Cause and Effect Term Papers

• Definition: Investigates the causes of a particular event or phenomenon and its effects.
• Purpose: To understand the relationships between events and outcomes.
• Example: “The Causes and Effects of the 2008 Financial Crisis”

6. Interpretive Term Papers

• Definition: Provides an interpretation of a specific piece of literature, artwork, or historical event.
• Purpose: To offer insights and perspectives on the subject.
• Example: “Interpreting Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby'”

7. Research-Based Term Papers

• Definition: Relies heavily on existing research and data to discuss a particular topic.
• Purpose: To present an in-depth analysis based on extensive research.
• Example: “The Role of Vaccinations in Public Health”

8. Reflective Term Papers

• Definition: Reflects on a personal experience or event and its significance.
• Purpose: To provide a personal perspective and insights.
• Example: “Reflections on My Internship Experience in a Non-Profit Organization”

9. Case Study Term Papers

• Definition: Focuses on a detailed examination of a particular case within a real-world context.
• Purpose: To analyze specific instances and draw broader conclusions.
• Example: “A Case Study of the Flint Water Crisis”

10. Expository Term Papers

• Definition: Explains or describes a topic in a straightforward and factual manner.
• Purpose: To inform and educate the reader about the subject.
• Example: “An Overview of the U.S. Healthcare System”

Importance of Term Papers

1. development of research skills.

• Encourages thorough exploration of various information sources
• Enhances data gathering, analysis, and interpretation abilities

2. Enhancement of Writing Skills

• Improves clarity, precision, and organization in writing
• Refines grammar and syntax

3. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills

• Fosters logical reasoning and problem-solving
• Promotes evaluation and synthesis of information

4. Time Management and Discipline

• Teaches effective planning and adherence to deadlines
• Develops a disciplined work ethic and organizational skills

5. In-Depth Understanding of Subject Matter

• Facilitates comprehensive knowledge of the topic
• Enhances retention and application of theoretical concepts

How to Write a Term Paper

1. choose a topic.

• Select a topic: Ensure it’s relevant to your course and interests you.
• Narrow the focus: Make sure the topic is specific enough to be manageable.

2. Conduct Research

• Gather sources: Use books, academic journals, and credible websites.
• Take notes: Organize your notes and highlight key points.
• Create a bibliography: Keep track of all sources for your references.

3. Develop a Thesis Statement

• Clear and concise: Summarize the main point or argument of your paper.
• Position: Clearly state your position or perspective on the topic.

4. Create an Outline

• Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your thesis.
• Body paragraphs: Organize the main points and supporting evidence.
• Conclusion: Summarize your findings and restate your thesis.

5. Write the First Draft

• Hook: Grab the reader’s attention.
• Background information: Provide context.
• Thesis statement: Present your main argument.
• Topic sentence: State the main idea of the paragraph.
• Evidence: Present data, quotes, and research findings.
• Analysis: Explain how the evidence supports your thesis.
• Transition: Link to the next paragraph.
• Restate the thesis: Summarize your main argument.
• Summarize main points: Recap the key points.
• Closing statement: Provide a final thought or call to action.

6. Revise and Edit

• Review content: Ensure your arguments are clear and supported by evidence.
• Check organization: Ensure your paper flows logically.
• Edit for grammar and style: Correct any grammatical errors and improve readability.

7. Format the Paper

• Follow guidelines: Use the required formatting style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
• Title page: Include the title, your name, course, instructor, and date.
• Page numbers: Ensure all pages are numbered.
• Citations: Properly cite all sources in-text and in the bibliography.

8. Proofread

• Final check: Look for any remaining errors or typos.
• Read aloud: Helps catch mistakes you might overlook.
• Peer review: Have someone else review your paper for feedback.

9. Submit the Paper

• Meet the deadline: Ensure you submit your paper on time.
• Follow submission guidelines: Submit according to your instructor’s requirements (e.g., online or printed copy).

FAQ’s

How do i choose a topic for my term paper.

Choose a topic that interests you, is relevant to your course, and has enough research material available.

What is the structure of a term paper?

A term paper typically includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion, and references.

How long should a term paper be?

The length varies, but a standard term paper is usually between 8-15 pages, depending on the subject and requirements.

How do I start writing a term paper?

Begin with thorough research, create an outline, and then draft your introduction to set the context for your paper.

What is a thesis statement in a term paper?

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of your paper, usually placed at the end of the introduction.

How important is the introduction in a term paper?

The introduction is crucial as it sets the tone, provides background information, and presents your thesis statement.

What should be included in the literature review?

The literature review should summarize, analyze, and compare existing research relevant to your topic.

How do I cite sources in my term paper?

Use a citation style recommended by your instructor (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) to credit the original sources of your information.

How do I present my findings in a term paper?

Present your findings clearly and logically, using tables, charts, or graphs if necessary, in the results section.

How do I write a conclusion for a term paper?

Summarize your main points, restate the significance of your findings, and suggest areas for future research.

Text prompt

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• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

• Introduction
• Conclusions
• Article Information

ADHD indicates attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; CVD, cardiovascular disease.

a Controls were derived from the same base cohort as the cases; thus, a case with a later date of CVD diagnosis could potentially serve as a control for another case in the study.

Crude odds ratios (ORs) were based on cases and controls matched on age, sex, and calendar time. Adjusted ORs (AORs) were based on cases and controls matched on age, sex, and calendar time and adjusted for country of birth, educational level, somatic comorbidities (type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and sleep disorders), and psychiatric comorbidities (anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, conduct disorder, depressive disorder, eating disorders, intellectual disability, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders).

The solid lines represent the adjusted odds ratios, and the shaded areas represent the 95% CIs. In restricted cubic splines analysis, knots were placed at the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles of ADHD medication use.

eTable 1. International Classification of Diseases (ICD) Codes from the Swedish National Inpatient Register

eTable 2. Type of Cardiovascular Disease in Cases

eTable 3. Risk of CVD Associated With ADHD Medication Use Across Different Average Defined Daily Doses

eTable 4. Risk of CVD Associated With Cumulative Duration of Use of Different Types of ADHD Medications

eTable 5. Sensitivity Analyses of CVD Risk Associated With Cumulative Use of ADHD Medications, Based On Different Cohort, Exposure, and Outcome Definitions

eFigure. Risk of CVD Associated With Cumulative Use of ADHD Medications, Stratified by Sex

Data Sharing Statement

• Long-Term ADHD Medications and Cardiovascular Disease Risk JAMA Medical News in Brief December 26, 2023 Emily Harris
• Long-Term Cardiovascular Effects of Medications for ADHD—Balancing Benefits and Risks of Treatment JAMA Psychiatry Editorial February 1, 2024 Samuele Cortese, MD, PhD; Cristiano Fava, MD, PhD

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Zhang L , Li L , Andell P, et al. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Medications and Long-Term Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases. JAMA Psychiatry. 2024;81(2):178–187. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.4294

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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Medications and Long-Term Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases

• 1 Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
• 2 Unit of Cardiology, Heart and Vascular Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
• 3 School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
• 4 Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington
• 5 Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington
• Editorial Long-Term Cardiovascular Effects of Medications for ADHD—Balancing Benefits and Risks of Treatment Samuele Cortese, MD, PhD; Cristiano Fava, MD, PhD JAMA Psychiatry
• Medical News in Brief Long-Term ADHD Medications and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Emily Harris JAMA

Question   Is long-term use of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)?

Findings   In this case-control study of 278 027 individuals in Sweden aged 6 to 64 years who had an incident ADHD diagnosis or ADHD medication dispensation, longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was associated with an increased risk of CVD, particularly hypertension and arterial disease, compared with nonuse.

Meaning   Findings of this study suggest that long-term exposure to ADHD medications was associated with an increased risk of CVD; therefore, the potential risks and benefits of long-term ADHD medication use should be carefully weighed.

Importance   Use of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications has increased substantially over the past decades. However, the potential risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with long-term ADHD medication use remains unclear.

Objective   To assess the association between long-term use of ADHD medication and the risk of CVD.

Design, Setting, and Participants   This case-control study included individuals in Sweden aged 6 to 64 years who received an incident diagnosis of ADHD or ADHD medication dispensation between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2020. Data on ADHD and CVD diagnoses and ADHD medication dispensation were obtained from the Swedish National Inpatient Register and the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register, respectively. Cases included individuals with ADHD and an incident CVD diagnosis (ischemic heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, hypertension, heart failure, arrhythmias, thromboembolic disease, arterial disease, and other forms of heart disease). Incidence density sampling was used to match cases with up to 5 controls without CVD based on age, sex, and calendar time. Cases and controls had the same duration of follow-up.

Exposure   Cumulative duration of ADHD medication use up to 14 years.

Main Outcomes and Measures   The primary outcome was incident CVD. The association between CVD and cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was measured using adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% CIs.

Results   Of 278 027 individuals with ADHD aged 6 to 64 years, 10 388 with CVD were identified (median [IQR] age, 34.6 [20.0-45.7] years; 6154 males [59.2%]) and matched with 51 672 control participants without CVD (median [IQR] age, 34.6 [19.8-45.6] years; 30 601 males [59.2%]). Median (IQR) follow-up time in both groups was 4.1 (1.9-6.8) years. Longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was associated with an increased risk of CVD compared with nonuse (0 to ≤1 year: AOR, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.93-1.06]; 1 to ≤2 years: AOR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.01-1.18]; 2 to ≤3 years: AOR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.05-1.25]; 3 to ≤5 years: AOR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.17-1.39]; and >5 years: AOR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.12-1.36]). Longer cumulative ADHD medication use was associated with an increased risk of hypertension (eg, 3 to ≤5 years: AOR, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.51-1.97] and >5 years: AOR, 1.80 [95% CI, 1.55-2.08]) and arterial disease (eg, 3 to ≤5 years: AOR, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.11-2.45] and >5 years: AOR, 1.49 [95% CI, 0.96-2.32]). Across the 14-year follow-up, each 1-year increase of ADHD medication use was associated with a 4% increased risk of CVD (AOR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.03-1.05]), with a larger increase in risk in the first 3 years of cumulative use (AOR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.04-1.11]) and stable risk over the remaining follow-up. Similar patterns were observed in children and youth (aged <25 years) and adults (aged ≥25 years).

Conclusions and Relevance   This case-control study found that long-term exposure to ADHD medications was associated with an increased risk of CVDs, especially hypertension and arterial disease. These findings highlight the importance of carefully weighing potential benefits and risks when making treatment decisions about long-term ADHD medication use. Clinicians should regularly and consistently monitor cardiovascular signs and symptoms throughout the course of treatment.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. 1 , 2 Pharmacological therapy, including both stimulants and nonstimulants, is recommended as the first-line treatment for ADHD in many countries. 1 , 3 The use of ADHD medication has increased greatly in both children and adults during the past decades. 4 Although the effectiveness of ADHD medications has been demonstrated in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and other studies, 5 , 6 concerns remain regarding their potential cardiovascular safety. 7 Meta-analyses of RCTs have reported increases in heart rate and blood pressure associated with both stimulant and nonstimulant ADHD medications. 5 , 7 - 9

As RCTs typically evaluate short-term effects (average treatment duration of 75 days), 7 it remains uncertain whether and to what extent the increases in blood pressure and heart rate associated with ADHD medication lead to clinically significant cardiovascular disease (CVD) over time. Longitudinal observational studies 10 - 12 examining the association between ADHD medication use and serious cardiovascular outcomes have emerged in recent years, but the findings have been mixed. A meta-analysis 13 of observational studies found no statistically significant association between ADHD medication and risk of CVD. However, the possibility of a modest risk increase cannot be ruled out due to several methodological limitations in these studies, including confounding by indication, immortal time bias, and prevalent user bias. Additionally, most of these studies had an average follow-up time of no more than 2 years. 13 , 14 Thus, evidence regarding the long-term cardiovascular risk of ADHD medication use is still lacking.

Examining the long-term cardiovascular risk associated with ADHD medicine use is clinically important given that individuals with a diagnosis of ADHD, regardless of whether they receive treatment, face an elevated risk of CVD. 15 Additionally, a substantial proportion of young individuals with ADHD continues to have impairing symptoms in adulthood, 16 necessitating prolonged use of ADHD medication. Notably, studies have indicated a rising trend in the long-term use of ADHD medications, with approximately half of individuals using ADHD medication for over 5 years. 17 Furthermore, evidence is lacking regarding how cardiovascular risk may vary based on factors such as type of CVD, type of ADHD medication, age, and sex. 13 Therefore, there is a need for long-term follow-up studies to address these knowledge gaps and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the cardiovascular risks associated with ADHD medication use. This information is also crucial from a public health perspective, particularly due to the increasing number of individuals receiving ADHD medications worldwide. 4

This study aimed to assess the association between cumulative use of ADHD medication up to 14 years and the risk of CVD by using nationwide health registers in Sweden. We hypothesized that longer cumulative use of ADHD medication would be associated with increased CVD risk. In addition, we aimed to examine whether the associations differ across types of ADHD medication, types of CVD, sex, and age groups.

We used data from several Swedish nationwide registers linked through unique personal identification numbers. 18 Diagnoses were obtained from the National Inpatient Register, 19 which contains data on inpatient diagnoses since 1973 and outpatient diagnoses since 2001. Information on prescribed medications was retrieved from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register, which contains all dispensed medications in Sweden since July 2005 and includes information on drug identity based on the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification, 20 dispensing dates, and free-text medication prescriptions. Socioeconomic factors were obtained from the Longitudinal Integrated Database for Health Insurance and Labour Market studies. 21 Information on death was retrieved from the Swedish Cause of Death Register, 22 which contains information on all deaths since 1952. The study was approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. Informed patient consent is not required for register-based studies in Sweden. The study followed the Reporting of Studies Conducted Using Observational Routinely Collected Health Data–Pharmacoepidemiological Research ( RECORD-PE ) guideline. 23

We conducted a nested case-control study of all individuals residing in Sweden aged 6 to 64 years who received an incident diagnosis of ADHD or ADHD medication dispensation 15 between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2020. The diagnosis of ADHD ( International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision [ ICD-10 ] code F90) was identified from the National Inpatient Register. Incident ADHD medication dispensation was identified from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register and was defined as a dispensation after at least 18 months without any ADHD medication dispensation. 24 Baseline (ie, cohort entry) was defined as the date of incident ADHD diagnosis or ADHD medication dispensation, whichever came first. Individuals with ADHD medication prescriptions for indications other than ADHD 25 and individuals who emigrated, died, or had a history of CVD before baseline were excluded from the study. The cohort was followed until the case index date (ie, the date of CVD diagnosis), death, migration, or the study end date (December 31, 2020), whichever came first.

Within the study cohort, we identified cases as individuals with an incident diagnosis of any CVD (including ischemic heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, hypertension, heart failure, arrhythmias, thromboembolic disease, arterial disease, and other forms of heart disease; eTable 1 in Supplement 1 ) during follow-up. For each case, the date of their CVD diagnosis was assigned as the index date. Using incidence density sampling, 26 up to 5 controls without CVD were randomly selected for each case from the base cohort of individuals with ADHD. The matching criteria included age, sex, and calendar time, ensuring that cases and controls had the same duration of follow-up from baseline to index date. Controls were eligible for inclusion if they were alive, living in Sweden, and free of CVD at the time when their matched case received a diagnosis of CVD, with the index date set as the date of CVD diagnosis of the matched case ( Figure 1 ). Controls were derived from the same base cohort as the cases. Thus, a case with a later date of CVD diagnosis could potentially serve as a control for another case in the study. 26

The main exposure was cumulative duration of ADHD medication use, which included all ADHD medications approved in Sweden during the study period, including stimulants (methylphenidate [ATC code N06BA04], amphetamine [ATC code N06BA01], dexamphetamine [ATC code N06BA02], and lisdexamfetamine [ATC code N06BA12]) as well as nonstimulants (atomoxetine [ATC code N06BA09] and guanfacine [ATC code C02AC02]). Duration of ADHD medication use was derived from a validated algorithm that estimates treatment duration from free text in prescription records. 25 The cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was calculated by summing all days covered by ADHD medication between baseline and 3 months prior to the index date. The last 3 months before the index date were excluded to reduce reverse causation, as clinicians’ perception of potential cardiovascular risks may influence ADHD medication prescription. This time window was chosen because routine psychiatric practice in Sweden limits a prescription to a maximum 3 months at a time. 27 Individuals with follow-up of less than 3 months were excluded.

We conducted conditional logistic regression analyses to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for the associations between cumulative durations of ADHD medication use and incident CVD. Crude ORs were adjusted for all matching variables (age, sex, and calendar time) by design. Adjusted ORs (AORs) were additionally controlled for country of birth (Sweden vs other), highest educational level (primary or lower secondary, upper secondary, postsecondary or postgraduate, or unknown; individuals aged <16 years were included as a separate category), and diagnoses of somatic (type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and sleep disorders) and psychiatric comorbidities (anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, conduct disorder, depressive disorder, eating disorders, intellectual disability, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders; eTable 1 in Supplement 1 ) before baseline. The association between cumulative ADHD medication use and incident CVD was assessed using both continuous and categorical measures (no ADHD medication use, 0 to ≤1, 1 to ≤2, 2 to ≤3, 3 to ≤5, and >5 years). To capture potential nonlinear associations, we used restricted cubic splines to examine ADHD medication use as a continuous measure throughout follow-up. 28 The associations were examined in the full sample and stratified by age at baseline, that is, children or youth (<25 years old) and adults (≥25 years old). Furthermore, to evaluate the association with dosage of ADHD medication, we estimated the risk of CVD associated with each 1-year increase in use of ADHD medication across different dosage groups categorized by the average defined daily dose (DDD; for instance, 1 DDD of methylphenidate equals 30 mg) during follow-up. 29

In subgroup analyses, we examined the associations between ADHD medication use and specific CVDs, including arrhythmias, arterial disease, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and thromboembolic disease (eTable 1 in Supplement 1 ). Additionally, we investigated the associations with CVD risk for the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications in Sweden, ie, methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomoxetine, while adjusting for other ADHD medication use. We also examined sex-specific associations.

To further examine the robustness of our findings, we conducted 4 sensitivity analyses. First, we restricted the sample to ever users of ADHD medication to reduce unmeasured confounding between ADHD medication users and nonusers. Second, we assessed ADHD medication exposure over the entire follow-up period without excluding the 3 months prior to the index date. Third, to capture fatal cardiovascular events, we additionally included death by CVD in the outcome definition. Finally, we constructed a conditional logistic regression model that adjusted for propensity scores of ADHD medication use. Data management was performed using SAS, version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc) and all analyses were performed using R, version 4.2.3 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing).

The study cohort consisted of 278 027 individuals with ADHD aged 6 to 64 years. The incidence rate of CVD was 7.34 per 1000 person-years. After applying exclusion criteria and matching, the analysis included 10 388 cases (median [IQR] age at baseline, 34.6 (20.0-45.7) years; 6154 males [59.2%] and 4234 females [40.8%]) and 51 672 matched controls (median [IQR] age at baseline, 34.6 [19.8-45.6] years; 30 601 males [59.2%] and 21 071 females [40.8%]) ( Figure 1 and Table 1 ). Median (IQR) follow-up in both groups was 4.1 (1.9-6.8) years. Among the controls, 3363 had received a CVD diagnosis after their index dates. The most common types of CVD in cases were hypertension (4210 cases [40.5%]) and arrhythmias (1310 cases [12.6%]; eTable 2 in Supplement 1 ). Table 1 presents the sociodemographic information and somatic and psychiatric comorbidities in cases and controls. In general, cases had higher rates of somatic and psychiatric comorbidities and a lower level of educational attainment compared with controls.

A similar proportion of cases (83.9%) and controls (83.5%) used ADHD medication during follow-up, with methylphenidate being the most commonly dispensed type, followed by atomoxetine and lisdexamfetamine. Longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was associated with an increased risk of CVD compared with nonuse (0 to ≤1 year: AOR, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.93-1.06]; 1 to ≤2 years: AOR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.01-1.18]; 2 to ≤3 years: AOR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.05-1.25]; 3 to ≤5 years: AOR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.17-1.39]; and >5 years: AOR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.12-1.36]) ( Figure 2 ). The restricted cubic spline model suggested a nonlinear association, with the AORs increasing rapidly for the first 3 cumulative years of ADHD medication use and then becoming stable thereafter ( Figure 3 ). Throughout the entire follow-up, each 1-year increase in the use of ADHD medication was associated with a 4% increased risk of CVD (AOR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.03-1.05]), and the corresponding increase for the first 3 years was 8% (AOR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.04-1.11]). We observed similar results when examining children or youth and adults separately ( Figure 2 ). The restricted cubic spline model suggested a similar nonlinear association, with higher AORs in children or youth than in adults, but the 95% CIs largely overlapped ( Figure 3 ). Furthermore, similar associations were observed for females and males (eFigure in Supplement 1 ). The dosage analysis showed that the risk of CVD associated with each 1 year of ADHD medication use increased with higher average DDDs. The risk was found to be statistically significant only among individuals with a mean dose of at least 1.5 times the DDD (eTable 3 in Supplement 1 ). For example, among individuals with a mean DDD of 1.5 to 2 or less (eg, for methylphenidate, 45 to ≤60 mg), each 1-year increase in ADHD medication use was associated with a 4% increased risk of CVD (AOR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.02-1.05]). Among individuals with a mean DDD >2 (eg, for methylphenidate >60 mg), each 1-year increase in ADHD medication use was associated with 5% increased risk of CVD (AOR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.03-1.06]).

When examining the risk for specific CVDs, we found that long-term use of ADHD medication (compared with no use) was associated with an increased risk of hypertension (AOR, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.51-1.97] for 3 to ≤5 years; AOR, 1.80 [95% CI 1.55-2.08] for >5 years) ( Table 2 ), as well as arterial disease (AOR, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.11-2.45] for 3 to ≤5 years; AOR, 1.49 [95% CI 0.96-2.32] for >5 years). However, we did not observe any statistically significant increased risk for arrhythmias, heart failure, ischemic heart disease, thromboembolic disease, or cerebrovascular disease ( Table 2 ). Furthermore, long-term use of methylphenidate (compared with no use) was associated with an increased risk of CVD (AOR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.10-1.31] for 3 to ≤5 years; AOR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.08-1.31]) for >5 years; eTable 4 in Supplement 1 ). Compared with no use, lisdexamfetamine was also associated with an elevated risk of CVD (AOR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.05-1.44] for 2 to ≤3 years; AOR, 1.17 [95% CI, 0.98-1.40] for >3 years), while the AOR for atomoxetine use was significant only for the first year of use (1.07 [95% CI 1.01-1.13]; eTable 4 in Supplement 1 ).

In sensitivity analyses, we observed a similar pattern of estimates when the analysis was restricted to ever users of ADHD medications. Significantly increased risk of CVD was found when comparing ADHD medication use for 1 year or less with use for 3 to 5 or less years (AOR, 1.28 (95% CI, 1.18-1.38) or for use for more than 5 years (AOR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.13-1.36]) (eTable 5 in Supplement 1 ). When assessing ADHD medication use across the entire follow-up period, and compared with no use, the pattern of estimates was similar to the main analysis (3 to ≤5 years: AOR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.18-1.39]; >5 years: AOR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.14-1.37]) (eTable 5 in Supplement 1 ). The analysis that included cardiovascular death as a combined outcome also had results similar to the main analysis. Moreover, when adjusting for propensity scores of ADHD medication use, the findings remained consistent (eTable 5 in Supplement 1 ).

This large, nested case-control study found an increased risk of incident CVD associated with long-term ADHD medication use, and the risk increased with increasing duration of ADHD medication use. This association was statistically significant both for children and youth and for adults, as well as for females and males. The primary contributors to the association between long-term ADHD medication use and CVD risk was an increased risk of hypertension and arterial disease. Increased risk was also associated with stimulant medication use.

We found individuals with long-term ADHD medication use had an increased risk of incident CVD in a dose-response manner in the first 3 years of cumulative ADHD medication use. To our knowledge, few previous studies have investigated the association between long-term ADHD medication use and the risk of CVD with follow-up of more than 2 years. 13 The only 2 prior studies with long-term follow-up (median, 9.5 and 7.9 years 30 , 31 ) found an average 2-fold and 3-fold increased risk of CVD with ADHD medication use compared with nonuse during the study period, yet 1 of the studies 30 included only children, and participants in the other study 31 were not the general population of individuals with ADHD (including those with ADHD and long QT syndrome). Furthermore, both studies were subject to prevalent user bias. Results from the current study suggest that the CVD risk associated with ADHD medication use (23% increased risk for >5 years of ADHD medication use compared with nonuse) is lower than previously reported. 30 , 31 Furthermore, we observed that the increased risk stabilized after the first several years of medication use and persisted throughout the 14-year follow-up period.

The association between ADHD medication use and CVD was significant for hypertension and arterial disease, while no significant association was observed with other types of cardiovascular events. To our knowledge, only 1 previous study 12 has examined the association between ADHD medication use and clinically diagnosed hypertension, and it found an increased risk, although the increase was not statistically significant. Furthermore, increased blood pressure associated with ADHD medication use has been well documented. 7 , 9 One study 32 found that blood pressure was mainly elevated during the daytime, suggesting that the cardiovascular system may recover at night. However, the cross-sectional nature of that study cannot preclude a long-term risk of clinically diagnosed hypertension associated with ADHD medication use. We also identified an increased risk for arterial disease. To date, no previous study has explored the association between ADHD medication use and arterial disease. A few studies have reported that ADHD medication may be associated with changes in serum lipid profiles, but the results were not consistent. 33 , 34 Further research is needed on the potential implications of ADHD medications for individuals’ lipid profiles. We did not observe any association between ADHD medication use and the risk of arrhythmias. A recent systematic review of observational studies of ADHD medication use reported an elevated risk of arrhythmias, but the finding was not statistically significant. 13 A review of RCTs also found that the use of stimulants was associated with an average increase in heart rate of 5.7 beats/min, 9 but no evidence of prolonged QT interval or tachycardia was found based on electrocardiograms. 7 Additionally, it is worth noting that some individuals receiving ADHD medications might be prescribed antiarrhythmic β-blockers to alleviate palpitation symptoms, thus potentially attenuating an association between ADHD medications and arrhythmias. Nevertheless, the absence of an association between ADHD medication use and clinically diagnosed arrhythmias in the present study does not rule out an increased risk for mild arrhythmias or subclinical symptoms, as palpitations and sinus tachycardia are not routinely coded as arrhythmia diagnoses. Further research is necessary to replicate our findings.

Regarding types of ADHD medication, findings of the present study suggest that increasing cumulative durations of methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine use were associated with incident CVD, while the associations for atomoxetine were statistically significant only for the first year of use. Previous RCTs have reported increased blood pressure and heart rate with methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and atomoxetine, 5 , 35 , 36 but the mechanisms behind these adverse effects are still a topic of debate; there might be differences in cardiovascular adverse effects in stimulants vs nonstimulants. 37

We found that the association between cumulative duration of ADHD medication use and CVD was similar in females and males. Previous investigations exploring sex-specific association found higher point estimates in females, although the differences were not statistically significant. 13 Research has indicated that females diagnosed with ADHD may demonstrate different comorbidity patterns and potentially have different responses to stimulant medications compared with males. 38 - 40 Therefore, additional studies are needed to explore and better understand the potential sex-specific differences in cardiovascular responses to ADHD medications.

A strength of this study is that data on ADHD medication prescriptions and CVD diagnoses were recorded prospectively, so the results were not affected by recall bias. The findings should, however, be interpreted in the context of several limitations. First, our approach for identification of patients with CVD was based on recorded diagnoses and there could be under ascertainment of cardiovascular diagnoses in the registers used. This means that some controls may have had undiagnosed CVD that did not yet require medical care, which would tend to underestimate associations between ADHD medication use and CVD. Second, exposure misclassification may have occurred if patients did not take their medication as prescribed. This misclassification, if nondifferential, would tend to reduce ORs such that the estimates we observed were conservative. Third, while we accounted for a wide range of potential confounding variables, considering the observational nature of the study and the possibility of residual confounding, we could not prove causality. It is possible that the association observed might have been affected by time-varying confounders. For example, other psychotropic medications and lifestyle factors could have affected both ADHD medication use and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. 41 , 42 Confounding by ADHD severity is also a potential factor to consider, as individuals with more severe ADHD symptoms may have more comorbidities and a less healthy lifestyle, which could affect the risk of CVD. Fourth, the study did not examine the risk of CVD among individuals with preexisting CVD. Individuals with preexisting CVD represent a distinct clinical group that requires careful monitoring; thus, evaluating the risk among them necessitates a different study design that carefully considers the potential impact of prior knowledge and periodic monitoring. Finally, the results by type of ADHD medication and type of CVD need to be replicated by studies with larger sample sizes.

The results of this population-based case-control study with a longitudinal follow-up of 14 years suggested that long-term use of ADHD medication was associated with an increased risk of CVD, especially hypertension and arterial disease, and the risk was higher for stimulant medications. These findings highlight the importance of carefully weighing potential benefits and risks when making treatment decisions on long-term ADHD medication use. Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring patients, particularly among those receiving higher doses, and consistently assess signs and symptoms of CVD throughout the course of treatment. Monitoring becomes even more crucial considering the increasing number of individuals engaging in long-term use of ADHD medication.

Accepted for Publication: August 29, 2023.

Published Online: November 22, 2023. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.4294

Open Access: This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the CC-BY License . © 2023 Zhang L et al. JAMA Psychiatry .

Corresponding Authors: Zheng Chang, PhD ( [email protected] ) and Le Zhang, PhD ( [email protected] ), Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Nobels väg 12A, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden.

Author Contributions: Dr Zhang and Prof Chang had full access to all of the data in the study and take responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data analysis.

Concept and design: Zhang, Johnell, Larsson, Chang.

Acquisition, analysis, or interpretation of data: Zhang, Li, Andell, Garcia-Argibay, Quinn, D'Onofrio, Brikell, Kuja-Halkola, Lichtenstein, Johnell, Chang.

Drafting of the manuscript: Zhang.

Critical review of the manuscript for important intellectual content: All authors.

Statistical analysis: Zhang, Li.

Obtained funding: Larsson, Chang.

Administrative, technical, or material support: Garcia-Argibay, D'Onofrio, Kuja-Halkola, Lichtenstein, Chang.

Supervision: Andell, Lichtenstein, Johnell, Larsson, Chang.

Conflict of Interest Disclosures: Dr Larsson reported receiving grants from Takeda Pharmaceuticals and personal fees from Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Evolan, and Medici Medical Ltd outside the submitted work. No other disclosures were reported.

Funding/Support: This study was supported by grants from the Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life, and Welfare (2019-01172 and 2022-01111) (Dr Chang) and the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement 965381 (Dr Larsson).

Role of the Funder/Sponsor: The funders had no role in the design and conduct of the study; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript; and decision to submit the manuscript for publication.

Data Sharing Statement: See Supplement 2 .

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A smiling Ed Burke greets 2-year sentence on corruption charges as judge rejects prosecution request for much tougher term

U.s. district judge virginia kendall seemed affected by the hundreds of letters written by burke’s supporters. “i have never in all my career seen the letters that i have received for mr. burke.”.

Former Ald. Ed Burke and his wife Anne Burke enter a waiting car outside the Dirksen Federal Courthouse after he was sentenced to two years in prison Monday.

Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times

When the judge left the courtroom and the fate of the longest-serving City Council member in Chicago history began to sink in, hugs and handshakes surrounded what a prosecutor had hours earlier called the corrupt “face of city government.”

Edward M. Burke was smiling.

U.S. District Judge Virginia Kendall delivered a two-year prison sentence to the man who represented Chicago’s 14th Ward for 54 years and long ruled the Finance Committee only to be convicted in a historic trial of racketeering, bribery and attempted extortion . She told him to surrender Sept. 23 and ordered him to pay an unusually large fine of $2 million.

Still, the 80-year-old Burke had faced far worse in a courthouse where judges have spent years decrying corruption and have tried to send a message to officials who betray the public trust. Prosecutors originally sought a 10-year sentence, and guidelines called for up to eight years.

So when it neared time for Burke to learn his sentence, the mood in the courtroom turned somber. Burke’s wife, retired Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Anne Burke, looked down and held a hand over her face as her husband spoke briefly to the judge.

“The blame for this is mine and mine alone,” Burke said, reading from a written statement with his hands upon the podium. “I regret the pain and the sorrow that I have caused my family and my dear friends.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker called Burke “the face of city government” and said he nevertheless “chose to engage in criminal activity over and over again.” She told the judge that “public officials in this city and this state need to understand that if they engage in corruption, they will pay dearly.”

Kendall later turned that tough talk around on Streicker and her colleagues, though. She asked about former Ald. Danny Solis, the notorious government mole who secretly recorded Burke and others after the FBI confronted him with evidence of his own wrongdoing. He struck a deal with the feds that means he will likely never be convicted of a crime, nor sent to prison.

“If the prosecutor’s office is so concerned about public corruption, it does seem a little unwarranted to say that Mr. Solis will get absolutely no time at all for his criminal activity,” Kendall said.

The comment prompted one of Burke’s supporters to turn her head sharply in the direction of one of the lead prosecutors in the case, Assistant U.S. Attorney Amarjeet Bhachu. And it echoed past criticism of the deal the feds struck with Solis, who has been lauded by Bhachu as one of Chicago’s “most significant cooperators in the last several decades.”

The judge also spoke at length about the hundreds of letters of support that had been written on Burke’s behalf, detailing acts of charity, goodwill and altruism.

“These are very personal acts that are not anything to do with authority or public office,” Kendall said.

Former Ald. Edward M. Burke (14th) arrives at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse ahead of his sentencing hearing on Monday.

Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times

Burke could now spend a little more than a year and a half in prison, until he’s 82. As for the fine, prosecutors told the judge this month that Burke is worth “millions upon millions upon millions of dollars.” His main political fund had about $167,693 on hand as of the end of March.

He smiled after the hearing as he hugged his wife and the attorneys who tried to convince Kendall to give Burke no prison time at all. He later left the courthouse walking arm-in-arm with Anne Burke, showing little emotion as he made his way to a black SUV.

Burke did not comment. Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual released a statement.

“Corruption in the Chicago City Council tears at the fabric of a vital body of local government,” Pasqual said. “When an alderman fails to discharge his duties with honesty and integrity, he betrays not only the citizens of Chicago, but his fellow public officials who do their jobs the right way.”

It all brings to a close a five-year prosecution triggered by a decade-old investigation that rocked Chicago politics and changed the course of the city’s history.

Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot was propelled into office amid fallout from Burke’s prosecution by highlighting the ties that several of her opponents had to Burke. In a statement, she said Burke “should be grateful that his sentence wasn’t longer — it certainly could have been justifiably so.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson, the man who successfully challenged Lightfoot for the office last year, refused to comment on Burke’s sentence.

Burke represented the Southwest Side 14th Ward for 54 years — the longest reign in Chicago history. He wielded immense power through his chairmanship of the Finance Committee and also served as the chief of judicial slatemaking for the Cook County Democratic Party. Burke retired from his Council seat in 2023.

In late December, a jury convicted him of 13 counts of racketeering, bribery and attempted extortion. The case against him involved schemes centering on the Field Museum, the Old Post Office straddling the Eisenhower Expressway, a Burger King in Burke’s ward and a Binny’s Beverage Depot on the Northwest Side.

Now Burke is the most significant Illinois politician to walk out of the Dirksen Federal Courthouse with a prison sentence in nearly a decade. Still, the two-year penalty seemed relatively light when compared to recent corruption cases.

Former Ald. Ed Burke and his wife, Anne Burke, return home after he was sentenced to two years in prison.

Tougher sentences have been handed down to former state Rep. Luis Arroyo , who is serving nearly five years in prison for taking bribes; businessman James T. Weiss , who is serving 5 ½ years for giving Arroyo those bribes; and Tim Mapes , the former chief of staff to ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan who is now serving 2 ½ years for perjury.

Even lower-level figures such as former political operatives Roberto Caldero and Patrick Doherty , and former Bloomingdale Township Highway Commissioner Robert Czernek , were handed tougher prison sentences in recent years.

Kendall herself once handed a 10-year prison sentence to a former City Hall staffer after a public corruption trial in 2016.

Former Chicago Ald. Dick Simpson said Burke’s sentence still sends a message “that corruption has a heavy price to it.”

“You have to remember that Burke is now over 80 years old and not in the greatest of health,” said Simpson, who served with Burke in the 1970s and is a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois at Chicago. “So this will be a trying experience for him and a warning to anybody else.”

Streicker tried to cast a shadow on the good deeds described in letters written in support of Burke. She said “these good acts do not outweigh his crimes” and wealthy people like Burke should not gain an advantage because they have the ability to give to charity.

“Charitable acts are certainly not a get out of jail free card,” Streicker said, adding that “being a good friend … does not grant a license” to commit crime.

Streicker also criticized Burke for seeking mercy from the court without showing “any remorse or responsibility.” She made her comment before Burke spoke to the judge.

“An essential precondition for mercy is admitting that you’ve done something wrong,” Streicker said. “What he’s asking for is no consequences.”

Prosecutors often use the threat of tough sentences to convince defendants to plead guilty rather than risk a trial. They also use them to pressure potential cooperators such as Solis to record their friends and colleagues, in an effort to gather evidence against more powerful actors.

Over the years, federal judges in Chicago have also tried to use them to send a message about corruption. But Burke attorney Charles Sklarsky joined other defense attorneys Monday when he argued the threat of conviction — rather than the severity of punishment — is the better deterrent.

“We hear it in every case,” Sklarsky said. “And yet, there are still more cases. So there’s got to be something that’s not right about that. It’s not working.”

Former Ald. Ed Burkę is surrounded by reporters outside Dirksen Federal Courthouse after his sentencing.

Ashlee Rezin | Sun-Times

Kendall seemed to recognize that argument as she told the courtroom she was considering “fines that are much higher than normal.” She ordered Burke to pay $200,000 for his racketeering conviction and $150,000 for the remaining 12 counts, totaling $2 million.

More than anything, Kendall seemed to be affected by the hundreds of letters written by Burke’s supporters. They appeared to resonate deeply with the jurist, who said “I have never in all my career seen the letters that I have received for Mr. Burke.”

“I don’t know how many times I read in here that you were sitting with someone who was dying” or “paying for a funeral because he heard about it on the news,” Kendall said.

She highlighted stories of Burke sitting with a victim of a car crash he witnessed on Michigan Avenue, helping people navigate the red tape around insurance to keep health care coverage, or of a time Burke wrote a letter to the mother of a fallen Afghanistan soldier offering support and asking to name a school after him.

“So many of them were actions that were unsolicited, that were small, altruistic acts of kindness,” she said.

She gestured to the binder of letters before her and told the courtroom she had the “very difficult challenge” of reconciling the man described within them with the man recorded by Solis for the FBI in between 2016 and 2018.

“I don’t think that it is appropriate to say that the activity in 2016 to 2018 wipes out all of this,” Kendall said.

Contributing: Sophie Sherry, Tessa Weinberg/WBEZ