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Norwalk Campus Library

Norwalk Composition ENG 1010

Make a Plan

Crafting a successful research paper requires both organization and time management. Research is not a one-step task—it’s a process that unfolds in stages, and each stage deserves time and attention. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you plan effectively:

  1. Brainstorming: 

    • Explore and generate ideas related to your topic

    • Consider different angles, perspectives, or current issues

    • Start forming potential research questions

  2. Researching and taking notes:

    • use reliable sources such as books, scholarly articles, and reputable websites

    • take notes, highlighting key information and source details

  3. Making an outline:

    • Organize your ideas in a logical order

    • Group related points together

    • Plan how your main ideas will be supported by evidence

  4. Writing

    • Start with a draft—don’t worry about perfection

    • Focus on developing your argument or answering your research question

  5. Revising and polishing

    • Review for clarity, grammar, and structure

    • Make sure your ideas flow smoothly

    • Double-check your citations and formatting

By following this research planning guide, you’ll be better prepared to manage your time, approach your work with confidence, and produce a stronger, more effective paper.

Tips for Identifying your Topic

1. What is your Prompt or an Area of Interest?

Ex.) Universal Healthcare

2. Write Down What you Think or Want to Know about the Topic

Ex.) I think the United States should have universal healthcare coverage.

What factors prevent the U.S. from establishing universal healthcare?

3. Consider the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How

Ex.) Who should have universal healthcare? - U.S. Citizens? Adults? Everyone?
Why should the U.S. have universal healthcare?
How does universal healthcare affect public health?