All good writing involves careful revision. Here is a checklist you can use to help you review your research paper.

Outline

    I have created a draft outline to guide me in writing my paper.

    I have assembled all the research material I will need.

Title

     I have invented a title that indicates the topic of my essay and/or creates interest.

Opening Paragraph(s): Introduction
 

    I have clearly identified the topic/subject of my paper.

     I have clearly  stated my thesis (the principal idea or opinion - argument or perspective - regarding my  topic).

     I have indicated the scope of my research - who/what/when/where.

     I have clearly summarized or indicated the approach  I will use to defend my thesis, and/or the sources I will use in defending my thesis.

    My introduction orients my reader: the purpose and direction of my paper are clear.

Middle Paragraphs: Body

     I have defined any special terms (unless this has been handled in the introduction).

     I have provided any necessary background information about my subject.

     I have developed my argument in a logical fashion, following the organizational plan outlined/suggested in my introduction. All my ideas relate to my topic and are placed in the most effective order.

     I have used concrete examples to demonstrate my central thesis (central opinion) and any other assertions I have made in the paper.

     I have used quotations and/or paraphrasing from outside sources to provide factual information or opinions to support my arguments.

  I have credited the source of any information or opinions (quoted or paraphrased) that are not considered common knowledge.

     I have provided textual and/or parenthetical references which will allow my readers to identify all the outside sources of information and or data listed in the bibliography (Works Cited list) at the end of my paper.

     I have included only ideas or data that are relevant to my paper.

    I have numbered and titled all tables, figures, illustrations and maps in my paper.

    I have referred to all graphic aids and appendices in the text of my paper.

     I have created appropriate paragraph divisions (one main idea per paragraph).

    I have eliminated all unnecessary repetition.

     I have used transitional devices (words, phrases, sentences) to provide smooth transitions between sentences and paragraphs.

Closing Paragraph(s): Conclusion

     I have concisely and forcefully summarized or restated my findings.

     I have included only comments which are related to my subject.

     I have made a general concluding statement which flows naturally from the precise subject discussed in the paper.

     I have maintained my readers' interest by using a persuasive technique such as including a relevant quotation which neatly sums up my presentation or by asking a question.

Appendix

    I have included original material I created or used to conduct my research, such as a blank questionnaire.

    I have labelled each item in the appendix: Appendix A, Appendix B, etc.

Bibliography

     I have appended to my paper a list of the works I have quoted or paraphrased in my paper.

     I have used a method such as that prescribed by the Modern Languages Association (the MLA)  to list my works cited.

     I have checked my bibliography for accuracy and completeness.

Overall

I have reviewed my entire paper for:

    grammar,

    spelling,

    appropriate vocabulary, and

    punctuation and mechanics.