1. Proofread & Finalize
1.1. MLA format/Style/Header/Page Layout
1.2. Table of Contents
1.3. Bibliography
2. Revising
2.1. Remember the four C's: Clarity, Content, Credibility, Correctness
2.1.1. Proofreading for grammatical errors
2.1.2. Double check that the prompt follows the rubric & instructions provided by instructor
3. Drafting
3.1. Decide on your topic focus
3.2. Create list of facts
3.3. Organize facts into categories
3.4. Thesis Construction: A thesis gives a paper focus, direction, and purpose. It combines the main topic with three supporting claims. It is written within the first few sentences of an essay. It tells the reader what to expect.
3.4.1. Introduction - Motivational hook & thesis
3.4.2. Body paragraph 1
3.4.3. Body paragraph 2
3.4.4. Body paragraph 3
3.4.5. Conclusion - overview / can sometimes share personal opinion or story to back up point
3.4.5.1. So What?
4. Prewriting
4.1. Brainstorm!
4.1.1. Free-writing is when you write down everything that comes to mind. Do not worry about spelling, punctuation, grammar, etc. Just write.
4.2. Think about topics that spark your interest from personal memories or experience!
4.3. What's your goal for this paper?
4.3.1. Free-writing Activity
5. Research
5.1. Compile some ideas
5.1.1. Read sources and credible material
5.2. Supporting sources
5.2.1. Find examples
5.2.2. Find relevant quotes
5.2.3. References
5.2.3.1. Books
5.2.3.2. News sources
5.2.3.3. Blogs
5.2.3.4. Sourcing
5.2.3.4.1. Primary Research
5.2.3.4.2. Secondary Research
5.2.3.4.3. Third party research