What are the steps of writing a research paper?

1. Make sure you understand your assignment.
See How do I pick a topic for my research assignment?

2. Select a topic.
See How do I pick a topic for my research paper?

3. Develop your research question.
See How do I develop a good research question?

4. Do some quick searching to find background information and keywords about your topic.
See How do I come up with the right keywords?

5. Develop your search strategy and conduct some searches.
See How do I use keywords in a search?

6. Revise your search and gather more information.
See How do I revise my search?

7. Consider whether you need to rethink your topic.

Learn more

Worksheet: Moving Through the Research Process - PDF

See UCLA’s Research Paper Planner for week by week guidance.