Prepare a Thesis Statement

Before drafting your paper, you need to know your thesis statement.

Before selecting relevant details, examples, reasons, facts, data, and quotations, you need to know your thesis statement.

Before outlining your paper, you need to know your thesis statement.

Writing Tutorial Services of Indiana University at Bloomington provides an excellent explanation of “How to Write a Thesis Statement.” Please read their online handout before continuing.

Draft Your Paper

When drafting a paper, Student Learning Services at Concordia University advices to “WRITE and then make it RIGHT.”

In other words, when you draft your paper, you are just trying to get your thoughts and ideas down on paper. Don’t give too much concern for grammar, sentence structure, and format. If you come up with a good idea, write it down even if it is in the wrong place.

You can make your paper right by correcting errors, re-organizing, and so forth during the revision process.

In addition to advising students to “WRITE then make it RIGHT,” “20 Tips to make Writing your Paper Easier!” is also available at the Concordia University web site.

Organize Your Pre-Writing Materials

When you begin to draft your paper, compile your assignment sheet, class notes, pre-writing materials, and any research materials you have so that you will be able to easily consult them while you are writing.

Begin Writing

Once you have your materials organized, begin writing.

Once you have finished your manuscript, begin revising.