Andy Naselli gives advice about how to write a paper. He breaks down the paper-writing process into five steps:
- Understand the assignment. Know where you are trying to go before you start the journey.
- Plan ahead. Prepare far in advance so that you complete your research paper well before the deadline.
- Choose your approach. Prove a thesis (deductive), or explore a problem (inductive).
- Research and write. Draft the paper.
- Revise. Polish the cannonball.
Step 4 is the big one, so most of the book explains the research-and-write stage. It has six interconnected components:
- Research. Systematically investigate the evidence to establish facts and conclusions.
- Organize the paper. Build a skeleton you can put flesh on.
- Develop a coherent argument. Sharpen your reasoning.
- Interact with contrary views. Present and respond to the strongest opposing arguments.
- Write clearly and concisely. Omit needless words.
- Use proper grammar, syntax, and format. Remove distractions by mastering the mechanics.
Appendices address plagiarism, artificial intelligence, grading, and productivity.
Review :
"Naselli's book helpfully supplies students a step-by-step, uncomplicated guide to writing a research paper, and by this he supplies teachers greater joys in grading and mobilizing a new generation of faithful communicators."
--Jason S. DeRouchie
"This is a remarkable resource that I wish I'd had on my desk years ago. As valuable for a professor as for a student, it is a practical guide to that dread academic exercise: the writing and the grading of research papers. It covers everything from conception to completion: researching and outlining, documenting and reasoning, editing and honing. I am buying copies for all my teachers."
-George Grant
"Professors often jest (with that kernel of truth that every good joke contains) that we teach for free and are paid to grade. Poorly researched, badly argued, sloppily written papers are to blame, of course, but the sad fact is that far too many papers match this description. And while only the gifts of God can make a great writer, anyone can become a good writer-or, at least, a better one. Naselli shows the way as a man who is no stranger to the author's pen, having written two dissertations and a full shelf of books. Wise is the student who follows his advice, and blessed is the professor who makes this book required reading in his classes."
-Doug Ponder
"Professors know the joys of teaching. Students know the joys of learning. And both professors and students know the pains of grading. In How to Write a Paper, Andy Naselli aims to increase joy and relieve pain for professors and students alike. Clearly and succinctly, he guides the reader through the research-and-writing process, modeling careful thinking, discipline, and pastoral wisdom. Practical and easy to read, this needed work will benefit every student looking to improve his research and writing. I heartily recommend it!"
-Michael Riccardi
"Like Dr. Naselli, I'm a professor who teaches for free and gets paid to grade. And I'm always on the lookout for resources to help students with the writing process. Dr. Naselli has written an accessible guide for both students and teachers. It will aid students in research and writing, and it will bless teachers with better papers. Read it, and then get to writing."
-Joe Rigney
"This short book presents clear, practical, step-by-step help for students writing research papers. Naselli is a seasoned writer, editor, and teacher, and here he offers wise counsel applicable to anyone who wants to write well."
-Brian J. Tabb
"Writing research papers does not come naturally to any of us. We need expert guidance, and Andy Naselli's short work may be the best concise one-stop shop for students to get started. If used well, it should result in clearer writing, better thinking, and happier teachers."
-Justin Taylor
"Unfortunately, in our current educational system and the age of social media, the skill of how to write a solid research paper is becoming a lost art. This is why I am thrilled to recommend Andy Naselli's How to Write a Paper. Naselli covers the crucial points with helpful illustrations regarding how to write an excellent paper, which will greatly aid students and receive the thanks of many teachers. Simply a wonderful resource for students of all ages and educational backgrounds."
-Stephen J. Wellum
