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Anaheim Union High School District
Education Division
RESEARCH PAPER FORMAT: A STUDENT GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
This guide is not about writing; instead, it is a guide for the preparation of any writing that requires the proper
citations of sources through research and should be used by students in grades 7-12 for all classes and all subject
areas in the school district unless otherwise instructed by the teacher. This AUHSD format is based on the Sixth
Edition of the MLA handbook for Writers of Research Papers compiled by Joseph Gibaldi and published by the
Modern Language Association of America in 2003. It is the reference most commonly used at colleges and
universities. The guidelines and definitions for the writing process are based on the Prentice Hall Literature
Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes, Gold Level, Writing Handbook, written by Pearson Education, Inc., 2002.
THE PURPOSE
Why write a research paper? First, as a student you will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge. In
addition, you will learn how to access multiple resources, how to select the most valuable information, and how to
credit those resources in the research paper. Using the research method will enhance critical thinking skills in
analyzing, synthesizing, and organizing information. You will be expected to weave information together in a
meaningful and powerful way. Therefore, a research paper should consist primarily of your own writing and
should not be a series of quotations.
This guide will simplify the task of preparing and formatting a research paper.
THE RESEARCH PAPER
A research paper presents and interprets information gathered through an extensive study of a subject. An
effective research paper contains all of the following:
• A clearly stated thesis statement
• Convincing textual evidence from a variety of outside sources, including direct quotations whose sources
are credited
• A clear organization that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
• A Works Cited list, or Bibliography, that provides a complete listing of research sources
THE WRITING PROCESS
PREWRITING
In this stage, a plan is required for the work to be done. Prepare to write by exploring ideas, gathering
information, and working out an organizational plan.
1. Analyze the writing situation and paraphrase the assignment’s directions to ensure clarity.
2. Focus the topic. If necessary, narrow the topic—the subject of the writing—so that the ideas presented will
meet the assignment’s required length.
3. Know the purpose. What is the goal for this paper? What needs to be accomplished? The purpose will
determine what to include in the paper.
4. Know the audience. Who will read the paper influences what is said and how it is said.
5. Gather ideas and information. Begin by brainstorming. Create a list of possible ideas. Consult other people
about your subject; they may suggest an idea or approach not seen at first. Make a list of questions about the
topic. Find the answers.