The Principles of Writing Research Papersis the ultimate brief research reference, a concise version of the best-selling Writing Research Papers by the same distinguished authors. This research guide, which focuses on MLA style, is priced to work as a primary text or supplement in any research-oriented course. The Principles of Writing Research Papers is rooted in the fundamentals of thorough library research but encourages and equips students to use online as well as field research where appropriate. It endorses the written word while recognizing the value of graphics, audio, video, and electronic presentations. Numerous student samples and excerpts model research papers with particular attention to MLA documentation style. With all the authority of the best-selling author of freshman research manuals, in an easy-to-use and value-priced Penguin Academic Edition, this text is the perfect complement to any freshman course that requires the completion of a full research paper.

Table of Contents

1 Writing from Research 2 Gathering Sources in the Library 3 Gathering Sources Online 4 Conducting Field Research 5 Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism 6 Reading and Evaluating Sources 7 Organizing Ideas and Setting Goals 8 Writing Effective Notes 9 Drafting the Paper in an Academic Style 10 Blending Reference Material into Your Writing Using MLA Style 11 Works Cited: MLA Style 12 Creating Electronic Research Projects