The Secret to Your Heart's Desire...(not really)

The Online Writing Lab (OWL) at Purdue University is one of the most useful sources when writing a research paper. Since a research paper is the first writing component of your multigenre project, you might want to take a look.

I've divided up the links here as to what kind of help you may need.

1. In-text Citations: These are references to the works cited page, which will be included as the last page of your research paper. Anytime you quote, paraphrase, or use any information that you did not know prior to your research, give credit to the original source.

2. Formatting Quotations: You need to include quotations in your research paper. Remember that you are giving credit where credit is due, while also writing your own take on the research based on your findings and even your personal opinion. Using quotes is great; however, they can easily take over your paper if you let them.

3. Works Cited Page: This page acts as the last page of your research paper. Basically, it is an alphabetical list of all the sources that you used to write the paper. Any information that you use outside of your own personal knowledge should be represented here.

That was a lot of information. Now, read this to make yourself feel better:

Writing a research paper is tough business. You have to find a topic, narrow or broaden it depending on the length requirement, find sources that support your topic, and write a paper that is both interesting, informative, and credible. That's a lot of responsibility.

Effort in this venture is key. Attempt to follow quotation directions. List the sources to the best of your ability on the works cited page. Remember all the MLA guidelines that we have practiced. Lastly, don't fret too much about the in-text citations. This will take practice.

I believe in you.