Top five tips for writing a great research paper
Hint: A reference manager isn’t the only essential element
Writing a research paper can feel overwhelming, especially when deadlines are tight and expectations are high. Whether you’re an undergraduate tackling your first major assignment or a graduate student refining your academic voice, these five tips (including adding a reference manager to your arsenal) will help you craft a paper that’s well-structured and insightful and may even impress your professor.
1. Start with a strong research question
Every great paper begins with a compelling question. Instead of choosing a broad topic like “climate change,” narrow it down to something specific and arguable, such as “How do urban heat islands affect low-income communities in the U.S.?” A focused question gives your paper direction and helps you avoid vague generalizations.
Why it matters: Professors are looking for originality and critical thinking. A well-defined question shows that you’ve thought deeply about the topic and are ready to explore it in a meaningful way.
2. Create a research roadmap
Before diving into writing, outline your paper. Break it into sections: introduction, literature review, methodology (if applicable), analysis, and conclusion. Jot down key points and sources you plan to use in each section.
Why it matters: A roadmap keeps your argument coherent and prevents you from going off-topic. It also makes the writing process faster and less stressful, which your professor will notice in the clarity of your work.
3. Use a reference manager (and choose the right one)
Citations can be tedious, but they’re essential. A reference manager like EndNote can save you many valuable hours by organizing your sources and formatting citations automatically in styles like APA, MLA or Chicago.
But a reference manager does more than just generate citations—it helps you stay organized throughout your research process. You can import references directly from academic databases, tag and categorize them by theme or section, and attach notes or PDFs for quick access. This means no more scrambling to find that one article you read three weeks ago or manually formatting your bibliography at 2 a.m.
How to choose the right reference manager: consider factors like collaboration features, ease of use, and integration with your preferred word processor and online databases. You can also ask a pro for advice. The friendly librarians at your university are experts on the differences between options like Mendeley, Zotero and EndNote. For example, EndNote is a top choice for many students because it integrates with Microsoft Word, Google Docs and Apple Pages. EndNote also supports thousands of citation styles that are curated and quality assured by experts, and allows you to annotate PDFs and share libraries with classmates. It’s especially useful for long-term projects like theses or dissertations, where managing dozens (or hundreds) of sources can quickly become overwhelming.
Why it matters: Professors expect accurate and consistent citations. Using a reference manager not only ensures this but also shows that you’re serious about academic integrity and professionalism. Plus, staying organized means you can focus more on your argument and less on formatting.
4. Revise with purpose
Your first draft is just the beginning. After writing, take a break, then return with fresh eyes. Read your paper aloud to catch awkward phrasing. Check for logical flow, clarity, and whether each paragraph supports your thesis. Don’t be afraid to cut or rearrange sections.
Why it matters: A polished paper stands out. Professors can tell when a student has taken the time to revise thoughtfully, and it often makes the difference between a good grade and a great one.
5. Seek feedback early
Don’t wait until the night before the deadline to get input. Share your outline or a draft with a peer, writing center tutor, or your professor during office hours. Ask specific questions like, “Does my argument make sense?” or “Is my evidence convincing?”
Why it matters: Feedback helps you catch issues you might have missed and gives you a chance to improve before submitting. Professors appreciate students who are proactive and open to critique—it shows maturity and a desire to learn.
Building skills that last a lifetime
Writing a standout research paper isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being prepared, thoughtful and willing to improve. By starting with a clear question, staying organized, using tools like EndNote, revising with intention, and seeking feedback, you’ll not only write a better paper but also build skills that will serve you throughout your academic and professional life.