How to Write an A+ Research Paper: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Writing a research paper can be overwhelming, especially when deadlines are tight and expectations are high. But with the right approach and structure, you can write an A+ research paper that impresses your professors and boosts your academic success. Whether you’re a university student in the U.S., U.K., Canada, China, or anywhere in the world, this step-by-step guide from Smartcowriters will walk you through the process.

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

Before writing anything, make sure you:

Read the instructions thoroughly
Understand the paper format (APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard)
Identify the word count and due date
Clarify any questions with your instructor

Pro Tip: Misunderstanding the topic or structure is the 1^st reason for lost marks.

Step 2: Choose a Strong Research Topic

Pick a topic that:

Is interesting and relevant to your field
Has enough credible sources available
Allows you to present a clear argument or analysis

If you’re stuck, Smartcowriters can help you brainstorm powerful, researchable topics.

Step 3: Conduct Thorough Research

Use:

Peer-reviewed journals
Academic databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, and ResearchGate
Books and reputable websites

Keep track of all your sources for easy referencing later.

Step 4: Create a Clear Thesis Statement

Your thesis should:

Present the main idea or argument of your paper
Be specific and debatable
Set the direction for your content

Example: “Social media has significantly altered the mental health of teenagers in both positive and negative ways.”

Step 5: Create an Outline

Organize your paper with a structure like:

Introduction (with thesis)
Literature Review
Methodology (if applicable)
Analysis/Body Paragraphs
Conclusion
References

An outline saves time and keeps your writing focused.

Step 6: Start Writing the First Draft

Tips:

Start with the body paragraphs if the intro feels difficult
Use topic sentences and transitions
Support your arguments with evidence and citations
Keep your language formal and academic

Step 7: Edit and Proofread

After completing your draft:

Take a break before editing
Check grammar, spelling, and formatting
Ensure clarity, logical flow, and accuracy
Use tools like Grammarly or ask Smartcowriters to proofread professionally

Bonus: Avoid Plagiarism

Use citation styles correctly and always reference your sources. If you’re unsure, use plagiarism checkers or consult Smartcowriters for a 100% original paper.

Need Help with Your Research Paper?

At Smartcowriters, we offer comprehensive academic support, whether you require assistance with topic selection, full paper writing, editing, or referencing. Our expert writers deliver plagiarism-free, custom-written research papers tailored to your academic level and institution guidelines.

How Our Essay Writing Service Works

First, you will need to complete an order form. It's not difficult but, in case there is anything you find not to be clear, you may always call us so that we can guide you through it. On the order form, you will need to include some basic information concerning your order: subject, topic, number of pages, etc. We also encourage our clients to upload any relevant information or sources that will help.

Complete the order form

Once we have all the information and instructions that we need, we select the most suitable writer for your assignment. While everything seems to be clear, the writer, who has complete knowledge of the subject, may need clarification from you. It is at that point that you would receive a call or email from us.

Writer’s assignment

As soon as the writer has finished, it will be delivered both to the website and to your email address so that you will not miss it. If your deadline is close at hand, we will place a call to you to make sure that you receive the paper on time.

Completing the order and download