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Everything You Need to Know to Write an A+ Term Paper

Last Updated: March 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Term Papers

Researching & outlining.

• Drafting Your Paper
• Revising Your Paper

Expert Q&A

This article was co-authored by Matthew Snipp, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . C. Matthew Snipp is the Burnet C. and Mildred Finley Wohlford Professor of Humanities and Sciences in the Department of Sociology at Stanford University. He is also the Director for the Institute for Research in the Social Science’s Secure Data Center. He has been a Research Fellow at the U.S. Bureau of the Census and a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences. He has published 3 books and over 70 articles and book chapters on demography, economic development, poverty and unemployment. He is also currently serving on the National Institute of Child Health and Development’s Population Science Subcommittee. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,235,749 times.

A term paper is a written assignment given to students at the end of a course to gauge their understanding of the material. Term papers typically count for a good percentage of your overall grade, so of course, you’ll want to write the best paper possible. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to write an A+ term paper, from researching and outlining to drafting and revising.

Quick Steps to Write a Term Paper

• Hook your readers with an interesting and informative intro paragraph. State your thesis and your main points.
• Support your thesis by providing quotes and evidence that back your claim in your body paragraphs.
• Summarize your main points and leave your readers with a thought-provoking question in your conclusion.

• Think of your term paper as the bridge between what you’ve learned in class and how you apply that knowledge to real-world topics.
• For example, a history term paper may require you to explore the consequences of a significant historical event, like the Civil War. An environmental science class, on the other hand, may have you examine the effects of climate change on a certain region.
• Your guidelines should tell you the paper’s word count and formatting style, like whether to use in-text citations or footnotes and whether to use single- or double-spacing. If these things aren’t specified, be sure to reach out to your instructor.

• Make sure your topic isn’t too broad. For example, if you want to write about Shakespeare’s work, first narrow it down to a specific play, like Macbeth , then choose something even more specific like Lady Macbeth’s role in the plot.
• If the topic is already chosen for you, explore unique angles that can set your content and information apart from the more obvious approaches many others will probably take. [3] X Research source
• Try not to have a specific outcome in mind, as this will close you off to new ideas and avenues of thinking. Rather than trying to mold your research to fit your desired outcome, allow the outcome to reflect a genuine analysis of the discoveries you made. Ask yourself questions throughout the process and be open to having your beliefs challenged.
• Reading other people's comments, opinions, and entries on a topic can often help you to refine your own, especially where they comment that "further research" is required or where they posit challenging questions but leave them unanswered.

• For example, if you’re writing a term paper about Macbeth , your primary source would be the play itself. Then, look for other research papers and analyses written by academics and scholars to understand how they interpret the text.

• For example, if you’re writing a paper about Lady Macbeth, your thesis could be something like “Shakespeare’s characterization of Lady Macbeth reveals how desire for power can control someone’s life.”
• Remember, your research and thesis development doesn’t stop here. As you continue working through both the research and writing, you may want to make changes that align with the ideas forming in your mind and the discoveries you continue to unearth.
• On the other hand, don’t keep looking for new ideas and angles for fear of feeling confined. At some point, you’re going to have to say enough is enough and make your point. You may have other opportunities to explore these questions in future studies, but for now, remember your term paper has a finite word length and an approaching due date!

• Abstract: An abstract is a concise summary of your paper that informs readers of your topic, its significance, and the key points you’ll explore. It must stand on its own and make sense without referencing outside sources or your actual paper.
• Introduction: The introduction establishes the main idea of your paper and directly states the thesis. Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing sentence to intrigue your readers, and provide any necessary background information to establish your paper’s purpose and direction.
• Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on a different argument supporting your thesis. List specific evidence from your sources to back up your arguments. Provide detailed information about your topic to enhance your readers’ understanding. In your outline, write down the main ideas for each body paragraph and any outstanding questions or points you’re not yet sure about.
• Results: Depending on the type of term paper you’re writing, your results may be incorporated into your body paragraphs or conclusion. These are the insights that your research led you to. Here you can discuss how your perspective and understanding of your topic shifted throughout your writing process.
• Conclusion: Your conclusion summarizes your argument and findings. You may restate your thesis and major points as you wrap up your paper.

Drafting Your Term Paper

• Writing an introduction can be challenging, but don’t get too caught up on it. As you write the rest of your paper, your arguments might change and develop, so you’ll likely need to rewrite your intro at the end, anyway. Writing your intro is simply a means of getting started and you can always revise it later. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
• Be sure to define any words your readers might not understand. For example, words like “globalization” have many different meanings depending on context, and it’s important to state which ones you’ll be using as part of your introductory paragraph.

• Try to relate the subject of the essay (say, Plato’s Symposium ) to a tangentially related issue you happen to know something about (say, the growing trend of free-wheeling hookups in frat parties). Slowly bring the paragraph around to your actual subject and make a few generalizations about why this aspect of the book/subject is so fascinating and worthy of study (such as how different the expectations for physical intimacy were then compared to now).

• You can also reflect on your own experience of researching and writing your term paper. Discuss how your understanding of your topic evolved and any unexpected findings you came across.

• While peppering quotes throughout your text is a good way to help make your point, don’t overdo it. If you use too many quotes, you’re basically allowing other authors to make the point and write the paper for you. When you do use a quote, be sure to explain why it is relevant in your own words.
• Try to sort out your bibliography at the beginning of your writing process to avoid having a last-minute scramble. When you have all the information beforehand (like the source’s title, author, publication date, etc.), it’s easier to plug them into the correct format.

Revising & Finalizing Your Term Paper

• Trade in weak “to-be” verbs for stronger “action” verbs. For example: “I was writing my term paper” becomes “I wrote my term paper.”

• It’s extremely important to proofread your term paper. If your writing is full of mistakes, your instructor will assume you didn’t put much effort into your paper. If you have too many errors, your message will be lost in the confusion of trying to understand what you’ve written.

• If you add or change information to make things clearer for your readers, it’s a good idea to look over your paper one more time to catch any new typos that may have come up in the process.

• The best essays are like grass court tennis—the argument should flow in a "rally" style, building persuasively to the conclusion. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If you get stuck, consider giving your professor a visit. Whether you're still struggling for a thesis or you want to go over your conclusion, most instructors are delighted to help and they'll remember your initiative when grading time rolls around. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• At least 2 hours for 3-5 pages.
• At least 4 hours for 8-10 pages.
• At least 6 hours for 12-15 pages.
• Double those hours if you haven't done any homework and you haven't attended class.
• For papers that are primarily research-based, add about two hours to those times (although you'll need to know how to research quickly and effectively, beyond the purview of this brief guide).

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.binghamton.edu/counseling/self-help/term-paper.html
• ↑ Matthew Snipp, PhD. Research Fellow, U.S. Bureau of the Census. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44525
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/planresearchpaper/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/thesis_statement_tips.html
• ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/outline
• ↑ https://gallaudet.edu/student-success/tutorial-center/english-center/writing/guide-to-writing-introductions-and-conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26731827
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/
• ↑ https://www.ivcc.edu/stylesite/Essay_Title.pdf
• ↑ https://www.uni-flensburg.de/fileadmin/content/institute/anglistik/dokumente/downloads/how-to-write-a-term-paper-daewes.pdf
• ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185937
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

If you need to write a term paper, choose your topic, then start researching that topic. Use your research to craft a thesis statement which states the main idea of your paper, then organize all of your facts into an outline that supports your thesis. Once you start writing, state your thesis in the first paragraph, then use the body of the paper to present the points that support your argument. End the paper with a strong conclusion that restates your thesis. For tips on improving your term paper through active voice, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Home » Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Term paper is a type of academic writing assignment that is typically assigned to students at the end of a semester or term. It is usually a research-based paper that is meant to demonstrate the student’s understanding of a particular topic, as well as their ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources.

Term papers are usually longer than other types of academic writing assignments and can range anywhere from 5 to 20 pages or more, depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the assignment. They often require extensive research and the use of a variety of sources, including books, articles, and other academic publications.

Term Paper Format

The format of a term paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of your professor or institution. However, a typical term paper usually consists of the following sections:

• Title page: This should include the title of your paper, your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and the date.
• Abstract : This is a brief summary of your paper, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of your topic, the research question or hypothesis, your methodology, and your main findings or conclusions.
• Introduction : This section should introduce your topic and provide background information on the subject. You should also state your research question or hypothesis and explain the importance of your research.
• Literature review : This section should review the existing literature on your topic. You should summarize the key findings and arguments made by other scholars and identify any gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
• Methodology: This section should describe the methods you used to collect and analyze your data. You should explain your research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
• Results : This section should present your findings. You can use tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate your data.
• Discussion : This section should interpret your findings and explain what they mean in relation to your research question or hypothesis. You should also discuss any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research.
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your main findings and conclusions. You should also restate the importance of your research and its implications for the field.
• References : This section should list all the sources you cited in your paper using a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Appendices : This section should include any additional materials that are relevant to your study but not essential to your main argument (e.g., survey questions, interview transcripts).

Structure of Term Paper

Here’s an example structure for a term paper:

I. Introduction

A. Background information on the topic

B. Thesis statement

II. Literature Review

A. Overview of current literature on the topic

B. Discussion of key themes and findings from literature

C. Identification of gaps in current literature

III. Methodology

A. Description of research design

B. Discussion of data collection methods

C. Explanation of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

A. Presentation of findings

B. Analysis and interpretation of results

C. Comparison of results with previous studies

V. Discussion

A. Summary of key findings

B. Explanation of how results address the research questions

C. Implications of results for the field

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

B. Significance of findings

C. Future directions for research

VII. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

How to Write Term Paper

Here are some steps to help you write a term paper:

• Choose a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your course. If your professor has assigned a topic, make sure you understand it and clarify any doubts before you start.
• Research : Conduct research on your topic by gathering information from various sources such as books, academic journals, and online resources. Take notes and organize your information systematically.
• Create an outline : Create an outline of your term paper by arranging your ideas and information in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write a thesis statement: Write a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea of your paper. Your thesis statement should be included in your introduction.
• Write the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention, provide background information on your topic, and introduce your thesis statement.
• Write the body : The body of your paper should provide supporting evidence for your thesis statement. Use your research to provide details and examples to support your argument. Make sure to organize your ideas logically and use transition words to connect paragraphs.
• Write the conclusion : The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread your term paper carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format and cite your sources: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your professor and cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style.
• Submit your paper : Submit your paper on time and according to the instructions provided by your professor.

Term Paper Example

Here’s an example of a term paper:

Title : The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Traditional security measures are no longer enough to protect against these threats. This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, including how AI can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, the challenges of implementing AI in cybersecurity, and the potential ethical implications of AI-powered security systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their cybersecurity strategies.

Introduction :

The increasing number of cybersecurity threats in recent years has led to a growing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity. AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. Additionally, AI can automate responses to threats, allowing for faster and more effective mitigation of security incidents. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for large amounts of high-quality data, the potential for AI systems to make mistakes, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in security.

Literature Review:

This section of the paper reviews existing research on the use of AI in cybersecurity. It begins by discussing the types of AI techniques used in cybersecurity, including machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. The literature review then explores the advantages of using AI in cybersecurity, such as its ability to detect previously unknown threats and its potential to reduce the workload of security analysts. However, the review also highlights some of the challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for high-quality training data and the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks.

Methodology :

To better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with using AI in cybersecurity, this paper conducted a survey of cybersecurity professionals working in a variety of industries. The survey included questions about the types of AI techniques used in their organizations, the challenges they faced when implementing AI in cybersecurity, and their perceptions of the ethical implications of using AI in security.

The results of the survey showed that while many organizations are interested in using AI in cybersecurity, they face several challenges when implementing these systems. These challenges include the need for high-quality training data, the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks, and the difficulty of integrating AI with existing security systems. Additionally, many respondents expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in security, such as the potential for AI to be biased or to make decisions that are harmful to individuals or society as a whole.

Discussion :

Based on the results of the survey and the existing literature, this paper discusses the potential benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity. It also provides recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their security strategies, such as the need to prioritize data quality and to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable.

Conclusion :

While there are challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, the potential benefits of using these systems are significant. AI can help organizations detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of security breaches. However, it is important for organizations to be aware of the potential ethical implications of using AI in security and to take steps to ensure that these systems are transparent and accountable.

References:

• Alkhaldi, S., Al-Daraiseh, A., & Lutfiyya, H. (2019). A Survey on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Cyber Security. Journal of Information Security, 10(03), 191-207.
• Gartner. (2019). Gartner Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/gartner-top-10-strategic-technology-trends-for-2020/
• Kshetri, N. (2018). Blockchain’s roles in meeting key supply chain management objectives. International Journal of Information Management, 39, 80-89.
• Lipton, Z. C. (2018). The mythos of model interpretability. arXiv preprint arXiv:1606.03490.
• Schneier, B. (2019). Click Here to Kill Everybody: Security and Survival in a Hyper-Connected World. WW Norton & Company.
• Wahab, M. A., Rahman, M. S., & Islam, M. R. (2020). A Survey on AI Techniques in Cybersecurity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(2), 22-27.

When to Write Term Paper

A term paper is usually a lengthy research paper that is assigned to students at the end of a term or semester. There are several situations when writing a term paper may be required, including:

• As a course requirement: In most cases, a term paper is required as part of the coursework for a particular course. It may be assigned by the instructor as a way of assessing the student’s understanding of the course material.
• To explore a specific topic : A term paper can be an excellent opportunity for students to explore a specific topic of interest in-depth. It allows them to conduct extensive research on the topic and develop their understanding of it.
• To develop critical thinking skills : Writing a term paper requires students to engage in critical thinking and analysis. It helps them to develop their ability to evaluate and interpret information, as well as to present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
• To prepare for future academic or professional pursuits: Writing a term paper can be an excellent way for students to prepare for future academic or professional pursuits. It can help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary for success in higher education or in a professional career.

Purpose of Term Paper

The main purposes of a term paper are:

• Demonstrate mastery of a subject: A term paper provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. It requires students to research and analyze the topic, and then present their findings in a clear and organized manner.
• Develop critical thinking skills: Writing a term paper requires students to think critically about their subject matter, analyzing various sources and viewpoints, and evaluating evidence to support their arguments.
• Improve writing skills : Writing a term paper helps students improve their writing skills, including organization, clarity, and coherence. It also requires them to follow specific formatting and citation guidelines, which can be valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
• Contribute to academic discourse : A well-written term paper can contribute to academic discourse by presenting new insights, ideas, and arguments that add to the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic.
• Prepare for future research : Writing a term paper can help prepare students for future research, by teaching them how to conduct a literature review, evaluate sources, and formulate research questions and hypotheses. It can also help them develop research skills that they can apply in future academic or professional endeavors.

Advantages of Term Paper

There are several advantages of writing a term paper, including:

• In-depth exploration: Writing a term paper allows you to delve deeper into a specific topic, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
• Improved writing skills: Writing a term paper involves extensive research, critical thinking, and the organization of ideas into a cohesive written document. As a result, writing a term paper can improve your writing skills significantly.
• Demonstration of knowledge: A well-written term paper demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, which can be beneficial for academic or professional purposes.
• Development of research skills : Writing a term paper requires conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and synthesizing information from various sources. This process can help you develop essential research skills that can be applied in many other areas.
• Enhancement of critical thinking : Writing a term paper encourages you to think critically, evaluate information, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills can be useful in many areas of life, including personal and professional decision-making.
• Preparation for further academic work : Writing a term paper is excellent preparation for more extensive academic projects, such as a thesis or dissertation.

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How to Write a Term Paper From Start to Finish

The term paper, often regarded as the culmination of a semester's hard work, is a rite of passage for students in pursuit of higher education. Here's an interesting fact to kick things off: Did you know that the term paper's origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where scholars like Plato and Aristotle utilized written works to explore and document their philosophical musings? Just as these great minds once wrote their thoughts on parchment, you, too, can embark on this intellectual voyage with confidence and skill.

How to Write a Term Paper: Short Description

In this article, we'll delve into the core purpose of this kind of assignment – to showcase your understanding of a subject, your research abilities, and your capacity to communicate complex ideas effectively. But it doesn't stop there. We'll also guide you in the art of creating a well-structured term paper format, a roadmap that will not only keep you on track but also ensure your ideas flow seamlessly and logically. Packed with valuable tips on writing, organization, and time management, this resource promises to equip you with the tools needed to excel in your academic writing.

Understanding What Is a Term Paper

A term paper, a crucial component of your college education, is often assigned towards the conclusion of a semester. It's a vehicle through which educators gauge your comprehension of the course content. Imagine it as a bridge between what you've learned in class and your ability to apply that knowledge to real-world topics.

For instance, in a history course, you might be asked to delve into the causes and consequences of a significant historical event, such as World War II. In a psychology class, your term paper might explore the effects of stress on mental health, or in an environmental science course, you could analyze the impact of climate change on a specific region.

Writing a term paper isn't just about summarizing facts. It requires a blend of organization, deep research, and the art of presenting your findings in a way that's both clear and analytical. This means structuring your arguments logically, citing relevant sources, and critically evaluating the information you've gathered.

For further guidance, we've prepared an insightful guide for you authored by our expert essay writer . It's brimming with practical tips and valuable insights to help you stand out in this academic endeavor and earn the recognition you deserve.

How to Start a Term Paper

Before you start, keep the guidelines for the term paper format firmly in mind. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to reach out to your instructor for clarification before you begin your research and writing process. And remember, procrastination is your worst enemy in this endeavor. If you're aiming to produce an exceptional piece and secure a top grade, it's essential to plan ahead and allocate dedicated time each day to work on it. Now, let our term paper writing services provide you with some valuable tips to help you on your journey:

• Hone Your Topic : Start by cultivating a learning mindset that empowers you to effectively organize your thoughts. Discover how to research a topic in the section below.
• Hook Your Readers: Initiate a brainstorming session and unleash a barrage of creative ideas to captivate your audience right from the outset. Pose intriguing questions, share compelling anecdotes, offer persuasive statistics, and more.
• Craft a Concise Thesis Statement Example : If you find yourself struggling to encapsulate the main idea of your paper in just a sentence or two, it's time to revisit your initial topic and consider narrowing it down.
• Understand Style Requirements: Your work must adhere to specific formatting guidelines. Delve into details about the APA format and other pertinent regulations in the section provided.
• Delve Deeper with Research : Equipped with a clearer understanding of your objectives, dive into your subject matter with a discerning eye. Ensure that you draw from reputable and reliable sources.
• Begin Writing: Don't obsess over perfection from the get-go. Just start writing, and don't worry about initial imperfections. You can always revise or remove those early sentences later. The key is to initiate the term papers as soon as you've amassed sufficient information.

Ace your term paper with EssayPro 's expert help. Our academic professionals are here to guide you through every step, ensuring your term paper is well-researched, structured, and written to the highest standards.

Term Paper Topics

Selecting the right topic for your term paper is a critical step, one that can significantly impact your overall experience and the quality of your work. While instructors sometimes provide specific topics, there are instances when you have the freedom to choose your own. To guide you on how to write a term paper, consider the following factors when deciding on your dissertation topics :

• Relevance to Assignment Length: Begin by considering the required length of your paper. Whether it's a substantial 10-page paper or a more concise 5-page one, understanding the word count will help you determine the appropriate scope for your subject. This will inform whether your topic should be broad or more narrowly focused.
• Availability of Resources : Investigate the resources at your disposal. Check your school or community library for books and materials that can support your research. Additionally, explore online sources to ensure you have access to a variety of reference materials.
• Complexity and Clarity : Ensure you can effectively explain your chosen topic, regardless of how complex it may seem. If you encounter areas that are challenging to grasp fully, don't hesitate to seek guidance from experts or your professor. Clarity and understanding are key to producing a well-structured term paper.
• Avoiding Overused Concepts : Refrain from choosing overly trendy or overused topics. Mainstream subjects often fail to captivate the interest of your readers or instructors, as they can lead to repetitive content. Instead, opt for a unique angle or approach that adds depth to your paper.
• Manageability and Passion : While passion can drive your choice of topic, it's important to ensure that it is manageable within the given time frame and with the available resources. If necessary, consider scaling down a topic that remains intriguing and motivating to you, ensuring it aligns with your course objectives and personal interests.

Worrying About the Quality of Your Upcoming Essay?

"Being highly trained professionals, our writers can provide term paper help by creating a paper specifically tailored to your needs.

Term Paper Outline

Before embarking on the journey of writing a term paper, it's crucial to establish a well-structured outline. Be mindful of any specific formatting requirements your teacher may have in mind, as these will guide your outline's structure. Here's a basic format to help you get started:

• Cover Page: Begin with a cover page featuring your name, course number, teacher's name, and the deadline date, centered at the top.
• Abstract: Craft a concise summary of your work that informs readers about your paper's topic, its significance, and the key points you'll explore.
• Introduction: Commence your term paper introduction with a clear and compelling statement of your chosen topic. Explain why it's relevant and outline your approach to addressing it.
• Body: This section serves as the meat of academic papers, where you present the primary findings from your research. Provide detailed information about the topic to enhance the reader's understanding. Ensure you incorporate various viewpoints on the issue and conduct a thorough analysis of your research.
• Results: Share the insights and conclusions that your research has led you to. Discuss any shifts in your perspective or understanding that have occurred during the course of your project.
• Discussion: Conclude your term paper with a comprehensive summary of the topic and your findings. You can wrap up with a thought-provoking question or encourage readers to explore the subject further through their own research.

How to Write a Term Paper with 5 Steps

Before you begin your term paper, it's crucial to understand what a term paper proposal entails. This proposal serves as your way to introduce and justify your chosen topic to your instructor, and it must gain approval before you start writing the actual paper.

In your proposal, include recent studies or research related to your topic, along with proper references. Clearly explain the topic's relevance to your course, outline your objectives, and organize your ideas effectively. This helps your instructor grasp your term paper's direction. If needed, you can also seek assistance from our expert writers and buy term paper .

Draft the Abstract

The abstract is a critical element while writing a term paper, and it plays a crucial role in piquing the reader's interest. To create a captivating abstract, consider these key points from our dissertation writing service :

• Conciseness: Keep it short and to the point, around 150-250 words. No need for lengthy explanations.
• Highlight Key Elements: Summarize the problem you're addressing, your research methods, and primary findings or conclusions. For instance, if your paper discusses the impact of social media on mental health, mention your research methods and significant findings.
• Engagement: Make your abstract engaging. Use language that draws readers in. For example, if your paper explores the effects of artificial intelligence on the job market, you might begin with a question like, 'Is AI revolutionizing our work landscape, or should we prepare for the robots to take over?'
• Clarity: Avoid excessive jargon or technical terms to ensure accessibility to a wider audience.

Craft the Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your entire term paper and should engage readers from the outset. To craft an intriguing introduction, consider these tips:

• Hook Your Audience: Start with a captivating hook, such as a thought-provoking question or a compelling statistic. For example, if your paper explores the impact of smartphone addiction, you could begin with, 'Can you remember the last time you went a whole day without checking your phone?'
• State Your Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of your paper and its relevance. If your term paper is about renewable energy's role in combating climate change, explain why this topic is essential in today's world.
• Provide a Roadmap: Briefly outline how your paper is structured. For instance, if your paper discusses the benefits of mindfulness meditation, mention that you will explore its effects on stress reduction, emotional well-being, and cognitive performance.
• Thesis Statement: Conclude your introduction with a concise thesis statement that encapsulates the central argument or message of your paper. In the case of a term paper on the impact of online education, your thesis might be: 'Online education is revolutionizing learning by providing accessibility, flexibility, and innovative teaching methods.'

Develop the Body Sections: Brainstorming Concepts and Content

Generate ideas and compose text: body sections.

The body of your term paper is where you present your research, arguments, and analysis. To generate ideas and write engaging text in the body sections, consider these strategies from our research paper writer :

• Structure Your Ideas: Organize your paper into sections or paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of your topic. For example, if your term paper explores the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships, you might have sections on communication patterns, privacy concerns, and emotional well-being.
• Support with Evidence: Back up your arguments with credible evidence, such as data, research findings, or expert opinions. For instance, when discussing the effects of social media on mental health, you can include statistics on social media usage and its correlation with anxiety or depression.
• Offer Diverse Perspectives: Acknowledge and explore various viewpoints on the topic. When writing about the pros and cons of genetic engineering, present both the potential benefits, like disease prevention, and the ethical concerns associated with altering human genetics.
• Use Engaging Examples: Incorporate real-life examples to illustrate your points. If your paper discusses the consequences of climate change, share specific instances of extreme weather events or environmental degradation to make the topic relatable.
• Ask Thought-Provoking Questions: Integrate questions throughout your text to engage readers and stimulate critical thinking. In a term paper on the future of artificial intelligence, you might ask, 'How will AI impact job markets and the concept of work in the coming years?'

Formulate the Conclusion

The conclusion section should provide a satisfying wrap-up of your arguments and insights. To craft a compelling term paper example conclusion, follow these steps:

• Revisit Your Thesis: Begin by restating your thesis statement. This reinforces the central message of your paper. For example, if your thesis is about the importance of biodiversity conservation, reiterate that biodiversity is crucial for ecological balance and human well-being.
• Summarize Key Points: Briefly recap the main points you've discussed in the body of your paper. For instance, if you've been exploring the impact of globalization on local economies, summarize the effects on industries, job markets, and cultural diversity.
• Emphasize Your Main Argument: Reaffirm the significance of your thesis and the overall message of your paper. Discuss why your findings are important or relevant in a broader context. If your term paper discusses the advantages of renewable energy, underscore its potential to combat climate change and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
• Offer a Thoughtful Reflection: Share your own reflections or insights about the topic. How has your understanding evolved during your research? Have you uncovered any unexpected findings or implications? If your paper discusses the future of space exploration, consider what it means for humanity's quest to explore the cosmos.
• End with Impact: Conclude your term paper with a powerful closing statement. You can leave the reader with a thought-provoking question, a call to action, or a reflection on the broader implications of your topic. For instance, if your paper is about the ethics of artificial intelligence, you could finish by asking, 'As AI continues to advance, what ethical considerations will guide our choices and decisions?'

Edit and Enhance the Initial Draft

After completing your initial draft, the revision and polishing phase is essential for improving your paper. Here's how to refine your work efficiently:

• Take a Break: Step back and return to your paper with a fresh perspective.
• Structure Check: Ensure your paper flows logically and transitions smoothly from the introduction to the conclusion.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Trim excess words for clarity and precision.
• Grammar and Style: Proofread for errors and ensure consistent style.
• Citations and References: Double-check your citations and reference list.
• Peer Review: Seek feedback from peers or professors for valuable insights.
• Enhance Intro and Conclusion: Make your introduction and conclusion engaging and impactful.
• Coherence Check: Ensure your arguments support your thesis consistently.
• Read Aloud: Reading your paper aloud helps identify issues.
• Final Proofread: Perform a thorough proofread to catch any remaining errors.

Term Paper Format

When formatting your term paper, consider its length and the required citation style, which depends on your research topic. Proper referencing is crucial to avoid plagiarism in academic writing. Common citation styles include APA and MLA.

If unsure how to cite term paper for social sciences, use the APA format, including the author's name, book title, publication year, publisher, and location when citing a book.

For liberal arts and humanities, MLA is common, requiring the publication name, date, and location for referencing.

Adhering to the appropriate term paper format and citation style ensures an organized and academically sound paper. Follow your instructor's guidelines for a polished and successful paper.

Term Paper Example

To access our term paper example, simply click the button below.

The timeline of events from 1776 to 1861, that, in the end, prompted the American Civil War, describes and relates to a number of subjects modern historians acknowledge as the origins and causes of the Civil War. In fact, pre-Civil War events had both long-term and short-term influences on the War—such as the election of Abraham Lincoln as the American president in 1860 that led to the Fall of Fort Sumter in April of the same year. In that period, contentions that surrounded states’ rights progressively exploded in Congress—since they were the initial events that formed after independence. Congress focused on resolving significant issues that affected the states, which led to further issues. In that order, the US’s history from 1776 to 1861 provides a rich history, as politicians brought forth dissimilarities, dissections, and tensions between the Southern US & the people of slave states, and the Northern states that were loyal to the Union. The events that unfolded from the period of 1776 to 1861 involved a series of issues because they promoted the great sectional crisis that led to political divisions and the build-up to the Civil War that made the North and the South seem like distinctive and timeless regions that predated the crisis itself.

Final Thoughts

In closing, approach the task of writing term papers with determination and a positive outlook. Begin well in advance, maintain organization, and have faith in your capabilities. Don't hesitate to seek assistance if required, and express your individual perspective with confidence. You're more than capable of succeeding in this endeavor!

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What is the Difference between a Term Paper and a Research Paper?

What is the fastest way to write a term paper.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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How to Write a Term Paper

How to Write a Term Paper - Getting to the Basics

A term paper is generally structured with an opening introduction, followed by several body paragraphs, and culminates with a conclusion. It articulates a central thesis statement, bolstered by corroborative evidence and critical analysis. The writing is formal in nature, adheres to a designated formatting style like APA or MLA, and is complemented by accurate citations and a comprehensive bibliography.

Writing a term paper is a structured process that demands careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach to guide you:

• Understand the Assignment : Ensure you grasp the requirements, the topic's scope, and the deadline.
• Choose a Topic : Select a topic that is interesting to you and meets the assignment's criteria. It should be narrow enough to explore fully within the paper's constraints.
• Conduct Preliminary Research : Gather background information to further refine your topic, develop a thesis, and create a research question.
• Develop a Thesis Statement : This is the central argument or claim of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and arguable.
• Create an Outline : Organize your main points and supporting details into an outline. This will serve as a roadmap for your term paper.
• Conduct Detailed Research : Use credible sources to collect evidence and information that support your thesis. Take careful notes and keep track of your sources for citations.
• Write the Introduction : Start with a hook to grab the reader's interest, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
• Write the Body : Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence and analysis to back up each point.
• Write the Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate the thesis in the context of the evidence you provided. Discuss the implications of your findings or future directions for research.
• Revise and Edit : Look for any gaps in logic or content, check for clarity and flow, and ensure each part of the paper supports your thesis. Edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format Your Paper : Follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) for your discipline, and ensure your paper adheres to all formatting guidelines.
• Final Review : Give your paper a final read-through, checking for coherence, structure, and formatting.
• Submit : Turn in your paper by the deadline, and ensure you have a copy saved for your records.

You always hear the word “term paper,” and in the most basic sense, it is the paper that sums up everything you have learned in a term or semester. Think of it as the ‘gate pass’ for a checkpoint in a game: you need to secure one by finishing one important challenge.

As every game requires, that particular challenge is not similar to other challenges you have encountered. Thus, you must conserve every remaining energy and time to prepare for the challenge.

Going back to our topic, term papers require your knowledge, effort, and time. You can only produce a faultless and astounding term paper once you have mastered the fundamental things you will continuously see in every paper you will be crafting in the coming semesters.

Research-Based

In a term paper, you may not want to ditch your personal experiences or observations when integrating what you have learned in a single term or semester. Most of the time, integrating salient findings and concepts from literature and other scholarly sources may be required depending on the type of paper you are asked to write.

A topic, especially if it is purely theoretical or academic, may warrant you to do a literature review and background research. Fret not, though, as this blog will guide you through making your term paper a work of research.

Since a term paper is research-based, it is almost always impossible not to involve critical thinking and analysis on a certain topic. After all, the best way to discuss a topic, especially if it is complex, is to break it down into pieces. Once disassembled, you can evaluate the evidence, examine its validity, and draw reasoned conclusions based on your findings.

Thesis Statement

You might be able to equate a term paper to an essay. They seem to get along, especially with the structure and purpose of writing. However, you can never go wrong with formulating a good thesis statement for your term paper.

As it is more similar to a research paper, a term paper can be quite long, so having a good thesis statement reinstates the main argument or purpose of your writing. It guides the entire direction of your paper and helps your reader grasp its focus– no matter how long and winding his or her experience will be.

Logical Flow

We may love a fun, creative, and often chaotic way of writing, especially when reading a narrative essay as a coursework assignment. Sorry to burst your bubbles, but a term paper may not follow the same route.

As a standard term paper is full of concepts, terms, arguments, and ideas, it deserves great attention to logic and organization. This means that each section of the paper must build up from the previous one, and transitions between paragraphs and sections should observe smoothness and coherence.

What is a Term Paper In Terms of Its Various Types and Forms

Writing a term paper entails preparation. You can only wish that you have a ton of brain cells and resources to help you finalize your paper that is good for submission– and a stellar score.

However, preparation is only one thing in the long-lasting process of term paper writing.

The term paper structure will still depend on the scope of analysis, as well as the categories of the term paper. Yes, you saw it correctly: types or categories of term papers may have different structures or, in most cases, purposes.

This part of your journey in term paper writing will acquaint you with different types of term papers according to purpose and structure. 

Analytical Paper

From the word itself, an analytical paper requires you to break down a concept, theory, or phenomenon into several parts. These parts may come in the form of elements, experiences, principles, and many other related components.

An analytical paper aims to examine these parts critically and evaluate them accordingly. Analytical papers are often found in social sciences and humanities, and they are mostly requested for a term paper writing service .

Possible topics that resemble your future topic under the mentioned fields are critiquing a philosophical theory or analyzing globalization's impact on a specific country's pop culture.

Argumentative Paper

What is a term paper without presenting a stance? In an argumentative term paper, your professor might give you a debatable or controversial topic that requires your critical thinking and persuasive skills to be utilized.

In this type of term paper, you must integrate a literature review and empirical evidence to support your stance and counter several opposing views. Argumentations are often found in several branches of the social sciences, such as law, ethics, and literature.

You may stumble upon topics like augmenting a controversial public policy or defending a particular interpretation of a literary piece.

Descriptive Paper

Fulfilling this type of term paper entails more than injecting fancy adjectives, imageries, and vivid narrations. When dealing with descriptive term papers, you must provide a detailed overview of a particular topic, event, phenomenon, or concept.

If you ask me how to format a term paper of this kind, the descriptive language used must be realistic and accurate, not just merely ornamental. This orientation would provide a seamless and truthful picture for the reader of your paper.

Although your term paper may be descriptive, objectivity should not be taken away. Descriptive term papers are mostly required in the natural sciences, such as physics, chemistry, Earth science, and biology. A perfect example is the description of the geological features of a national park. 

Comparative Papers

True to its name, this type of term paper compares and contrasts two or more theories, subjects, schools of thought, and approaches.

Upon taking the two major steps, you will need to analyze the similarities and differences between the elements, and you may formulate conclusions regarding their significance or implications. Comparative term papers are commonly seen in economics, political science, literature, sociology, and history.

A prime example might be comparing two distinct economic systems or analyzing the similarities and differences between political theories, such as Republicanism and Democracy.

Expository Papers

How to start a term paper of this type? We just have to take a hint at its name: it ‘exposes’ a piece of information. Elaborating on this, term papers adhering to this type explain or inform the prospective audience about a specific topic, concept, process, or phenomenon.

Since we are dealing with information, it has to be ensured that the latter must be accurate, truthful, and sufficient. Writing expository papers may also entail a handful of related writing tasks, such as defining key terms and organizing information according to related themes.

The fields that most likely require expository term papers are education, communication arts, journalism, and several liberal arts areas.

Grasping each type of term paper above may be quite a handful. Apart from preparing a term paper, you are confronted with a big challenge to choose a type or, in some cases, integrate one type into another.

Regardless of your writing decisions, you are always in for a treat: your term paper proposal will not be a failure if you are more than familiar with your purpose of writing one.

In addition, writing services like Studyfy let you access term paper help like no other. From your term paper outline to the final touches, an array of professional writers are present to provide personalized writing services for negotiable pricing.

What’s The Proper Term Paper Format? From the Ground Up

I am fully aware that you have been wired up with all the information you need to know about term papers, but do not falter yet, as we are just in the most needed part of this blog: formatting your term paper.

Writing a term paper will not be as polished and organized if you do not prepare your format ahead of your writing preparations. So, from conceptualizing your title to proofreading your paper, our tips and tricks will propel you to the towering heights of marks you have always aimed for.

Start Strong with Your Title Page

A well-established term paper will not be realized without a strong facade through a title page. Many students are seen as not focusing on this part of the paper, thinking that it does not hold as much importance as other parts, but if you are thinking the same, you need to change your mind.

Some instructors and professors look at the title page to check if you adhere to the formatting guidelines. If you are less likely to notice such inconsistencies, your professor might think you are not keen enough to eye important details in the rest of your paper.

Pro-Tip: As early as creating your title page, be sure to follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your professor or academic institution, such as font size, spacing, and margin specifications.

Abstract– Concise Yet Complete

An abstract is likewise an important component of a term paper, just as in a research paper. It encapsulates the crucial pieces of information that the reader must know. It includes the background of the paper, methods, results, and implications of the findings.

While the abstract may require a specific word count that differs from one academic institution to another, it is generally preferred to keep everything short yet complete. Remember: the term paper itself will likely become wordy and extensive, so let us spare space for urgency on the paper’s abstract.

Pro-Tip : Keep everything concise and elaborate on the findings more than the background. The usual word count for an abstract is 150-200 words.

Term Paper’s Background: Where the Thesis Statement is Cleared Its Way

Term paper writing will get as fired up at this point since this part introduces the rationale or context of the paper, asking the question, “What is the topic all about?” In presenting the background, the introduction of the paper's main argument is given– the thesis statement.

This crucial part of the paper is often written as a declarative sentence or a question. To make everything clear and articulated, the paper’s background must provide an extensive exploration of the topic that could lead to formulating the thesis statement. There should be a profound connection between the rationale of the paper and its main purpose.

Pro-Tip : Term papers are more flexible than research papers and journal articles in terms of structuring their introduction. You may hook the reader's attention by putting an engaging opening sentence or anecdote.

Arranging Lit Review: To Each Its Own

Regardless of whether the literature review section of a term paper is separated or integrated into the introduction, this part must provide an extensive overview of existing research and scholarship relevant to the topic.

While one can put empirical and observational studies into the review, it is important to put a premium on reputable articles and research reports that are peer-reviewed and published in indexed journals. When no single guideline talks about a window period for acceptable literature, you may set one for yourself as a guide. 

Pro-Tip: Arrange the literature review thematically, chronologically, or topically, depending on the ways that you desire to highlight some aspects of your term paper.

To an Extensive Results and Discussion Section

Term papers will not be complete without the discussion section. This part seals the deal and is an important piece of a complex puzzle. It interprets the results in conjunction with the questions at hand and assesses their value by comparing them with previous studies according to their agreement or disagreement. 

Pro-Tip: When sourcing previous studies as points of reference for the results, always strive to find ones that both agree or disagree with them. This ensures the polarity and absence of bias in the reporting of the results.

Closing the Curtains with the Paper’s Conclusion

When concluding your term paper writing, always restate the thesis statement. It always feels right and justifiable if the main purpose of the entire term paper is reiterated in the last part of the paper. Apart from that, recommendations and final thoughts may be included in this section.

The conclusion section, deemed shorter than other key sections in the term paper, may come in a short paragraph or bullet format, depending on your guidelines.

Pro-Tip: New information that is not previously included in the paper is not welcome in the conclusion. You might need to write my term paper again if I committed a mistake. You may instead synthesize the key points and results and leave a lasting impression on your reader by either providing a strong closing statement or a reinforcement of the main argument of the term paper.

References and Appendices: Two Pieces That Complete

One may argue that writing term papers may not need references and appendices sections, but the material they provide may prove otherwise. Without the references, sources will not be identified nor assessed, leaving no room for integrity on the writer's part. 

Having no appendices section, on the other hand, does not provide enough context or additional information about the important plans that were executed during the creation of the paper. It is in these sections that small things matter.

Pro-Tip: Double-check the veracity of the references and appendices section. This may entail using the proper citation style for the reference titles and labeling the materials under the appendices section.

What’s a term paper? How to write a successful term paper?

A: A term paper is a type of academic paper that a student, typically from a higher academic institution such as a university, completes at the end of a semester or a term. Since it is considered a terminal requirement, writing a term paper requires one to conduct research, utilize higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, and present findings on a topic or subject by incorporating the knowledge and skills throughout the entirety of the term. 

Since a term paper qualifies as an academic paper, writing services offer custom term paper assistance whenever needed. It is only through tailor-fit writing assistance and professional guidance from seasoned writers that you can achieve a stellar grade without getting down a rough route, thanks to Studyfy.

How to write a term paper if there is a word count?

A word count may be a bummer for some, but it can motivate you to budget how you will use your words efficiently. Make sure to allocate several words strategically. It is recommended that the discussion section gets the highest allocation among all the term paper sections.

Your research and writing process can be influenced by the term paper format and word count. As academic papers often have a specific set of rules, make sure to follow them to the dot.

What is the general structure of a term paper? Is it the same as a research paper?

The universally accepted structure of a term paper is quite similar to a research report: title page, rationale/background, literature review, methodology, results and discussion, and references. An appendices section is optional but necessary for other fields of interest.

A good term paper is like a good research paper. Research papers, like other academic papers, follow the named predictable pattern; just make sure to present your own research through engaging body paragraphs and state primary and secondary sources, including other research papers you used while writing.

Are term papers similar to research papers? How similar and different is the writing process?

Term paper writing is similar to research writing in terms of structure and purpose. However, they differ in scope, audience, and length. While a term paper has a broader scope and is meant to be seen by the course instructor, a research paper has a narrower scope and is written for a wider academic audience. However, what's crucial is the thorough research process.

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How To Write a Term Paper: A Guide That Works

30 June, 2020

16 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Once you’ve started your university career, you are going to be asked to present a term paper. What’s the difference between a term paper and a research paper? How can you write a good term? What’s the best way to structure it? Where can you find some tips to make the writing process faster? In this article, we’ll discuss a few tips to help you prepare a term paper quickly and professionally.

What Is a Term Paper… And What Is The First Step?

A term paper is a critical and analytical report on the topic or subject that you covered within the course of studies. It usually consists of two separate but equally important aspects: your own thoughts about the topic and a demonstration of your understanding of the existing literature. The main goal of this assignment is to summarize the material you learned and showcase your understanding of the topic. This aspect makes the term paper a universal instrument for assessing a student’s proficiency. It also explains why term papers cost so many points of your course grade.

We usually associate a term paper with a research paper , but although the concepts are quite similar, a research paper requires a more academic approach and a deeper investigation into the literature of your field of study.

To write an outstanding college term paper, you must understand that your professor has requested it in order to test your analytical thinking skills. You must collect relevant data, analyze it, and then make a summary or solve a particular problem. Such skills are highly relevant to the business world, so this type of the task is as practical as it is educational.

So, let’s start the preparation!

Before you begin writing

Unfortunately, there is no magical recipe that allows you to get everything done fast. You will need to choose the best way forward in whatever situation you find yourself, but here are some tips to help you prepare for the assignment.

To begin with, take the research stage seriously . Sometimes, when students are really interested in a topic, they only want to present their personal ideas about the problem. Unfortunately, if you’re not completely familiar with all the data from the various sources, you will need to reinvent the bicycle.

Term paper writing was never an easy ride. Well, not for our expert writers. Place an order with our term paper writing service and secure yourself an “A!”

In the initial stages of your research, investigate everything you can find on the topic . This may sound like a tall order, but you’ll find that it doesn’t actually entail that much reading. At this point you are only compiling the research, so you will be skimming through numerous prospects rather than reading them completely. Bear in mind that your aim is to get acquainted with the various aspects of your problem. The term paper summarizes the knowledge you gained within a course and requires to familiarize yourself with the research that other people have already made on your topic.

Thinking that your opinions are completely original and unique is quite egocentric, and it can get you into trouble. So, “your” thoughts about the problem are usually just somebody else’s statements that you have rephrased (or even a well-established academic concept!). Remember that your professor will be familiar with all the literature surrounding the issue: if you merely rewrite someone else’s thoughts and present them as your own (even if you don’t realize doing it), be prepared for criticism!

Applying a Structure To Your Term Paper

Once you have read all the leading authors and their approaches to your problem, it’s time to create a structure for your work. This is not yet an outline; you just need to decide what to write about. Sketch out the topic for the theoretical portion of your work and think about practical aspects and how you can approach the research in the best possible way.

At this point, you really need to call or email your supervisor . Your professor will have seen hundreds of term papers like yours (i.e., they have not yet been written, but a definite idea exists!) and will be prepared to give you feedback and advice. He or she will tell you what literature you have omitted, offer suggestions about what you should read, and give you feedback about your paper. It may well be that your approach has already occurred to somebody else, in which case there is no need to repeat it.

Choosing a Topic: Easy as Riding a Bike?

When you choose your topic, make sure you choose something that you are interested in . That’s our advice if you want a painless term paper. If you prefer to investigate a field that you’ve never really explored before, you can challenge yourself to do that, too. That might be sophisticated, but why not?

If you decide to investigate a topic or a problem that you are pretty familiar with, your writing will be more fluid. You will focus your attention on a specific aspect of the chosen field and expand your knowledge within that scope. On the contrary, choosing an unfamiliar subject matter can wash out your expertise.

Be prepared to change the topic if you find out that your research isn’t going anywhere. It might occur that you presuppose that your topic has a potential but somewhere at the stage of initial research, you find that it just won’t work. It’s always a good idea to consider two or three topics when you kick off the term paper writing – even if they are just different ways of examining the same problem. By doing this, you will be able to choose the best version, which may not be the one you started with at all!

Related Post: 100 Persuasive essay topics

Formulating a Thesis statement

Writing a proper thesis statement can also be challenging. To begin with, write down a couple of prominent ideas or concepts, then try to make rough drafts of them to see how they’ll work in the structural framework. You will probably find that one idea fits your style, interests, and knowledge base: you can choose that one as your thesis statement.

Remember that the thesis statement is the skeleton, the central concept of your paper. It is the elemental attribute of almost any academic paper – from master’s thesis to a simple five paragraph essay. If you do a thorough job on it, you will find that writing (and defending!) your argument is much easier.

Be aware that all of these stages are parts of a procedure – one leads to another. When writing a term paper, you should collect the material and wrap it up at the same time.

Planning – The Key To Success

Some people claim that they can write a term paper without any planning. In our opinion, this is impossible. If you don’t have a postgraduate degree and you aren’t a certified genius, you need to prepare an outline for your project. It may come as a surprise, but even people who claim otherwise actually prepare outlines – in their heads. But if you don’t have that much experience, use a pencil and your notebook to ensure that you don’t forget anything.

Don’t procrastinate on your College or University papers anymore. Get professional help with our essay writer !

That’s when we get to preparing your first draft . There’s only one thing to add here: do as many drafts as you need in order to achieve your goal. Understand that your aim is to create an excellent term paper and keep working at it until you are satisfied.

Term Paper Outline: Write Everything In The Proper Section!

In the Introduction , state the topic that you are going to investigate and the context of your work. This is the critical ‘selling’ moment of your work. In a nutshell, your introduction combined with a conclusion should give a sneak peek into what the whole paper is about. If your introduction is well-prepared, it will be quite complacent about the body of your project. The introduction must include an abstract that presents your thesis statement . You should explain your motivation (why should the reader be concerned about this problem?) , your methods (what scientific tools did you use?) , and the results (what you achieved) .

The Literature Review totally corresponds to its name – it is here to review the literature you compiled. Your professor will double check it to make sure that you understand the context of your argument. One more thing to add is: collect all the information you can! Ideally, you should read or at least glance through every book and author that you can find on the topic. Think of your task as a fascinating journey: if you approach it like that, reading hundreds of pages won’t seem like that much of a challenge.

In the Discussion , you must present the interpretations of the problem. Be honest, explain what you pieces of data you don’t agree with and what ideas and concepts you support. This section connects the dots between theory and practice when writing a term paper. Wherever possible, provide several interpretations of the subject matter, then choose the one(s) that are most relevant to the case you are presenting.

In the Body , focus on those arguments that prove your thesis statement. This section must be absolutely logical. If you have chosen a more complicated topic, use heading and sub-headings to improve the appearance of this section. While writing the body, keep your target audience (your professors) in mind. In other words, don’t just record the obvious causes/effects/solutions but also showcase your own findings – what you have discovered and how that proves your thesis statement. Demonstrate that you are familiar with the details and you will stun your readers with the prolific mastery of the topic.

Now, the Conclusion   is her to summarize both the content and the purpose of the paper. The most challenging part is not to make it too dry. Reiterate your thesis statement and briefly show how your results justified your proposition. At the very end, you can suggest a call to action or pose a rhetorical question or statement that leaves your reader wanting more.

What to do next?

When you have finished, reread your work a couple of times. You will almost certainly find a few faults, whether they are contextual, factual, syntactical, grammatical, or even simple spelling mistakes. A very useful tip is to wait for two or three days after writing your final draft to proofread it afterward. Your brain will have time to process the information, and you’ll be able to look at it with a fresh view.

When proofreading, take care to polish the structural problems. The skeleton (the logic and the thesis statement) should make sense. If they don’t, try to approach the problem from another perspective. The changes may take some time, but bear in mind that your objective is to produce professional work. Be patient!

After that, print the term paper. The human eye processes information differently on the paper than on a computer screen; that’s why you need to print it and take one final look for any possible mistakes. Even if you don’t see any serious defects, pay attention to formatting, punctuation, and synonyms. It’s an academic text, so make it shine!

Term Paper Sample

Be sure to check the sample of a term paper, completed by our writers. Use it as an example to perfect your own writing. Link:  Term Paper Sample: Consumer Buying Behavior .

The Do’s and Don’ts of Term Paper Writing

There you have the most important tips to help you succeed in writing a term paper. Now it’s up to you to stop reading and start writing!

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• A Research Guide
• Writing Guide
• Assignment Writing

How to Write a Term Paper

• Purpose of a term paper
• How to start a term paper
• Structure and outline

Step-by-step writing guide

Standard term paper format.

• Term paper examples
• Writing tips

What is the purpose of a term paper?

How to start a term paper correctly.

• Choose your topic by focusing on what inspires you unless you are already given a topic.
• Take time to research and analyze your subject.
• Start with a term paper outline (see our templates in the next sections).
• Come up with a strong thesis statement before writing anything for body paragraphs.
• Provide topic sentences and practical examples.
• Provide a strong lesson in the conclusion if it suits the subject you write about.
• Edit and proofread available information for trustworthiness.

Term paper structure and outline

• Introduction. This is where you talk about the subject and a problem you are researching. It helps to introduce your thesis statement and explain the objectives that have been set.
• Body Paragraphs. As a rule, in writing college term papers, one must write down several subheadings and headings to divide ideas and arguments into several (at least four) paragraphs. As done below, each body paragraph should contain one idea and a strong topic sentence.
• Heading 1: History of the argument and background.
• Heading 2: Extent of the problem that you write about.
• Heading 3: Effects of the problem and possible causes.
• Heading 4: Possible solutions and outcomes.
• Conclusion. The final part should represent a strong summary and a response to your thesis statement.

Step 1: Data collection

Step 2: explaining research relevance, step 3: introducing your subject, step 4: literature review preparation, step 5: offering results and conclusions, step 6: structural term paper evaluation, step 7: check your citations and references.

Helpful term paper examples

• Term paper examples that earned an A grade from the University of Delaware
• Sample term paper offered by the Justus-Liebig Universitat Giessen
• Purdue Owl Lab Citation Formats Database
• Simon Fraser University Sample Term Paper

Term paper writing tips

• Choose a topic that inspires you if you have an opportunity. If you have been given an already existing prompt to write, research your subject online and ask about the use of course materials. It will help you to narrow things down and already have source materials for referencing purposes.
• If you can choose a subject to write a final paper for your course, think about something you can support with statistical data and some practical evidence.
• Most importantly, keep your term paper relevant to the main objectives of your study course.
• Keep your tone reflective and natural as you write.
• Double-check your grading rubric regarding limitations and obligatory requirements that must be met.
• Always proofread your term paper aloud!
• If you have an opportunity, consider editing your term paper with the help of a friend or a fellow college student.

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How to Write a Term Paper 101: A Tutorial to Takeover

As the end of the semester draws closer, many students are losing their sleep over the thought of writing a term paper. But you’re worrying pointlessly because  PaperPerk  has brought expert help to your doorstep! 

Our comprehensive guide on how to write a term paper is sure to help you with every step. So read this article thoroughly because we cover everything from definition to steps on composition and templates with examples.

Table of Contents

What Is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a written project required at the end of a semester. It is designed to evaluate a student’s knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. Typically, it takes the form of a discussion or analysis of an assigned topic. 

But it can also resemble a scientific report,  reflective essay , or even a research paper. As an essential component of a student’s academic journey, a term paper is characterized by its in-depth exploration of a specific subject matter.

Key Characteristics

One of the key features of a term paper is that it requires a significant amount of research , as it aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This research-intensive nature of the term paper sets it apart from other academic assignments. 

Additionally, term papers demand technical writing skills, as they need to be well-organized, structured, and adhere to specific formatting requirements. A high-quality term paper should be well-written, thoroughly researched, and analytical. 

It should demonstrate critical thinking and provide valuable insights into the subject matter. With an Impactful term paper, a student showcases their ability to synthesize and analyze information, ultimately contributing to their overall academic success.

How to Write a Term Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

The biggest step in learning how to write a term paper is to understand the importance of creating a term paper outline. This  research paper outline  is the beacon that will guide through your writing process. The following part of this post contains steps on composing an outline and its component. 

How to Write a Term Paper: Outlining a Term Paper

Below are the essential components of an outline. Once you gather your information, you’ll incorporate it within these compartments to avoid creating a chaotic cluster of random data. 

Introduction

Let’s look at these a bit more closely and understand how to use these elements in the best way. 

Also known as the  title page , the cover page of a term paper is the first impression of the paper. It provides all the necessary information about the paper along with a neat and professional look. It should include the following information:

• Title of the paper
• Course name and code
• Instructor’s name
• Date of submission

Steps to compose a cover page:

• Centrally align the title of your paper in the middle of the page.
• Add your name, course name, and number below the title.
• Include your instructor’s name and the date of submission at the bottom.

You might be required to add more than these common elements if your professor asks you to. Many students additionally write the name of the university, department or other relevant details. 

The abstract is a brief summary of your term paper, usually between 150-250 words. It should highlight the main points, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions. 

Using an  abstract  optimally allows readers to quickly grasp the main points and significance of your term paper. The abstract is usually placed at the beginning of the paper, right after the cover page. 

Steps to compose an abstract:

• Write a concise summary of your paper’s purpose and research question.
• Briefly describe the methods used in your research.
• Summarize the main findings or results.
• Conclude with a brief statement of your paper’s implications or significance.

Ensure that all the information you incorporate within your abstract accurately reflects the content and findings within your paper. Double-check that there is consistency between the abstract and the main body of the paper in terms of the research objectives, methodology, and conclusions. 

The  introduction  sets the stage for your term paper. It provides background information, states the research question, depicts the purpose of the study and explains the paper’s significance. 

Steps to compose an introduction:

• Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention.
• Provide background information on your topic.
• Clearly state your research question.
• Explain the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.

The body of your term paper is where you present your arguments , evidence, and analysis. It should be organized into sections or subheadings, each focusing on a specific aspect of your research.

Steps to compose the body:

• Organize your content into logical sections or subheadings.
• Present your arguments and support them with evidence from your research.
• Analyze the evidence and explain its relevance to your research question.
• Use appropriate citations to acknowledge the sources of your information.

The results section presents the outcomes and the findings of your research study. It should be clear, concise, and focused on the data collected during your study.

Steps to compose the results section:

• Summarize the data collected during your research.
• Use tables, charts, or graphs to visually represent your findings.
• Describe any patterns, trends, or relationships observed in the data.
• Ensure that your results are relevant to your research question.
• Avoid repetition of any information. 

The  discussion section  interprets the results of your term paper and explains their implications. It should also address any limitations of your research and suggest areas for future study.

Steps to compose the discussion section:

• Interpret your results and explain their significance.
• Discuss any limitations or weaknesses in your research.
• Compare your findings to previous studies and explain any differences.
• Suggest areas for future research based on your findings.

The  conclusion  brings your term paper to a close by summarizing the main points. This final section of your paper also restates the significance of your research.

Steps to compose a conclusion:

• Restate your research question and summarize the main points of your paper.
• Emphasize the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.
• Offer recommendations or suggestions for future research.
• End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can write a well-structured and impactful term paper that demonstrates your understanding of the subject and contributes valuable insights to the field.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal: A Tutorial

A term paper proposal serves as a blueprint for your research. It helps in organizing your thoughts and ideas. Lets focus on the essential features of a term paper proposal and understand steps on how to compose each part.

Essential Features of a Term Paper Proposal

Relevance and importance.

The title of your term paper proposal should attract your readers and provide them with a clear idea of your work. It should be clear, concise, and accurately reflect the subject of your research.

Steps to compose a title:

• Identify the main topic or theme of your research.
• Choose relevant keywords that represent the key concepts of your research.
• Combine these keywords to create a clear and informative title.
• Ensure that your  title  is not too long or overly complex.
• Consider your audience’s ability to understand your title.

The objectives section outlines the specific goals of your research. These goals should be clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.

Steps to compose objectives:

• Begin by stating the general purpose of your research.
• Break down this purpose into specific, measurable objectives.
• Ensure that your objectives are achievable within the timeframe and resources available for your term paper.
• Keep your objectives focused and relevant to your research question.

The relevance and importance section demonstrates the significance of your research within the context of your field of study. It should explain why your research is necessary and how it contributes to the existing body of knowledge.

Steps to compose the relevance and importance section:

• Explain the context of your research by providing background information on the topic.
• Identify gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Explain how your research contributes to the field by offering new insights or perspectives.
• Emphasize the potential impact of your research on the broader academic community or society as a whole.

Putting It All Together: Writing a Term Paper Proposal

Now that you clearly understand the essential features of a term paper  proposal , it’s time to put it all together. Follow these steps to create a well-structured and compelling proposal:

• Begin by writing a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the subject of your research.
• Compose a brief introduction that overviews your research topic and its significance. This introduction should also include a clear statement of your research question.
• Outline the specific objectives of your research, ensuring that they are clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.
• Explain the relevance and importance of your research by demonstrating its significance within your field of study. Highlight the gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Provide a brief overview of your research methodology, including the methods you plan to use for data collection and analysis.
• Include a tentative timeline for your research, outlining the milestones and deadlines for each project stage.
• Conclude your proposal with a summary of the main points and a restatement of the significance of your research.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can create a well-structured and persuasive term paper proposal that demonstrates the importance of your research and sets the stage for a successful term paper.

How to Write a Term Paper: Formatting

A term paper format refers to the set of rules and standards that dictate the structure and presentation of a term paper. Formatting is essential to learn how to write a term paper as it ensures consistency, enhances readability, and maintains a professional appearance. 

A proper structure allows readers to concentrate on the content rather than the presentation. Several formatting styles are used in term papers, with the American Psychological Association (APA) style and the Modern Language Association (MLA) style being the most common.

Using APA Style in a Term Paper:

• Choose a standard font, such as 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, or 12-point Times New Roman.
• Apply double-spacing throughout the paper, including the abstract, main text, quotes, tables, figures, and references.
• Create a title page containing the paper’s title, author’s name, affiliated institution, and a running head.
• Organize the content using headings that adhere to  APA guidelines for different heading levels.
• Incorporate the author-date citation method for in-text citations and format the reference list according to APA guidelines.

Using MLA Style in a Term Paper:

• Opt for a standard font, such as 12-point Times New Roman.
• Double-space the entire paper, including the main text, quotes, and the Works Cited page.
• Include a header with the last name of the author and page number on the top right corner of all pages.
• Use parenthetical citations within the text and format according to  MLA guidelines .
• Follow MLA guidelines for formatting headings and subheadings, if applicable.

Adhering to the appropriate style guide when formatting term papers is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and ensuring that your work is easily comprehended and properly cited.

Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topics

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, but choosing the right term paper topics can make all the difference. In this part, we will provide you with some useful tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible.

The Starting Point

In most cases, students are assigned term papers by their professors. These topics are related to course outline to assess pupil’s understanding of the course material. As well as their ability to think critically and conduct research on a specific subject. 

Other times, teachers provide students a chance to choose a topic of their liking. But before you go on and pick a topic for your term paper, put the following concerns at the forefront. 

• The course objective 
• Your own interest. 

The Course Objective

Your term paper is essentially assigned to assess your command on the subject. Prioritize your course outline or objective before picking your  research paper topics . This will ensure that your paper is relevant and reflects what you have learnt so far about the subject. 

Your Interests

Your personal interests play a significant role in the success of your term paper. When you choose a topic that genuinely interests you, you are more likely to engage in  writing a research paper . This enthusiasm will not only make the writing process more enjoyable but also result in a higher quality term paper. 

Before picking a specific topic, make sure to conduct thorough research and align your personal liking to your course objective. The following tips on how to pick the perfect term paper topic will assist you in acing your grade.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topic

While picking a topic for yourself, be mindful of certain things:

Adjusting Topic Length

Consider if the topic would adjust your required length for a term paper. Suppose you’re to write a  10-page research paper , what kind of topic would adjust within those 10 pages? Registering the narrowness or broadness of the topic can help.

Authentic Resources

The second thing you need to consider is the resources of your information. Check if the source you’re working with is authentic. Reliable  sources for a research paper  include academic journals, books, think tanks, and reputable websites.

Complexity of the Subject

To ensure the clarity of your topic, consider its complexity. It is important that the chosen subject can be effectively presented to your audience. Additionally, ensure that you have a solid understanding of the subject matter yourself.

By considering the length, resources, and complexity of your chosen topic, you can ensure that your term paper is engaging, informative, and well-researched. So, take the time to select the perfect topic and get ready to ace your term paper!

How to Write a Term Paper: A Template With Example

This template also contains examples that are highlighted in a different color. 

Title Page 

Abstract .

• Remember to never exceed the abstract more than 250 words.

1.1 Background

1.2 problem statement, 1.3 objectives, 2. literature review, 3. methodology, 5. discussion, 6. conclusion, 7. references.

• The references section uses the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

8. Appendices

• If necessary, this section includes additional material such as raw data, survey questionnaires, interview transcripts, or any other supplementary information that supports the research.

This guide on how to write a term paper must have been helpful to you. But we understand that wrapping your head around something so detailed can be difficult when you’re stressed out. And most students are stressed out by the end of the semester due to multiple deadlines.  That’s why we have brought you our  term paper writing service  so you can relax and focus more on your upcoming exams. Our experts are dedicated to helping students excel academically with quality content and on-time submission. Check us out today and bid goodbye to academic worries!

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How to Write a Term Paper: A Complete Guide With Examples

You just got your term paper assignment and have no idea what to do or how to start? This guide will navigate you through every step of the process, from idea formation to final editing and proofreading. We will start with outlining, drafting and brainstorming, and get you through the writing part in no time. So, let’s dive into the question of how to write a term paper.

If you want to know everything you will need about term papers, this guide, written by the writers at the best essay writing service will help you along.

Table of Contents

What is a term paper.

A term paper is an academic milestone more so than anything else. As a student, you are tasked with learning and then transmitting that knowledge to others. A term paper is just that, a way to show what you have learnt, and disseminate the knowledge to others. Unlike other types of academic writing , a term paper is more detailed, requires more research, and is generally seen as the hardest piece of written work aside from a thesis.

The aim of a term paper is to showcase your understanding of the subject matter and how well you handle pressure and deadlines. In this context, a term paper proves invaluable. In terms of scope, term papers may zero in on an important historical event – if you’re studying history – a scientific concept, or a contentious argument. The choice hinges on the prompt created by your academic advisor. The typical length of a term paper can stretch to five or seven pages, and is generally the prerequisite to attend end-of-semester examination. But, it is also a part of the weighted grade you’ll receive, which only adds to its importance.

For the average student, writing a term paper takes around two weeks, and is a process many do not fully understand. Term paper starts from a very basic element, a question.

Say your teacher wants you to analyze the arguments for and against US involvement in World War II. How would you start? By asking a question; something like: Why did the US enter the war? Or, why did the US waive its neutrality and entered the war.

This opens the door for you and allows you to find an article or two that then leads to the second step, and so on and so on, until you are done. The problem is many students do not know how the process works, or what skills are needed to get the job done. To write an excellent paper you need to plan carefully, adapt to new conditions, be analytical yet persuasive, and understand how referencing works. In addition, the paper has to be formatted to specifications of your chosen citation style – APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, etc. This is a lot of work!

What is the Purpose of a Term Paper

At its core, a term paper serves to test your ability to understand arguments and defend them using written constructs within a pre-determined time period. Put simply, it tests your ability to navigate complex ideas when faced with a deadline – something that comes in handy in almost every job you’ll ever have later in life. If you can understand a complex event, a scientific theory, or a debatable stance, based on the directive from your academic mentor, you can manage pretty much anything that is thrown your way.

A typical term paper will be between five to seven pages, and represents the pinnacle of writing tasks in the semester. The process of term paper writing, even when the topic is prescribed, can be an arduous and time-consuming undertaking. To succeed you need meticulous planning, good composition skills, and scrupulous analysis, structure, and edit

Doing the Basics Right Saves You Time

As Seneca famously said, “Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity.” In short, prepare, prepare, prepare. To create a perfect term paper you need to know, well in advance, how it will look, what will it be about, and how will it be structured. This then allows you to simply fill in the blanks as you go. But, if you start a day before submission, you’re toast – or, you can always ask for help from us J – because the result will be Red Bull frenzy induced compilation of internet’s best hits. And trust me when I say, your teacher has those stored in memory; you’re not the first student to turn a deaf ear on old Seneca….

So, let’s see how to start your term paper:

• Select your topic – If possible choose something that you’re personally interested in. When you choose early, all the good topics are still free, so keep that in mind.
• Research your topic – Once chosen, sit at your computer and run through Google Scholar or your University Library for anything that pops up when you type in your exact topic.
• Create an outline – When you have a basic understanding of the topic, prepare an outline. It’s always going to be fairly standard, so once you get it right, you can re-use whenever you need to in the future.
• Thesis statement – Now starts the tricky part. Just kidding, this is still the Top Lane, we’re not even close to the Jungle. Thesis statements are always pretty similar. Jolt down your guiding question and then, based on what you’ve read, write a one sentence argument. For example, if writing about solar and wind, you might go with: Solar and wind power are the future of energy production because fossil fuels are unsustainable.
• Topics, topic sentences, and paragraphs – Every paragraph starts with a topic sentence that describes what the paragraph is talking about. The easiest way to understand is this. If writing a paper about wind and solar, you would need at least three topic sentences – 1)Wind 2)Solar 3)Benefits of using wind and solar. Naturally, a term paper needs much more than just three, but you get the idea.
•   Conclusion – Once you’ve written down the topic sentences and outlined the paper, note your own expectations of what you’ll find in the conclusion. This will help you understand what is happening, and when you’re actually writing the conclusion it will tell you if you were right or wrong.

Pro tip: If all of this is too much for you, there is always the possibility of asking professionals for help. Our team of term paper writers are here to help, so feel free to reach out!

Structure of a Term Paper

As you’ve probably guessed by now, every paper has to have a specific structure. In general, you can expect to have at least three parts – introduction, body, and a conclusion. However, longer papers may need several sub-sections, perhaps even an abstract or a summary, and a page dedicated to bibliography.

A typical term paper has three to five body paragraphs that form the backbone of your arguments and analytical discourse. A bibliography is always needed, even if your sources predominantly comprise course materials or excerpts from consulted textbooks. Depending on the chosen style, you will need either a Works Cited page (MLA), a Reference page (APA) or a Bibliography (Harvard, Chicago). Given its pivotal role in determining your final course grade, make sure to adhere to the highest writing and editing standards.

Term Paper Outline

• Title page – this is where you enter your name, teacher name, school, class, and date. The formatting will depend on your chosen style
• Introduction – Introduction sets the stage for your arguments. This is where you present statistics, define helpful terms, and finally present your thesis statement. IMPORTANT: Thesis statement is always the last sentence in the introduction.
• Body 1: Historical setting or development
• Body 2: Current state of knowledge about the problem
• Body 3: Main argument and potential implications
• Body 4: Argument for
• Body 5: Argument against
• Body 6: Summary
• Conclusion : Bring all of the body arguments together and restate your thesis statement.
• Bibliography : Provide references for all sources cited in the term paper using the style of your choice

Now let’s get to the nitty gritty of the writing process.

Topic Selection – In most cases teachers or instructors will provide students with a list of pre-approved topics to choose from. But, in some cases you will get the opportunity to choose for yourself. This is both a blessing and a curse, because it can lead you into a deep pit of despair if you are not careful.

Length – Every paper will have an assigned length. You should never go under the minimum or the maximum word/page count, as that will take points away from your final score. If the prompt asks for 10 pages, write that.

Sources – Consult your school library, Google Scholar, and any other database that has access to journals and books on your topic.

Simplify – While it is admirable to be able to write in a high-brow voice, it’s much better to use plain language as much as possible, but staying within the confines of academic jargon. No don’t’s, couldnt’s, or should’ve. If something is too complicated to explain simply, you do not understand it properly. Ask for clarification.

Do not be afraid to wander – Choosing a common topic may be a safe bet, but your teacher will grade you higher if you take a topic nobody else even though about. Brownie points are there for the taking. Just make sure you know what you’re talking about!

Don’t overextend – While the entire combined histories of all monastic orders may seem like an interesting topic (well, to us at least), it is waaaaaaay too broad to cover in 5 or 10 pages. Heck, that would probably take an entire compendium with multiple volumes. In short, don’t be a megalomaniac and choose a topic that fits in 5 pages.

How to Write a Term Paper: The Writing Process

Before starting your write up, the teacher will expect a proposal. This is a very short summary of the topic, your thesis statement, and a few sources. The goal is to present a topic that you can defend and ask the teacher to approve it.

So how do you write a proposal? Start by writing down your thesis statement and guiding question. Then identify three to four sources and jolt down key statistics and pieces of information that are linked to your thesis statement. The goal is to show you’ve done the work. The proposal will generally have a full outline (see above) so that the teacher knows what you are planning to do. If you explain what the topic is and why it is important in writing , the teacher will accept the proposal.

Introduction, well, Introduces the Term Paper

Your essay has to start strong, which is why 99.99%  of all introductions start with a hook that captivates the audience. A hook can be anything, a statistic (like 40% of people in the US have no savings whatsoever, which means around 140 million people are completely broke – now that’s a hook, line, and sinker).

Once you know the reader is hooked, you present a brief overview of the topic you will discuss. This is where you bring statistics, data, and broader theories or concepts that may relate.

The end of the introduction is always reserved for the thesis statement, which is the last sentence of the introduction.

Try to be concise – not more than ¾ of a page (cca 200-250 words), but detailed enough so that the reader understands what the paper is about.

Writing the Body Sections

When you are certain you can understand the concepts and arguments presented in the literature, it’s time to write your body paragraphs.

The goal is to provide the reader with enough context and argumentation to prove your point. So, if you’re writing about the advantages of nuclear energy, you have to provide evidence from the literature as well as a thorough analysis of all benefits and drawbacks. The goal is to be as objective as possible, while ensuring your results are accurate.

Do not dwell on too much detail, you cannot fit all of the information in a 5 – 10 page paper. Isolate the most important pieces of evidence, maybe 3-4 and focus on those.

As a rule of thumb, you will aim for 4 – 5 body paragraphs minimum, but in most cases you will need more. The first section should be the literature review, where you analyze state-of-the-art of the topic you are writing about.

Following the literature review is your analysis, which draws from the information you’ve collected. It’s important to note, do not try and make up new stuff, or draw conclusions in this section. Simply analyze and summarize the findings in your own voice.

The last paragraph of the body section can be your own summary, where you present a different opinion. Be concise and do not go into too much detail, simply note if you think there are any discrepancies in the literature.

Remember : Always start your paragraphs with a topic sentence and try to contain the information within the paragraph to the topic.

Writing the Conclusion

Conclusion is the most important part of the term paper, even though many do not give it enough attention. This is where you put everything you’ve written together and summarize key findings.

Important : Conclusion is not the place to add new information or knowledge!

To write a good conclusion keep in mind your initial research question and thesis statement. The goal of the term paper is to answer the question and prove your thesis statement is correct. Has your paper done this? Write it down and explain why or why not your initial proposal was correct. A thesis statement can be wrong, and you must acknowledge this in your conclusion.

In the conclusion:

• Summarize your findings
• Discuss implications for future reseasrch

Editing and Finalization

The final word of the conclusion has been written, references added and alphabetized, the paper and the title page formatted. You are finally done. Or, maybe not! Now is the time for the final edit.

Teachers, above everything else, hate reading papers with spelling mistakes and poor grammar. To make sure your paper does not annoy the teacher (you don’t want a lower grade), make sure it is completely free of any errors.

The best way to do this is by using a machine learning tool combined with close reading on your own. The machine will weed out the glaring errors, and you will finish the job.

Read through the draft carefully. Remove any fluff or excess words that add nothing to the argument. You will likely find several sentences you will want to change. Do this now. Once done, start the second read-through.

In this read-through you will hone in on the arguments. Do they make sense? Are statistics properly cited, and do you sound coherent? If the answer is no, you will want to fix the mistakes until satisfied.

Now, finally, you are done! Congratulations. Pat yourself on the back. Oh, wait, we forgot about the abstract!

Abstract Comes First, or Last

In no uncertain terms, do not write the abstract before you’ve completed the term paper. This is always the last part of the writing process, but strangely enough the one your paper starts with. Go figure.

When you do get to this stage, use our secret formula. Well, it’s not really secret but we like to think so. The abstract needs three parts to work well, the introduction, the method/procedure, and the conclusion/findings. Depending on the topic these will vary slightly but you will always find them in an abstract.

Introduce your topic and what you plan to do in two to three sentences.

Describe what method you will use – such as literature review, an experiment, or something else. Two to three sentences.

Define the results you obtained after using the method. Two to three sentences.

Remember : The abstract should be between 120 and 200 words in length, no more is needed.

No, they are not. A research paper is an original piece of writing that comes after some type of original research has been done. Maybe you’ve found a new civilization during a dig, or a new chemical element. The research paper is meant to publicize this finding so other scientists can critique, refute, or confirm its validity. A term paper is a much simpler version that requires no original research. But, a term paper is your preparation for writing a research paper later in life.

This will depend on your teacher. In many cases, you will get a pre-defined format to follow, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. If not, we recommend using APA or Harvard, as they are relatively simple to learn and have a ton of resources to help you along.

It is important to remember you are not writing a book, so keep the topic narrow. For example, if writing about renewable energy, choose only one type of energy or just one region. Do not try to cram everything into 5-10 pages; it won’t work.

Writing a term paper is certainly a challenge, but it is also manageable if you dedicate yourself to the process. Prepare well in advance, read a lot, and do not be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. Your teachers are paid to help you, so email them if you get stuck. Above everything, make sure you are interested in the topic, as that will make the process so much easier.

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What is a Term Paper? Exploring the Basics.

Term papers are a common assignment for students to complete during their academic careers. The purpose of writing term papers is to demonstrate a student’s understanding and mastery of course material, as well as display the ability to use research methods effectively and form compelling arguments backed by evidence. This article will provide an overview of what exactly constitutes a term paper, its components, necessary skills needed for successful completion and examples from various fields such as literature, psychology or history. Additionally, this article will highlight the importance of properly citing sources in order to avoid plagiarism in academic work. Finally, we offer tips on how to choose topic ideas that can lead into meaningful pieces which could have potential real-world application depending on the field being studied.

I. Introduction: What is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a type of research-based writing assignment that students are required to complete at the end of an academic term. It typically counts for a significant portion of their final grade in any given course. In order to write an effective and successful term paper, it is important to understand what constitutes such an essay.

Term papers often require students to demonstrate mastery on various topics by utilizing many sources and making connections between those sources as well as providing valid arguments with evidence from those same materials. The purpose behind these assignments is twofold: firstly, they allow instructors to evaluate how much material has been absorbed over the course; secondly, they offer students the opportunity demonstrate critical thinking abilities while improving their research skills as well as expressing creativity through writing and/or incorporating other media into the presentation format (e.g., poster presentations). What’s more, depending upon its length requirements – which can range from three pages up fifty or more pages – it could include elements such as: conducting original experiments or surveys; creating graphs; taking photographs; interviewing experts or local community members about pertinent issues related to your chosen topic(s); examining artifacts located in museums etc.; analyzing literature texts via close reading techniques….etc . Therefore, regardless if you’re assigned a brief “working definition” essay task involving researching just one primary source document versus tasked with delving deeply into a multi-faceted issue where numerous sources must be examined for accuracy & relevancy before being combined together within your argumentative synthesis essay – understanding what’s expected in terms of formulating quality content remains fundamental prerequisite towards effectively completing this educational project satisfactorily!

II. The Definition of a Term Paper

A term paper is an academic document, usually written by a student, that covers the material studied during a course or term of study. It typically describes research on one particular topic and presents results in an organized format.

• The length of a term paper will vary according to course requirements but generally ranges from 5-15 pages.
• It should include relevant content such as facts and evidence, quotes from primary sources, analysis of concepts discussed in class lectures, textbooks or other resources and your own original insights regarding the subject matter.

Since it often involves personal reflection on what has been learned over the entire semester (or year) and incorporates knowledge gained through independent research outside of regular classroom instruction – students are required to have strong reading comprehension skills for success when writing what’s term paper . As with any academic assignment at higher education institutions across the globe – quality formatting (including references/citations), grammar usage etc., also need to be taken into consideration before submitting what’s term papers .

III. Understanding the Different Types of Term Papers

Types of Term Papers

• Research papers: These are the most common type of term paper assignments, often given as part of a larger research project or coursework assignment.
• Argumentative papers: In an argumentative paper, students must present their own arguments and support them with evidence from sources.
• Analytical papers: Analytical papers focus on providing critical analysis and evaluation of topics using primary and secondary sources for support.

What’s a term paper? A term paper is an academic writing assignment that requires students to conduct extensive research on a subject matter in order to explain it in detail. Generally speaking, these types of assignments involve investigating one’s understanding about a certain topic by researching various aspects related to it. The goal is usually to produce an analytical essay or report based upon what has been discovered through the process of investigation. Students should familiarize themselves with each type before beginning work on any kind of term paper so they know what to expect when approaching this type of task. Research-based pieces require gathering information from multiple sources while argumentative works demand forming claims supported by facts gathered during research; meanwhile, analytical pieces evaluate and discuss different points raised in either research-based or argumentative documents written previously. What’s more important is that all three genres allow room for creativity as well as intellectual curiosity — giving you freedom within limits imposed by instructors — making sure that your ideas flow logically across texts while also demonstrating mastery over language use rules such as grammar, punctuation etc..

IV. Knowing the Requirements for Writing Effective Terms Papers

Achieving a Quality Term Paper

• Term papers should include the student’s original ideas and thoughts, based on their research.
• The paper should demonstrate an understanding of existing knowledge in the field being studied as well as what has been contributed by other researchers.
• An effective term paper will make use of evidence-based resources to support its conclusions or thesis statement.

What is a term paper? It is an academic document that contains substantial research into a particular subject area. A successful term paper must be clear, concise and answer any questions posed at the beginning of the assignment. In order for it to be considered excellent quality, there are several key elements that need to be present: accurate information from reliable sources, logical arguments built upon facts rather than opinion and citations with corresponding references. This type of writing requires careful planning; students must take sufficient time researching and analyzing data before constructing their final piece.

In order to write an effective term paper then one needs not only knowledge on the chosen topic but also awareness on how best present this information correctly through writing style – grammar rules must always followed when creating written content – so ensure you have checked your work thoroughly prior submission. Additionally, knowing which format (APA/MLA) your professor prefers helps guarantee acceptance too! Overall, having strong comprehension skills related to language arts plus proper referencing techniques allows for greater success when producing high-quality results required for good grades; What’s more these same practices develop useful skills sets such as communication abilities needed beyond higher education throughout life!

V. Considering Structural Components in a Term Paper

Including Structural Components When creating a term paper, it is important to take into account the structural components that are needed for an effective piece of writing. A well-structured document will be more successful than one with no structure at all. It is therefore essential to consider these elements when producing a term paper.

The most common sections in a standard academic paper include the introduction, body, and conclusion; but other components may be included as well depending on what’s required for the project. The introduction provides readers with background information about the topic being discussed and should also include your thesis statement. The body paragraphs provide support for your argument by discussing different points related to the main idea of your paper while also citing outside sources where appropriate. Finally, you’ll need to write a conclusion summarizing key points from each section and including possible implications or applications based on those ideas.

• What’s Term Paper: A written report submitted in partial fulfillment of course requirements.

After taking care of these structural aspects within a term paper, another factor worth considering is style choices such as word choice or sentence length which can help create cohesion throughout an entire essay—especially if multiple authors were involved in its production.

• What’s Term Paper: An assignment given by university professors typically focusing on some aspect of research.

For example choosing words carefully instead of relying solely on jargon terminology can make understanding easier without sacrificing accuracy while maintaining consistency across all sections – this helps keep focus and demonstrates clear thought processes even amongst complex topics.

VI. Examining Grammar and Formatting Considerations When Writing Term Papers

When composing a term paper, one must pay close attention to grammar and formatting considerations in order for the final product to be effective and well-received by readers. It is important that students understand what’s a term paper as they prepare their work so they can produce an accurate piece of writing with thoughtful content.

For starters, it is crucial to check all elements of spelling, including homophones like “their” versus “they’re;” these small details make up the overall credibility of any written document. Additionally, making sure verbs are conjugated correctly throughout will give strength to arguments presented in your work—it shows careful consideration has been taken when constructing sentences. Furthermore, consider checking passive voice usage within paragraphs; this results in stronger narrative flow from sentence-to-sentence as active voice usually provides more clarity than its counterpart does on what’s a term paper topic being discussed at hand.

It also stands true that correct syntax should always be considered when constructing each paragraph; having properly formatted sentences will help strengthen word choice decisions and show off comprehension levels based on understanding sentence structure rules. Word count is another significant factor which must never be ignored or overlooked—the number of words used should always abide by course guidelines if given any such parameters related to what’s a term paper composition length expectations upon submission (e.g., 1k+ words). Lastly but equally important: make sure you adhere strictly to citation style standards designated for use (APA/MLA), particularly when using direct quotes or incorporating outside sources into argumentative statements.

VII. Exploring Further Resources to Guide Your Research and Preparation

In your research and preparation for the term paper, there are many resources you can use to guide yourself. In this section, we’ll explore a few of these options.

• Library Databases: Many libraries offer access to databases that contain scholarly articles, essays, and other sources related to the topic at hand. These can be an excellent resource when researching what’s term paper .
• Research Journals & Publications: Periodically published academic journals often have content relevant to certain topics or fields of study — particularly those related to your chosen field or subject matter for the term paper. Additionally, specialized publications on particular subtopics may include useful information as well.

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What is a Term Paper? A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

If you are a university student, you are probably familiar with the term paper. It is an academic assignment that is assigned to students at the end of the term or semester. The term paper is a written research paper that students must complete on a specific topic or subject.

Definition of a Term Paper

In simple terms, a term paper is a research paper that students must complete at the end of the term or semester. It is usually a long essay that is based on extensive research on a specific topic or subject. The term paper is an essential part of the academic curriculum as it helps students to develop their research and writing skills.

Purpose of Writing a Term Paper

The primary purpose of writing a term paper is to evaluate a student’s understanding of a particular topic or subject. It requires extensive research and analysis of the topic to present a well-written paper. Writing a term paper helps students to develop their research and writing skills, which are essential for their academic and professional growth.

A well-written term paper can also help students to improve their grades and academic performance. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a subject, which can be beneficial for their future academic or professional careers.

A term paper can be of various types, depending on the topic or subject. Here are the most common types of term papers:

Research Papers

A research paper is a type of term paper that requires extensive research on a specific topic. It is usually written in the sciences, social sciences, or humanities. The research paper requires students to analyze and interpret data, and present their findings in a well-written paper.

Argumentative Papers

An argumentative paper is a type of term paper that requires students to present an argument on a specific topic. It is usually written in the humanities or social sciences. The argumentative paper requires students to present their opinion on a particular issue and support it with evidence and research.

Stay tuned for the next two sections – “Steps in Writing a Term Paper” and “Format of a Term Paper.”

Steps in Writing a Term Paper

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, especially if you do not know where to start. Here are the steps you should follow to write a successful term paper:

Choosing a Topic

Choosing a topic is the first step in writing a term paper. It is essential to select a topic that you are interested in and has enough research material available. Once you have selected a topic, it is beneficial to narrow it down to a specific aspect of the subject.

Conducting Research

Conducting research is a critical step in writing a term paper. You should gather information from various sources, such as books, journals, and online databases. It is essential to evaluate the credibility of the sources before using them in your paper.

Outlining is the process of organizing your ideas and arguments into a structured format. It helps you to create a clear outline of your paper and ensures that you do not miss any critical points. The outline should include the main sections of the paper, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Writing the Paper

Once you have completed the research and outlined your paper, it is time to start writing. The paper should have a clear structure, with each section building on the previous one. The introduction should provide a background to the topic and state the purpose of the paper. The body should present your arguments and evidence, and the conclusion should summarize your findings.

Revising and Editing

Revising and editing are essential steps in the writing process. It helps you to ensure that your paper is well-structured, coherent, and free of errors. You should read through your paper multiple times, checking for grammar and spelling mistakes, and ensuring that your arguments are clear and concise.

Format of a Term Paper

The format of a term paper is an essential aspect of the writing process. It is essential to follow the guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution. Here are the main sections of a term paper:

The title page should include the title of the paper, your name, the instructor’s name, and the date of submission.

The abstract is a brief summary of your paper. It should provide an overview of the main points and arguments of your paper.

Introduction

The introduction should provide a background to the topic and state the purpose of the paper. It should also include a thesis statement that presents the main argument of your paper.

The body of the paper should present your arguments and evidence. It should be well-structured, with each section building on the previous one.

The conclusion should summarize your findings and restate your thesis statement. It should also provide recommendations for future research.

The references section should include a list of all the sources that you have cited in your paper. It should follow the citation style guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution.

Tips for Writing a Successful Term Paper

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for writing a successful term paper:

Start Early

Starting early is essential when it comes to writing a term paper. It gives you enough time to research and analyze the topic, and write a well-written paper. Starting early also reduces the stress of rushing to complete the paper before the deadline.

Use Reliable Sources

Using reliable sources is crucial when writing a term paper. It ensures that the information presented in the paper is accurate and credible. When researching, use academic sources such as journals, books, and scholarly articles.

Stay Organized

Staying organized is essential when writing a term paper. Create an outline of the paper, and break it down into sections. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that you cover all the necessary information.

Follow Guidelines

Following the guidelines provided by your professor or instructor is crucial when writing a term paper. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter.

Proofreading is an essential part of the writing process. It helps you to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Make sure to proofread your paper before submitting it.

In conclusion, writing a term paper is an essential part of the academic curriculum. It helps students to develop their research and writing skills, and showcase their knowledge and understanding of a subject. By following the tips mentioned above, students can write a successful term paper and achieve academic success. Remember to start early, use reliable sources, stay organized, follow guidelines, and proofread your paper. Writing a term paper may be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

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Definition of term paper

Examples of term paper in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'term paper.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1873, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near term paper

term policy

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“Term paper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/term%20paper. Accessed 26 May. 2024.

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Home » Write the Perfect Term Paper – A Step-by-Step Guide

Write the Perfect Term Paper – A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task – especially if you’re a student who’s never written one before. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for writing the perfect term paper. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right topic to crafting the perfect conclusion. So, let’s get started!

What is a term paper?

A term paper is an academic paper that is usually written at the end of the school year. It requires students to conduct thorough research on a given topic and compile their findings into a well-structured paper. It often requires students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

The length of a term paper can vary. However, it is typically longer than a regular essay and can take anywhere from 10 to 20 pages. It is important to note that a term paper is not the same as a research paper . While there are some similarities, a term paper is more focused on the student’s own opinion, whereas a research paper is more focused on existing research and data.

What to consider when choosing a topic

Choosing the right topic is one of the most important steps in writing a term paper. You want to make sure that you select a topic that is interesting, relevant, and has enough research material available.

When choosing a topic, make sure to consider your interests and the course material. It’s important to pick a topic that you have an understanding of and can easily research. It’s also helpful to pick a topic that is not overly broad or narrow.

If you’re having trouble deciding on a topic, it can be helpful to brainstorm ideas. You can also talk to your professor or classmates to get their input.

Preparing to write the term paper

Before you begin writing your term paper, it’s important to do some preparation. This includes gathering all of the research materials you need and organizing them in an easy-to-access way.

Make sure you have access to all of the resources you need to research your topic, such as books, journals, and websites. You should also create a bibliography of all of the sources you use so you can easily reference them in your paper.

You should also take some time to familiarize yourself with the topic. This will help you to better understand and analyze the material you’re researching.

Structuring your term paper

Once you’ve done your preparation, it’s time to start structuring your term paper. A good term paper should have a clear structure that makes it easy to follow.

The structure of a term paper typically consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and explain why it is important. The body paragraphs should provide an in-depth analysis of the topic and use evidence to support your argument. The conclusion should summarize your findings and reiterate why the topic is important.

Creating an outline for your term paper

Creating an outline for your term paper is an important step in the writing process. An outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you stay on track.

Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You should also include a list of the sources you plan to use.

We recommend using the following format for your outline:

• Introduction
• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Paragraph 1
• Paragraph 2
• Paragraph 3
• Reiteration of the thesis
• Bibliography/Sources

Writing the introduction

Now that you have an outline, it’s time to start writing your introduction. The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and explain why it is important.

The introduction should also include a thesis statement, which is a sentence or two that summarizes the main point of the paper. This will help guide the rest of your paper and make it easier to stay focused.

It’s important to keep your introduction short and to the point. You don’t want to give too much away or get too bogged down in detail. The goal of the introduction is to provide a general overview of the topic and to draw the reader in.

Developing an argument

Once you’ve written your introduction, it’s time to start developing an argument. This is where you will use evidence to support your claims and explain why your argument is valid.

When developing your argument, make sure to use facts and evidence from reliable sources. It’s also important to include counterarguments to show that you are aware of other perspectives.

It’s also helpful to use a variety of sources, such as books, articles, and websites. This will help make your argument more convincing.

Writing the body of the paper

The body of the paper is where you will expand on your argument and provide evidence to support it. Each body paragraph should have a clearly defined topic sentence that explains the point of the paragraph.

Make sure to use evidence from reliable sources to back up your claims. You should also make sure to explain how the evidence supports your argument. This will help make your argument more convincing.

You should also use transitions between paragraphs to make the paper flow more naturally. This will help the reader follow your argument more easily.

Crafting the conclusion

The conclusion is where you will summarize your argument and explain why it is important. It should also include a call to action, which is a statement that encourages the reader to take a certain action.

Start your conclusion by summarizing the main points of your argument. You should also explain why your argument is important.

Next, you should reiterate your call to action. This can be a statement that encourages the reader to further explore the topic or take a certain action.

Finally, make sure to end your conclusion on a strong note. This can be a powerful quote or a statement that wraps up the paper.

Revising and editing your term paper

Once you’ve written your paper, it’s important to take some time to revise and edit it. This is where you will make sure that your paper is clear and concise.

First, read through your paper and make sure that it flows logically. Look for any areas where the argument could be strengthened and make sure your evidence is accurate and up-to-date.

Next, read through your paper for any grammar or spelling mistakes. It’s important to make sure that your paper is free of errors before you submit it.

Finally, have someone else read your paper to get their feedback. This can be helpful in identifying any areas that need improvement.

Final tips for writing the perfect term paper

Writing a perfect term paper requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Here are a few final tips to help make the process a bit easier:

• Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start writing your paper. Give yourself plenty of time to research, write, and edit your paper.
• Stick to the structure: Make sure to follow the structure of your paper. This will help ensure that your paper flows logically.
• Take breaks: Writing a term paper can be a long and tedious process. Make sure to take regular breaks to give your mind a rest.
• Get help: If you’re having trouble writing your paper, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to your professor or classmates for assistance.
• Use reliable sources: Make sure to use reliable sources when researching your topic. This will help ensure that your paper is accurate and up-to-date.
• Proofread your paper: Take the time to read through your paper for any grammar or spelling mistakes before submitting it.

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task – but it doesn’t have to be. By following our step-by-step guide, you can easily write the perfect term paper. Just remember to start early, stay organized, and use reliable sources.

If you’re having trouble writing your term paper, AcademiaWriting.com can help. Our team of experienced writers can help you get the perfect term paper written quickly and efficiently. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your term paper today!

By Erin Cross

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How to Write a Term Paper With Examples and Tips

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
• Icon Page 4841 words
• Icon Clock 22 min read

Students in higher learning institutions must submit their term papers at the end of each semester. Basically, these papers play a crucial role in evaluating the learner’s knowledge of a specific subject. In this case, scholars should engage in adequate preparation before writing a complete term paper. Then, some of the essential steps include defining a topic, finding credible sources, creating and revising a paper’s outline, and drafting a term work. Moreover, an outline of a term paper differs from that of other essays since it must include subsections. Further on, writers should ensure that all the subtopic relates to a thesis statement. Besides, each body paragraph must contain a topic sentence, supportive proof, appropriate descriptions, and a concluding and transitioning statement. In turn, the term paper’s conclusion should include a concise summary of the main points discussed in such work. Hence, students need to learn how to write a term paper to pass their academic goals.

Definition of a Term Paper

Students must prepare research papers for them to succeed in their studies. For example, a term paper refers to a serious research paper that a student should submit at the end of a semester. In this case, professors use these types of papers to track and evaluate their learners’ knowledge about the area of expertise. Moreover, the process of organizing a term paper involves comprehensive research and methodological writing skills. Then, outstanding term works contain analytical and organized structures. Besides, they have well-researched evidence that supports significant claims. In turn, learners in higher educational institutions prepare term papers when reflecting on their knowledge in a specific study area.

Possible Topics for Term Papers

Students in higher learning institutions may come across different topics for writing their term papers. In practice, term paper themes vary from one subject to another and require one to engage in detailed research. Hence, possible topics for writing a term paper that one may come across are:

• Influence of colors on mood and behavior .
• Exploring the impact of telemedicine in patient-centered care .
• Impacts of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance .
• Is there a cancer epidemic due to industrial chemicals in the environment?
• Should federal courts be bound by the “original intent” of the framers?
• Do foreign investments threaten U.S. economic independence?
• Should morality and human rights influence foreign trade policy?
• Do rich nations have a responsibility to help developing countries?
• Partnership benefits at state and federal institutions.
• Same-sex adoption and access to reproductive technologies.
• Execution of juveniles.
• The lengthy appealing process for death row inmates.
• The Constitutional question of “cruel and unusual punishment.”

Term paper topics have a broad scope. Basically, term paper themes given above show that a writer must carry out extensive research to provide a comprehensive response. Also, students decide on the content that they must include in their term papers to give a comprehensive analysis of a subject.

Step-by-Step Guide for Writing a Term Paper

A student must prepare a term paper to achieve desired grades and complete a study course. Basically, adequate preparation allows scholars to gather relevant evidence and draft a term paper effectively. Hence, the necessary steps in writing a term paper that one should take to organize an academic piece are:

Step 1: Preparation

A. defining a topic for a term paper.

Defining a specific subject for a term paper is the first and most crucial activity that a writer must consider. For instance, describing an issue allows scholars to understand their course prompts and understand key ideas required to complete a term paper. In this case, one must understand the meaning of essential terms with the paper’s context. Moreover, students should use resources, like a dictionary and thesaurus, to obtain the necessary definitions. In turn, writers may opt to seek help from peers and lecturers when defining a topic for a term paper.   

B. Preparing Ideas

Preparing ideas for a term paper leads to outstanding work. For example, writers should identify all the relevant ideas and points that need to be covered before engaging in the actual writing process. Unfortunately, many learners fail to consider preparing thoughts as an essential step when writing a term paper. As a result, they prepare low-quality papers and achieve low grades. In turn, students need to redo their papers to pass their classes. Hence, writers should prepare ideas for writing a term paper by using acceptable methods.

C. Brainstorming

Scholars should consider brainstorming as an acceptable method to prepare ideas for a term paper. For example, brainstorming helps learners to come up with fresh and new facts. In this case, students think of the ideas that relate to their research topics. Moreover, the process generates unique ideas that can make one’s work to stand out. Hence, some ideas for brainstorming that one may use when preparing concepts and thoughts for term papers are:

• Come up with bad ideas first – Learners should think about research concepts related to their topics. In this case, successful students do not consider raising positive thoughts during brainstorming. Instead, they should present both good and bad ideas concerning their subjects. Also, writers should not feel stupid for raising bad ideas since the strategy helps identify weaker and more robust ideas. Then, one should allow ideas to flow during the brainstorming strategy. Besides, scholars should focus on raising positive opinions after exhausting throwaway thoughts. Hence, authors should increase both bad and good ideas that relate to their research topics.
• Breaking and building ideas – One of the most effective strategies of turning a few ideas into many is to break them down. Basically, learners should identify general themes that relate to a term paper and break them into smaller details. In this case, the process helps authors to see if some narrower ideas branch from main themes. Alternatively, one may combine different ideas to create a broader subtopic for a term paper. Hence, writers should break down more general concepts while combining narrow ones.
• Play word games – Outstanding term papers contain original and unique ideas. For example, word games are instrumental tools that prevent learners from producing generic and unoriginal ideas. In this case, word games motivate some out-of-box thinking. Moreover, “word storm” is an excellent method for a student to generate related ideas. In turn, this method allows authors to create thoughts naturally without overthinking.
• Creating a mood board – Learners should rely on methods that motivate them to generate fresh and unique ideas related to a research topic. For instance, combining imagery, color, and visual-spatial elements evoke emotions and feelings that spark fresh and new thoughts. In this case, students manage to recall some concepts acquired during learning by improving the term paper’s quality.
• Doodling – Successful students spur creativity insights and increase attention when generating essential ideas for a term paper. Basically, doodling allows a learner to engage with visuals that spark new thoughts. Also, practical doodling approaches help authors to break out of the traditional brainstorming approaches that rely on reading and talking. In this case, learners should break visual objects into small objects or combine unrelated items. Hence, these approaches motivate the brain to generate unique ideas for supporting a central theme.
• Changing a physical environment – Ordinary motivation plays a crucial role in the generation of new ideas. For example, students should change the physical environment to avoid boredom. In this case, enriched and attractive environments affect how the human brain works and speeds up how one generates new ideas and thoughts. In turn, a successful learner must select the location for brainstorming effectively. 

Reading is an appropriate method that students may consider when generating ideas for term papers. For instance, reading is a traditional method that writers use to raise arguments related to a specific topic. In this case, scholars should identify credible sources that relate to a research topic and read them to understand an assigned subject better. Also, this strategy plays a crucial in raising viable and accurate ideas about the term paper’s topic. However, scholars must take the necessary precautions since extensive reading is a tedious and monotonous process.   

E. Considering an Academic Audience

Different scholars read term papers for specific reasons. Basically, students must consider the target audience as academic readers to ensure that term papers meet their needs. In most cases, writers must use the official language when expressing thoughts. Moreover, formal language suits academic documents because it reveals professionalism and academic excellence.

Step 2: Setting Up the Stage

A. researching for sources.

Terms papers must contain credible evidence obtained from academic sources. Basically, scholars must gather adequate evidence from different reliable sources, like books, journal articles, financial and laboratory reports, credible websites, and magazines. As a ground rule, all sources must provide adequate and irrefutable evidence to support the main arguments. Also, one should find scholarly sources published in the last ten years because they contain the latest evidence and facts on research issues. Hence, writers should look for credible sources to support the main arguments in their term papers.

B. Making Notes for a Term Paper

Taking notes is a crucial step when writing term papers. Basically, scholars should read all the sources critically. In this case, the strategy allows one to understand the major concepts and ideas that relate to a research topic. Moreover, students should consider writing short notes to avoid unnecessary misunderstanding of the main messages made by authors of credible sources. Then, successful scholars take notes and revise them to ensure that they obtain the most substantial evidence that supports their research work. In turn, improving research notes involves breaking broader ideas into smaller ones and combining others to make them stronger and more sensible. Therefore students should take the necessary points to support the main arguments in their term papers.    

C. Developing a Term Paper Outline

Organizing thoughts plays a crucial role in preparing a quality paper. Basically, one should combine research notes obtained from scholarly sources and those gathered during brainstorming and put them into developing a term paper outline. Basically, an essay outline helps writers to connect ideas. However, a term paper outline should contain a research topic with the main thoughts and concepts needed to be covered. Besides, clear outlines have smaller ideas that relate to the main ones. In turn, the strategy allows one to see direct connections between the main ideas and leads to an organized term paper. Hence, students should follow the basic steps below to create a clear term paper outline:

• Organize notes and relevant evidence into groups of related ideas.
• Review a thesis statement to determine if it communicates the intended message.
• Identify the main points that support a working thesis statement or research hypothesis.
• Include ideas and thoughts that support the main points.
• Match supportive ideas with relevant sources obtained through research.
• Organize all the ideas to achieve a unique flow of information logically.
• Identify if some of the points presented need more research and where thoughts require development.
• Revise points and ideas to enhance the overall quality of a term paper.

D. Writing an Annotated Bibliography for a Term Paper

Successful scholars prepare annotated bibliographies that contain relevant and irrefutable research. Basically, each entry in an annotated bibliography for a term paper should include citation information with a short description and analysis. In this case, scholars should follow accepted citation styles, depending on instructions given by professors. Besides, an annotated bibliography must focus on a research topic of a term paper. The scholar should ensure that all sources remain relevant to the topic. However, one should remember that the annotated bibliography requirements may vary depending on the topic and term paper’s requirements. In turn, a useful annotated bibliography should help learners to keep track of research readings and gain a sense of a literature review. Hence, one should prepare an annotated bibliography for a term paper when conducting research.

Step 3: Start Writing a Term Paper

A. organizing a first draft of a term paper.

Drafts of the term papers help one to organize ideas in a good flow. Basically, students should use their outlines and annotated bibliographies to write the first draft of a term paper. In this case, scholars should focus on presenting all the ideas in this draft. Moreover, an appropriate draft enables one to test an outline and elaborate theories to support the central argument. In practice, good drafts resemble complete term papers. Also, good drafts should contain a title page, abstract or executive summary, introduction, body, and conclusion with a reference page.

B. Putting Everything Together

A scholar should put all the ideas together into a complete term paper. For example, learners should ensure that a written document contains a logical flow of ideas. In this case, the strategy enables students to identify some research gaps in the presented concepts of a term paper. Besides, putting everything together helps authors to identify some points that require more investigation.

C. Finding New Sources or Deleting Old Ones

Term papers must contain compelling ideas and arguments. For example, learners must review their drafts to determine if all sources provide relevant and credible evidence. In practice, scholars must change some sources that offer weak arguments. Besides, writers should remove previous scholarly sources that provide weak points of view or are irrelevant to a study since a research hypothesis may be changed during writing the first draft. Hence, one must change credible sources where necessary.

D. Altering an Outline

Learners should change their outlines of term papers to make such pieces more substantial and compelling. For instance, one must use the first draft and new scholarly sources to make relevant changes in a term paper’s outline. Besides, the primary goal of this strategy is to strengthen study arguments and improve their clarity.

E. Creating a Working Thesis

Compelling term papers must contain well-organized thesis statements by considering research hypotheses and rationales. Basically, scholars must develop a working thesis statement that includes the claim and significant points that scholars try to make. In this case, writers should create a sentence that explains their positions taken on topics in question based on their hypotheses and rationales. Also, lecturers evaluate all the body paragraphs and how they relate to the thesis and research question. In this case, one should use a revised outline, draft, and annotated bibliography to create the working hypothesis and ensure that it meets the necessary quality.

Step 3: Wrapping It Up

A. revisions.

Outstanding term papers contain minimal or no flaws. Basically, learners must revise their drafts to remove all the mistakes. For example, some of the factors that one must consider are spelling and grammatical errors, various writing technicalities, and idea flow. In this case, revisions play a significant role in improving the term paper’s overall quality and ensuring that readers develop the motivation to evaluate all its sections. Hence, students must revise the term paper’s draft to remove unnecessary mistakes.  

Editing is an important task that helps authors to make term papers compelling. In particular, students must focus on enhancing the readability and relevance levels of a term paper. Hence, when writing a term paper, one must consider:

• Scholars should change the order of words during the editing process. In this case, the primary purpose of enhancing the term paper’s euphony is to improve the rhythm and other dynamics. Also, students should replace weak expressions to remove clichés and conversational style.
• Effective editing helps authors to enhance the brevity of statements and claims made throughout a term paper. In turn, short and concise words sound better than long or wordy statements.
• An effective editing process improves the honesty of claims made and evidence presented throughout a study work. In this case, term papers should include proven facts in each paragraph. Moreover, one should specify scholarly sources of any data used in supporting topic sentences.
• Students should edit their term papers to improve the quality of their literacy levels. For instance, one must proofread the work to remove punctuation, spelling and syntax mistakes, and typos. Also, this process requires reading a term paper several times to identify all errors and correct them accordingly.

C. Topic Sentences

Every paragraph in the body of a term paper must begin with a topic sentence. For example, learners must ensure that each section dwells on a single point related to the thesis statement. Moreover, one should reread the work to ensure that all paragraphs have the necessary opening statements.

E. Concluding Sentences

Every paragraph of a term paper should end with a concluding sentence. In this case, students should summarize covered ideas in a section. Besides, last sentences of paragraphs should include a summative claim that brings all the concepts and thoughts into a unique closure.  

F. Transitions

All ideas presented in a term paper must have a unique transitioning of ideas. For example, writers should use the necessary phrases to transition sentences and paragraphs. In particular, the approach improves the overall readability and flow of ideas in a research paper. As a rule, each paragraph’s last sentence must act as a transition to the next section. Hence, readers must find connections between all the paragraphs in a term paper.

G. Formatting

Any learning institution requires students to follow specific formatting rules. In this case, learners must follow such guidelines when writing their term papers. Also, marking rubrics are useful tools that each learner must use to format their works.

H. Peer Reviewing

Peer review is an essential step in enhancing the term paper’s quality. Basically, one should identify scholars who are familiar with a study subject to read a term paper. Also, qualified scholars help students to identify some mistakes that may undermine the term paper’s readability. Besides, peers provide positive criticism that allows students to make the necessary changes to their works.

Step 4: Writing a Final Draft of a Term Paper

The term paper’s final draft must include all the changes made during revisions, editing, formatting, and peer review. In this case, scholars should focus on submitting flawless documents that do not contain any forms of plagiarism. Besides, the final draft must capture all the aspects covered during a research study with results, discussion, recommendations, limitations, and information for further research.

Basic Outline Template of a Term Paper Format

Cover Page with a Title of a Term Paper

Abstract (150 words)

Outline (if needed)

I. Introduction

A. Relevance of research.

B. The purpose of a term paper or a discussed problem.

C. Personal reaction to a study subject.

D. Hypothesis and Rationale

E. Short descriptions of methodology and key findings.

F. Principal conclusions and thesis statement.

A. Literature Review

• Topic sentence.
• Explanation.
• Concluding sentence and transition.

B. Methodology

D. discussion.

E. Recommendations and Limitations (if needed)

III. Conclusion

A. Summary of the main points.

B. A strong response to the thesis statement.

C. A summative statement.

The outline of the term paper appears different since it contains different sections. For example, a term paper includes various subheadings that relate to the main topic. Each subheading may have several body paragraphs. However, each paragraph must contain a topic sentence, a supporting example, and a relevant explanation.

Explanations for Key Aspects of a Term Paper’s Outline Format

1. introduction part of a term paper.

The introduction must state the primary purpose of a term paper. Basically, scholars should ensure that the first part of the work acquaints readers with a problem under discussion. Besides, one must include a compelling and robust thesis statement in this section. As a rule, the introduction should not take up a large part of the entire paper. Hence, the introduction should provide an overview of the whole work in a straightforward and precise manner.

The term paper’s body should have different headings and subheadings that connect to the topic. In this case, scholars must ensure that the process of dividing a term paper into different sections enhances the clarity of the message. Moreover, the strategy should not distract readers from appreciating the intended message.

3. Conclusion

The closing paragraph should restate the thesis statement included in the introduction. Basically, students must sum up the ideas presented in all the body paragraphs. Also, the most effective strategy that one may use is to restate all the topic sentences. Besides, authors must provide a concluding statement that brings the entire work into a unique closure.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal

A term paper proposal outlines the structure of the future work that scholars must complete. Basically, practical recommendations provide crucial elements that support the research included in the actual term paper. In this case, term proposals aim to constrict a wide area of interest into a complicated or specific topic. Moreover, writers define the intention to discover a study issue and base the decision on the need to make changes, improve the condition of the matter, or advance scholarly knowledge in the specific area of interest. In turn, one should select essential parts of a term paper and put them together in a unified format. Besides, one should briefly describe each section and tie key details to a chosen topic. Hence, a good term paper proposal should include the following parts:

• Title – A term paper should have a concise and brief title. In practice, this title should resemble that of the actual term paper.
• Objectives – Term paper proposals should state the research goals of a study. In this case, one must include the intended purpose of the research.
• Research question – An outstanding proposal must state research questions that scholars intend to answer through adequate research.
• Thesis statement – Term paper proposals should include a clear thesis statement that responds to the research question directly. In this case, a suitable thesis should be factual, clear, and subjective. Besides, one must ensure that the central claim is a verifiable statement.
• Methodology – Research proposals should state study methods used to gather and evaluate the relevant data. Moreover, students should use appropriate and proven methods to conduct their research.

Possible Writing Formats for Term Papers

Different educational institutions require learners to use writing formats when preparing term papers. For example, the most common formatting styles that one may come across include MLA 9, APA 7, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian. In turn, each of these formats has specific guidelines that one must observe.

Term papers formatted in MLA 9 do not require a cover page unless specified. In particular, writers must include a header that contains surnames and page numbers. Moreover, one must flush these details to the right margin of the page. In turn, all in-text citations should have the author’s last name and the exact page containing the evidence used.

Term papers formatted in APA 7 should contain a title page that includes the relevant heading and identifies the student, date, and relevant institution. In this case, each page must contain a header that consists of a shortened title of the term paper and the specific page. However, the first page should have the phrase “running head” preceding the shortened title. In turn, in-text citations should contain the author’s last name and publication date.

Term paper formatted in Harvard style must contain a title page that includes the title and other details identifying the student, professor or tutor, and the relevant institution. Also, one must write the title in capital letters. Then, the header should contain the title and page number. However, one must flush these details to the right margin. As a result, in-text citations should include the author’s surname, publication date, and the page containing the relevant evidence.

4. Chicago/Turabian

Term papers formatted in Chicago/Turabian should contain a title page that has the title and identifies the author. Basically, one must capitalize all the letters in the heading. Moreover, page numbers should begin on the second page and must appear on the top right side. In turn, in-text citations should appear as footnotes that contain full bibliographic details of sources.    

Sample of Writing a Simple Term Paper

Research Topic: Is the “war on terror” a global civil war?

Scholars develop different conceptions of the term “war on terror.” Basically, some scholars argue that the United States uses the war on terror to control the weaker nations. In this case, the current research examined whether the war on terror is a civil war. Then, a review of relevant literature was an effective method of gathering the necessary data. In turn, study results show that the United States uses the war on terror to protect citizens’ rights, which proves the alternative hypothesis to be a valid statement.

Keywords : War on terror, hypothesis, and review of literature

I. Sample of a Term Paper’s Introduction

The term war on terror became standard after the extremist attacks of September 11, 2001. Basically, President George W. Bush’s government confirmed a global campaign that involved open and secret military actions, new security lawmaking, and determinations to block extremism’s sponsoring, among other factors. In this case, the movement rallied for support from other countries, which willingly joined in the fight against terrorism. Although most scholars argue that the war on terror is an American strategy to control other countries, civil war theories prove otherwise.

Hypotheses:

H 0 – The United States uses the war on terror to control other countries.

H 1 – The United States uses the war on terror to protect the rights of its citizens.

II. Example of Body Paragraphs for a Term Paper

Different theories of civil wars prove that persistent rebel groups that engage in criminal activities. For example, some of the civil war philosophies include motivation and feasibility, ideas of rebellion, organization of the uprising, and evidence of the causes, among other factors (Kimbrough & Sheremeta, 2019). In turn, these theories prove that civil war results from the emergence and persistence of a rebel army. Moreover, motivation and feasibility theories argue that rebels with excessive power engage in terrorism. Hence, persistent rebel groups engage in terrorism as a way of addressing their interests.

A review of relevant literature is a suitable method for gathering the necessary data for the essay. According to Reale et al. (2017), a literature review is an effective method for gathering information for research papers in history and other social sciences. Therefore, reviewing scholarly sources related to civil war and terrorism will contribute to gathering the necessary data.

Standard game theory shows that economic grievances lead to terrorism. According to traditional game theory, economic dissimilarities in the community motivate some people to engage in crime (Kimbrough & Sheremeta, 2019). In this case, the less productive but healthy groups tend to participate in violence against industrious but weak groups. Besides, such conflict levels undermine fairness, equity, or coercion, depending on the analyst’s political standpoint. Hence, economic grievances motivate some groups to engage in terrorism.

Study findings show that the United States targets specific terror groups since their predatory behavior in a country or region leads to adverse economic and social outcomes. In this case, militant groups lead to redistribution through violence when productive and weak agents engage in defensive actions. Moreover, militant groups engage in activities that cause other people to reiterate. In turn, research results from such activities include reciprocated hatred that inflicts harm to innocent citizens. Hence, the United States participates in peacekeeping missions that can lower the negative impacts of such conflicts.

III. Conclusion Sample in a Term Paper

Most scholars argue that the war on terror is an American strategy to control other countries. In this case, different theories on civil wars prove that terrorism results from grievances and economic interests of some specific groups. Moreover, such activities destabilize the economic and social welfare of ordinary citizens. Thus, citizens focus on such terror groups intending to protect citizens of the affected countries. 

Kimbrough, E. O., & Sheremeta, R. M. (2019). Theories of conflict and war. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization , 159 , 384–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebo.2019.02.007

Reale, E., Avramov, D., Canhial, K., Donovan, C., Flecha, R., Holm, P., Larkin, C., Lepori, B., Mosoni-Fried, J., Oliver, E., Primeri, E., Puigvert, L., Scharnhorst, A., Schubert, A., Soler, M., Soòs, S., Sordé, T., Travis, C., & Van Horik, R. (2017). A literature review on evaluating the scientific, social, and political impact of social sciences and humanities research. Research Evaluation , 27 (4), 298–308. https://doi.org/10.1093/reseval/rvx025

Summing Up on How to Write a Good Term Paper

Term papers refer to research assignments completed by learners toward the end of educational semesters. In this case, students must ensure that research papers meet the necessary quality since they track and evaluate one’s knowledge. Hence, when writing a term paper, one should remember:

• rely on comprehensive research and methodological writing skills.
• include analytical and organized structures;
• present well-researched evidence that supports significant claims;
• consider various formatting strategies as required by learning institutions. 

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Term Paper Writing - A Step-by-Step Student's Guide

As the semester ends, some colleges and universities mandate that students must submit an end-of-the-year term paper to fulfill the course requirements. Writing a term paper is one of the many types of assignments students have to complete.

Like writing a research paper, a term paper assignment equips you with important writing skills, knowledge, and experience that come in handy as you advance your studies and your career. However, not every student takes the task lightly.

Most students dread writing a term paper. As a long research paper, a term paper contains organized information, analysis and synthesis, and structured paragraphs and sections.

In this comprehensive guide, our best research paper writers take you through the process of how to write a perfect term paper, what to do and what not to do, and more insights and tips to help you get the best grades.

What is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a long research paper, just like a thesis, dissertation, or capstone project, only that it is required at the end of the school semester. Term papers can be scientific reports, case studies, thesis-driven research papers, or scientific research papers based on an assigned topic, which contributes to your final grade.

Writing a term paper entails exploring a certain topic through thorough research and analysis of data that is collected throughout the course or part of the course period. Most term papers focus on a specific concept, issue, problem, or event, depending on the prompt that your academic advisor, professor, or instructor gives you.

The standard practice is for you to write the paper within the semester and submit it at the end of the college or university semester.

Professors and lecturers assign term paper assignments to evaluate the knowledge of students about the course concepts and contents. Most term papers take the structure of scientific reports.

Every course has its preferred term paper writing requirements, which your professor or teacher will share with you when you are given the assignment. Nevertheless, it is common to undertake in-depth research, analysis, synthesis, and use technical writing skills to achieve the intended goals.

As with any academic assignment, the term paper has to be organized, analytical, and polished to show that you have mastered the knowledge from the specific course.

How long is a Research Paper?

As a general rule of thumb, a term paper should be 10-double spaced pages or five single-spaced pages and above. However, for a term paper full of information, a minimum of 15 pages is fine.

A typical term paper is between 3000 and 5000 words long. It could be more or less, depending on what your professor wants, departmental/institutional requirements, and the complexity of the topic.

Regarding how many references a term paper should have, each page should have 1-3 references. If it is a ten-page term paper, it should have 10-15 references. If you have less than 10 pages, you skimped through the writing process, and your all-nighter probably did not pay.

A college term paper is between 5-7 pages. However, you can consult with your instructor or professor if you are unsure. This answers your question on how long is a term paper writing assignment, doesn't it?

Term Paper Outline or Structure

As you settle in to write a term paper, it is imperative to understand its structure so that you are prepared to handle it confidently.

A term paper outline is a roadmap of the specific components you want to achieve when writing the term paper. It gives a clear picture of every section, including the most pertinent details that you intend to include in every section of the paper.

A typical thesis-driven term paper has an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You can write the paper like an essay only that it will certainly have more paragraphs compared to a typical 5-paragraph essay. If you are writing such a paper, utilize headings and subheadings for the term paper sections to make your ideas flow well and for readers to easily follow the paper.

You can also write a term paper as a scientific research paper, especially if you have collected and analyzed data to make certain conclusions, answer research questions, or test hypotheses.

• Cover or Title Page. This should feature the course name, course code, your name, date of submission, instructor's name, and the number of words. The cover page differs depending on the formatting style. MLA, APA, Harvard, and Chicago each have different cover pages. See our research paper title page guide .
• Abstract. The abstract should describe the entire paper. It is written last. This one should be 200-250 words. Your thesis must contain the background, findings, and conclusions of the paper.
• Introduction. The introduction of your term paper should begin with general knowledge to focused knowledge on the topic. It should have a thesis statement.
• Body. Each body paragraph should have an introductory sentence, and facts (well-cited through APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago in-texts). There should also be a concluding sentence. Typically, the body expounds on the paper's main agenda (thesis statement of the term paper).
• Literature Review. This section contains organized information based on critical synthesis and analysis. Here, you explore concepts, methods, frameworks, and theories related to your topic as discussed by other authors. Organize the information in chronological, methodological, or thematic format. Ensure that you only use scholarly sources that are published recently, unless you are referring to seminal studies.
• Methodology. This is the section where you provide details of the theoretical frameworks, conceptual models, and the data collection strategies you used when gathering data for the term paper.
• Results. Here, you interpret the findings.  Explain what the term paper has covered and discovered.
• Discussion. Your paper should end with a summary and conclusion of the topic question. You should take note of the principles of writing a good essay.
• Conclusion. Winds up the paper by restating the thesis of the term paper and summarizing facts.
• References. This section has an alphabetical list of all the sources that you have cited in the paper.
• Appendix (optional). The appendix provides information, which though useful to the paper, would distract the readers if placed within the body of the paper. It should have images, tables, charts, figures, and other materials or documents. Any information that cannot be placed within the text is placed in the appendices.

You can add a list of figures, tables, or abbreviations to your term paper if it is a requirement.

Read more about making a perfect research paper outline to adopt an outline format that works for you for the term paper you are writing. Check out our guide on the parts of a research paper .

How to Do a Term Paper: Steps to Take

If you are writing a term paper, you are going to have a long time (entire semester), which means breaking everything down to avoid unnecessary writer’s block and procrastination. Failure to plan will make you write a last-minute term paper, riddled with mistakes and omissions.  To write a term paper effectively, follow these steps.

Step #1: Read the Assignment Prompt

As part of the preparation stages, begin the term paper writing process by reading the instructions. as you read, focus on:

• The requirements. Check whether you are to submit a term paper proposal with a topic. Also, check if you are required to submit a formal term paper outline or an annotated bibliography during the course of the semester.
• Ensure that you know the deadlines for each of the submission requirements, including the proposal, annotated bibliography, article reviews, literature reviews, or evidence synthesis tables.
• The number of pages. Most term papers range between 3000-5000 words. Ensure that you know the number of pages and page limits set for the paper.
• The number of sources. Some professors specify the number of academic or scholarly sources they expect you to use in your term paper.
• Some professors will give you a definite topic or a list of topics to choose from or leave you the liberty to select a suitable topic that resonates with your interests and aspirations.
• Check the questions you are expected to address in the paper.
• The prompt will have details about the formatting style to use when writing the paper. Check whether you are required to use MLA, APA, Harvard, Oxford, Chicago, or Bluebook formats.

The term paper prompt or instructions sometimes come with a rubric that breaks down what the instructor will be checking as they mark your paper. Ensure that you have everything figured out by the time you are writing and submitting the paper.

Step #2: Plan the Tern Paper Writing Process

Given the understanding, you need to plan the term paper writing process by coming up with a calendar to budget the time to achieve milestones. If there are deliverables such as research topic, proposal, annotated bibliography, outline, literature review, or anything else, ensure that you mark the dates on your calendar and plan for their delivery.

When planning the paper, brainstorm and come up with term paper topics and ideas. You should research widely by reading the course content (assigned readings). You should eliminate the topics and settle for the one that is interesting, relevant, relatable, and manageable. When selecting the topic, do your preliminary research to check if there are good scholarly sources you can use when writing the paper. You can also consult with your professor.

When you have the topic, write a term paper proposal that details the topic, rationale for choosing the topic, objectives of the term paper, research questions or hypotheses, thesis statement, purpose and problem statement, methodology, timelines, and budget.

Consult with your professor if there are any changes to be made on the topic or if you are unsure about the next step to take. If everything is approved, proceed to the research phase.

Step #3: Research, Take Notes, and Organize Sources

After getting approval for the topic, it is now time to delve deep into research. If you are doing secondary research, which mainly focuses on reading scholarly and official documents, ensure that you prepare well for it. Do systematic research to identify the sources of information to use in the research paper. As well, ensure that you execute the scientific research well so that you can prove a hypothesis or answer to a given research question. You can use qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approach, depending on the topic and the scope of research.

When you are doing a research-based term paper, consider primary and secondary sources. We recommend using University library databases such as EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Psych Net, Science Direct, PubMed, CINHAL, or Google Scholar. Google search is also a good place to begin.

DO NOT use WIKIPEDIA, YOUTUBE, Personal blogs, News websites, and other shoddy blogs you find online. Well, you can use non-scholarly sources to familiarize yourself with the topic, but not within the paper. You should strive to ensure that you have a balance for the selected sources.

Although most colleges and universities will give you access to scholarly sources, when supplementing such, choose a credible scholarly source wisely. Use specific keywords in Google Search and for academic libraries. Focus on data from science and educational resources, government records, official reports, open educational resources, journal articles, and other credible sources.

Take notes as you research, which comes in handy when preparing the outline and when writing the paper. Ensure that you indicate the source of information in your notes. You can use tables to organize similar information to make it easy to develop paragraphs.

Each time you get a befitting credible source, log it into your list of potential references. You can use online citation management tools to organize the sources you have selected in alphabetical order. If possible, download the source in pdf format and read it as you highlight major points using different color codes. You can even print them out and make physical notes in writing.

Step #4: Make a Term Paper Outline

Now that you have researched and have an idea of what your paper should look like, visualize it by creating an outline.

You can make a decimal, full-sentence, or alphanumeric outline for your term paper. The outline should contain the major points including the thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting ideas, research questions, hypotheses, and other fine details about the paper.

Format your term paper outline, as you would want the term paper itself to be when you are done writing it.

If you have any charts, images, figures, or data tables, ensure that you have an appendix section. We already covered the formal structure of a term paper, check the previous section.

Step #5: Write the First Draft

Now that you have the ideas outlined, it is time to start working on the first draft. If you had submitted a term paper proposal, it would be easier to develop everything going forward. However, you will need to change the tone, tenses, and language to match that of the term paper. The proposal is written in the future tense while a term paper in the present or past tense since it reports research that you conducted.

Begin writing your term paper from the introduction to the conclusion. After you are done with everything, write the abstract and polish your paper.

The introduction should start with an attention grabber to enthuse your readers. It can be a statement, fact, or statistic to point to the importance of the topic. You should then provide an overview of the topic, including stating the purpose of the term paper. Your introduction also entails your problem statement, including the rationale for exploring the topic. Include the research questions, hypothesis, and thesis statement of the term paper. You can use the funnel introduction approach so that your readers can appreciate your writing prowess. The introduction should also signpost (highlight) what the readers should expect in the subsequent sections.

With the results of the study or the research notes, write the body section of the paper. For the body paragraphs , write topic sentences, supporting details, explanations, links, and concluding sentences until you are done with the section. Write the literature review critically and present the facts chronologically. You should develop all the arguments gradually and use section headings and subheadings to organize information. Prioritize ideas in terms of their strengths and cite every piece of information from external sources to avoid plagiarism. Paraphrase the ideas from other sources well and avoid overusing vocabulary when developing ideas in the term paper. You should also balance the body paragraphs so that your audience/readers are not bored or confused when reading.

Finally, when writing the conclusion of the term paper, summarize the information you have discussed in the body. Restate the thesis and show how you have addressed it in the paper. Have a concluding sentence that gives your readers a good closure.

When you are done with the conclusion, write the abstract to summarize the entire term paper.

Step #6: Polish the Term Paper

You have spent the longest time writing the term paper and all you now have is a draft. It is recommended that you take a break from writing to refresh your mind. A few days off your writing schedule will not hurt the submission deadline. When on the break do anything unrelated to the term paper. Such breathers are great; you resume working on the paper with an objective mind and a keen eye.

An outstanding term paper has a good flow, contains minimal to no errors, and addresses the research topic. You must not tire to revise the paper until you are sure it meets the rubric requirements. You should focus on moving the paragraphs around, deleting unnecessary sections, replacing paragraphs, and re-writing some sections to make sense to the readers.

When polishing the paper, focus on removing all the grammatical, stylistic, and spelling errors in the paper. As well, ensure that the format of the paper is right. Check the in-text citations to ensure that they are referenced in the references list section. The goal here is to have a high-quality term paper that your professor reads and wants to keep reading or share with friends; one that they will post on the school website as a sample for a perfectly done paper.

Check the choice and use of words. You should ensure that every topic sentence makes sense. Additionally, ensure that you have used the right phrases and words within paragraphs. Your supporting sentences should have citations and explanations. The concluding sentences should use the right transition words to give your paper a good flow.

If you are sure you have edited it enough, consider having a peer review of the term paper to ascertain that you have met the requirements. You can also hire qualified scholars or editors to check your paper against the rubric and advise on areas to make changes or realign for better grades.

Incorporate the changes and turn the first draft into a final draft term paper that you can confidently submit.

Related: How to write a perfect nursing term paper .

Tips for Formatting a Term Paper

College and university papers have a preferred standard format. Students must ensure that they meet the formatting requirements for term papers as specified in the instructions.

Although considered straightforward, formatting alone carries some marks and can affect the grade you get for your term paper.

If you have written your paper but do not know how to format it, you can hire a proofreader or editor for the task.

There are several styles to format a term paper, including MLA, Chicago, APA, oxford, etc. Let us look at the most popular styles.

Formatting a Term paper in APA

Students pursuing social sciences such as psychology, anthropology, social work, sociology, education, geography, and other fields such as engineering, nursing, business, communications, and related fields mostly use APA formatting style . An APA term paper will have the following:

• Written in an A4 sheet 8.5 x 11 inches.
• Use Times New Roman font size 12 or any specific by your professor/instructor.
• Has a one-inch margin around the page.
• Double or single-spaced text (as per your instructor’s guidelines).
• 0.5-inch indent for every paragraph , except for the abstract.
• Headings and subheadings are placed on different levels
• Cover page with the title, course details, student details, instructor’s name, and submission date.
• The “References” is bold.
• All entries in the reference list are alphabetical and double-spaced. Use hanging indent for the citations that require more than one line.

We have a quick formatting guide for APA papers ; check it as you polish your paper.

Formatting a Term Paper in Chicago Style

The Chicago or Turabian formatting style is used mostly for religion, theology, law, and other humanities and social sciences.

When writing in Chicago or Turabian style, ensure to format your paper as follows:

• Font: Times New Roman
• Font Size : 12 points.
• Margins: 1 inch.
• Paragraphs: All paragraphs should be indented, half an inch from the margin.
• Spacing: All of the text in the body of your paper should be double-spaced.
• The title page contains a capitalized title, course name, your full name, and the date due for the paper.
• The text is left-aligned with a ragged right edge.
• The entire paper is double-spaced.
• If you are using the CMS, ensure that you place footnotes after any punctuation. Every number must have an entry at the bottom margin of the page.
• Include a page number on the top right corner of the page.
• Start the body of your paper on the first line on a new page.
• The word “Bibliography” is centered and not in bold.
• The citations in the bibliography section should be in alphabetic order.
• Every entry in the bibliography is single-spaced with a blank line separating each entry.
• Use hanging indent for the citations that require more than one line.

MLA Term Paper Formatting

You can format your term paper in MLA if you are pursuing humanities such as history, English and Literature, Arts, archeology, etc. some of the salient features of this style include:

• Type the paper on a standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Double-space the text of your paper.
• Use legible font, mostly Times New Roman, and font size 12.
• Leave a space after the period and other punctuation marks.
• You must indent the first line of every paragraph half an inch from the left margin or ONE tab space.
• Use headers and subheadings effectively.
• When quoting titles of longer works, use italics to mention the titles, only when necessary.
• If you have endnotes, include them on a separate page before the Works Cited section. The section should be titled Notes and centered and it should not be formatted.
• Use quotation marks when referring to literary works in your paper.
• The entire term paper should be left aligned.
• The references should be written in alphabetical order and use hanging indent for those that are more than a line long.

How do you end a Term Paper?

A good term paper should have a comprehensive conclusion. Refer to this source for  term paper writing tips  (external website). To end your term paper:

• Restate the topic in the topic sentence of your conclusion paragraph.
• Also,  restate the thesis statement  of your term paper.
• Briefly present a summary of the significant points in your term paper. Be clear and concise on the arguments.
• Have a call to action if there is a need to do so.
• Your conclusion should pass the "so what" test.
• Your conclusion should synthesize the primary Link from the introduction to the conclusion.
• End your term paper with logic. It will help if you have a suggestion in your conclusion.

Can I end the research paper with a question? Yes, why not? Ending a paper with a question leaves the reader thinking about the content. It entices them to read the piece yet again. A professor doing this means an excellent grade.

Typically, people use words such as sum, conclusion, closing, wind up, etc. However, these words are clichés. Be innovative at the end of your term paper.

Use words like:

• As seen in the discussion above.
• We can conclude from the research.
• It is generally agreed that
• The above discussion
• As can be proved by the findings...
• As research has demonstrated
• Reported and tested

These words are not as stiff as the common concluding transition words. Remember, a thesis should come in the introduction of your term paper. It is only restated in your conclusion.

Before you close this page…

This information on how to write a term paper can help you construct the best term papers and score the best grades. Choose the best topic and have an outline.

Related: Writing article titles in a term paper.

On your GPA hunt, though, writing a term paper can be tough. Getting time to complete college assignments is challenging due to work-life balance. Maybe you have a family to take care of, errands to run, or chores to complete; you can be literarily stuck with your paper.

Instead of worrying or stressing yourself, you can trust our online writing services. We offer discreet, reliable, and trustworthy  online assignment writing help . A term paper requires the input of the best writers. We have experts in  term paper writing  to help. You can purchase a term paper from our website and have it written from scratch based on your instructions. We are the website that writes your term papers at an affordable fee.

Our experienced professional writers will also offer proofreading and editing services free when you order from our website. Besides, they will also come through if you are stuck with choosing a topic for your term paper.

Get a well-written paper in APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Any style, we have you covered! Order at GradeCrest.

If you are hoping to choose the best term paper topics, consider our posts and guides including:

• Research Paper Topics
• Nutrition research topics
• List of global and social issues to write about
• How to write a research paper
• Best Topics for international business research papers
• Criminology and criminal justice Research Topics
• Sports term paper topics
• Making a title page for a research paper
• Technology research topics for students
• Research topics on discrimination
• Education research topics
• How to make a Research paper Longer
• Political Science research topics
• How to write any paper fast when you don’t have much time
• Aviation Research Papers for students
• Steps and tips for writing a term paper proposal.
• Psychology research topics for term papers.
• Essay Outlining Process
• Writing a Research Proposal

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How to write a term paper: comprehensive guide for students.

Many students think that for any form of writing, ‘things just fall into place.’ However, to come up with a good term paper, more is happening behind the scenes.

Considering its length and relevance, you can be sure that the activities behind the scenes are rigorous. This guide will empower you to know how to write a term paper fast and painstakingly.

What is a Term Paper?

It refers to a significant assignment written in college over an academic term at the end of a school semester. Therefore, a term paper can act as a yardstick for the student’s performance during the whole period. It evaluates whether the student understood the course in its entirety or not.

A student will be required to conduct a lot of research to develop a top-grade, well-organized, and analyzed term paper. The ability to do this will show that the student has acquired knowledge in his study.

Nevertheless, most students confuse a term paper for a research paper.

Difference Between Term Paper and Research Paper

The two share similar features and can even seem related, but there are apparent differences. Whereas a term paper comes at the end of a term, you can write a research paper at any time of your semester.

You write a research paper to answer particular theoretical questions. However, the term paper offers a critical examination of current topics, and students are allowed to give their opinions. Another significant difference is that a term paper has between 3,000 to 5,000 words, while a research paper can go up to 5,000 words.

However, both of them involve a great deal of research and writing.

How To Write a Term Paper Outline

A term paper outline is necessary for your research, as well as the writing process. It forms the whole skeleton upon which to found your term paper. The internet is awash with a plethora of college term paper format examples.

However, different institutions will recommend a specific term paper format. Thus, you will have to be up to speed with your college or university’s format for a term paper. Irrespective of all these differences, a term paper will have the following parts:

• An introduction,
• And a conclusion.

A well-structured college term paper outline guarantees an excellent paper at the end. You should be in a position to harmonize all the parts of a term paper into one melody that communicates an unmistakable thought of ideas.

Term Paper Structure

The following layout should help you come up with a high-quality term paper this semester:

The Cover page consists of the student’s name, date, course number, and other details concerning the term paper. This text should be at the center. Acknowledgment: Who inspired you towards writing your term paper? You can mention any specific help accorded to you by the people you choose to say here. The Abstract: It summarizes the term paper, which is usually less than one page long. It defines what your article is all about straightforwardly and concisely. The Introduction: It brings the topic of discussion into perspective through the background info. You will also show the significance of the term paper topic and how it will help to solve a particular problem at hand. The body: You will provide an in-depth analysis of the topic citing relevant facts and sources. It should help the reader have a firm grasp of the problem and why it needs his/her attention. The body comprises of the literature review and research methodology. The results and findings: What were you able to get from your research? Are the findings in tandem with the hypothesis that you set out at the beginning? Is there something that needs urgent attention from the results you obtained? Discussion: Sum up the results and findings of the problem that you set out to research. The conclusion can be a restatement of the thesis statement or an appeal for further research on the topic.

And there you have your professional and standard term paper outline example. Ensure that you adequately provide information for every section. Do not leave any room for doubt or speculation on the part of the reader.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal

Before you embark on the actual term paper writing, you will have to hand in a term paper proposal. Your instructor will have to give you the green light before you proceed. Therefore, it’s not a light matter.

Below are guidelines on how to do a term paper proposal:

State the significance of the term paper topic in a clear and precise manner Outline the list of objectives that you aim to achieve Show recent research made on the subject and reference them properly Have a smooth flow of ideas

You can be sure that any slight mistake in this term paper proposal can lead to its disqualification. Furthermore, you should conduct comprehensive research before writing your term paper proposal. Do not settle for a title that will not have sufficient facts as you progress on to write.

Institutions will have their in-house guidelines on how to format a term paper proposal. If you don’t have one yet, you can use the following format:

• A clear and coherent title
• Objectives you aim to achieve at the end of your research
• The relevance and importance of your topic.

Are you worried about where you will find a title for your upcoming term paper? Here are relevant sources that you can explore for a potential topic or research problem:

• Recent News,
• TV documentaries,
• Social events,
• Global conventions,
• Blog articles, and

You will be amazed at how much information you will find from these sources. Alternatively, you can use the help of expert writers for hire. There’s always a way out regardless of the complexity of the project.

Professional Term Paper Guidelines

Although there are many term paper samples available online, it is crucial to understand the standard operating procedures. This way, you will not be tossed back and forth with the numerous ‘expert’ examples that you will encounter:

• Follow the right format: The most common formats are the MLA and APA format. The use of either format depends on the type of subject. Proper citation will save you from plagiarism accusations.
• Do not be afraid of long research hours: For your term paper to stand out, you must be ready to pay the price – in-depth research. It will help you have a firm standing on your topic and all the relevant information at hand.
• Do not use fluff words: Only include constructive and relevant information. Unnecessary blubbering is an attention killer and may make your paper a top candidate for the trash bin.
• Proofread your work: Due to the long and sleepless nights spent on a term paper, most students will forego the proofreading part. However, sidelining this crucial stage may leave your document marred with many spelling and grammatical mistakes.

You can find cheap and professional writing help with a term paper today. Your top-notch paper is just a click away.

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Table of contents

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A term paper is a research project written by students over an academic term, typically accounting for a significant part of a grade. It is intended to describe an event, a concept, or argue a point. The paper is usually original research involving a detailed study of a subject, requiring a considerable amount of preparation and effort.

The length and complexity of a term paper can vary but it's generally more comprehensive and detailed than regular academic essays. It usually includes an introduction, body, conclusion, and a bibliography citing the sources used.

Writing a term paper can be a piece of cake if you know how to properly structure it and where to begin. Browse this guide and learn how to write a term paper worth a A+.

Discover How to Write a Term Paper & What It Is

Students who earn Cs (70 per cent equivalent) do obtain degrees, but they barely get valuable, interesting job offers. Tell Granny to get ready with the magnets: we are about to start our amazing academic adventure! What is a term paper ? It is an effective method to increase the overall great point average and professional skills every student should not ignore. What is a term paper? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word this way: “A major written assignment in a school/college course representative of a student's achievement during a semester.” No matter which is your personal answer to “what is a termpaper,” it is the last chance to fix the final course grade. There will be no other chance to improve the academic performance as it is the final assignment to pop up during the semester. The need to learn how to write a term paper appears closer to of the educational year’s finish; try to be ahead of your class by reviewing the steps to writing a term paper earlier! Or you can simply get the best term paper writing service .

Accepted Essay’s Format

How to write an outline for a term paper? Do not bother – have a look at the helpful guide prepared by the talented scholars to understand what the main parts of the good final projects are! Here are five main parts of this process. Please do not be confused with five paragraph essay. Term paper help can get your assignment written in half a day, by the way.

Brief (1/3 of A4 page) description of the written work. Wonder how to write an abstract ? Write down what the topic is, reasons to discuss it (how it is related to the core college discipline/major), and your results.

Introduction

What is a termpaper without a powerful introduction? It does not make any sense; stick to the following checklist to avoid missing an important introduction element: 

• Define the problem.
• Include a literature review made of recent thoughts, findings, and approaches to the solution.
• Is the chosen issue significant?
• Write about the ways you plan to handle the existing problem.

Buy term papers online if that doesn't seem interesting for you at the moment. 

• Explain the methods used to research corresponding sources plus the ways you selected the relevant data.
• Describe the impression of the tool, relevance, and quality of the gathered information.
• Write down the steps required to choose/utilize the information.

In this section, list the results of the experiment (trying to solve the problem) and the obstacles faced on the way while trying to answer every related question.

In the final part, the student is willing to do whatever they think is relevant. In personal words, it is important to explain what the findings mean, make a summary of the main points, draw some conclusions, & interpret the role of the findings in the context of the studied subject. The outline will prevent the student from falling off the topic, forgetting the next item in the line to discuss. Need some help with it? Call online academic writing services to allow them explain how to write a term paper by developing the most powerful essay!

“What Is a Term Paper?” on the Essay Examples

To understand a topic better, it is critical to have great examples in front of your nose. You may know how to write a term paper, having an idea of the outline, but choosing a good topic might be a challenge. A topic reflects the title, which is the face of your writing. Do not hope that your teachers/professors will give a list of great topics every time the end of the semester is closer. Modern instructors prefer to leave freedom of choice to their students. Many ways exist to help with the choice of topic:

• Recent articles
• Current news
• Favorite literature
• Movies & documentaries
• Conferences

If you decide to pick one of the sources as your primary source of information, do not forget to cite the quotes. It is important to add a Reference list on the last page. The basic rule of choosing the appropriate topic is to have the one, which fulfills the purposes of the college course and is the subject of the student’s interest. It makes no sense to select the topic you do not know at the advanced level. It is important to understand the criteria of choosing a topic to realize how to write a term paper. In case your head goes spinning from all the new information, simply shop for custom written term papers and call it a day.

Selecting the Topic: Criteria

What length are you planning to handle? What is a termpaper regarding of volume? It is not a typical argumentative, narrative essay ; a project of this type is a lengthy document, which contains no less than 5-10 pages. If your teacher asks for the certain amount of words, leave the word count to your Microsoft Word app. If writing huge pieces does not inspire you, try to select narrower topics. Take into account the length and plan how many words you plan to include into each part. Resources: school, college, or community libraries are no longer the best places to look for the relevant information. The modern world offers high technologies! Go to the Internet, open Google, type whatever you wish to research, and you will get millions of results. Remember: every source requires a reference. These are the top resources that will help to write a great term paper: 

• Class notes
• Academic journals
• Documentaries

The final page of your essay should contain a full Bibliography made of the cited sources. The last thing to think about is the complexity level. It is better to avoid topics you are not expert in; try choosing something you know from your personal experience & life examples, what can be explored in details. In case of any questions, professionals working in the field of your study may help. Teachers put extra credits to the works with interviews & surveys. Do not use primary sources only! Wish to learn how to write a history term paper, biology lab report , art movie review, capstone project , or how to write a dissertation in psychology? Buy a ready solution online!

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

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Term Paper Outline

Your term paper outline is your reliable compass throughout the writing process. Here, you arrange all the points that you are going to discuss in your term paper. Mostly you do it for yourself.

It will always help you stay focused and stick to the main points in your paper. However, a tutor, teacher, or professor may ask you to submit your working-term paper outline before you start writing. He or she will check the ways that you are going to develop your thesis and can suggest some improvement areas.

You may revise and restructure this version of your outline once you come across new material or find new ideas to be included in your term paper.

Don't make haste writing your paper. Think carefully about your topic and main points as well as evaluate the material you have found. Subdivide all the relevant material into groups and then name each group. These names will serve as headings and subheadings in your outline.

Our paper writing service would like to remind you that every term paper, regardless of the subject, has the following sections:

• Introduction or purpose of the paper. This opening part suggests acquainting the reader with the problem and stating the thesis.
• Heading 1: History of the Problem. You may include past attempts at solutions.
• Heading 2: Extent of the Problem. Who is affected? What impact has it had?
• Heading 3: Effects of the Problem.
• Heading 4: Possible Future Solutions.
• Conclusion : Sums up the points made in the term paper and gives a strong answer to the thesis.

Term Paper Writing

You haven’t got yourself admitted in the college for just a mediocre degree to get mediocre jobs in your life, have you? Sure, even getting a C or D would get you that degree but why bother settling for less when you can get an A+?

As a student, you must have familiarity with the term papers. A lot of students think that great term paper writing requires Shakespeare level writing skill. However, in reality, above average writing skill is enough to write a striking term paper – all you need to be is strategic and organized.

So, do you want to know the secret recipe of writing a remarkable term paper that can help you get the ever-eluding A+? Just go through the whole guide, and you will get the gist.

What is a Term Paper?

Let’s start with the term paper definition. By definition, a term paper is a type of research-based writing assignment that a student has to submit to his or her teacher at the end of an academic term. Typically, a student tries to discuss elaborately on a topic that was assigned to him or her. The topic could be an event description, a case study, a concept, or an argument. It is mandatory that the paper has to be unique – plagiarism is not allowed.

An average term paper is about several pages in length. There is no fixed length, and often the corresponding teacher has the authority to impose structure and length for writing. In such a case, a student must adhere to the teacher's instructions.

However, the commonly accepted length of such paper is about 5,000 words. With the single line spacing, single column, 12pt font, and 1inch margined general term paper format; it should be about 15 pages. We will talk about the structure and formatting style later.

Differences between Term Paper and Research Paper

Students often confused between these two different types of papers. The first difference between them is the time frame – a term paper has to be submitted by the end of the semester or a term while a research paper may need months even years to complete.

Even the task was given out in a different timeline. Generally, the teacher asks the students to work on their research paper at the beginning of the academic semester. A term paper, on the other hand, is tasked somewhere in the middle of the semester.

Another major difference between them is the purpose. The purpose of a research paper is to find a viable solution to a problem while a term paper is the reflection of knowledge of student on a particular topic – in common cases, a description.

Moreover, a research paper has a hypothesis, to begin with, by the end, it either supports the hypothesis or rejects it with feasible data. A term paper is much simpler in nature and tries to support an existing thesis paper in most cases. That’s why a research paper has a significantly longer length.

Despite a research paper being more crucial, it doesn't affect a student’s final grade while a term paper strongly controls the grades.

The Basics of Term Paper Format: What are the Parts of a Term Paper?

A term paper has a fixed format, but it differs from course to course. For example, a Computer Science course will have a different format of writing when compared to an Architecture course. You must ask your teacher about how to outline a paper – he or she can guide you the best.

Just check out the most common format that could help you outlining a term paper.

How to Write a Term Paper?

There are a few simple ideas you can follow in crafting up a brilliant piece of writing. Here are some effective ideas for you.

Be prepared for LONG research hours

Research is a must for writing a term paper. Some students make a mistake by starting to write right away. This is a rookie mistake. Although it seems that there is no progress as not a single word is being written, research would make your writing phase much faster and fluent. Moreover, you could come up with a better approach and idea if you thoroughly research topic first. Think of it as the investment for writing the paper.

Create an outline first

Creating an outline prior to writing gives you a sense of control. You can how much time it would take to complete the whole piece and which part would take more time. At the same time, you would render a smoother reading experience, and everything would be in some kind of chronological order.

Come up with a compelling introduction

"Dawn shows the day!" If you have an impelling introduction, the reader will get more interested in reading through and eventually favor you and your grades. If you lose the grip in the introduction, no matter how good your content is, your reader will give it average feedback.

Avoid fluff words

Fluff words are attention killers. Especially, when you are writing formal academic writing, the reader would seek constructive information all along the writing. You don't need to unnecessarily blabber about anything as long as you are talking about something relevant.

Conclude with the ROCC method

The conclusion is just as much important as the introduction. A great way of writing an impactful conclusion is following the ROCC method. ROCC stands for Restating your standpoint, having One vital and strong gist, Concluding tone, and leaving a Clincher for a reader to think about.

Select a citation style

Proper formatting or following a citation style is a must while writing a research paper or a term paper. Following the MLA or the APA format is a wise decision. However, make sure you are sticking to either MLA or APA, a mix between these two looks really shabby.

Make sure to proofread

Yes, you have worked really hard writing up the whole term paper, and you aren't not feeling proofreading the whole paper. Although it sounds really painful to proofread, you might correct A LOT OF misspellings and simple grammatical mistakes. You don't want your grades gone to ashtray just because you feel lazy, do you?

Term Paper Topics

A term paper is known to be one of the most important papers in your study. That's why picking the right topic for your paper is critical. Moreover, a lot of students fail their term papers because of the wrong formatting. So, our team decided to help with the first step in writing a term paper and give you some tips on how to cite it correctly.

50 original topics from our term paper writing service 

All these topics are creative ideas from our writing team. We are tired of writing student's orders on abortion and other common topics, so we decided to share our ideas with you. Your professor will be impressed by your creativity. These topics are completely original and should help you to boost your grades. Moreover, if you stuck with such a topic, our academic writing service is ready to help you!

Whether you are looking for a college term paper or the university one – these picks will apply to both. We divided our list into five main categories, like education, environmental issues, family issues, social issues, and the political ones. So, enjoy the list, and don't forget to ask for help from our team!

Term paper topics on education 

If you got stuck with the education topic for your term paper, we are here to help you. Our top picks will definitely surprise your supervisor and give you more chances to get the higher grade. These topics can be reworked or widened. So here are our ten topics our team created for you:

• Pros and cons of distance learning in college.
• The consequences of plagiarism in a student's paper.
• Why should students have continuous sex education?
• Reasons for installing metal detectors in schools.
• How do social networks influence school life?
• How can modern technologies change the way we learn?
• Bullying at school and college and how to take action?
• Why do we need a multilingual education?
• Is it worth investing in a child's education?
• How to solve sex discrimination issues in schools?

 Term paper topics on environment 

Environmental issues topics are vast, they are covering a lot of disciplines in natural sciences fields. It is hard to pick the right one because of so many choices out here. So, our online term paper writing team decided to take a step and pick the top ten grade-boosters for you:

• Why do a lot of people thinking that global warming is a hoax?
• Why is recycling highly important for the environment?
• How to overcome water lacking issues and help everyone on the Earth?
• The advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy?
• Wildfires conservation – are there more environment-friendly alternatives?
• Is it possible to manage overpopulation?
• Can we predict hurricane impacts and get prepared?
• What are the types of alternative energy can save Earth natural resources?
• Should we film more movies about environmental issues?
• Way to reduce smog in the megalopolises?

Term paper topics on family issues 

Family is the basis of our society. Yet, not all of them are healthy. This topic set we created is devoted to family issues, and you should try to focus on the solutions. Our team wrote a lot of term papers on this topic for students studying social sciences, so we know how to pick the perfect one:

• The consequences of battered woman syndrome.
• Child abuse at home and possible resolutions.
• Divorce reasons and US statistics: why happy couples are breaking up?
• Domestic abuse and possible legal actions.
• Children in divorced families: how do parents living separately influence life?
• Toxic relationships and the ways to break-up with a toxic partner.
• How to overcome the loss of a family member: the psychology of children and adults?
• Generation gap: start understanding your beloved ones.
• Mentally challenged family member: how to live normally and care of your beloved one.
• Ageism: why an older family member is not always right and how to influence the situation.

Term paper topics on Politics 

Politics vector changes each year. Politicians are making right or wrong decisions changing the relationship inside and outside of the country. You might agree or disagree with them, and this term paper is a chance to share your thoughts. Here are our top picks for this set:

• Controversial political decisions that saved millions of people
• Totalitarianism: is it now exist? How are people fighting with it?
• How to solve the corruption issues in politics?
• Are elections important for politics?
• What is the difference between the US and the UK political systems? Which one is better?
• What is the ideal political system and how to build it?
• What is the role of public relations and media in politics?
• What causes revolutions? Is it a political failure?
• How does politics influence cultural development?
• What is a democracy and how it is different from socialism?

Term paper topics on Social issues 

Social issues related to society. Cultural, moral and ethical aspects influence them. So, while picking the topic for your paper, you should be thinking about the cultural aspect of an issue. Our team has collected ten amazing social issues topics you may consider for your next big thing:

• What are the reasons for country-wide strikes and protests?
• Worldwide flash mobs and why people participate?
• Can virtual reality and communities substitute the real world? What are the consequences?
• The ways to fight racism in the country.
• Why should the Church and the state remain separate?
• Women and trans people rights: how to avoid discrimination?
• Why may we need a death penalty?
• Humanitarian missions: are they effective?
• How beauty standards influence mental health?
• HIV/AIDS people social isolation and how to influence the issue?

APA formatting – how to format your term paper right

If you are studying psychology in college or university, your papers should be styled following APA guidelines. Here is a brief must have a list for this complicated style:

• The text should be typed on A4 white paper with the dimensions of 8.5" x 11".
• You need to use a 12pt Times New Roman font since it is easy to read.
• Use double spacing throughout the paper.
• Margins of 1" should be set on all sides, i.e. at the left, right, top and bottom of your paper.
• Set paragraph indention to 1/2 inch, it can be easily done with the Tab button in your word processor.
• You need to create a first page header which consists of the page number and as well as capitalized running head you have on your title page.

MLA formatting rules for a term paper

According to our  term paper writing service  experts MLA is the most chosen paper formatting directive. That's why it's highly important to understand its rules and follow all the guidelines. So here are several things about this formatting style for your paper:

• You should use 12-point Times New Roman font.
• Your paper should be double-spaced. Make sure that there no extra spaces or single spacing throughout your paper.
• At the upper left corner of your first page, you need to list your name, instructor's name, class, and the date. All should be at the new row.
• You should have a one-inch margin on each side of your paper.
• Your last name and page number should be added to the upper right corner of each page, including the first one.
• You should have a title of your paper which is centered and appear under your heading details. The title is formatted like the rest of your paper. Never underline your title, don't use bold or italics, as well as quotation marks.
• Indent each paragraph to the right. Indentation should be set to 1/2 inch.
• Align all your text to the left.

Now, you have everything needed for term paper writing. If you need help, don't hesitate to contact our team. Our writing experts are ready to help you!

If you are determined and focused enough, you can write great term papers all by yourselves. You cannot neglect your term paper as it carries a significant amount of weight that can either give you a great grade or destroy it! So, we hope you know what is a term paper now and how you can write a great one.

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Best Tips on How to Write a Term Paper

Writing a Term Paper: What You Need to Know

If you've landed here by searching on Google for tips on how to write term paper, you're in the right spot! You can be upfront about your deadline and share the number of pages you need to complete with us.

This article will analyze and cover every aspect of the term paper writing process. Here, you can learn how to create an outline, structure every paragraph, and what to include in each section. After finishing the article, you can create a perfect paper yourself. But if you prefer a professional to write it instead of you, just use the magic words ' write my term paper ,' and it'll be done perfectly for you.

To write it yourself next time, let's dive in to learn every aspect of writing academic papers.

Understanding What is Term Paper

The first question we must answer to start our article is - what is term paper?! According to the definition, a term paper is a research paper you write at the end of a semester or academic year. This task will evaluate your understanding of the course material and assess your proficiency in the curriculum's essential components.

In addition to its primary goal, writing a term paper also has other purposes. It enhances your critical, analytical thinking, and writing abilities, which are valuable not only during your academic journey but also in your professional career beyond university. As you work on the parts of the document, you delve further into the subject matter and familiarize yourself with its key issues and complexities.

Depending on the course content, your professor may assign you a particular topic to write about. On other occasions, you may be free to choose a topic of your own or select a narrower theme from a more extensive list of options.

Term Paper Format

It’s imperative to grasp the meaning of a term paper format when delving into the realm of academic paper writing. A crucial initial step in formatting your paper is to consult your professor regarding specific requirements. Notably, certain term papers necessitate the inclusion of visual aids such as pictures and diagrams, as well as an abstract, while others may prefer a minimalist approach with minimal to no visual elements and no separate abstract.

The fundamental and prevalent components of the format encompass the following:

Title Page : This section contains essential information, including the author's name, the course name, the date of submission, and the instructor's name.

Abstract : An encapsulation of the paper's content, offering a concise overview.

Literature Review : This segment involves an analysis of prior research conducted by others, providing context for your study.

Methodology : In this section, the paper discusses the methods and approaches employed in the student's research.

Results : The substantive portion of the term paper, where the findings and their implications are thoroughly discussed.

Future Recommendations : This segment offers insights and guidance for those intending to pursue further study in the same field.

References List : This section compiles all the sources utilized in the research. It is essential that these sources have a correct MLA or APA format citation listed alphabetically for easy reference.

Term Paper Outline

To make any term paper writing process easier, outlining is your way out. When your term paper format is created, including writing the title page, you can start outlining your thoughts and ideas. Brainstorm the theme you're exploring, look for different ideas from various sources, further research the topic, and organize them all together.

Introduction

Starting is always challenging, and beginning the writing of a research paper is no exception. Many students, and sometimes even professionals, often face difficulties with how to start a term paper or any kind of writing. Fortunately, this brief guide will explain the purpose of the term paper format and its introduction and offer helpful tips for creating a strong one.

The introduction of the term paper is where you should set up your topic and approach for your audience; it must include the following:

Introduce the topic - The intro's initial goal is to communicate the topic's significance and interest to the reader, usually with a catchy hook .

Analyze the background - Provide some background information about the theme you're exploring and why this specific topic is essential.

Define the Problem - This part specifies how your research fits in and what problem it aims to solve.

State the Thesis Statement - The introduction should end with a thesis statement, representing the position you'll provide evidence and arguments for.

Considering these tips, you can create a perfect paper, but if you don't have time and deadlines are approaching, just text us - ' write my research paper for me ' and consider it done.

In term paper writing, body paragraphs are your central part. The worth of your entire paper depends on the information you present in these sections. When you start creating your term paper outline, always remember to include these parts in your body paragraphs:

Literature Review - This part examines scholarly articles, relevant books, and other sources related to a specific issue, research area, or theory. It presents a detailed overview, assessment, and summary of these works concerning the research problem being investigated.

Methodology Section - In this section, you should describe how you conducted the research. This information enables readers to verify the accuracy and reliability of your approach. An effective methodology can increase the reader's confidence in the validity of your findings.

Results - Here, you provide what you found while analyzing the data and answer the question posed in the introduction using the data collected.

Discussion - This section involves your analysis, description, and interpretation of your findings. They explain the significance of the results and connect them back to the research question.

Writing a term paper conclusion can often be tricky. It should be clear and summarize what you've already presented in previous sections. Every term paper needs a concluding paragraph, so let's analyze what you should include there:

Restate the research topic - A concise statement can effectively reiterate the topic, but it's essential to explain why this topic is important.

Restate the thesis statement - Write your thesis statement in different words and make it just one sentence long.

Summarize the main points of the research - Include the main arguments and facts presented in your writing and remind the reader of the significance of your topic.

Concluding sentence - Create a thought-provoking concluding sentence to make an impression on readers and leave them with something to think about.     

Many students consider restating the thesis statement to be one of the most challenging parts of writing a conclusion. So, we prepared an article on how to write a thesis statement where our experts shared their tips and personal tricks of the trade.

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How to Write a Term Paper?

Prior to immersing yourself in the process of research and writing, it is imperative to prepare a term paper proposal. Essentially, it serves as a means to present and substantiate your chosen topic to your instructor, a crucial step before commencing the actual manuscript.

In your proposal, it is vital to incorporate recent studies or research findings pertaining to your selected topic, along with appropriate references to support your assertions. Clearly articulate the relevance of your chosen topic to the course through the submission of a concise article. Additionally, delineate your objectives and adeptly structure the progression of your ideas, facilitating your instructor's comprehension of the trajectory you intend to pursue in your writing.

Should you require assistance, consider the option of procuring a term paper from our proficient writers as an alternative solution!

Start with the Abstract

In the initial section addressing the art of writing term paper, your primary objective revolves around elucidating the essence of your research. However, it is advisable to compose this section after completing all subsequent components. Ensure to highlight the principal discoveries of your research, making them accessible to readers unacquainted with the subject matter. Simplicity and informativeness are key considerations.

An effectively structured abstract should encompass the following elements:

Introduction: Introduce the problem you are tackling in your paper and elucidate the significance of your chosen topic. Furthermore, expound on the practical, scientific, or theoretical objectives of your research.

Body: Emphasize the core aspects of your research and outline your investigative approach. Provide an overview of the nature of your findings.

Conclusion: Elaborate on the practical applications or implications of your results.

When composing a term paper abstract, revisit your paper and identify pivotal statements related to your research objectives, methods, findings, and conclusions. Extract these sentences, and you will have the initial draft of your abstract.

PRO TIP: Adhere to the assignment instructions, ensuring your abstract falls within the prescribed word limit of 120-250 words.

What sets the introduction apart from the abstract? The abstract encapsulates the essence of your paper, succinctly presenting its key elements and encompassing results and conclusions. Conversely, the introduction provides contextual information about the topic, introduces the proposition (or thesis statement), and outlines the primary issues to be explored in the paper.

Write an Introduction

Prepare to captivate your readers right from the outset with a compelling term paper introduction. A robust beginning can create a compelling inertia, making it difficult for them to divert their attention from your paper. So, how can you arouse their interest and sustain their engagement?

• Seize attention: Commence with a captivating fact, a startling statement, or a thought-provoking paradox that underscores the significance of your subject matter. Initiate their curiosity from the very first sentence in your term paper.
• Offer an overview: Provide a succinct delineation of the issue you are tackling and articulate the principal objective of your paper. Additionally, elucidate how your specific topic interconnects with broader contexts, establishing the framework for a more profound exploration.
• Formulate the thesis statement: Express the fundamental argument or central question that your paper will address. Provide a glimpse of what lies ahead without divulging all the intricacies.

It's essential to bear in mind that the term paper introduction should be both inviting and concise. Avoid excessive examples or superfluous details that may obscure the initial impact.

Proceed to the Main Body

Once you have gathered your research results and notes, it's time to conduct a meticulous examination of your findings. Capture the essential outcomes of your research while eliminating any superfluous materials, thereby streamlining your work.

To write term paper body sections, an effective approach involves initiating the process by formulating topic sentences based on your outline. Subsequently, expand these topic sentences into full-fledged paragraphs, incorporating pertinent supporting details to reinforce your arguments.

The number of paragraphs required for your body section can vary, contingent on the specific topic and the instructions provided in the assignment. In many instances, a term paper's body entails a literature review followed by the presentation of your research results.

Here's a valuable tip for maintaining coherence and lucidity: Initiate each paragraph with a well-crafted topic sentence. This serves as a clear introduction to the central idea of the paragraph, ensuring a seamless progression of ideas throughout your paper. By employing this technique, your term paper will exhibit a well-structured organization and will be easily comprehensible for your readers.

Finish with a Conclusion

As you draw the main body of your term paper to a close, it is paramount to deliver a considerate and succinct conclusion. This conclusion should serve to recapitulate the information presented and explore the broader ramifications of your research. Here are key considerations for shaping your conclusion:

IMPORTANT NOTE: 

• Avoid introducing any novel information in this section.
• Summarize the final outcomes of your research.
• Articulate the implications for future investigations.

Now, take a moment to assess your research findings by reflecting on the following inquiries:

What significance does my research hold?

How does my chosen topic intersect with other relevant subjects or domains?

Ultimately, bring all these elements together with a potent concluding sentence that leaves a lasting and resonant impression.

Upon successfully completing your initial draft and finding yourself with some remaining time, it's crucial to recognize the significance of proofreading your text. Devoting a moment to reviewing paper can yield remarkable results. After all, many professors perceive misspellings, punctuation errors, and grammatical inaccuracies as reflections of negligence, potentially overshadowing your original ideas and substantial findings. Let's elevate the quality of your text!

Begin by meticulously perusing your first draft and considering how to refine your paper for greater clarity and persuasiveness. Identify ideas that may not seamlessly fit the context and either eliminate or adapt them accordingly. Additionally, pinpoint areas where more comprehensive support is needed. To enhance the fluidity of your paper, incorporate transitional phrases or words to ensure a smooth connection of ideas.

Subsequently, once your content is logically structured, it's time to rectify any errors. Thoroughly address all grammatical, punctuation, and spelling mistakes with care.

Lastly, ensure that your paper adheres to the correct format (e.g., Chicago style format ) and layout. Verify the accuracy of page numbering and make certain that any visual elements, such as images, tables, and diagrams, are appropriately numbered and titled. Just as you do when finalizing your term paper, devote the same level of attention to these details during the proofreading process. Your dedication will culminate in a polished and impressive final paper.

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Term Paper Writing Tips

You can create the best term paper by considering all the tips and structures we provided for you, and you must now be able to craft a term paper template that can impress your professor.

To better immerse how to write a term paper, we have some additional tips you can use to practice your writing skills and make the writing process easier:

• Implement Mind Mapping Strategies - Develop 3-5 main ideas and use a mind mapping strategy to connect them and choose the one you'll explore in your paper.
• Use Case Studies - Case studies can not only help in writing your paper, but they can also help to create a term paper proposal to make the significance of the theme more plausible.
• Choose a Doable Topic - Pick a subject you can effectively address within the given time frame. Narrow down a topic that is captivating and inspiring to you.
• Avoid Being Wordy - Are your sentences concise? Evaluate each one and determine if you've used a minimum number of words necessary to convey meaning.
• Double-check and Proofread - Run a spelling-checker to eliminate errors in your paper. Ask someone else to read it for you and listen to their feedback. You can also use AI to make it read your paper and listen to how every word and sentence sounds and if anything needs to be corrected.

How to Choose Sources for Citing in Your Term Papers

Prioritizing the search for the most effective sources is of utmost importance when you write a term paper. Before delving into the writing process, it is imperative to assemble all the sources you require, as they will serve as the foundation for constructing the Literature Review chapter. But how do you discern the most credible and influential sources?

Rely on reputable databases: Look to trusted databases such as JSTOR and Google Scholar as exemplary sources of credibility. These repositories host the latest peer-reviewed articles, expediting your research process.

Verify the site's address: Pay close attention to the website's URL. Links with .gov, .org, and .edu domains typically offer reliable and authoritative information. Conversely, steer clear of sources such as news portals, blogs, and Wikipedia, as they often contain personal opinions without substantial evidence.

Do impartial research: Authors frequently imbue their work with their personal political and social beliefs. In the context of your article, prioritize sources with minimal bias. Investigate the author's background and assess their trustworthiness.

Seek most recent sources: Given the dynamic nature of many research fields, aim for sources not exceeding five years. This is particularly crucial if your paper pertains to the sciences, where up-to-date studies are paramount.

Stay on topic: Remember that your term paper essay must adhere closely to the chosen subject. Even if a source appears impressive, it is incompatible with your paper if it slightly relates to your topic.

Use Our Academic Help

Now, you have all the information to begin writing your first draft for a successful term paper. But if writing a term paper definitely isn't a thing you want to be doing right now, you can text us and your assignment will be perfectly done with no further effort on your behalf.

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• Open access
• Published: 13 May 2024

Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial

• Donna H. Ryan 1 ,
• Ildiko Lingvay   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7006-7401 2 ,
• John Deanfield 3 ,
• Steven E. Kahn 4 ,
• Eric Barros   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6613-4181 5 ,
• Bartolome Burguera 6 ,
• Helen M. Colhoun   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-8345-3288 7 ,
• Cintia Cercato   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-6181-4951 8 ,
• Dror Dicker 9 ,
• Deborah B. Horn 10 ,
• G. Kees Hovingh 5 ,
• Ole Kleist Jeppesen 5 ,
• Alexander Kokkinos 11 ,
• A. Michael Lincoff   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-8175-2121 12 ,
• Sebastian M. Meyhöfer 13 ,
• Tugce Kalayci Oral 5 ,
• Jorge Plutzky   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-7194-9876 14 ,
• André P. van Beek   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-0335-8177 15 ,
• John P. H. Wilding   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2839-8404 16 &
• Robert F. Kushner 17  

Nature Medicine ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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• Health care
• Medical research

In the SELECT cardiovascular outcomes trial, semaglutide showed a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in 17,604 adults with preexisting cardiovascular disease, overweight or obesity, without diabetes. Here in this prespecified analysis, we examined effects of semaglutide on weight and anthropometric outcomes, safety and tolerability by baseline body mass index (BMI). In patients treated with semaglutide, weight loss continued over 65 weeks and was sustained for up to 4 years. At 208 weeks, semaglutide was associated with mean reduction in weight (−10.2%), waist circumference (−7.7 cm) and waist-to-height ratio (−6.9%) versus placebo (−1.5%, −1.3 cm and −1.0%, respectively; P  < 0.0001 for all comparisons versus placebo). Clinically meaningful weight loss occurred in both sexes and all races, body sizes and regions. Semaglutide was associated with fewer serious adverse events. For each BMI category (<30, 30 to <35, 35 to <40 and ≥40 kg m − 2 ) there were lower rates (events per 100 years of observation) of serious adverse events with semaglutide (43.23, 43.54, 51.07 and 47.06 for semaglutide and 50.48, 49.66, 52.73 and 60.85 for placebo). Semaglutide was associated with increased rates of trial product discontinuation. Discontinuations increased as BMI class decreased. In SELECT, at 208 weeks, semaglutide produced clinically significant weight loss and improvements in anthropometric measurements versus placebo. Weight loss was sustained over 4 years. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03574597 .

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Effects of a personalized nutrition program on cardiometabolic health: a randomized controlled trial

Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity: the STEP 5 trial

What is the pipeline for future medications for obesity?

The worldwide obesity prevalence, defined by body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg m − 2 , has nearly tripled since 1975 (ref. 1 ). BMI is a good surveillance measure for population changes over time, given its strong correlation with body fat amount on a population level, but it may not accurately indicate the amount or location of body fat at the individual level 2 . In fact, the World Health Organization defines clinical obesity as ‘abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health’ 1 . Excess abnormal body fat, especially visceral adiposity and ectopic fat, is a driver of cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) 3 , 4 , 5 , and contributes to the global chronic disease burden of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cancer and other chronic conditions 6 , 7 .

Remediating the adverse health effects of excess abnormal body fat through weight loss is a priority in addressing the global chronic disease burden. Improvements in CV risk factors, glycemia and quality-of-life measures including personal well-being and physical functioning generally begin with modest weight loss of 5%, whereas greater weight loss is associated with more improvement in these measures 8 , 9 , 10 . Producing and sustaining durable and clinically significant weight loss with lifestyle intervention alone has been challenging 11 . However, weight-management medications that modify appetite can make attaining and sustaining clinically meaningful weight loss of ≥10% more likely 12 . Recently, weight-management medications, particularly those comprising glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, that help people achieve greater and more sustainable weight loss have been developed 13 . Once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, is approved for chronic weight management 14 , 15 , 16 and at doses of up to 2.0 mg is approved for type 2 diabetes treatment 17 , 18 , 19 . In patients with type 2 diabetes and high CV risk, semaglutide at doses of 0.5 mg and 1.0 mg has been shown to significantly lower the risk of CV events 20 . The SELECT trial (Semaglutide Effects on Heart Disease and Stroke in Patients with Overweight or Obesity) studied patients with established CVD and overweight or obesity but without diabetes. In SELECT, semaglutide was associated with a 20% reduction in major adverse CV events (hazard ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72 to 0.90; P  < 0.001) 21 . Data derived from the SELECT trial offer the opportunity to evaluate the weight loss efficacy, in a geographically and racially diverse population, of semaglutide compared with placebo over 208 weeks when both are given in addition to standard-of-care recommendations for secondary CVD prevention (but without a focus on targeting weight loss). Furthermore, the data allow examination of changes in anthropometric measures such as BMI, waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) as surrogates for body fat amount and location 22 , 23 . The diverse population can also be evaluated for changes in sex- and race-specific ‘cutoff points’ for BMI and WC, which have been identified as anthropometric measures that predict cardiometabolic risk 8 , 22 , 23 .

This prespecified analysis of the SELECT trial investigated weight loss and changes in anthropometric indices in patients with established CVD and overweight or obesity without diabetes, who met inclusion and exclusion criteria, within a range of baseline categories for glycemia, renal function and body anthropometric measures.

Study population

The SELECT study enrolled 17,604 patients (72.3% male) from 41 countries between October 2018 and March 2021, with a mean (s.d.) age of 61.6 (8.9) years and BMI of 33.3 (5.0) kg m − 2 (ref. 21 ). The baseline characteristics of the population have been reported 24 . Supplementary Table 1 outlines SELECT patients according to baseline BMI categories. Of note, in the lower BMI categories (<30 kg m − 2 (overweight) and 30 to <35 kg m − 2 (class I obesity)), the proportion of Asian individuals was higher (14.5% and 7.4%, respectively) compared with the proportion of Asian individuals in the higher BMI categories (BMI 35 to <40 kg m − 2 (class II obesity; 3.8%) and ≥40 kg m − 2 (class III obesity; 2.2%), respectively). As the BMI categories increased, the proportion of women was higher: in the class III BMI category, 45.5% were female, compared with 20.8%, 25.7% and 33.0% in the overweight, class I and class II categories, respectively. Lower BMI categories were associated with a higher proportion of patients with normoglycemia and glycated hemoglobin <5.7%. Although the proportions of patients with high cholesterol and history of smoking were similar across BMI categories, the proportion of patients with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥2.0 mg dl −1 increased as the BMI category increased. A high-sensitivity C-reactive protein >2.0 mg dl −1 was present in 36.4% of patients in the overweight BMI category, with a progressive increase to 43.3%, 57.3% and 72.0% for patients in the class I, II and III obesity categories, respectively.

Weight and anthropometric outcomes

Percentage weight loss.

The average percentage weight-loss trajectories with semaglutide and placebo over 4 years of observation are shown in Fig. 1a (ref. 21 ). For those in the semaglutide group, the weight-loss trajectory continued to week 65 and then was sustained for the study period through week 208 (−10.2% for the semaglutide group, −1.5% for the placebo group; treatment difference −8.7%; 95% CI −9.42 to −7.88; P  < 0.0001). To estimate the treatment effect while on medication, we performed a first on-treatment analysis (observation period until the first time being off treatment for >35 days). At week 208, mean weight loss in the semaglutide group analyzed as first on-treatment was −11.7% compared with −1.5% for the placebo group (Fig. 1b ; treatment difference −10.2%; 95% CI −11.0 to −9.42; P  < 0.0001).

a , b , Observed data from the in-trial period ( a ) and first on-treatment ( b ). The symbols are the observed means, and error bars are ±s.e.m. Numbers shown below each panel represent the number of patients contributing to the means. Analysis of covariance with treatment and baseline values was used to estimate the treatment difference. Exact P values are 1.323762 × 10 −94 and 9.80035 × 10 −100 for a and b , respectively. P values are two-sided and are not adjusted for multiplicity. ETD, estimated treatment difference; sema, semaglutide.

Categorical weight loss and individual body weight change

Among in-trial (intention-to-treat principle) patients at week 104, weight loss of ≥5%, ≥10%, ≥15%, ≥20% and ≥25% was achieved by 67.8%, 44.2%, 22.9%, 11.0% and 4.9%, respectively, of those treated with semaglutide compared with 21.3%, 6.9%, 1.7%, 0.6% and 0.1% of those receiving placebo (Fig. 2a ). Individual weight changes at 104 weeks for the in-trial populations for semaglutide and placebo are depicted in Fig. 2b and Fig. 2c , respectively. These waterfall plots show the variation in weight-loss response that occurs with semaglutide and placebo and show that weight loss is more prominent with semaglutide than placebo.

a , Categorical weight loss from baseline at week 104 for semaglutide and placebo. Data from the in-trial period. Bars depict the proportion (%) of patients receiving semaglutide or placebo who achieved ≥5%, ≥10%, ≥15%, ≥20% and ≥25% weight loss. b , c , Percentage change in body weight for individual patients from baseline to week 104 for semaglutide ( b ) and placebo ( c ). Each patient’s percentage change in body weight is plotted as a single bar.

Change in WC

WC change from baseline to 104 weeks has been reported previously in the primary outcome paper 21 . The trajectory of WC change mirrored that of the change in body weight. At week 208, average reduction in WC was −7.7 cm with semaglutide versus −1.3 cm with placebo, with a treatment difference of −6.4 cm (95% CI −7.18 to −5.61; P  < 0.0001) 21 .

WC cutoff points

We analyzed achievement of sex- and race-specific cutoff points for WC by BMI <35 kg m − 2 or ≥35 kg m − 2 , because for BMI >35 kg m − 2 , WC is more difficult technically and, thus, less accurate as a risk predictor 4 , 25 , 26 . Within the SELECT population with BMI <35 kg m − 2 at baseline, 15.0% and 14.3% of the semaglutide and placebo groups, respectively, were below the sex- and race-specific WC cutoff points. At week 104, 41.2% fell below the sex- and race-specific cutoff points for the semaglutide group, compared with only 18.0% for the placebo group (Fig. 3 ).

WC cutoff points; Asian women <80 cm, non-Asian women <88 cm, Asian men <88 cm, non-Asian men <102 cm.

Waist-to-height ratio

At baseline, mean WHtR was 0.66 for the study population. The lowest tertile of the SELECT population at baseline had a mean WHtR <0.62, which is higher than the cutoff point of 0.5 used to indicate increased cardiometabolic risk 27 , suggesting that the trial population had high WCs. At week 208, in the group randomized to semaglutide, there was a relative reduction of 6.9% in WHtR compared with 1.0% in placebo (treatment difference −5.87% points; 95% CI −6.56 to −5.17; P  < 0.0001).

BMI category change

At week 104, 52.4% of patients treated with semaglutide achieved improvement in BMI category compared with 15.7% of those receiving placebo. Proportions of patients in the BMI categories at baseline and week 104 are shown in Fig. 4 , which depicts in-trial patients receiving semaglutide and placebo. The BMI category change reflects the superior weight loss with semaglutide, which resulted in fewer patients being in the higher BMI categories after 104 weeks. In the semaglutide group, 12.0% of patients achieved a BMI <25 kg m − 2 , which is considered the healthy BMI category, compared with 1.2% for placebo; per study inclusion criteria, no patients were in this category at baseline. The proportion of patients with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg m − 2 ) fell from 71.0% to 43.3% in the semaglutide group versus 71.9% to 67.9% in the placebo group.

In the semaglutide group, 12.0% of patients achieved normal weight status at week 104 (from 0% at baseline), compared with 1.2% (from 0% at baseline) for placebo. BMI classes: healthy (BMI <25 kg m − 2 ), overweight (25 to <30 kg m − 2 ), class I obesity (30 to <35 kg m − 2 ), class II obesity (35 to <40 kg m − 2 ) and class III obesity (BMI ≥40 kg m − 2 ).

Weight and anthropometric outcomes by subgroups

The forest plot illustrated in Fig. 5 displays mean body weight percentage change from baseline to week 104 for semaglutide relative to placebo in prespecified subgroups. Similar relationships are depicted for WC changes in prespecified subgroups shown in Extended Data Fig. 1 . The effect of semaglutide (versus placebo) on mean percentage body weight loss as well as reduction in WC was found to be heterogeneous across several population subgroups. Women had a greater difference in mean weight loss with semaglutide versus placebo (−11.1% (95% CI −11.56 to −10.66) versus −7.5% in men (95% CI −7.78 to −7.23); P  < 0.0001). There was a linear relationship between age category and degree of mean weight loss, with younger age being associated with progressively greater mean weight loss, but the actual mean difference by age group is small. Similarly, BMI category had small, although statistically significant, associations. Those with WHtR less than the median experienced slightly lower mean body weight change than those above the median, with estimated treatment differences −8.04% (95% CI −8.37 to −7.70) and −8.99% (95% CI −9.33 to −8.65), respectively ( P  < 0.0001). Patients from Asia and of Asian race experienced slightly lower mean weight loss (estimated treatment difference with semaglutide for Asian race −7.27% (95% CI −8.09 to −6.46; P  = 0.0147) and for Asia −7.30 (95% CI −7.97 to −6.62; P  = 0.0016)). There was no difference in weight loss with semaglutide associated with ethnicity (estimated treatment difference for Hispanic −8.53% (95% CI −9.28 to −7.76) or non-Hispanic −8.52% (95% CI −8.77 to 8.26); P  = 0.9769), glycemic status (estimated treatment difference for prediabetes −8.53% (95% CI −8.83 to −8.24) or normoglycemia −8.48% (95% CI −8.88 to −8.07; P  = 0.8188) or renal function (estimated treatment difference for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 or ≥60 ml min −1  1.73 m − 2 being −8.50% (95% CI −9.23 to −7.76) and −8.52% (95% CI −8.77 to −8.26), respectively ( P  = 0.9519)).

Data from the in-trial period. N  = 17,604. P values represent test of no interaction effect. P values are two-sided and are not adjusted for multiplicity. The dots show estimated treatment differences, and the error bars show 95% CIs. Details of the statistical models are available in Methods . ETD, estimated treatment difference; HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin; MI, myocardial infarction; PAD, peripheral artery disease; sema, semaglutide.

Safety and tolerability according to baseline BMI category

We reported in the primary outcome of the SELECT trial that adverse events (AEs) leading to permanent discontinuation of the trial product occurred in 1,461 patients (16.6%) in the semaglutide group and 718 patients (8.2%) in the placebo group ( P  < 0.001) 21 . For this analysis, we evaluated the cumulative incidence of AEs leading to trial product discontinuation by treatment assignment and by BMI category (Fig. 6 ). For this analysis, with death modeled as a competing risk, we tracked the proportion of in-trial patients for whom drug was withdrawn or interrupted for the first time (Fig. 6 , left) or cumulative discontinuations (Fig. 6 , right). Both panels of Fig. 6 depict a graded increase in the proportion discontinuing semaglutide, but not placebo. For lower BMI classes, discontinuation rates are higher in the semaglutide group but not the placebo group.

Data are in-trial from the full analysis set. sema, semaglutide.

We reported in the primary SELECT analysis that serious adverse events (SAEs) were reported by 2,941 patients (33.4%) in the semaglutide arm and by 3,204 patients (36.4%) in the placebo arm ( P  < 0.001) 21 . For this study, we analyzed SAE rates by person-years of treatment exposure for BMI classes (<30 kg m − 2 , 30 to <35 kg m − 2 , 35 to <40 kg m − 2 , and ≥40 kg m − 2 ) and provide these data in Supplementary Table 2 . We also provide an analysis of the most common categories of SAEs. Semaglutide was associated with lower SAEs, primarily driven by CV event and infections. Within each obesity class (<30 kg m − 2 , 30 to <35 kg m − 2 , 35 to <40 kg m − 2 , and ≥40 kg m − 2 ), there were fewer SAEs in the group receiving semaglutide compared with placebo. Rates (events per 100 years of observation) of SAEs were 43.23, 43.54, 51.07 and 47.06 for semaglutide and 50.48, 49.66, 52.73 and 60.85 for placebo, with no evidence of heterogeneity. There was no detectable difference in hepatobiliary or gastrointestinal SAEs comparing semaglutide with placebo in any of the four BMI classes we evaluated.

The analyses of weight effects of the SELECT study presented here reveal that patients assigned to once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg lost significantly more weight than those receiving placebo. The weight-loss trajectory with semaglutide occurred over 65 weeks and was sustained up to 4 years. Likewise, there were similar improvements in the semaglutide group for anthropometrics (WC and WHtR). The weight loss was associated with a greater proportion of patients receiving semaglutide achieving improvement in BMI category, healthy BMI (<25 kg m − 2 ) and falling below the WC cutoff point above which increased cardiometabolic risk for the sex and race is greater 22 , 23 . Furthermore, both sexes, all races, all body sizes and those from all geographic regions were able to achieve clinically meaningful weight loss. There was no evidence of increased SAEs based on BMI categories, although lower BMI category was associated with increased rates of trial product discontinuation, probably reflecting exposure to a higher level of drug in lower BMI categories. These data, representing the longest clinical trial of the effects of semaglutide versus placebo on weight, establish the safety and durability of semaglutide effects on weight loss and maintenance in a geographically and racially diverse population of adult men and women with overweight and obesity but not diabetes. The implications of weight loss of this degree in such a diverse population suggests that it may be possible to impact the public health burden of the multiple morbidities associated with obesity. Although our trial focused on CV events, many chronic diseases would benefit from effective weight management 28 .

There were variations in the weight-loss response. Individual changes in body weight with semaglutide and placebo were striking; still, 67.8% achieved 5% or more weight loss and 44.2% achieved 10% weight loss with semaglutide at 2 years, compared with 21.3% and 6.9%, respectively, for those receiving placebo. Our first on-treatment analysis demonstrated that those on-drug lost more weight than those in-trial, confirming the effect of drug exposure. With semaglutide, lower BMI was associated with less percentage weight loss, and women lost more weight on average than men (−11.1% versus −7.5% treatment difference from placebo); however, in all cases, clinically meaningful mean weight loss was achieved. Although Asian patients lost less weight on average than patients of other races (−7.3% more than placebo), Asian patients were more likely to be in the lowest BMI category (<30 kg m − 2 ), which is known to be associated with less weight loss, as discussed below. Clinically meaningful weight loss was evident in the semaglutide group within a broad range of baseline categories for glycemia and body anthropometrics. Interestingly, at 2 years, a significant proportion of the semaglutide-treated group fell below the sex- and race-specific WC cutoff points, especially in those with BMI <35 kg m − 2 , and a notable proportion (12.0%) fell below the BMI cutoff point of 25 kg m − 2 , which is deemed a healthy BMI in those without unintentional weight loss. As more robust weight loss is possible with newer medications, achieving and maintaining these cutoff point targets may become important benchmarks for tracking responses.

The overall safety profile did not reveal any new signals from prior studies, and there were no BMI category-related associations with AE reporting. The analysis did reveal that tolerability may differ among specific BMI classes, since more discontinuations occurred with semaglutide among lower BMI classes. Potential contributors may include a possibility of higher drug exposure in lower BMI classes, although other explanations, including differences in motivation and cultural mores regarding body size, cannot be excluded.

Is the weight loss in SELECT less than expected based on prior studies with the drug? In STEP 1, a large phase 3 study of once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg in individuals without diabetes but with BMI >30 kg m − 2 or 27 kg m − 2 with at least one obesity-related comorbidity, the mean weight loss was −14.9% at week 68, compared with −2.4% with placebo 14 . Several reasons may explain the observation that the mean treatment difference was −12.5% in STEP 1 and −8.7% in SELECT. First, SELECT was designed as a CV outcomes trial and not a weight-loss trial, and weight loss was only a supportive secondary endpoint in the trial design. Patients in STEP 1 were desirous of weight loss as a reason for study participation and received structured lifestyle intervention (which included a −500 kcal per day diet with 150 min per week of physical activity). In the SELECT trial, patients did not enroll for the specific purpose of weight loss and received standard of care covering management of CV risk factors, including medical treatment and healthy lifestyle counseling, but without a specific focus on weight loss. Second, the respective study populations were quite different, with STEP 1 including a younger, healthier population with more women (73.1% of the semaglutide arm in STEP 1 versus 27.7% in SELECT) and higher mean BMI (37.8 kg m − 2 versus 33.3 kg m − 2 , respectively) 14 , 21 . Third, major differences existed between the respective trial protocols. Patients in the semaglutide treatment arm of STEP 1 were more likely to be exposed to the medication at the full dose of 2.4 mg than those in SELECT. In SELECT, investigators were allowed to slow, decrease or pause treatment. By 104 weeks, approximately 77% of SELECT patients on dose were receiving the target semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly dose, which is lower than the corresponding proportion of patients in STEP 1 (89.6% were receiving the target dose at week 68) 14 , 21 . Indeed, in our first on-treatment analysis at week 208, weight loss was greater (−11.7% for semaglutide) compared with the in-trial analysis (−10.2% for semaglutide). Taken together, all these issues make less weight loss an expected finding in SELECT, compared with STEP 1.

The SELECT study has some limitations. First, SELECT was not a primary prevention trial, and the data should not be extrapolated to all individuals with overweight and obesity to prevent major adverse CV events. Although the data set is rich in numbers and diversity, it does not have the numbers of individuals in racial subgroups that may have revealed potential differential effects. SELECT also did not include individuals who have excess abnormal body fat but a BMI <27 kg m − 2 . Not all individuals with increased CV risk have BMI ≥27 kg m − 2 . Thus, the study did not include Asian patients who qualify for treatment with obesity medications at lower BMI and WC cutoff points according to guidelines in their countries 29 . We observed that Asian patients were less likely to be in the higher BMI categories of SELECT and that the population of those with BMI <30 kg m − 2 had a higher percentage of Asian race. Asian individuals would probably benefit from weight loss and medication approaches undertaken at lower BMI levels in the secondary prevention of CVD. Future studies should evaluate CV risk reduction in Asian individuals with high CV risk and BMI <27 kg m − 2 . Another limitation is the lack of information on body composition, beyond the anthropometric measures we used. It would be meaningful to have quantitation of fat mass, lean mass and muscle mass, especially given the wide range of body size in the SELECT population.

An interesting observation from this SELECT weight loss data is that when BMI is ≤30 kg m − 2 , weight loss on a percentage basis is less than that observed across higher classes of BMI severity. Furthermore, as BMI exceeds 30 kg m − 2 , weight loss amounts are more similar for class I, II and III obesity. This was also observed in Look AHEAD, a lifestyle intervention study for weight loss 30 . The proportion (percentage) of weight loss seems to be less, on average, in the BMI <30 kg m − 2 category relative to higher BMI categories, despite their receiving of the same treatment and even potentially higher exposure to the drug for weight loss 30 . Weight loss cannot continue indefinitely. There is a plateau of weight that occurs after weight loss with all treatments for weight management. This plateau has been termed the ‘set point’ or ‘settling point’, a body weight that is in harmony with the genetic and environmental determinants of body weight and adiposity 31 . Perhaps persons with BMI <30 kg m − 2 are closer to their settling point and have less weight to lose to reach it. Furthermore, the cardiometabolic benefits of weight loss are driven by reduction in the abnormal ectopic and visceral depots of fat, not by reduction of subcutaneous fat stores in the hips and thighs. The phenotype of cardiometabolic disease but lower BMI (<30 kg m − 2 ) may be one where reduction of excess abnormal and dysfunctional body fat does not require as much body mass reduction to achieve health improvement. We suspect this may be the case and suggest further studies to explore this aspect of weight-loss physiology.

In conclusion, this analysis of the SELECT study supports the broad use of once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg as an aid to CV event reduction in individuals with overweight or obesity without diabetes but with preexisting CVD. Semaglutide 2.4 mg safely and effectively produced clinically significant weight loss in all subgroups based on age, sex, race, glycemia, renal function and anthropometric categories. Furthermore, the weight loss was sustained over 4 years during the trial.

Trial design and participants

The current work complies with all relevant ethical regulations and reports a prespecified analysis of the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled SELECT trial ( NCT03574597 ), details of which have been reported in papers describing study design and rationale 32 , baseline characteristics 24 and the primary outcome 21 . SELECT evaluated once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg versus placebo to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiac events (a composite endpoint comprising CV death, nonfatal myocardial infarction or nonfatal stroke) in individuals with established CVD and overweight or obesity, without diabetes. The protocol for SELECT was approved by national and institutional regulatory and ethical authorities in each participating country. All patients provided written informed consent before beginning any trial-specific activity. Eligible patients were aged ≥45 years, with a BMI of ≥27 kg m − 2 and established CVD defined as at least one of the following: prior myocardial infarction, prior ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, or symptomatic peripheral artery disease. Additional inclusion and exclusion criteria can be found elsewhere 32 .

Human participants research

The trial protocol was designed by the trial sponsor, Novo Nordisk, and the academic Steering Committee. A global expert panel of physician leaders in participating countries advised on regional operational issues. National and institutional regulatory and ethical authorities approved the protocol, and all patients provided written informed consent.

Study intervention and patient management

Patients were randomly assigned in a double-blind manner and 1:1 ratio to receive once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg or placebo. The starting dose was 0.24 mg once weekly, with dose increases every 4 weeks (to doses of 0.5, 1.0, 1.7 and 2.4 mg per week) until the target dose of 2.4 mg was reached after 16 weeks. Patients who were unable to tolerate dose escalation due to AEs could be managed by extension of dose-escalation intervals, treatment pauses or maintenance at doses below the 2.4 mg per week target dose. Investigators were allowed to reduce the dose of study product if tolerability issues arose. Investigators were provided with guidelines for, and encouraged to follow, evidence-based recommendations for medical treatment and lifestyle counseling to optimize management of underlying CVD as part of the standard of care. The lifestyle counseling was not targeted at weight loss. Additional intervention descriptions are available 32 .

Sex, race, body weight, height and WC measurements

Sex and race were self-reported. Body weight was measured without shoes and only wearing light clothing; it was measured on a digital scale and recorded in kilograms or pounds (one decimal with a precision of 0.1 kg or lb), with preference for using the same scale throughout the trial. The scale was calibrated yearly as a minimum unless the manufacturer certified that calibration of the weight scales was valid for the lifetime of the scale. Height was measured without shoes in centimeters or inches (one decimal with a precision of 0.1 cm or inches). At screening, BMI was calculated by the electronic case report form. WC was defined as the abdominal circumference located midway between the lower rib margin and the iliac crest. Measures were obtained in a standing position with a nonstretchable measuring tape and to the nearest centimeter or inch. The patient was asked to breathe normally. The tape touched the skin but did not compress soft tissue, and twists in the tape were avoided.

The following endpoints relevant to this paper were assessed at randomization (week 0) to years 2, 3 and 4: change in body weight (%); proportion achieving weight loss ≥5%, ≥10%, ≥15% and ≥20%; change in WC (cm); and percentage change in WHtR (cm cm −1 ). Improvement in BMI category (defined as being in a lower BMI class) was assessed at week 104 compared with baseline according to BMI classes: healthy (BMI <25 kg m − 2 ), overweight (25 to <30 kg m − 2 ), class I obesity (30 to <35 kg m − 2 ), class II obesity (35 to <40 kg m − 2 ) and class III obesity (≥40 kg m − 2 ). The proportions of individuals with BMI <35 or ≥35 kg m − 2 who achieved sex- and race-specific cutoff points for WC (indicating increased metabolic risk) were evaluated at week 104. The WC cutoff points were as follows: Asian women <80 cm, non-Asian women <88 cm, Asian men <88 cm and non-Asian men <102 cm.

Overall, 97.1% of the semaglutide group and 96.8% of the placebo group completed the trial. During the study, 30.6% of those assigned to semaglutide did not complete drug treatment, compared with 27.0% for placebo.

Statistical analysis

The statistical analyses for the in-trial period were based on the intention-to-treat principle and included all randomized patients irrespective of adherence to semaglutide or placebo or changes to background medications. Continuous endpoints were analyzed using an analysis of covariance model with treatment as a fixed factor and baseline value of the endpoint as a covariate. Missing data at the landmark visit, for example, week 104, were imputed using a multiple imputation model and done separately for each treatment arm and included baseline value as a covariate and fit to patients having an observed data point (irrespective of adherence to randomized treatment) at week 104. The fit model is used to impute values for all patients with missing data at week 104 to create 500 complete data sets. Rubin’s rules were used to combine the results. Estimated means are provided with s.e.m., and estimated treatment differences are provided with 95% CI. Binary endpoints were analyzed using logistic regression with treatment and baseline value as a covariate, where missing data were imputed by first using multiple imputation as described above and then categorizing the imputed data according to the endpoint, for example, body weight percentage change at week 104 of <0%. Subgroup analyses for continuous and binary endpoints also included the subgroup and interaction between treatment and subgroup as fixed factors. Because some patients in both arms continued to be followed but were off treatment, we also analyzed weight loss by first on-treatment group (observation period until first time being off treatment for >35 days) to assess a more realistic picture of weight loss in those adhering to treatment. CIs were not adjusted for multiplicity and should therefore not be used to infer definitive treatment effects. All statistical analyses were performed with SAS software, version 9.4 TS1M5 (SAS Institute).

Reporting summary

Further information on research design is available in the Nature Portfolio Reporting Summary linked to this article.

Data availability

Data will be shared with bona fide researchers who submit a research proposal approved by the independent review board. Individual patient data will be shared in data sets in a deidentified and anonymized format. Information about data access request proposals can be found at https://www.novonordisk-trials.com/ .

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Acknowledgements

Editorial support was provided by Richard Ogilvy-Stewart of Apollo, OPEN Health Communications, and funded by Novo Nordisk A/S, in accordance with Good Publication Practice guidelines ( www.ismpp.org/gpp-2022 ).

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Donna H. Ryan

Department of Internal Medicine/Endocrinology and Peter O’ Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA

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Contributions

D.H.R., I.L. and S.E.K. contributed to the study design. D.B.H., I.L., D.D., A.K., S.M.M., A.P.v.B., C.C. and J.P.H.W. were study investigators. D.B.H., I.L., D.D., A.K., S.M.M., A.P.v.B., C.C. and J.P.H.W. enrolled patients. D.H.R. was responsible for data analysis and manuscript preparation. All authors contributed to data interpretation, review, revisions and final approval of the manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Donna H. Ryan .

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Competing interests.

D.H.R. declares having received consulting honoraria from Altimmune, Amgen, Biohaven, Boehringer Ingelheim, Calibrate, Carmot Therapeutics, CinRx, Eli Lilly, Epitomee, Gila Therapeutics, IFA Celtics, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Rhythm, Scientific Intake, Wondr Health and Zealand Pharma; she declares she received stock options from Calibrate, Epitomee, Scientific Intake and Xeno Bioscience. I.L. declares having received research funding (paid to institution) from Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, Mylan and Boehringer Ingelheim. I.L. received advisory/consulting fees and/or other support from Altimmune, AstraZeneca, Bayer, Biomea, Boehringer Ingelheim, Carmot Therapeutics, Cytoki Pharma, Eli Lilly, Intercept, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, Mannkind, Mediflix, Merck, Metsera, Novo Nordisk, Pharmaventures, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi, Shionogi, Structure Therapeutics, Target RWE, Terns Pharmaceuticals, The Comm Group, Valeritas, WebMD and Zealand Pharma. J.D. declares having received consulting honoraria from Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Merck, Pfizer, Aegerion, Novartis, Sanofi, Takeda, Novo Nordisk and Bayer, and research grants from British Heart Foundation, MRC (UK), NIHR, PHE, MSD, Pfizer, Aegerion, Colgate and Roche. S.E.K. declares having received consulting honoraria from ANI Pharmaceuticals, Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novo Nordisk and Oramed, and stock options from AltPep. B.B. declares having received honoraria related to participation on this trial and has no financial conflicts related to this publication. H.M.C. declares being a stockholder and serving on an advisory panel for Bayer; receiving research grants from Chief Scientist Office, Diabetes UK, European Commission, IQVIA, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Medical Research Council; serving on an advisory board and speaker’s bureau for Novo Nordisk; and holding stock in Roche Pharmaceuticals. C.C. declares having received consulting honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Merck, Brace Pharma and Eurofarma. D.D. declares having received consulting honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Boehringer Ingelheim and AstraZeneca, and received research grants through his affiliation from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Boehringer Ingelheim and Rhythm. D.B.H. declares having received research grants through her academic affiliation from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, and advisory/consulting honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly and Gelesis. A.K. declares having received research grants through his affiliation from Novo Nordisk and Pharmaserve Lilly, and consulting honoraria from Pharmaserve Lilly, Sanofi-Aventis, Novo Nordisk, MSD, AstraZeneca, ELPEN Pharma, Boehringer Ingelheim, Galenica Pharma, Epsilon Health and WinMedica. A.M.L. declares having received honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly, Akebia Therapeutics, Ardelyx, Becton Dickinson, Endologix, FibroGen, GSK, Medtronic, Neovasc, Provention Bio, ReCor, BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, Alnylam and Intarcia for consulting activities, and research funding to his institution from AbbVie, Esperion, AstraZeneca, CSL Behring, Novartis and Eli Lilly. S.M.M. declares having received consulting honoraria from Amgen, AstraZeneca, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, Daichii-Sankyo, esanum, Gilead, Ipsen, Eli Lilly, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Sandoz and Sanofi; he declares he received research grants from AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. J.P. declares having received consulting honoraria from Altimmune, Amgen, Esperion, Merck, MJH Life Sciences, Novartis and Novo Nordisk; he has received a grant, paid to his institution, from Boehringer Ingelheim and holds the position of Director, Preventive Cardiology, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. A.P.v.B. is contracted via the University of Groningen (no personal payment) to undertake consultancy for Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly and Boehringer Ingelheim. J.P.H.W. is contracted via the University of Liverpool (no personal payment) to undertake consultancy for Altimmune, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Cytoki, Eli Lilly, Napp, Novo Nordisk, Menarini, Pfizer, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi, Saniona, Tern Pharmaceuticals, Shionogi and Ysopia. J.P.H.W. also declares personal honoraria/lecture fees from AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Medscape, Napp, Menarini, Novo Nordisk and Rhythm. R.F.K. declares having received consulting honoraria from Novo Nordisk, Weight Watchers, Eli Lilly, Boehringer Ingelheim, Pfizer, Structure and Altimmune. E.B., G.K.H., O.K.J. and T.K.O. are employees of Novo Nordisk A/S.

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Extended data

Extended data fig. 1 effect of semaglutide treatment or placebo on waist circumference from baseline to week 104 by subgroups..

Data from the in-trial period. N  = 17,604. P values represent test of no interaction effect. P values are two-sided and not adjusted for multiplicity. The dots show estimated treatment differences and the error bars show 95% confidence intervals. Details of the statistical models are available in Methods . BMI, body mass index; CI, confidence interval; CV, cardiovascular; CVD, cardiovascular disease; eGFR, estimated glomerular filtration rate; ETD, estimated treatment difference; HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin; MI, myocardial infarction; PAD, peripheral artery disease; sema, semaglutide.

Supplementary information

Reporting summary, supplementary tables 1 and 2.

Supplementary Table 1. Baseline characteristics by BMI class. Data are represented as number and percentage of patients. Renal function categories were based on the eGFR as per Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration. Albuminuria categories were based on UACR. Smoking was defined as smoking at least one cigarette or equivalent daily. The category ‘Other’ for CV inclusion criteria includes patients where it is unknown if the patient fulfilled only one or several criteria and patients who were randomized in error and did not fulfill any criteria. Supplementary Table 2. SAEs according to baseline BMI category. P value: two-sided P value from Fisher’s exact test for test of no difference.

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Ryan, D.H., Lingvay, I., Deanfield, J. et al. Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial. Nat Med (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-02996-7

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Seen as an ‘important first’ for the LDS Church, a woman is named editor of the Deseret News

“i cannot overstate,” one former female reporter said, “how important [her hire] is both practically and symbolically.”.

(Courtesy of Deseret News) Sarah Jane Weaver, who spent decades with Church News, has joined the top leadership team of Deseret News. "I know a lot of Utahns care about religious liberty," she said in an interview about her aims for the publication, "and we care about that, too."

Artificial intelligence. Rising distrust of “mainstream media.” Audience fragmentation. The first woman to become editor of the Deseret News isn’t cowed by any of it.

This week, longtime Utah journalist Sarah Jane Weaver took up the editor-in-chief position at the 174-year-old publication owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Known as a straight-talker with a listening ear, Weaver has served since 2017 as the top editor of the Utah-based faith’s Church News , where she expanded the site’s reach through video, podcasting and translation, according to the Deseret News story announcing the hire.

Angelyn Nelson Hutchinson, who worked the Deseret News for nearly 30 years, celebrated Weaver’s ascent, telling The Salt Lake Tribune it’s “been hard for women to break through” at the publication and in the news industry as a whole.

Back when Hutchinson, the first female city editor for the outlet, was still working, she said she was often the only female voice in editors’ meetings.

“Women’s perspectives,” she said, weren’t always “taken into account.”

She believes that will change under Weaver, who replaced Hal Boyd after Boyd accepted the title of chief of staff for Brigham Young University President Shane Reese .

“It really is,” Hutchinson said, “an important first for women in the church.”

Weaver joins Executive Editor Doug Wilks and Publisher Burke Olsen as a member of the paper’s top leadership team.

She began working at Church News in 1995. Before that, she reported at the Arizona Republic and the Standard-Examiner in Ogden.

Former Deseret News reporter Amy Donaldson-Brass also underscored the importance of women’s perspectives being considered in the decision-making process.

“I know the men who lead the Deseret News feel like they understand the world women like Sarah inhabit, but they don’t,” the KSL reporter said. “She’s often the only one bringing her complex mix of experience, intelligence, faith, purpose and mom guilt into a room where critical decisions are being made.”

Donaldson-Brass added: “I cannot overstate how important [her hire] is both practically and symbolically.”

Meanwhile, Lois Collins, who reports on issues impacting families for the Deseret News, called Weaver “supremely qualified.”

The Salt Lake Tribune spoke with Weaver about her new role and the direction she hopes to help steer the publication in coming years. Her answers have been edited for length and clarity.

(Courtesy of Deseret News) Sarah Jane Weaver and reporter Lois Collins embrace after Weaver was named editor of the Deseret News on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. Collins called Weaver "supremely qualified" for the role.

What is your hope for this position and the paper, both short-term and long-term?

For many years, I have thought of journalism as an intersection of a lot of the forces that impact our lives. And we hope at the Deseret News that we can create some understanding as all of those forces come together to — first and foremost — impact people, then this city, the state, the West and the country.

Is reaching a nationwide audience a focus that is at the forefront for the organization as a whole?

The term that we like to use is “window in, window out.” We want to be a window in for the nation to see all the good that is happening in Utah — that [the state] can be relevant and a leader and an example to the nation.

We also want to be a window out for Utahns to national politics, thought leaders and anything that can help them understand their lives better, that can empower them with information to make better decisions and understand how the nation is impacting Utah.

So yes, [we] consider ourselves a national publication. Our analytics certainly bear that out. But we are not going to forget that we are headquartered in Utah. We care so much about this state and the West.

What are some of your top priorities when it comes to specific topics?

I care a lot about civility. I think the media landscape is polarized. I think the political landscape is polarized. I think we care about human dignity. I know a lot of Utahns care about religious liberty and we care about that, too. We hope that the Deseret News can reduce some of the rhetoric that floats around and be a voice of reason that can provide clarity for people.

How does the Deseret News plan to respond to and take advantage of changes in the media landscape, from artificial intelligence to social media?

We’re worried about A.I. I’m worried about A.I. But I’m also aware that A.I. can be a powerful tool. There are opportunities here.

I remember being so worried when The Salt Lake Tribune and the Deseret News stopped publishing a daily print newspaper. And then I realized something. I realized that sometimes things that feel hard are an opportunity.

When the Deseret News was delivering a daily print newspaper, at our height we were reaching 200,000 homes. And now, on any given month, the Deseret News has about 10 million unique users. It’s hard to lament the decline of print newspapers when a digital-first publishing strategy has been our opportunity not just in Utah, but in the nation, and, in some cases, across the globe.

How do you hope to apply your multimedia experience to the Deseret News?

We’re going to have to develop a podcast strategy and a video strategy. Of course, we’re going to look at translation and see if there’s an audience for that.

We’re in an age when it is not enough any longer to just create really great content. We also have to learn how to distribute it in a way that people will read it.

When I started it, our biggest competitions were with other media, other journalists. Now we’re competing against Netflix, TikTok and Disney+. It’s a hard landscape because it’s so saturated. So the biggest challenge in this media landscape is trying to figure out how we engage a generation that is saturated with messages with news that will be important to them, that will give their lives context and understanding, and be a light in whole a mist of confusion.

There’s also a growing sense of distrust in institutions, including journalism. How do you hope to maintain a relationship of trust with Deseret News readers?

That’s a big lift. That has to be one of our No. 1 charges. We have to let people know that they can come to a source of news that they will be able to trust and that it will actually help them.

How should readers understand the relationship between Deseret News journalists and their work and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

The first thing I would want them to know is that of course The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints owns the Deseret News. But our audience is much larger than members of the church. We think we are tackling topics that are relevant to anyone living in Utah or the west or the United States.

We hope to tackle those topics in a way that will emphasize the values of Utah, which are education, human dignity, civility and caring for the poor and needy. People in this state care about service.

And we hope that they’ll be able to first know they can trust that content, and then second, know that it’s relevant to them. If we’re not creating content that’s relevant to every Utahn, we’re not doing our job.

This is an important moment for women at the Deseret News. What roles have women had at the organization previously?

DeAnn Evans was managing editor and a mentor and someone that I looked to with the greatest respect. I hope I can do my job in a way to make her proud.

There have been many, many women who have worked on this brand. Years ago, the Deseret News had a president, Robin Ritch.

The Deseret News has provided opportunities for women for many, many years. I’m really, really grateful for the opportunity to build on the good work that so many female mentors have done and also the work that so many others at the Deseret News have done.

Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible

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The positioning of bame, methodology, unpacking the discourse around bame, data availability.

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“ We are no longer using the term BAME: ” a qualitative analysis exploring how activists position and mobilize naming of minority ethnic groups in Britain

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Sim Gill, “ We are no longer using the term BAME: ” a qualitative analysis exploring how activists position and mobilize naming of minority ethnic groups in Britain, Communication, Culture and Critique , Volume 17, Issue 1, March 2024, Pages 9–16, https://doi.org/10.1093/ccc/tcae004

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In early 2021, the term BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) was commonly used by the government, public bodies, and the mass media to describe minority ethnic groups in Britain. However, this usage faced fierce criticism, particularly due to complex tensions surrounding racial and ethnic identity, solidarity, and history. This article critically evaluates these tensions and the meaning behind BAME through 10 interviews with activists working in the field of British race relations. My principle focus amid this debate revisits the foundations of the term BAME, which, I argue, is rooted in the rise and fall of Political Blackness. Additionally, I examine the broader strategic purposes of BAME as well as emphasize the importance of colorism within our discussions of racialization in Britain. Ultimately, this discussion seeks a richer account of our current climate around ethnic identification that considers both the potential and the limits of the term BAME.

Naming can operate on multiple levels, but in all instances, the term BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) has provided visibility to Black and Asian minority ethnic groups in the UK public sphere. As a form of discursive identification and structuring, the term has attracted little attention from academic scholars. However, it has been legitimated, sustained, and circulated by British society through its inclusion within government and public bodies, media, and activist groups since the early 2000s. More recently, the term has seen a proliferation of mentions. Indeed, according to Google Trends (2021), BAME hit a peak in search inquiries in 2020.

Amidst this growth followed a debate on whether BAME could be an appropriate term to categorize Black and Asian minority ethnic groups in the UK. A crucial component of this conversation concerned the essentializing of ethnic identity that (re)inscribed a Western (normatively White) form of authority for the classification of the other. This form of categorization contributes to an ontological exchange between cultures and as such the salience of this positioning has mutually implicated societal impacts on how individuals navigate themselves throughout British society. Critically here, the terminology used by the state versus descriptors chosen by individuals outside of these formal institutions is significant. Often seen as a point of contention, how communities may choose to refer to themselves as opposed to labels assigned by organizations presents us with important questions when engaging with questions around terminology and belonging.

It is demeaning to be categorized in relation to what we are not, rather than what we are: British Indian, British Caribbean, and so on. The BAME acronym also disguises huge differences in outcomes between ethnic groups. This reductionist idea forces us to think that the principal cause of all disparities must be majority versus minority discrimination. It also allows our institutions and businesses to point to the success of some BAME people in their organization and absolve themselves of responsibility for people from those minority groups that are doing less well. Like the UK’s White population, ethnic minority groups are far from monolithic in their attitudes towards British social norms and their inclusion in different walks of life. ( CRED, 2021 , pp. 32–33)

Fittingly, the paragraph concludes with a key argument often put forward by opponents of this racialized expression. Within this paragraph, we see how BAME fails to accurately capture authentic notions of identity that reflect the multiplicity of lived experiences in the UK. Put another way, this sentence is significant in drawing attention to the heterogeneity of the UK’s White population in relation to minority ethnic communities. Here the presumed normativity of Whiteness alongside conditions of class are emphasized to liberate individuals from engaging structurally with performances of British race and racism. By this I mean, that in implying the need to acknowledge and recognize specific ethnic identities rather than being lumped into broad categories, the paragraph above criticizes BAME for its erasure of complexities and diverse experiences within different ethnic communities. By supporting this sentiment with the fact that differences in outcomes may be affected by other factors (some of which have indeed led to diverse opportunities amongst the British White population), the report underscores the need to articulate individuality and unique experiences of ethnic minorities rather than the structural conditions that have historically privileged epistemological, normative Whiteness.

Moreover, while acknowledging and appreciating the mounting importance of naming and identity politics, we must remember that this is not the first time Britain has encountered such a debate. Rather one should note that race and racism are not static products but are reflections of a history and a politics. As such, it is correct that amid this discussion that we revisit the foundations of BAME, which is rooted in the rise and fall of Political Blackness. As such, it is not by happenstance that we find the focus of our contemporary conversation to have reignited similar criticisms that ultimately led to the decline in the use of the umbrella term Black. Certainly, at a moment when many British conservative MPs are willing the public towards a post-racial society, the use of identity politics here supports a global trend that views phrases like BAME as inert if not threatening.

Therefore, this article is organized into three main parts. The first section critically reviews existing literature on Positioning theory, Political Blackness, and Critical Race Theory (CRT). My focus is to underscore the historical considerations related to the terms Black and Political Blackness that draw parallels between these discussions and the emergence of the term BAME. The second section introduces the methodology used in this article, which focuses on interviewing activists. Activism plays a crucial role in social and political movements and serves as an important avenue for political participation in representative democracies ( Dahl, 1989 ). This is important because activists generate theory largely outside of academic circles, which directly impacts our understanding of the epistemology of race and racism in Britain. Thus, by interviewing activists, this article aims to understand how they position themselves and engage with the discursive category of BAME, as well as what this construction signifies for the naming of minority ethnic groups in Britain.

The final section discusses the key findings derived from the interviews. Here, I outline the need for greater consideration of colorism in order to fully understand the process and structures of racialization in Britain. I then note how the overarching purpose of BAME is to highlight structural failings and promote accountability rather than focusing solely on the personal identity of ethnic groups. More directly, I conclude by arguing that future theorizing should consider constructing race and racism in the plural, recognizing that the naming of minority ethnic groups should be explained alongside the structures of normative Whiteness. Ultimately this discussion seeks out a deeper understanding of our current climate around identity and race that considers both the potential and the limits of naming.

At its core, the term BAME has often provided visibility to ethnic minority groups in British society. As a means to position this group within a broader social and ideological hegemony, BAME acts as a signifying practice that attests to structures of power, discourse, and linguistics. The significance of this discursive frame can also be discussed through positioning theory, which within the social sciences was a concept first prominently introduced by Holloway (1984) in her feminist critique of gender differentiation in discourses. With particular attention to the embodiments of masculine and feminine attributes, a significant point Holloway’s work emphasizes is how subject positions are produced within discourses. In this context, a subject position refers to the momentary clusters of rights and duties that embody a particular way of thinking, acting, and speaking.

Building on this foundation, Harré’s ( Harré & Langehove,1999 ; Harré & Moghaddam, 2003 ) work helped shape positioning theory more formally. Indeed, a central idea of interest for Harré ( Harré’s & Langehove, 1999 ; Harré & Moghaddam, 2003 ) outlines positioning as a discursive practice, whereby individuals exchange meaning concerning their social world by tactically positioning themselves throughout a dialogue. As such, individuals emerge from the process of social interaction, not as a fixed product, but as active agents whose subjectivity is constantly being negotiated: being made and remade within discursive practices that the subject engages. Positioning is, therefore, a dynamic construction as well as an essential feature of social interaction. This understanding can be extended to frame our understanding of culture or to put it more concisely, practices of culture: whereby we may argue that individuals, such as those captured by BAME, do not harness a fixed set of monolithic values/essences but instead are subject to dynamic construction of positions that shape the way in which their practices of culture can be embodied. These subject positions provide agency and meaning to individuals as well as allow us to note signifiers of acceptance, othering, and even stigmatization. Reflecting some criticisms noted by the CRED report, positioning theory helps delineate how positions such as BAME can be taken for granted as if they were just the natural order.

These dynamic theoretical concepts provide a vocabulary to help navigate our understanding of the world and, as such, are widely applied across various other academic disciplines, especially within discussions of identity and power. Subsequently, for my research, positioning theory is a primary source of inspiration and will be drawn upon throughout this article.

A brief history of Political Blackness

Black Power in its American usage has often dominated public perception, from its association with the early 1850s Black leader Frederick Douglass to its more prominent use by activists and scholars Carmichael and Hamilton (1967) . However, while the mobilization of Black Power in Britain has drawn inspiration from this established movement, Political Blackness in Britain has often contrasted with that of its American counterpart. Certainly, despite being overlooked in mainstream culture, there is an extensive and rich scholarship covering Political Blackness in Britain ( Ambikaipaker, 2018 ; Gilroy, 1987 ; Shukra, 1998 ).

Starting with the 1950s, due to changing economic conditions, post-war Britain saw its internal boundaries substantially altered. As a result, the minority ethnic population increased rapidly in size, with many workers and their families migrating from outside of Europe—predominantly from countries with a history of colonialism, including Jamaica, Barbados, India, and Pakistan ( Winant, 2001 ). These new immigrants of Commonwealth origin, of both West African and South Asian descent, were to be grouped as Black by White Britons, irrespective of other forms of categorization and distinction.

Alternatively, and quite rationally, many of these Commonwealth migrants did not position themselves as a single entity of Black people. They saw their differences. However, by the late 1960s, economic and social discrimination against Black communities reached a significant point of tension. Indeed, Virdee (2014) exemplifies the effects of this division by drawing attention to the creation of informal color bars in workplaces and racial discrimination in areas such as housing and policing during this period. This discrimination was often accompanied by overt instances of physical violence in the name of “nigger hunting” or “Paki bashing.” 1 Certainly, in direct contrast to historically established idioms of anti-Black hate speech in the US, in Britain, this rhetoric included South Asians. Tying all this together, the spectacle of anti-Black hostility became acutely confined under the banner of the neofascist National Front ( Solomos, 1989 ). In short, these experiences forced many activists to re-evaluate how they positioned their struggles and identities ( Shukra, 1998 ). Instead, the interaction between racism experienced by the new Commonwealth immigrants and the rise of Black Power in the US inspired a distinct culture of Black solidarity in Britain.

In other words, adopting a Black identity did not denote ascribing to a descriptive category or cultural association between Asian, African, and Caribbean communities. On the contrary, as Hall (1991 , 1997 ) echoes, the strategic consequences of this position could be spelled out as a function for anti-racism and a form of solidarity politics offering many instrumental benefits, including resource mobilization, resilience-building against ordinary examples of normative Whiteness, and what Shilliam has called a diasporically educated and committed “global infrastructure of anti-colonial connectivity” ( 2015 , p. 3). Ultimately, then, as a theoretical weapon, Political Blackness was a form of racial analysis that tried to understand, challenge, and present strength among multiple forms of racism that were nonetheless interlocked in the politics of the state and society.

Multiculturalism, BAME & the rise of what about me

Political Blackness articulated a specific social vision that was broadly agreed upon within British scholarship of the 1950s and 1960s. However, much of this vision was lost in scholarship and activism that emerged during the late 1980s. As Gilroy (1987 , p. 36) laments, this period progressed several significant epistemological shifts that moved away from “political definitions of Black based on the possibility of Afro-Asian unity and towards more restricted alternative formulations, which ultimately confined the concept of Blackness to people of African descent.” In Ambalavaner Sivananda’s words, “Black lost its political culture and became a cultural color” (1988, cited in Shukra, 1998 , p. 62).

This particular discourse revolved around the politics of recognition and was notably championed by scholar Modood (1994 , 1999 ). Principally, Modood argued that the term Black could not appropriately or sufficiently serve Asian communities because it was rooted in Pan-Africanist/Black power influence, which he considered as an acceptance by Asians of an Afro-political leadership. Broadly speaking, these criticisms extended into debates around gender and (briefly) colorism as well as discussions around the ontological experience of non-Whiteness. Each component of this debate against the umbrella term Black provides an almost identical reflection of contemporary discourse concerning BAME. However, given the length of this article, and for succinctness, I will focus my attention on what primarily drives much of these historical discussions: chiefly, the increased fissionability of multiculturalism.

As scholars Lauren Berlant and Michael Warner (cited in Goldberg, 1994 , p.107) write, the promise ushered by multiculturalism was to make “political cultures open and responsible,” but its development has instead helped to spotlight a politics of difference. Within this politics of difference, the success of multiculturalism predicates identity and perceptions of identity as commodities that grant or deny resources. These resources include self-worth, visibility, and better (more targeted) educational and employment opportunities. This discourse moves us away from transforming society towards a neoliberal discourse that Ambikaipaker describes as “getting a bigger portion for ourselves” (2018, p. 183). In short, this discourse encouraged debates centered on emerging identity politics and a cultural preoccupation with individual selfhood, intricately intertwined with the social and economic conditions of capital, prompting a recognition of calls for “ What about me ?” Consequently, this attractive neoliberal framing of multiculturalism inevitably contributed to abandoning Black, and a shift towards the term BME or “Black and Minority Ethnic” which first made its appearance in 1987. Indeed, in 1988, the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) decided to cease its recommendation that the ethnic monitoring category Black encompass Asians. This directly influenced the Population Census in 1991, where Britons were first presented with a question on ethnicity, which included four main categories: White, Black, Asian, and any other race or ethnic group. The eventual transition from BME to BAME followed shortly after in the early 2000s.

BAME and the current moment

While there is an abundance of scholarly work utilizing BAME, it is noteworthy that there is a lack of research specifically examining how these texts employ the terminology and its significance in discourses that surround British race relations. It has most often been used by academics to either align their research with government policy or because the label is largely recognized by the target audience of the publishing journal (see also, Howells et al., 2018 ). Equally, some scholars, such as Opara et al. (2020) , choose to adopt BAME due to personal preferences over substitute umbrella terms, including visible minorities or people of color. Quite simply, this lack of engagement with the term BAME has also meant there is a lack of clarity on how the wider British public responds to such positioning. Altogether, these literature gaps make it difficult to understand the wider socio-political debate around naming minority ethnic groups, as well as the political and economic motivations behind CRED’s recommendation. This is particularly noteworthy when we consider the different dimensions of naming and dialectic tensions between how individual communities, grassroots activists, and/or media and formal governmental institutions utilize racial terminology.

Nevertheless, the symmetry between the discourse concerning Political Blackness and BAME suggests that the wider issues of naming are not problems that can just disappear. Rather unsettling critiques of naming require thorough engagement with those whose lives are both produced and reduced by such a terminology. With the hope, then, to not repeat our past debates under slightly different names, this present research seeks to outline what BAME means for British activists as a means to build forward a new path for future literature concerning racial and ethnic identities in Britain.

The key question addressed by this article seeks to understand how activists position and work with the discursive category of BAME and what the construction of this discursive category signifies for the naming of minority ethnic groups in Britain. Drawing from Robinson’s (2014) comprehensive guide on sampling in qualitative research, I established criteria for my interviewee selection based on my research question’s focus, which was inclusive of individuals over 18 residing in England and affiliated with activist organizations. 2

I employed LinkedIn advertisements for participant recruitment in my study, aligning with established practices in research ( Bhutta, 2012 ; Ritchie et al., 2014 ). Certainly, in leveraging the flexibility offered through social media, I was able to share my research materials more widely for over a two-month period. These materials explicitly communicated my affiliation with the BAME community and articulated the research’s objective: to explore individuals’ perceptions of the term “BAME,” its historical significance, and their aspirations of naming ethnic minority groups in the British context. Initially, eight individuals responded to the calls, and the remaining participants were recruited through snowball sampling. The choice to interview only 10 activists stemmed from constraints in time, budget, and resources. Additionally, the decision aimed to strike a balance by prioritizing depth over breadth, allowing for a detailed exploration of participants’ experiences, perceptions, and motivations. The interviewing lengths varied from 48 minutes to 80 minutes, with interview details shown in Table 1 .

Interviewee information and interview details

Coding framework, reflexivity & analysis

My intention for analysis is not to present a homogenous or authentic voice for activists because I maintain that no such voice exists. However, in accordance with Fereday and Muir-Cochrane (2006) , thematic analysis unearths themes prominent in interviewees’ accounts that capture their experiences and perceptions of the social world. The recognition of such themes distinguished my categories for analysis.

In total, I produced 11 interpretive codes: defining BAME, accountability, alternatives to BAME, the year 2020, experiences of racism, gender, religion, class, what type of society do we want to live in, present future classification, and acceptance. While this coding process involved several iterations, the stages of thematic analysis enabled recurrent and distinctive features of interviewees’ accounts to be understood and compared. These features highlighted what interviewees had in common as well as where they diverged and meaningfully contributed to developing three overarching themes, which will be presented in the next section of this article.

Pausing briefly, I would like to draw attention to the fact that qualitative researchers have different philosophical approaches to understanding how meaning is created. Traditionally, interviews have been seen as one-sided, with the interviewer gathering information from the interviewee who is seen as the unilateral source of facts ( Holstein & Gubrium, 1995 ). However, this view oversimplifies the interview process as a mere source of knowledge. Many researchers, especially feminists, criticize the idea of value-free and objective interviewing ( Ellis & Berger, 2003 ). They argue that researchers should recognize their personal, political, and professional biases that influence the meaning-making process. Thus, amongst these different epistemological contentions, I follow a philosophical position broadly in line with contextualism ( King et al., 2019 ). I have chosen this approach due to the emphasis placed on the role of reflexivity. The recognition of my position is crucial to underscore how my background may influence responses elicited by my interviewees. This background may also affect how I interpret responses. Moreover, my positionality must also be considered in parallel with the positions of the activists I interview. As Blee (2013) notes in her paper “Interviewing Activists,” it is almost inevitable that researchers will have some opinion about the value or assessment of political work in which activist interviewees are implicated. As such, these political and moral judgments needed to be considered within the interviewing process as well as in the development of my codes and discussion. This was particularly noticeable when, for instance, in two of my interviews, the interviewees positioned me within their responses, stating: “You know how it is as an Indian.” To some degree, my background as a British Indian implicates me as an insider in the community being researched ( Adler & Adler, 1987 ). The recognition of this position underscores how identity may influence responses elicited by interviewees. In order to omit any judgment in my responses, so my interviewees could express their thoughts clearly without damaging the rapport or flow of the conversation, I relied on reflexivity. Specifically, by keeping a research journal I recorded the dates and times of interviews, a summary of the discussion and my reflections on certain responses, as well as brief notes of what was occurring socially and politically. This level of detail was crucial given the liveliness of public debate on my research topic.

Furthermore, discussions on race and belonging produce different outcomes and illustrate how racism is not felt equally, nor is it recognized uniformly by all those who experience it. Instead, these discourses communicate the sociality of racialization as a process. Therefore employing reflexivity within all stages of the methodological process ensures that such nuances are captured and showcases the interview as a methodological space where subject positions are constantly being negotiated.

What BAME actually means

I began each interview by discussing the activists’ identities, which extended to the affiliations of the organizations they represented, and how they defined the term BAME. In accordance with GOV.UK (2018), BAME provides cover to Black and Asian minority ethnic groups in Britain and excludes Mixed, Other, and White ethnic minority groups. However, among my interviewees, there was confusion and disagreement regarding its definition. Some saw BAME as a term for non-White individuals, while others considered it as an umbrella term for all minority ethnic backgrounds in Britain. The only point of agreement was the inclusion of individuals from mixed backgrounds.

I am a woman of color, but I also benefit from light-skinned privilege, and I'm also White assumed a lot (…) I used White assumed because it’s quite complex for people to ascribe you as White passing when you don't feel in your heart that you are. (P8)

Like I'm white, my dad and brother aren’t. We’re a family that came out in different shades (…) and actually I could walk around and unless they knew who my brother and dad were, and what my heritage was, I would get away with it. I could pass (…) (P10)

P10’s notion of passing draws on the privileges of colorism. At its simplest, colorism involves a prejudiced preference for lighter skin tones. It is a form of bias that has created a global market for skin-lightening, currently valued at US$8bn with projections for growth of US$13.7bn by 2025 ( CNN, 2022 ). This evaluation is predicated on the belief that light skin is awarded larger material wealth, class, and prospects of matrimony in comparison to those with darker shades. In some ways, this discourse corresponds with French Sociologist Bourdieu’s (1997) notion of symbolic capital, whereby the aesthetics of the body informs a practice of commoditization that is associated with value as well as perceived and constructed identity. If we develop this further, we may see colorism as a manifestation of racism and racialization that complicates our relationship with BAME. Therefore, how we position BAME and who it captures becomes a somewhat different story when discussing color.

Accountability, but for whom?

To speak of a BAME community within the nation state is to speak metaphorically. Somewhat inevitably, most individuals of a BAME background are strangers to one another. But even if we can't agree on what or who BAME stands for, many people will share a rough idea of what is distinctive about BAME from the national (normatively White) character. This point proved particularly salient when uncovering the value of BAME.

Indeed, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly highlights the popularity and perception of BAME, as evidenced by its search trends on Google. During this period, we also see the British Government publicly stating that being from a BAME background was a risk factor for COVID-19 ( BBC News, 2020 ). Despite numerous reports circulating within the British academic and public sphere that substantiate findings of institutional racism, this counterviewpoint persists. In fact, in reference to these reports, a rather topical example was raised by P5, who is an advocate of anti-racism within education. Reciting an investigative story first broken by the British newspaper The Guardian , P5 grievously details how in 1968, the Queen’s advisers, including her chief financial manager, had informed civil servants that it was not a part of their correct practice to appoint “colored immigrants” to clerical roles within the royal household: “That was based not on merit, that was based on the color of your skin” (P5).

As discussed, CRT scholars argue racism is so deeply ingrained in society that its existence is often denied, unless it manifests in extreme acts ( Bonilla-Silva, 2003 ). This narrow definition of racism overlooks the pervasive effects of structural and institutional racism. An example of such consequences is highlighted by P5, whose father faced challenges in having his educational qualifications recognized in the UK when he immigrated in the late 1960s. This kind of racism not only affects self-esteem and self-worth but also alters career paths, as P5 continues: “My dad ended up working in the factories for 30 years, never being a teacher. We have similar issues now. So, people coming from various countries, their qualifications are not recognized. Now, they’re not on merit, these are political decisions.” Such findings are not uncommon even now ( Institute for Fiscal Studies, 2022 ).

Similarly reflecting on this, P1, a former advocate at an anti-racist think tank and current worker in diversity and inclusion in higher education, emphasizes the disparities in economic activity, social networks, unemployment rates, wage rates, and healthcare benefits between White individuals and minority ethnic individuals: “And there’s evidence to suggest that, if you’re from a minority ethnic minority group, sometimes, like you know, you won't be recruited as much, you won't be shortlisted and things like that” (P1).

“Adam gets called to interview three times more than Mohammed and gets asked by recruitment agencies twice as much. All over one simple thing, the name Adam” (P9) “If you’re a white person whose surname is Watson, you’re applying for a job and thinking, is it good enough, did I get my grammar correct, are they hiring, do they have enough spaces? You’re not thinking, oh, are they even going to look at it because my name is Mohammad!” (P6)

You know the murder of George Floyd (…) that was part of a continuum of the racism and the brutality against the Black community. (P9) It’s not BAME, we’re talking about Black people. (P6)

However, a crucial difference between discourses of the 1980s and our present moment is the activist origins that distinguish Black and BAME. Similar to the inception of Political Blackness, it’s undeniable that the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement holds significant power. Its conceptual positioning has proven to be valuable in theoretical, political, and ideological terms. As a movement, it carries a deeply grassroots-led political impetus that strengthens the call for racial justice ( Lowery, 2016 ). As activists P7 and P8, who focus on educational research and decolonization in higher education, respectively, point out, BAME is widely seen as a state-sanctioned label: Indeed, in other words, P8 notes “The term BAME, was never designed to have that kind of political force. The term BAME is a monitoring term (…) it was a state term.”

Relatedly, P8 details the internal politics of activism and the terms they use depending on the audience: “Now I don't view people of color as being a particular political term, but there are a lot of people who do view it that way. And so, if I'm in a certain room I might use BAME on purpose to try and endear that person to me so that they won't think of me as a radical in the same way.” Consequently, the association of BAME with the state influences my interviewees’ day-to-day activism, leading many to express great apathy towards it. The gap between grassroots community activism and institutional grassroots activism, then, is evidenced by the rejection of BAME as an identity. As P1 colorfully asserts, “I’ve never heard anyone run around saying I’m BAME, I’m BAME, I’m BAME”—the identity of BAME is not conceived at the individual level.

While the significance of BAME diminishes when speaking of the practicalities of day-to-day activism, it is essential to note that all but three of my interviewees expressed a reluctance to dispense with the term altogether. Many interviewees also pointed out that relying solely on individual ethnic groups would create similar problems by obscuring some details and emphasizing others, with P7 noting that “if you only look to individual ethnic groups, you'd also lose something of the bigger picture of racialization in our society.”

Crucially, the point is not to take rigid sides between individual ethnic identities and umbrella terms. Instead, we need to understand where terms such as BAME are seen as a valuable tool for connecting and providing accountability for wider racialized institutional and structural failures.

What type of society do we want to live in?

From Politically Black to BAME, the evolution of umbrella terms reveals how individuals are positioned and repositioned by local circumstances, changing migration patterns, new experiences of racism, generational shifts, and unstable geopolitical conditions. Thus, to articulate the future trajectory of naming ethnic minorities in Britain, I concluded all my interviews by asking my interviewees to describe their hopes for our future society. The analysis of the responses proved engaging and thought-provoking from the outset. The narratives were a blend of humor, moments of sadness, and occasional contradictions. But overall, the accounts generated tended to be predominantly optimistic.

Specifically, this question prompted answers that naturally gravitated towards two main theoretical and conceptual frames: the first of which continued a discourse on a post-racial Britain. P3 articulates that amongst this discourse, he hopes that “knowledge of the different strands of diversity are commonplace, so we don't need an organization like ours to have to explain to people what it means to be a Black person or an Asian person in the community.” Sensing the sadness underlying this sentiment, these accounts insisted on a layering of traditional multicultural understanding of differences, whereby diversity is celebrated and recognized; but the overall category of race remains benign, in that it does not limit an individual’s access to opportunities or project feelings of othering and extreme violence.

I think at the moment, a lot of White people, and some people of color as well, are very keen on the idea of a diverse and inclusive society. I'm interested in equity, justice, decolonization, and reparations (…) a world where the truth about our history is taught in schools and universities. And there’s a free exchange of ideas and forms of knowledge production between different countries across the world. (P8)

As P8 continues, “deconstructing whiteness and deconstructing how Western viewpoints and Western structures, etc., have governed the way that we learn, the way that people are perceived, the way that we’re kind of rewarded for things or even criticized for others.” Rather, against our current normative view of history, we divide our complex world into such simple dichotomies of good and bad, that privilege those who have had certain affordances, such as their race or Whiteness. It is within such a simple understanding that we may uncover the spatial and time-bound layers of meaning behind history that contribute to our present understanding of progress, representation, and world-making. Under this narrative, it is fundamental that we bridge the gaps between finding the meaning of memory and doing/living memory. In short, and quite crucially, despite these distinctive responses, there was an overwhelming agreement, that in any of these futures, there would remain some form of umbrella term for minority ethnic groups at a grassroots and institutional level.

At its simplest, then, umbrella terms can offer a sense of familiarity, acceptance, and shared heritage that many, quite reasonably, would be unwilling to dispose of. However, what this ideal umbrella term would look like and how it would operate and interact with systems of capitalism and normative Whiteness remained unimagined. Perhaps, so much so, to suggest that the ideal terminology does not matter as much as grasping the negotiated and often contested conditions that reproduce race and racism in Britain.

The motivation for this research stemmed from the very sobering conclusions from the COVID-19 pandemic; indeed, the year 2021 brought about a very rare instance where both BAME and BAME communities have been thrust into the spotlight of our public sphere. Consequently, unpacking the effects of this discourse has been at the heart of this article.

Yet equally this is not the first time we have encountered this debate, with a historical consideration towards the term Black and Political Blackness, we can see the symmetry between the two discussions that ultimately led us to BAME. Quite notably, then my findings suggest the need for greater attention and openness toward discussing the discourse of colorism to fully understand British race and race relations. Equally, my interviewees emphasized that while the political impetus of BAME may be weaker than other terms like BLM, the primary value of BAME lies in its ability to draw attention to the unconscious or subconscious systemic disparities that exist within our society. Indeed, the purpose of BAME positions structural failings against the larger national picture: thus, accountability, not personal identity, is its raison d'être .

Taken together, the narrating of what we call ourselves now, or what umbrella term we choose to call ourselves next, is not the end but only a means to an end. Accordingly, future theorizing should emphasize the need to construct race and racism in the plural, recognizing that any future naming of minority ethnic groups must be explained alongside structures of Whiteness. Discussing terms like BAME under this more complex, structural lens would move us away from a zero-sum, binary approach. This would also underscore the social construction of naming, with the hope that we address new frameworks for looking at systemic issues that lay underneath terms such as BAME, rather than reissue them under slightly different names. Ultimately, this article attempts to contribute to this hope.

Funding support for this article was provided by the This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

The participants of this study did not give written consent for their data to be shared publicly, so due to the sensitive nature of the research supporting data is not available.

Conflict of interest : None declared.

I consciously use the terms “nigger hunting” and “Paki bashing” in their entirety to appropriately reflect the evolution of social attitudes towards race. In an effort to support critical thinking, our language and how it has (and is) evoked to communicate racism is crucial to understand and reflect on if we are to overcome practices that maintain racism.

While the definition of who is an activist and what counts as activism is far-reaching and not universally agreed upon in contemporary social science debates, I have included individuals from think-tanks, charities, networks, and support groups within my sampling frame.

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Computer Science > Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition

Title: a general framework for jersey number recognition in sports video.

Abstract: Jersey number recognition is an important task in sports video analysis, partly due to its importance for long-term player tracking. It can be viewed as a variant of scene text recognition. However, there is a lack of published attempts to apply scene text recognition models on jersey number data. Here we introduce a novel public jersey number recognition dataset for hockey and study how scene text recognition methods can be adapted to this problem. We address issues of occlusions and assess the degree to which training on one sport (hockey) can be generalized to another (soccer). For the latter, we also consider how jersey number recognition at the single-image level can be aggregated across frames to yield tracklet-level jersey number labels. We demonstrate high performance on image- and tracklet-level tasks, achieving 91.4% accuracy for hockey images and 87.4% for soccer tracklets. Code, models, and data are available at this https URL .

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Georgia political party advisory questions (may 2024).

The Republican Party and Democratic Party placed nonbinding advisory questions on the May 21, 2024, statewide primary ballots. Republican ballots featured eight questions , and Democratic ballots featured eight questions . [1] [2]

The Democratic and Republican primaries were open , meaning all voters were able to vote in the election.

Click here to learn more about Georgia's elections in 2024.

• 1.1 What is an advisory question?
• 2.1 Question 1
• 2.2 Question 2
• 2.3 Question 3
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• 2.6 Question 6
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• 3.1 Question 1
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An advisory question is a type of ballot measure in which citizens vote on a non-binding question. The largest difference between an advisory vote and any other type of ballot measure is that the outcome of the ballot question will not result in a new, changed, or rejected law or constitutional amendment. Rather, the advisory question symbolically makes heard the general opinion of the voting population in regard to the issue at hand. Political parties place nonbinding questions on ballots to gauge voters' priorities.

Republican Party questions

The Georgia Republican Party placed eight nonbinding propositions on the May 21 statewide primary ballot. [3]

Question 1 was as follows: [2]

Question 2 was as follows: [2]

Question 3 was as follows: [2]

Question 4 was as follows: [2]

Question 5 was as follows: [2]

Question 6 was as follows: [2]

Question 7 was as follows: [2]

Question 8 was as follows: [2]

Democratic Party questions

The Georgia Democratic Party placed eight nonbinding propositions on the May 21 statewide primary ballot. [1]

Question 1 was as follows: [1]

Question 2 was as follows: [1]

Question 3 was as follows: [1]

Question 4 was as follows: [1]

Question 5 was as follows: [1]

Question 6 was as follows: [1]

Question 7 was as follows: [1]

Question 8 was as follows: [1]

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• ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 DeKalb County, Georgia , "Official Democratic sample ballots," accessed May 10, 2024
• ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 11 Alive , "How to decode the partisan advisory questions on Georgia primary ballots," accessed May 10, 2024
• ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named text
• ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.15 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
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