• Identify and stick to the topic. If you have an open ended topic, brainstorm or make an outline.
  
  
• Know your audience.
  
  
• Use the library, especially the reference section. If you can't get to the library, use the library resources online (http://www.lib.msu.edu).
  
  
• When copying work from a book at the library, also copy the title page and the following page so you can cite your source.
  
  
• Organize your research--highlight or underline key points. Use tabs.
  
  
• Identify which resource citing style your professor prefers (i.e., MLA, APA, etc.).
  
  
• Refer to Academic Integrity (http://www.msu.edu/unit/ombud/plagiarism.html) to make sure you are not plagiarizing.
  
  
• Know how long the paper has to be.

• Have a thesis (one to two sentences).
  
  
• Make an outline, even if it is general, to map out your paper.
  
  
• If you have difficulty writing your first paragraph/introduction, save it until the end.
  
  
• Don't procrastinate--do a little at a time.
  
  
• Don't over-quote (i.e., too much quoting appears as though you don't have your own thoughts or opinions).
  
  
• After you write your first draft, take some time away from your paper before rereading it.
  
  
• Use the Grammar and Usage Hotline (517/432-3610) and the Writing Center (http://writing.msu.edu) as resources.
  
  
• Be consistent about tenses, unusual capitalization, and punctuation.
  
  
• Use punctuation properly.
  
  
• Save it as you go. Save to multiple locations (i.e., hard drive and disc).
  
  
• Print out a hard copy of your paper when you stop writing for the day.
  
  
• The beginning of your conclusion should mirror your thesis.
  
  
• If you want a catchy title, wait until your paper is fully written to create one.
  
  
• Use spell check.
  
  
• Read the paper out loud to correct any awkward wording or incorrect word usage (i.e., where or wear, etc.).
  
  
• Don't use font sizes, margins, or line spacing to make your paper longer.
  
  
• Have someone you trust read your paper before handing it in.
  
  
• If a professor or TA offers to read papers early for feedback, take advantage of the opportunity.
  
  
• Number your pages.
  
  
• Always print two copies of your paper (one to turn in and one to keep for yourself).
  
  
• Reread your paper often to keep your mind on track.