In the process of creating a research paper, it is not necessary to execute the following steps in the given order. One may change the order. The first step is to choose an interesting topic on which enough information can be found. The next step is to gather information from sources such as books, magazines, encyclopedias, newspapers, almanacs, journals and others. CD-ROMS and internet can also be referred to.

The next step is making bibliography cards for sources of information. Then make notes from each source of information on note cards which should be numbered. Then make an outline of the research paper. Divide the notes made into these sections- topic, subtopic, detail and sub detail. The next step involves writing a rough draft with the help of notes and outline. Write introduction and conclusion. Then, revise this draft, making necessary changes while checking the spelling, punctuation and grammar.

When the research paper is finished, list the sources referred to in an alphabetical order. Help of bibliography cards can be taken for this. The next step is to make a title page of the research paper including the title, name and the due date of the paper. The second page is that of table of contents and should include the main topics and subtopics and the page numbers of each of these.

The final step is the final checking of important aspects of the paper. This involves checking the following points – title page, table of contents; correct numbering of pages, footnotes for quotations, source of information, bibliography. Also make sure to keep a copy of files. Evaluate your work.