Research Papers: A Practical Guide

Research Papers teaches essential research skills through engaging topics, interesting readings, and practical exercises. The book demystifies the research process with careful guidance and directed activities on topics of genuine interest, paying particular attention to common student troublespots. The text includes extensive instruction on electronic resources, clear explanations of MLA, APA, and CBE methods of citation, and a complete sample research paper using MLA documentation.

Each chapter leads students through one or more progressive steps in the process of writing research papers. To provide context for the exercises and avenues of potential inquiry, the book requires students to explore fascinating topics such as the Lizzie Borden murder case, the Titanic disaster, slave narratives by Frederick Douglass and Harriet Jacobs, and Edith Wharton's trip to a Morocco harem.