INTRODUCTION

• Introduce the setting--provide a brief discussion of the issue at hand
• Introduce the author, book, film...
• End with a clear & concise THESIS
  ~What you are going to argue in your paper
  Should address the question(s) asked
  Should explain the themes of your argument
  Do not say that you "will address" why this book is good. . .rather, explain why it is good--note those themes/reasons in your thesis.

 BODY

• Begin with TOPIC SENTENCE
    1. Transition telling the reader where you are going.
    2. Develops your thesis.
    3. Inform the reader what you are going to develop in the paragraph. 
• Remainder of paragraph simply develops your topic sentence
    Do not overuse quotes--only quote when you cannot put it into our own words.
    Do not change topics in the middle of your paragraph

CONCLUSION
Can use a number of devices
  Summarize/restate points made
  Emphasize the importance of the points made
  Note the consequens of the points made
  Do not introduce new information or new arguments
    

GENERAL SUGGESTIONS:
Avoid use of 1st ("I", "we", "our") and 2nd ("you") person unless in quotes

Avoid contractions--spell out words

Try to avoid passive voice
  Instead of "Kennedy was assassinated by Oswald..."
  Use Oswald assassinated Kennedy"

see: http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/passivevoice.html

If a quote is longer than 3 lines, put into block form:
  Indent, single space, no quotation marks

Spell out numbers 100 or less

Maintain consistent verb tense throughout paper

Be consistent in capitalization and style throughout paper
   If you choose to use one form of a word, use that same form throughout

Try to vary terms--do not overuse the same word(s)

Avoid phrases such as "I believe" or '" feel"--these are unnecessary

When mentioning a person the first time, use full name

After a person has been introduced, use last name

When using abbreviations, spell out words first

"when the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) passed. . ."

The Writing Center, located in Neville 206, has tutors who will work with you at any point as you write your paper. Make an appointment online. Their Web site has a section on writing resources.

Suggestions for Writing History Papers: Anita Gustafson

Guides to Writing at Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College Writing Center Home Page

Writing Resources

Guide to History Research Papers by Michael Nelson