Tips on Preparing Term Papers

1. Do not use MS Word to edit your HTML document.  Much of the formatting does not properly transfer to the online document.  Use Netscape or Frontpage.
2. No plagiarism.  Copying an entire paper is clearly plagiarism.  However, you should not even copy a single sentence word for word from one of your sources unless you clearly indicate that it is a direct quote.  Be sure to use your own words.
3. Keep the text and explanations simple.  Use a natural narrative style.  Don't try to artificially alter your language.  The best term papers are the ones which flow well and are easy to read.
4. Spell out all acronyms at least once.  Do not overuse acronyms.  If you are going to write an expression over and over again, you may want to use an acronym.  Otherwise, spell it out each time.
5. Define new terms and key words.
6. Don't present a figure, table, or equation without explaining the significance in the text.
7. Make sure the headings levels are clear.  I suggest you use the predefined heading styles in the word processor or web-authoring tool you are using.
8. Do a spell check.
9. Have someone proofread your paper.  You may wish to use the free editing/consulting services provided by the English department.
10. Make sure the flow of your paper is logical and easy to follow.  Don't just include random facts in a haphazard manner.
11. Use good quality graphics.
12. Follow required format carefully (#words, formatting, etc.).
13. Use a good introduction and transitions so that the reader know where you are heading.
14. Use the ASCE style for references.  List the references at the end of your paper by order of the last name of the author.  When noting a reference in the text, list the author's last name and the year of publication.  Ex. (Jones, 1995).
15. When using references to books which are actually a compilation of articles written by different authors (like our text), be sure to give proper credit to the author of the article.  Do not list the editor as the author.
16. Do not put two headings next to each other in the text.  Put at least a short introductory paragraph after the first heading.
17. Do not overuse quotes even if they are properly attributed.  Don't use more than two or three quotes max.  I have seen papers in the past that were simply a sequence of quotes inserted from other papers with a little text in between.  This is a lazy writing style and I do not like it.
18. Put your name on your paper (yes, you would be amazed how many I get with no name).  Even if it is online, put your name on it.
19. Don't get carried away with your abstract.  It is supposed to be a short summary of the paper that is entirely independent of the introduction.  Do not assume that the abstract eliminates the need for an introduction.  And by all means, do not put figures and references in the abstract.
20. Keep your conclusions concise and to the point.