Research and Writing in International Relations

This brief supplemental text provides the basic step-by-step process and essential resources that are needed to compose political science papers that go beyond simple description and into more systematic and sophisticated inquiry.

This research guide focuses on the key areas where students need the most help—finding a topic, developing a question, reviewing the literature, designing research, analyzing findings, and last, actually writing the paper. It includes detailed guidance on starting research in four specific fields—international conflict, foreign policy, international organization, and international political economy—as well as a refresher on organizing notes, citing sources, and following style guidelines. Designed for use in either introductory or advanced courses, Research and Writing in International Relations offers a classroom-tested approach that will lead to better research and better writing.

Sharon Spray is Associate Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies at Elon University and teaches courses on global environmental challenges and international environmental policy.