How to Write a Paper: Five Steps to Writing a Theological or Literary Research Paper

Andy Naselli gives advice about how to write a paper. He breaks down the paper-writing process into five steps:

1. Understand the assignment. Know where you are trying to go before you start the journey.
2. Plan ahead. Prepare far in advance so that you complete your research paper well before the deadline.
3. Choose your approach. Prove a thesis (deductive), or explore a problem (inductive).
4. Research and write. Draft the paper.
5. Revise. Polish the cannonball.

Step 4 is the big one, so most of the book explains the research-and-write stage. It has six interconnected components:

• Research. Systematically investigate the evidence to establish facts and conclusions.
• Organize the paper. Build a skeleton you can put flesh on.
• Develop a coherent argument. Sharpen your reasoning.
• Interact with contrary views. Present and respond to the strongest opposing arguments.
• Write clearly and concisely. Omit needless words.
• Use proper grammar, syntax, and format. Remove distractions by mastering the mechanics.

Appendices address plagiarism, artificial intelligence, grading, and productivity.

Andy Naselli (PhD, Bob Jones University; PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is Professor of Systematic Theology and New Testament for Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis and lead pastor of Christ the King Church in Stillwater, Minnesota. Andy and his wife, Jenni, have been married since 2004, and God has blessed them with four daughters.