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Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

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Definition:

Term paper is a type of academic writing assignment that is typically assigned to students at the end of a semester or term. It is usually a research-based paper that is meant to demonstrate the student’s understanding of a particular topic, as well as their ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources.

Term papers are usually longer than other types of academic writing assignments and can range anywhere from 5 to 20 pages or more, depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the assignment. They often require extensive research and the use of a variety of sources, including books, articles, and other academic publications.

Term Paper Format

The format of a term paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of your professor or institution. However, a typical term paper usually consists of the following sections:

• Title page: This should include the title of your paper, your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and the date.
• Abstract : This is a brief summary of your paper, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of your topic, the research question or hypothesis, your methodology, and your main findings or conclusions.
• Introduction : This section should introduce your topic and provide background information on the subject. You should also state your research question or hypothesis and explain the importance of your research.
• Literature review : This section should review the existing literature on your topic. You should summarize the key findings and arguments made by other scholars and identify any gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
• Methodology: This section should describe the methods you used to collect and analyze your data. You should explain your research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
• Results : This section should present your findings. You can use tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate your data.
• Discussion : This section should interpret your findings and explain what they mean in relation to your research question or hypothesis. You should also discuss any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research.
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your main findings and conclusions. You should also restate the importance of your research and its implications for the field.
• References : This section should list all the sources you cited in your paper using a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Appendices : This section should include any additional materials that are relevant to your study but not essential to your main argument (e.g., survey questions, interview transcripts).

Structure of Term Paper

Here’s an example structure for a term paper:

I. Introduction

A. Background information on the topic

B. Thesis statement

II. Literature Review

A. Overview of current literature on the topic

B. Discussion of key themes and findings from literature

C. Identification of gaps in current literature

III. Methodology

A. Description of research design

B. Discussion of data collection methods

C. Explanation of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

A. Presentation of findings

B. Analysis and interpretation of results

C. Comparison of results with previous studies

V. Discussion

A. Summary of key findings

B. Explanation of how results address the research questions

C. Implications of results for the field

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

B. Significance of findings

C. Future directions for research

VII. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

How to Write Term Paper

Here are some steps to help you write a term paper:

• Choose a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your course. If your professor has assigned a topic, make sure you understand it and clarify any doubts before you start.
• Research : Conduct research on your topic by gathering information from various sources such as books, academic journals, and online resources. Take notes and organize your information systematically.
• Create an outline : Create an outline of your term paper by arranging your ideas and information in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write a thesis statement: Write a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea of your paper. Your thesis statement should be included in your introduction.
• Write the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention, provide background information on your topic, and introduce your thesis statement.
• Write the body : The body of your paper should provide supporting evidence for your thesis statement. Use your research to provide details and examples to support your argument. Make sure to organize your ideas logically and use transition words to connect paragraphs.
• Write the conclusion : The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread your term paper carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format and cite your sources: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your professor and cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style.
• Submit your paper : Submit your paper on time and according to the instructions provided by your professor.

Term Paper Example

Here’s an example of a term paper:

Title : The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Traditional security measures are no longer enough to protect against these threats. This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, including how AI can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, the challenges of implementing AI in cybersecurity, and the potential ethical implications of AI-powered security systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their cybersecurity strategies.

Introduction :

The increasing number of cybersecurity threats in recent years has led to a growing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity. AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. Additionally, AI can automate responses to threats, allowing for faster and more effective mitigation of security incidents. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for large amounts of high-quality data, the potential for AI systems to make mistakes, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in security.

Literature Review:

This section of the paper reviews existing research on the use of AI in cybersecurity. It begins by discussing the types of AI techniques used in cybersecurity, including machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. The literature review then explores the advantages of using AI in cybersecurity, such as its ability to detect previously unknown threats and its potential to reduce the workload of security analysts. However, the review also highlights some of the challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for high-quality training data and the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks.

Methodology :

To better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with using AI in cybersecurity, this paper conducted a survey of cybersecurity professionals working in a variety of industries. The survey included questions about the types of AI techniques used in their organizations, the challenges they faced when implementing AI in cybersecurity, and their perceptions of the ethical implications of using AI in security.

The results of the survey showed that while many organizations are interested in using AI in cybersecurity, they face several challenges when implementing these systems. These challenges include the need for high-quality training data, the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks, and the difficulty of integrating AI with existing security systems. Additionally, many respondents expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in security, such as the potential for AI to be biased or to make decisions that are harmful to individuals or society as a whole.

Discussion :

Based on the results of the survey and the existing literature, this paper discusses the potential benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity. It also provides recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their security strategies, such as the need to prioritize data quality and to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable.

Conclusion :

While there are challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, the potential benefits of using these systems are significant. AI can help organizations detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of security breaches. However, it is important for organizations to be aware of the potential ethical implications of using AI in security and to take steps to ensure that these systems are transparent and accountable.

References:

• Alkhaldi, S., Al-Daraiseh, A., & Lutfiyya, H. (2019). A Survey on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Cyber Security. Journal of Information Security, 10(03), 191-207.
• Gartner. (2019). Gartner Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/gartner-top-10-strategic-technology-trends-for-2020/
• Kshetri, N. (2018). Blockchain’s roles in meeting key supply chain management objectives. International Journal of Information Management, 39, 80-89.
• Lipton, Z. C. (2018). The mythos of model interpretability. arXiv preprint arXiv:1606.03490.
• Schneier, B. (2019). Click Here to Kill Everybody: Security and Survival in a Hyper-Connected World. WW Norton & Company.
• Wahab, M. A., Rahman, M. S., & Islam, M. R. (2020). A Survey on AI Techniques in Cybersecurity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(2), 22-27.

When to Write Term Paper

A term paper is usually a lengthy research paper that is assigned to students at the end of a term or semester. There are several situations when writing a term paper may be required, including:

• As a course requirement: In most cases, a term paper is required as part of the coursework for a particular course. It may be assigned by the instructor as a way of assessing the student’s understanding of the course material.
• To explore a specific topic : A term paper can be an excellent opportunity for students to explore a specific topic of interest in-depth. It allows them to conduct extensive research on the topic and develop their understanding of it.
• To develop critical thinking skills : Writing a term paper requires students to engage in critical thinking and analysis. It helps them to develop their ability to evaluate and interpret information, as well as to present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
• To prepare for future academic or professional pursuits: Writing a term paper can be an excellent way for students to prepare for future academic or professional pursuits. It can help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary for success in higher education or in a professional career.

Purpose of Term Paper

The main purposes of a term paper are:

• Demonstrate mastery of a subject: A term paper provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. It requires students to research and analyze the topic, and then present their findings in a clear and organized manner.
• Develop critical thinking skills: Writing a term paper requires students to think critically about their subject matter, analyzing various sources and viewpoints, and evaluating evidence to support their arguments.
• Improve writing skills : Writing a term paper helps students improve their writing skills, including organization, clarity, and coherence. It also requires them to follow specific formatting and citation guidelines, which can be valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
• Contribute to academic discourse : A well-written term paper can contribute to academic discourse by presenting new insights, ideas, and arguments that add to the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic.
• Prepare for future research : Writing a term paper can help prepare students for future research, by teaching them how to conduct a literature review, evaluate sources, and formulate research questions and hypotheses. It can also help them develop research skills that they can apply in future academic or professional endeavors.

Advantages of Term Paper

There are several advantages of writing a term paper, including:

• In-depth exploration: Writing a term paper allows you to delve deeper into a specific topic, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
• Improved writing skills: Writing a term paper involves extensive research, critical thinking, and the organization of ideas into a cohesive written document. As a result, writing a term paper can improve your writing skills significantly.
• Demonstration of knowledge: A well-written term paper demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, which can be beneficial for academic or professional purposes.
• Development of research skills : Writing a term paper requires conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and synthesizing information from various sources. This process can help you develop essential research skills that can be applied in many other areas.
• Enhancement of critical thinking : Writing a term paper encourages you to think critically, evaluate information, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills can be useful in many areas of life, including personal and professional decision-making.
• Preparation for further academic work : Writing a term paper is excellent preparation for more extensive academic projects, such as a thesis or dissertation.

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Everything You Need to Know to Write an A+ Term Paper

Last Updated: March 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Term Papers

Researching & outlining.

• Drafting Your Paper
• Revising Your Paper

Expert Q&A

This article was co-authored by Matthew Snipp, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . C. Matthew Snipp is the Burnet C. and Mildred Finley Wohlford Professor of Humanities and Sciences in the Department of Sociology at Stanford University. He is also the Director for the Institute for Research in the Social Science’s Secure Data Center. He has been a Research Fellow at the U.S. Bureau of the Census and a Fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences. He has published 3 books and over 70 articles and book chapters on demography, economic development, poverty and unemployment. He is also currently serving on the National Institute of Child Health and Development’s Population Science Subcommittee. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin—Madison. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,231,410 times.

A term paper is a written assignment given to students at the end of a course to gauge their understanding of the material. Term papers typically count for a good percentage of your overall grade, so of course, you’ll want to write the best paper possible. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to write an A+ term paper, from researching and outlining to drafting and revising.

Quick Steps to Write a Term Paper

• Hook your readers with an interesting and informative intro paragraph. State your thesis and your main points.
• Support your thesis by providing quotes and evidence that back your claim in your body paragraphs.
• Summarize your main points and leave your readers with a thought-provoking question in your conclusion.

• Think of your term paper as the bridge between what you’ve learned in class and how you apply that knowledge to real-world topics.
• For example, a history term paper may require you to explore the consequences of a significant historical event, like the Civil War. An environmental science class, on the other hand, may have you examine the effects of climate change on a certain region.
• Your guidelines should tell you the paper’s word count and formatting style, like whether to use in-text citations or footnotes and whether to use single- or double-spacing. If these things aren’t specified, be sure to reach out to your instructor.

• Make sure your topic isn’t too broad. For example, if you want to write about Shakespeare’s work, first narrow it down to a specific play, like Macbeth , then choose something even more specific like Lady Macbeth’s role in the plot.
• If the topic is already chosen for you, explore unique angles that can set your content and information apart from the more obvious approaches many others will probably take. [3] X Research source
• Try not to have a specific outcome in mind, as this will close you off to new ideas and avenues of thinking. Rather than trying to mold your research to fit your desired outcome, allow the outcome to reflect a genuine analysis of the discoveries you made. Ask yourself questions throughout the process and be open to having your beliefs challenged.
• Reading other people's comments, opinions, and entries on a topic can often help you to refine your own, especially where they comment that "further research" is required or where they posit challenging questions but leave them unanswered.

• For example, if you’re writing a term paper about Macbeth , your primary source would be the play itself. Then, look for other research papers and analyses written by academics and scholars to understand how they interpret the text.

• For example, if you’re writing a paper about Lady Macbeth, your thesis could be something like “Shakespeare’s characterization of Lady Macbeth reveals how desire for power can control someone’s life.”
• Remember, your research and thesis development doesn’t stop here. As you continue working through both the research and writing, you may want to make changes that align with the ideas forming in your mind and the discoveries you continue to unearth.
• On the other hand, don’t keep looking for new ideas and angles for fear of feeling confined. At some point, you’re going to have to say enough is enough and make your point. You may have other opportunities to explore these questions in future studies, but for now, remember your term paper has a finite word length and an approaching due date!

• Abstract: An abstract is a concise summary of your paper that informs readers of your topic, its significance, and the key points you’ll explore. It must stand on its own and make sense without referencing outside sources or your actual paper.
• Introduction: The introduction establishes the main idea of your paper and directly states the thesis. Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing sentence to intrigue your readers, and provide any necessary background information to establish your paper’s purpose and direction.
• Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on a different argument supporting your thesis. List specific evidence from your sources to back up your arguments. Provide detailed information about your topic to enhance your readers’ understanding. In your outline, write down the main ideas for each body paragraph and any outstanding questions or points you’re not yet sure about.
• Results: Depending on the type of term paper you’re writing, your results may be incorporated into your body paragraphs or conclusion. These are the insights that your research led you to. Here you can discuss how your perspective and understanding of your topic shifted throughout your writing process.
• Conclusion: Your conclusion summarizes your argument and findings. You may restate your thesis and major points as you wrap up your paper.

Drafting Your Term Paper

• Writing an introduction can be challenging, but don’t get too caught up on it. As you write the rest of your paper, your arguments might change and develop, so you’ll likely need to rewrite your intro at the end, anyway. Writing your intro is simply a means of getting started and you can always revise it later. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
• Be sure to define any words your readers might not understand. For example, words like “globalization” have many different meanings depending on context, and it’s important to state which ones you’ll be using as part of your introductory paragraph.

• Try to relate the subject of the essay (say, Plato’s Symposium ) to a tangentially related issue you happen to know something about (say, the growing trend of free-wheeling hookups in frat parties). Slowly bring the paragraph around to your actual subject and make a few generalizations about why this aspect of the book/subject is so fascinating and worthy of study (such as how different the expectations for physical intimacy were then compared to now).

• You can also reflect on your own experience of researching and writing your term paper. Discuss how your understanding of your topic evolved and any unexpected findings you came across.

• While peppering quotes throughout your text is a good way to help make your point, don’t overdo it. If you use too many quotes, you’re basically allowing other authors to make the point and write the paper for you. When you do use a quote, be sure to explain why it is relevant in your own words.
• Try to sort out your bibliography at the beginning of your writing process to avoid having a last-minute scramble. When you have all the information beforehand (like the source’s title, author, publication date, etc.), it’s easier to plug them into the correct format.

Revising & Finalizing Your Term Paper

• Trade in weak “to-be” verbs for stronger “action” verbs. For example: “I was writing my term paper” becomes “I wrote my term paper.”

• It’s extremely important to proofread your term paper. If your writing is full of mistakes, your instructor will assume you didn’t put much effort into your paper. If you have too many errors, your message will be lost in the confusion of trying to understand what you’ve written.

• If you add or change information to make things clearer for your readers, it’s a good idea to look over your paper one more time to catch any new typos that may have come up in the process.

• The best essays are like grass court tennis—the argument should flow in a "rally" style, building persuasively to the conclusion. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you get stuck, consider giving your professor a visit. Whether you're still struggling for a thesis or you want to go over your conclusion, most instructors are delighted to help and they'll remember your initiative when grading time rolls around. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• At least 2 hours for 3-5 pages.
• At least 4 hours for 8-10 pages.
• At least 6 hours for 12-15 pages.
• Double those hours if you haven't done any homework and you haven't attended class.
• For papers that are primarily research-based, add about two hours to those times (although you'll need to know how to research quickly and effectively, beyond the purview of this brief guide).

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• ↑ https://www.binghamton.edu/counseling/self-help/term-paper.html
• ↑ Matthew Snipp, PhD. Research Fellow, U.S. Bureau of the Census. Expert Interview. 26 March 2020.
• ↑ https://emory.libanswers.com/faq/44525
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/planresearchpaper/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/thesis_statement_tips.html
• ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/outline
• ↑ https://gallaudet.edu/student-success/tutorial-center/english-center/writing/guide-to-writing-introductions-and-conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26731827
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/
• ↑ https://www.ivcc.edu/stylesite/Essay_Title.pdf
• ↑ https://www.uni-flensburg.de/fileadmin/content/institute/anglistik/dokumente/downloads/how-to-write-a-term-paper-daewes.pdf
• ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185937
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

If you need to write a term paper, choose your topic, then start researching that topic. Use your research to craft a thesis statement which states the main idea of your paper, then organize all of your facts into an outline that supports your thesis. Once you start writing, state your thesis in the first paragraph, then use the body of the paper to present the points that support your argument. End the paper with a strong conclusion that restates your thesis. For tips on improving your term paper through active voice, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Term Paper

How to Write a Term Paper - Getting to the Basics

A term paper is generally structured with an opening introduction, followed by several body paragraphs, and culminates with a conclusion. It articulates a central thesis statement, bolstered by corroborative evidence and critical analysis. The writing is formal in nature, adheres to a designated formatting style like APA or MLA, and is complemented by accurate citations and a comprehensive bibliography.

Writing a term paper is a structured process that demands careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach to guide you:

• Understand the Assignment : Ensure you grasp the requirements, the topic's scope, and the deadline.
• Choose a Topic : Select a topic that is interesting to you and meets the assignment's criteria. It should be narrow enough to explore fully within the paper's constraints.
• Conduct Preliminary Research : Gather background information to further refine your topic, develop a thesis, and create a research question.
• Develop a Thesis Statement : This is the central argument or claim of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and arguable.
• Create an Outline : Organize your main points and supporting details into an outline. This will serve as a roadmap for your term paper.
• Conduct Detailed Research : Use credible sources to collect evidence and information that support your thesis. Take careful notes and keep track of your sources for citations.
• Write the Introduction : Start with a hook to grab the reader's interest, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
• Write the Body : Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence and analysis to back up each point.
• Write the Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate the thesis in the context of the evidence you provided. Discuss the implications of your findings or future directions for research.
• Revise and Edit : Look for any gaps in logic or content, check for clarity and flow, and ensure each part of the paper supports your thesis. Edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format Your Paper : Follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) for your discipline, and ensure your paper adheres to all formatting guidelines.
• Final Review : Give your paper a final read-through, checking for coherence, structure, and formatting.
• Submit : Turn in your paper by the deadline, and ensure you have a copy saved for your records.

You always hear the word “term paper,” and in the most basic sense, it is the paper that sums up everything you have learned in a term or semester. Think of it as the ‘gate pass’ for a checkpoint in a game: you need to secure one by finishing one important challenge.

As every game requires, that particular challenge is not similar to other challenges you have encountered. Thus, you must conserve every remaining energy and time to prepare for the challenge.

Going back to our topic, term papers require your knowledge, effort, and time. You can only produce a faultless and astounding term paper once you have mastered the fundamental things you will continuously see in every paper you will be crafting in the coming semesters.

Research-Based

In a term paper, you may not want to ditch your personal experiences or observations when integrating what you have learned in a single term or semester. Most of the time, integrating salient findings and concepts from literature and other scholarly sources may be required depending on the type of paper you are asked to write.

A topic, especially if it is purely theoretical or academic, may warrant you to do a literature review and background research. Fret not, though, as this blog will guide you through making your term paper a work of research.

Since a term paper is research-based, it is almost always impossible not to involve critical thinking and analysis on a certain topic. After all, the best way to discuss a topic, especially if it is complex, is to break it down into pieces. Once disassembled, you can evaluate the evidence, examine its validity, and draw reasoned conclusions based on your findings.

Thesis Statement

You might be able to equate a term paper to an essay. They seem to get along, especially with the structure and purpose of writing. However, you can never go wrong with formulating a good thesis statement for your term paper.

As it is more similar to a research paper, a term paper can be quite long, so having a good thesis statement reinstates the main argument or purpose of your writing. It guides the entire direction of your paper and helps your reader grasp its focus– no matter how long and winding his or her experience will be.

Logical Flow

We may love a fun, creative, and often chaotic way of writing, especially when reading a narrative essay as a coursework assignment. Sorry to burst your bubbles, but a term paper may not follow the same route.

As a standard term paper is full of concepts, terms, arguments, and ideas, it deserves great attention to logic and organization. This means that each section of the paper must build up from the previous one, and transitions between paragraphs and sections should observe smoothness and coherence.

What is a Term Paper In Terms of Its Various Types and Forms

Writing a term paper entails preparation. You can only wish that you have a ton of brain cells and resources to help you finalize your paper that is good for submission– and a stellar score.

However, preparation is only one thing in the long-lasting process of term paper writing.

The term paper structure will still depend on the scope of analysis, as well as the categories of the term paper. Yes, you saw it correctly: types or categories of term papers may have different structures or, in most cases, purposes.

This part of your journey in term paper writing will acquaint you with different types of term papers according to purpose and structure. 

Analytical Paper

From the word itself, an analytical paper requires you to break down a concept, theory, or phenomenon into several parts. These parts may come in the form of elements, experiences, principles, and many other related components.

An analytical paper aims to examine these parts critically and evaluate them accordingly. Analytical papers are often found in social sciences and humanities, and they are mostly requested for a term paper writing service .

Possible topics that resemble your future topic under the mentioned fields are critiquing a philosophical theory or analyzing globalization's impact on a specific country's pop culture.

Argumentative Paper

What is a term paper without presenting a stance? In an argumentative term paper, your professor might give you a debatable or controversial topic that requires your critical thinking and persuasive skills to be utilized.

In this type of term paper, you must integrate a literature review and empirical evidence to support your stance and counter several opposing views. Argumentations are often found in several branches of the social sciences, such as law, ethics, and literature.

You may stumble upon topics like augmenting a controversial public policy or defending a particular interpretation of a literary piece.

Descriptive Paper

Fulfilling this type of term paper entails more than injecting fancy adjectives, imageries, and vivid narrations. When dealing with descriptive term papers, you must provide a detailed overview of a particular topic, event, phenomenon, or concept.

If you ask me how to format a term paper of this kind, the descriptive language used must be realistic and accurate, not just merely ornamental. This orientation would provide a seamless and truthful picture for the reader of your paper.

Although your term paper may be descriptive, objectivity should not be taken away. Descriptive term papers are mostly required in the natural sciences, such as physics, chemistry, Earth science, and biology. A perfect example is the description of the geological features of a national park. 

Comparative Papers

True to its name, this type of term paper compares and contrasts two or more theories, subjects, schools of thought, and approaches.

Upon taking the two major steps, you will need to analyze the similarities and differences between the elements, and you may formulate conclusions regarding their significance or implications. Comparative term papers are commonly seen in economics, political science, literature, sociology, and history.

A prime example might be comparing two distinct economic systems or analyzing the similarities and differences between political theories, such as Republicanism and Democracy.

Expository Papers

How to start a term paper of this type? We just have to take a hint at its name: it ‘exposes’ a piece of information. Elaborating on this, term papers adhering to this type explain or inform the prospective audience about a specific topic, concept, process, or phenomenon.

Since we are dealing with information, it has to be ensured that the latter must be accurate, truthful, and sufficient. Writing expository papers may also entail a handful of related writing tasks, such as defining key terms and organizing information according to related themes.

The fields that most likely require expository term papers are education, communication arts, journalism, and several liberal arts areas.

Grasping each type of term paper above may be quite a handful. Apart from preparing a term paper, you are confronted with a big challenge to choose a type or, in some cases, integrate one type into another.

Regardless of your writing decisions, you are always in for a treat: your term paper proposal will not be a failure if you are more than familiar with your purpose of writing one.

In addition, writing services like Studyfy let you access term paper help like no other. From your term paper outline to the final touches, an array of professional writers are present to provide personalized writing services for negotiable pricing.

What’s The Proper Term Paper Format? From the Ground Up

I am fully aware that you have been wired up with all the information you need to know about term papers, but do not falter yet, as we are just in the most needed part of this blog: formatting your term paper.

Writing a term paper will not be as polished and organized if you do not prepare your format ahead of your writing preparations. So, from conceptualizing your title to proofreading your paper, our tips and tricks will propel you to the towering heights of marks you have always aimed for.

Start Strong with Your Title Page

A well-established term paper will not be realized without a strong facade through a title page. Many students are seen as not focusing on this part of the paper, thinking that it does not hold as much importance as other parts, but if you are thinking the same, you need to change your mind.

Some instructors and professors look at the title page to check if you adhere to the formatting guidelines. If you are less likely to notice such inconsistencies, your professor might think you are not keen enough to eye important details in the rest of your paper.

Pro-Tip: As early as creating your title page, be sure to follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your professor or academic institution, such as font size, spacing, and margin specifications.

Abstract– Concise Yet Complete

An abstract is likewise an important component of a term paper, just as in a research paper. It encapsulates the crucial pieces of information that the reader must know. It includes the background of the paper, methods, results, and implications of the findings.

While the abstract may require a specific word count that differs from one academic institution to another, it is generally preferred to keep everything short yet complete. Remember: the term paper itself will likely become wordy and extensive, so let us spare space for urgency on the paper’s abstract.

Pro-Tip : Keep everything concise and elaborate on the findings more than the background. The usual word count for an abstract is 150-200 words.

Term Paper’s Background: Where the Thesis Statement is Cleared Its Way

Term paper writing will get as fired up at this point since this part introduces the rationale or context of the paper, asking the question, “What is the topic all about?” In presenting the background, the introduction of the paper's main argument is given– the thesis statement.

This crucial part of the paper is often written as a declarative sentence or a question. To make everything clear and articulated, the paper’s background must provide an extensive exploration of the topic that could lead to formulating the thesis statement. There should be a profound connection between the rationale of the paper and its main purpose.

Pro-Tip : Term papers are more flexible than research papers and journal articles in terms of structuring their introduction. You may hook the reader's attention by putting an engaging opening sentence or anecdote.

Arranging Lit Review: To Each Its Own

Regardless of whether the literature review section of a term paper is separated or integrated into the introduction, this part must provide an extensive overview of existing research and scholarship relevant to the topic.

While one can put empirical and observational studies into the review, it is important to put a premium on reputable articles and research reports that are peer-reviewed and published in indexed journals. When no single guideline talks about a window period for acceptable literature, you may set one for yourself as a guide. 

Pro-Tip: Arrange the literature review thematically, chronologically, or topically, depending on the ways that you desire to highlight some aspects of your term paper.

To an Extensive Results and Discussion Section

Term papers will not be complete without the discussion section. This part seals the deal and is an important piece of a complex puzzle. It interprets the results in conjunction with the questions at hand and assesses their value by comparing them with previous studies according to their agreement or disagreement. 

Pro-Tip: When sourcing previous studies as points of reference for the results, always strive to find ones that both agree or disagree with them. This ensures the polarity and absence of bias in the reporting of the results.

Closing the Curtains with the Paper’s Conclusion

When concluding your term paper writing, always restate the thesis statement. It always feels right and justifiable if the main purpose of the entire term paper is reiterated in the last part of the paper. Apart from that, recommendations and final thoughts may be included in this section.

The conclusion section, deemed shorter than other key sections in the term paper, may come in a short paragraph or bullet format, depending on your guidelines.

Pro-Tip: New information that is not previously included in the paper is not welcome in the conclusion. You might need to write my term paper again if I committed a mistake. You may instead synthesize the key points and results and leave a lasting impression on your reader by either providing a strong closing statement or a reinforcement of the main argument of the term paper.

References and Appendices: Two Pieces That Complete

One may argue that writing term papers may not need references and appendices sections, but the material they provide may prove otherwise. Without the references, sources will not be identified nor assessed, leaving no room for integrity on the writer's part. 

Having no appendices section, on the other hand, does not provide enough context or additional information about the important plans that were executed during the creation of the paper. It is in these sections that small things matter.

Pro-Tip: Double-check the veracity of the references and appendices section. This may entail using the proper citation style for the reference titles and labeling the materials under the appendices section.

What’s a term paper? How to write a successful term paper?

A: A term paper is a type of academic paper that a student, typically from a higher academic institution such as a university, completes at the end of a semester or a term. Since it is considered a terminal requirement, writing a term paper requires one to conduct research, utilize higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, and present findings on a topic or subject by incorporating the knowledge and skills throughout the entirety of the term. 

Since a term paper qualifies as an academic paper, writing services offer custom term paper assistance whenever needed. It is only through tailor-fit writing assistance and professional guidance from seasoned writers that you can achieve a stellar grade without getting down a rough route, thanks to Studyfy.

How to write a term paper if there is a word count?

A word count may be a bummer for some, but it can motivate you to budget how you will use your words efficiently. Make sure to allocate several words strategically. It is recommended that the discussion section gets the highest allocation among all the term paper sections.

Your research and writing process can be influenced by the term paper format and word count. As academic papers often have a specific set of rules, make sure to follow them to the dot.

What is the general structure of a term paper? Is it the same as a research paper?

The universally accepted structure of a term paper is quite similar to a research report: title page, rationale/background, literature review, methodology, results and discussion, and references. An appendices section is optional but necessary for other fields of interest.

A good term paper is like a good research paper. Research papers, like other academic papers, follow the named predictable pattern; just make sure to present your own research through engaging body paragraphs and state primary and secondary sources, including other research papers you used while writing.

Are term papers similar to research papers? How similar and different is the writing process?

Term paper writing is similar to research writing in terms of structure and purpose. However, they differ in scope, audience, and length. While a term paper has a broader scope and is meant to be seen by the course instructor, a research paper has a narrower scope and is written for a wider academic audience. However, what's crucial is the thorough research process.

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How to Write a Term Paper From Start to Finish

The term paper, often regarded as the culmination of a semester's hard work, is a rite of passage for students in pursuit of higher education. Here's an interesting fact to kick things off: Did you know that the term paper's origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where scholars like Plato and Aristotle utilized written works to explore and document their philosophical musings? Just as these great minds once wrote their thoughts on parchment, you, too, can embark on this intellectual voyage with confidence and skill.

How to Write a Term Paper: Short Description

In this article, we'll delve into the core purpose of this kind of assignment – to showcase your understanding of a subject, your research abilities, and your capacity to communicate complex ideas effectively. But it doesn't stop there. We'll also guide you in the art of creating a well-structured term paper format, a roadmap that will not only keep you on track but also ensure your ideas flow seamlessly and logically. Packed with valuable tips on writing, organization, and time management, this resource promises to equip you with the tools needed to excel in your academic writing.

Understanding What Is a Term Paper

A term paper, a crucial component of your college education, is often assigned towards the conclusion of a semester. It's a vehicle through which educators gauge your comprehension of the course content. Imagine it as a bridge between what you've learned in class and your ability to apply that knowledge to real-world topics.

For instance, in a history course, you might be asked to delve into the causes and consequences of a significant historical event, such as World War II. In a psychology class, your term paper might explore the effects of stress on mental health, or in an environmental science course, you could analyze the impact of climate change on a specific region.

Writing a term paper isn't just about summarizing facts. It requires a blend of organization, deep research, and the art of presenting your findings in a way that's both clear and analytical. This means structuring your arguments logically, citing relevant sources, and critically evaluating the information you've gathered.

For further guidance, we've prepared an insightful guide for you authored by our expert essay writer . It's brimming with practical tips and valuable insights to help you stand out in this academic endeavor and earn the recognition you deserve.

How to Start a Term Paper

Before you start, keep the guidelines for the term paper format firmly in mind. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to reach out to your instructor for clarification before you begin your research and writing process. And remember, procrastination is your worst enemy in this endeavor. If you're aiming to produce an exceptional piece and secure a top grade, it's essential to plan ahead and allocate dedicated time each day to work on it. Now, let our term paper writing services provide you with some valuable tips to help you on your journey:

• Hone Your Topic : Start by cultivating a learning mindset that empowers you to effectively organize your thoughts. Discover how to research a topic in the section below.
• Hook Your Readers: Initiate a brainstorming session and unleash a barrage of creative ideas to captivate your audience right from the outset. Pose intriguing questions, share compelling anecdotes, offer persuasive statistics, and more.
• Craft a Concise Thesis Statement Example : If you find yourself struggling to encapsulate the main idea of your paper in just a sentence or two, it's time to revisit your initial topic and consider narrowing it down.
• Understand Style Requirements: Your work must adhere to specific formatting guidelines. Delve into details about the APA format and other pertinent regulations in the section provided.
• Delve Deeper with Research : Equipped with a clearer understanding of your objectives, dive into your subject matter with a discerning eye. Ensure that you draw from reputable and reliable sources.
• Begin Writing: Don't obsess over perfection from the get-go. Just start writing, and don't worry about initial imperfections. You can always revise or remove those early sentences later. The key is to initiate the term papers as soon as you've amassed sufficient information.

Ace your term paper with EssayPro 's expert help. Our academic professionals are here to guide you through every step, ensuring your term paper is well-researched, structured, and written to the highest standards.

Term Paper Topics

Selecting the right topic for your term paper is a critical step, one that can significantly impact your overall experience and the quality of your work. While instructors sometimes provide specific topics, there are instances when you have the freedom to choose your own. To guide you on how to write a term paper, consider the following factors when deciding on your dissertation topics :

• Relevance to Assignment Length: Begin by considering the required length of your paper. Whether it's a substantial 10-page paper or a more concise 5-page one, understanding the word count will help you determine the appropriate scope for your subject. This will inform whether your topic should be broad or more narrowly focused.
• Availability of Resources : Investigate the resources at your disposal. Check your school or community library for books and materials that can support your research. Additionally, explore online sources to ensure you have access to a variety of reference materials.
• Complexity and Clarity : Ensure you can effectively explain your chosen topic, regardless of how complex it may seem. If you encounter areas that are challenging to grasp fully, don't hesitate to seek guidance from experts or your professor. Clarity and understanding are key to producing a well-structured term paper.
• Avoiding Overused Concepts : Refrain from choosing overly trendy or overused topics. Mainstream subjects often fail to captivate the interest of your readers or instructors, as they can lead to repetitive content. Instead, opt for a unique angle or approach that adds depth to your paper.
• Manageability and Passion : While passion can drive your choice of topic, it's important to ensure that it is manageable within the given time frame and with the available resources. If necessary, consider scaling down a topic that remains intriguing and motivating to you, ensuring it aligns with your course objectives and personal interests.

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Term Paper Outline

Before embarking on the journey of writing a term paper, it's crucial to establish a well-structured outline. Be mindful of any specific formatting requirements your teacher may have in mind, as these will guide your outline's structure. Here's a basic format to help you get started:

• Cover Page: Begin with a cover page featuring your name, course number, teacher's name, and the deadline date, centered at the top.
• Abstract: Craft a concise summary of your work that informs readers about your paper's topic, its significance, and the key points you'll explore.
• Introduction: Commence your term paper introduction with a clear and compelling statement of your chosen topic. Explain why it's relevant and outline your approach to addressing it.
• Body: This section serves as the meat of academic papers, where you present the primary findings from your research. Provide detailed information about the topic to enhance the reader's understanding. Ensure you incorporate various viewpoints on the issue and conduct a thorough analysis of your research.
• Results: Share the insights and conclusions that your research has led you to. Discuss any shifts in your perspective or understanding that have occurred during the course of your project.
• Discussion: Conclude your term paper with a comprehensive summary of the topic and your findings. You can wrap up with a thought-provoking question or encourage readers to explore the subject further through their own research.

How to Write a Term Paper with 5 Steps

Before you begin your term paper, it's crucial to understand what a term paper proposal entails. This proposal serves as your way to introduce and justify your chosen topic to your instructor, and it must gain approval before you start writing the actual paper.

In your proposal, include recent studies or research related to your topic, along with proper references. Clearly explain the topic's relevance to your course, outline your objectives, and organize your ideas effectively. This helps your instructor grasp your term paper's direction. If needed, you can also seek assistance from our expert writers and buy term paper .

Draft the Abstract

The abstract is a critical element while writing a term paper, and it plays a crucial role in piquing the reader's interest. To create a captivating abstract, consider these key points from our dissertation writing service :

• Conciseness: Keep it short and to the point, around 150-250 words. No need for lengthy explanations.
• Highlight Key Elements: Summarize the problem you're addressing, your research methods, and primary findings or conclusions. For instance, if your paper discusses the impact of social media on mental health, mention your research methods and significant findings.
• Engagement: Make your abstract engaging. Use language that draws readers in. For example, if your paper explores the effects of artificial intelligence on the job market, you might begin with a question like, 'Is AI revolutionizing our work landscape, or should we prepare for the robots to take over?'
• Clarity: Avoid excessive jargon or technical terms to ensure accessibility to a wider audience.

Craft the Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your entire term paper and should engage readers from the outset. To craft an intriguing introduction, consider these tips:

• Hook Your Audience: Start with a captivating hook, such as a thought-provoking question or a compelling statistic. For example, if your paper explores the impact of smartphone addiction, you could begin with, 'Can you remember the last time you went a whole day without checking your phone?'
• State Your Purpose: Clearly state the purpose of your paper and its relevance. If your term paper is about renewable energy's role in combating climate change, explain why this topic is essential in today's world.
• Provide a Roadmap: Briefly outline how your paper is structured. For instance, if your paper discusses the benefits of mindfulness meditation, mention that you will explore its effects on stress reduction, emotional well-being, and cognitive performance.
• Thesis Statement: Conclude your introduction with a concise thesis statement that encapsulates the central argument or message of your paper. In the case of a term paper on the impact of online education, your thesis might be: 'Online education is revolutionizing learning by providing accessibility, flexibility, and innovative teaching methods.'

Develop the Body Sections: Brainstorming Concepts and Content

Generate ideas and compose text: body sections.

The body of your term paper is where you present your research, arguments, and analysis. To generate ideas and write engaging text in the body sections, consider these strategies from our research paper writer :

• Structure Your Ideas: Organize your paper into sections or paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of your topic. For example, if your term paper explores the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships, you might have sections on communication patterns, privacy concerns, and emotional well-being.
• Support with Evidence: Back up your arguments with credible evidence, such as data, research findings, or expert opinions. For instance, when discussing the effects of social media on mental health, you can include statistics on social media usage and its correlation with anxiety or depression.
• Offer Diverse Perspectives: Acknowledge and explore various viewpoints on the topic. When writing about the pros and cons of genetic engineering, present both the potential benefits, like disease prevention, and the ethical concerns associated with altering human genetics.
• Use Engaging Examples: Incorporate real-life examples to illustrate your points. If your paper discusses the consequences of climate change, share specific instances of extreme weather events or environmental degradation to make the topic relatable.
• Ask Thought-Provoking Questions: Integrate questions throughout your text to engage readers and stimulate critical thinking. In a term paper on the future of artificial intelligence, you might ask, 'How will AI impact job markets and the concept of work in the coming years?'

Formulate the Conclusion

The conclusion section should provide a satisfying wrap-up of your arguments and insights. To craft a compelling term paper example conclusion, follow these steps:

• Revisit Your Thesis: Begin by restating your thesis statement. This reinforces the central message of your paper. For example, if your thesis is about the importance of biodiversity conservation, reiterate that biodiversity is crucial for ecological balance and human well-being.
• Summarize Key Points: Briefly recap the main points you've discussed in the body of your paper. For instance, if you've been exploring the impact of globalization on local economies, summarize the effects on industries, job markets, and cultural diversity.
• Emphasize Your Main Argument: Reaffirm the significance of your thesis and the overall message of your paper. Discuss why your findings are important or relevant in a broader context. If your term paper discusses the advantages of renewable energy, underscore its potential to combat climate change and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
• Offer a Thoughtful Reflection: Share your own reflections or insights about the topic. How has your understanding evolved during your research? Have you uncovered any unexpected findings or implications? If your paper discusses the future of space exploration, consider what it means for humanity's quest to explore the cosmos.
• End with Impact: Conclude your term paper with a powerful closing statement. You can leave the reader with a thought-provoking question, a call to action, or a reflection on the broader implications of your topic. For instance, if your paper is about the ethics of artificial intelligence, you could finish by asking, 'As AI continues to advance, what ethical considerations will guide our choices and decisions?'

Edit and Enhance the Initial Draft

After completing your initial draft, the revision and polishing phase is essential for improving your paper. Here's how to refine your work efficiently:

• Take a Break: Step back and return to your paper with a fresh perspective.
• Structure Check: Ensure your paper flows logically and transitions smoothly from the introduction to the conclusion.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Trim excess words for clarity and precision.
• Grammar and Style: Proofread for errors and ensure consistent style.
• Citations and References: Double-check your citations and reference list.
• Peer Review: Seek feedback from peers or professors for valuable insights.
• Enhance Intro and Conclusion: Make your introduction and conclusion engaging and impactful.
• Coherence Check: Ensure your arguments support your thesis consistently.
• Read Aloud: Reading your paper aloud helps identify issues.
• Final Proofread: Perform a thorough proofread to catch any remaining errors.

Term Paper Format

When formatting your term paper, consider its length and the required citation style, which depends on your research topic. Proper referencing is crucial to avoid plagiarism in academic writing. Common citation styles include APA and MLA.

If unsure how to cite term paper for social sciences, use the APA format, including the author's name, book title, publication year, publisher, and location when citing a book.

For liberal arts and humanities, MLA is common, requiring the publication name, date, and location for referencing.

Adhering to the appropriate term paper format and citation style ensures an organized and academically sound paper. Follow your instructor's guidelines for a polished and successful paper.

Term Paper Example

To access our term paper example, simply click the button below.

The timeline of events from 1776 to 1861, that, in the end, prompted the American Civil War, describes and relates to a number of subjects modern historians acknowledge as the origins and causes of the Civil War. In fact, pre-Civil War events had both long-term and short-term influences on the War—such as the election of Abraham Lincoln as the American president in 1860 that led to the Fall of Fort Sumter in April of the same year. In that period, contentions that surrounded states’ rights progressively exploded in Congress—since they were the initial events that formed after independence. Congress focused on resolving significant issues that affected the states, which led to further issues. In that order, the US’s history from 1776 to 1861 provides a rich history, as politicians brought forth dissimilarities, dissections, and tensions between the Southern US & the people of slave states, and the Northern states that were loyal to the Union. The events that unfolded from the period of 1776 to 1861 involved a series of issues because they promoted the great sectional crisis that led to political divisions and the build-up to the Civil War that made the North and the South seem like distinctive and timeless regions that predated the crisis itself.

Final Thoughts

In closing, approach the task of writing term papers with determination and a positive outlook. Begin well in advance, maintain organization, and have faith in your capabilities. Don't hesitate to seek assistance if required, and express your individual perspective with confidence. You're more than capable of succeeding in this endeavor!

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What is the Difference between a Term Paper and a Research Paper?

What is the fastest way to write a term paper, related articles.

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• A Research Guide
• Writing Guide
• Assignment Writing

How to Write a Term Paper

• Purpose of a term paper
• How to start a term paper
• Structure and outline

Step-by-step writing guide

Standard term paper format.

• Term paper examples
• Writing tips

What is the purpose of a term paper?

How to start a term paper correctly.

• Choose your topic by focusing on what inspires you unless you are already given a topic.
• Take time to research and analyze your subject.
• Start with a term paper outline (see our templates in the next sections).
• Come up with a strong thesis statement before writing anything for body paragraphs.
• Provide topic sentences and practical examples.
• Provide a strong lesson in the conclusion if it suits the subject you write about.
• Edit and proofread available information for trustworthiness.

Term paper structure and outline

• Introduction. This is where you talk about the subject and a problem you are researching. It helps to introduce your thesis statement and explain the objectives that have been set.
• Body Paragraphs. As a rule, in writing college term papers, one must write down several subheadings and headings to divide ideas and arguments into several (at least four) paragraphs. As done below, each body paragraph should contain one idea and a strong topic sentence.
• Heading 1: History of the argument and background.
• Heading 2: Extent of the problem that you write about.
• Heading 3: Effects of the problem and possible causes.
• Heading 4: Possible solutions and outcomes.
• Conclusion. The final part should represent a strong summary and a response to your thesis statement.

Step 1: Data collection

Step 2: explaining research relevance, step 3: introducing your subject, step 4: literature review preparation, step 5: offering results and conclusions, step 6: structural term paper evaluation, step 7: check your citations and references.

Helpful term paper examples

• Term paper examples that earned an A grade from the University of Delaware
• Sample term paper offered by the Justus-Liebig Universitat Giessen
• Purdue Owl Lab Citation Formats Database
• Simon Fraser University Sample Term Paper

Term paper writing tips

• Choose a topic that inspires you if you have an opportunity. If you have been given an already existing prompt to write, research your subject online and ask about the use of course materials. It will help you to narrow things down and already have source materials for referencing purposes.
• If you can choose a subject to write a final paper for your course, think about something you can support with statistical data and some practical evidence.
• Most importantly, keep your term paper relevant to the main objectives of your study course.
• Keep your tone reflective and natural as you write.
• Double-check your grading rubric regarding limitations and obligatory requirements that must be met.
• Always proofread your term paper aloud!
• If you have an opportunity, consider editing your term paper with the help of a friend or a fellow college student.

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How to Write a Term Paper: A Complete Guide With Examples

You just got your term paper assignment and have no idea what to do or how to start? This guide will navigate you through every step of the process, from idea formation to final editing and proofreading. We will start with outlining, drafting and brainstorming, and get you through the writing part in no time. So, let’s dive into the question of how to write a term paper.

If you want to know everything you will need about term papers, this guide, written by the writers at the best essay writing service will help you along.

Table of Contents

What is a term paper.

A term paper is an academic milestone more so than anything else. As a student, you are tasked with learning and then transmitting that knowledge to others. A term paper is just that, a way to show what you have learnt, and disseminate the knowledge to others. Unlike other types of academic writing , a term paper is more detailed, requires more research, and is generally seen as the hardest piece of written work aside from a thesis.

The aim of a term paper is to showcase your understanding of the subject matter and how well you handle pressure and deadlines. In this context, a term paper proves invaluable. In terms of scope, term papers may zero in on an important historical event – if you’re studying history – a scientific concept, or a contentious argument. The choice hinges on the prompt created by your academic advisor. The typical length of a term paper can stretch to five or seven pages, and is generally the prerequisite to attend end-of-semester examination. But, it is also a part of the weighted grade you’ll receive, which only adds to its importance.

For the average student, writing a term paper takes around two weeks, and is a process many do not fully understand. Term paper starts from a very basic element, a question.

Say your teacher wants you to analyze the arguments for and against US involvement in World War II. How would you start? By asking a question; something like: Why did the US enter the war? Or, why did the US waive its neutrality and entered the war.

This opens the door for you and allows you to find an article or two that then leads to the second step, and so on and so on, until you are done. The problem is many students do not know how the process works, or what skills are needed to get the job done. To write an excellent paper you need to plan carefully, adapt to new conditions, be analytical yet persuasive, and understand how referencing works. In addition, the paper has to be formatted to specifications of your chosen citation style – APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, etc. This is a lot of work!

What is the Purpose of a Term Paper

At its core, a term paper serves to test your ability to understand arguments and defend them using written constructs within a pre-determined time period. Put simply, it tests your ability to navigate complex ideas when faced with a deadline – something that comes in handy in almost every job you’ll ever have later in life. If you can understand a complex event, a scientific theory, or a debatable stance, based on the directive from your academic mentor, you can manage pretty much anything that is thrown your way.

A typical term paper will be between five to seven pages, and represents the pinnacle of writing tasks in the semester. The process of term paper writing, even when the topic is prescribed, can be an arduous and time-consuming undertaking. To succeed you need meticulous planning, good composition skills, and scrupulous analysis, structure, and edit

Doing the Basics Right Saves You Time

As Seneca famously said, “Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity.” In short, prepare, prepare, prepare. To create a perfect term paper you need to know, well in advance, how it will look, what will it be about, and how will it be structured. This then allows you to simply fill in the blanks as you go. But, if you start a day before submission, you’re toast – or, you can always ask for help from us J – because the result will be Red Bull frenzy induced compilation of internet’s best hits. And trust me when I say, your teacher has those stored in memory; you’re not the first student to turn a deaf ear on old Seneca….

So, let’s see how to start your term paper:

• Select your topic – If possible choose something that you’re personally interested in. When you choose early, all the good topics are still free, so keep that in mind.
• Research your topic – Once chosen, sit at your computer and run through Google Scholar or your University Library for anything that pops up when you type in your exact topic.
• Create an outline – When you have a basic understanding of the topic, prepare an outline. It’s always going to be fairly standard, so once you get it right, you can re-use whenever you need to in the future.
• Thesis statement – Now starts the tricky part. Just kidding, this is still the Top Lane, we’re not even close to the Jungle. Thesis statements are always pretty similar. Jolt down your guiding question and then, based on what you’ve read, write a one sentence argument. For example, if writing about solar and wind, you might go with: Solar and wind power are the future of energy production because fossil fuels are unsustainable.
• Topics, topic sentences, and paragraphs – Every paragraph starts with a topic sentence that describes what the paragraph is talking about. The easiest way to understand is this. If writing a paper about wind and solar, you would need at least three topic sentences – 1)Wind 2)Solar 3)Benefits of using wind and solar. Naturally, a term paper needs much more than just three, but you get the idea.
•   Conclusion – Once you’ve written down the topic sentences and outlined the paper, note your own expectations of what you’ll find in the conclusion. This will help you understand what is happening, and when you’re actually writing the conclusion it will tell you if you were right or wrong.

Pro tip: If all of this is too much for you, there is always the possibility of asking professionals for help. Our team of term paper writers are here to help, so feel free to reach out!

Structure of a Term Paper

As you’ve probably guessed by now, every paper has to have a specific structure. In general, you can expect to have at least three parts – introduction, body, and a conclusion. However, longer papers may need several sub-sections, perhaps even an abstract or a summary, and a page dedicated to bibliography.

A typical term paper has three to five body paragraphs that form the backbone of your arguments and analytical discourse. A bibliography is always needed, even if your sources predominantly comprise course materials or excerpts from consulted textbooks. Depending on the chosen style, you will need either a Works Cited page (MLA), a Reference page (APA) or a Bibliography (Harvard, Chicago). Given its pivotal role in determining your final course grade, make sure to adhere to the highest writing and editing standards.

Term Paper Outline

• Title page – this is where you enter your name, teacher name, school, class, and date. The formatting will depend on your chosen style
• Introduction – Introduction sets the stage for your arguments. This is where you present statistics, define helpful terms, and finally present your thesis statement. IMPORTANT: Thesis statement is always the last sentence in the introduction.
• Body 1: Historical setting or development
• Body 2: Current state of knowledge about the problem
• Body 3: Main argument and potential implications
• Body 4: Argument for
• Body 5: Argument against
• Body 6: Summary
• Conclusion : Bring all of the body arguments together and restate your thesis statement.
• Bibliography : Provide references for all sources cited in the term paper using the style of your choice

Now let’s get to the nitty gritty of the writing process.

Topic Selection – In most cases teachers or instructors will provide students with a list of pre-approved topics to choose from. But, in some cases you will get the opportunity to choose for yourself. This is both a blessing and a curse, because it can lead you into a deep pit of despair if you are not careful.

Length – Every paper will have an assigned length. You should never go under the minimum or the maximum word/page count, as that will take points away from your final score. If the prompt asks for 10 pages, write that.

Sources – Consult your school library, Google Scholar, and any other database that has access to journals and books on your topic.

Simplify – While it is admirable to be able to write in a high-brow voice, it’s much better to use plain language as much as possible, but staying within the confines of academic jargon. No don’t’s, couldnt’s, or should’ve. If something is too complicated to explain simply, you do not understand it properly. Ask for clarification.

Do not be afraid to wander – Choosing a common topic may be a safe bet, but your teacher will grade you higher if you take a topic nobody else even though about. Brownie points are there for the taking. Just make sure you know what you’re talking about!

Don’t overextend – While the entire combined histories of all monastic orders may seem like an interesting topic (well, to us at least), it is waaaaaaay too broad to cover in 5 or 10 pages. Heck, that would probably take an entire compendium with multiple volumes. In short, don’t be a megalomaniac and choose a topic that fits in 5 pages.

How to Write a Term Paper: The Writing Process

Before starting your write up, the teacher will expect a proposal. This is a very short summary of the topic, your thesis statement, and a few sources. The goal is to present a topic that you can defend and ask the teacher to approve it.

So how do you write a proposal? Start by writing down your thesis statement and guiding question. Then identify three to four sources and jolt down key statistics and pieces of information that are linked to your thesis statement. The goal is to show you’ve done the work. The proposal will generally have a full outline (see above) so that the teacher knows what you are planning to do. If you explain what the topic is and why it is important in writing , the teacher will accept the proposal.

Introduction, well, Introduces the Term Paper

Your essay has to start strong, which is why 99.99%  of all introductions start with a hook that captivates the audience. A hook can be anything, a statistic (like 40% of people in the US have no savings whatsoever, which means around 140 million people are completely broke – now that’s a hook, line, and sinker).

Once you know the reader is hooked, you present a brief overview of the topic you will discuss. This is where you bring statistics, data, and broader theories or concepts that may relate.

The end of the introduction is always reserved for the thesis statement, which is the last sentence of the introduction.

Try to be concise – not more than ¾ of a page (cca 200-250 words), but detailed enough so that the reader understands what the paper is about.

Writing the Body Sections

When you are certain you can understand the concepts and arguments presented in the literature, it’s time to write your body paragraphs.

The goal is to provide the reader with enough context and argumentation to prove your point. So, if you’re writing about the advantages of nuclear energy, you have to provide evidence from the literature as well as a thorough analysis of all benefits and drawbacks. The goal is to be as objective as possible, while ensuring your results are accurate.

Do not dwell on too much detail, you cannot fit all of the information in a 5 – 10 page paper. Isolate the most important pieces of evidence, maybe 3-4 and focus on those.

As a rule of thumb, you will aim for 4 – 5 body paragraphs minimum, but in most cases you will need more. The first section should be the literature review, where you analyze state-of-the-art of the topic you are writing about.

Following the literature review is your analysis, which draws from the information you’ve collected. It’s important to note, do not try and make up new stuff, or draw conclusions in this section. Simply analyze and summarize the findings in your own voice.

The last paragraph of the body section can be your own summary, where you present a different opinion. Be concise and do not go into too much detail, simply note if you think there are any discrepancies in the literature.

Remember : Always start your paragraphs with a topic sentence and try to contain the information within the paragraph to the topic.

Writing the Conclusion

Conclusion is the most important part of the term paper, even though many do not give it enough attention. This is where you put everything you’ve written together and summarize key findings.

Important : Conclusion is not the place to add new information or knowledge!

To write a good conclusion keep in mind your initial research question and thesis statement. The goal of the term paper is to answer the question and prove your thesis statement is correct. Has your paper done this? Write it down and explain why or why not your initial proposal was correct. A thesis statement can be wrong, and you must acknowledge this in your conclusion.

In the conclusion:

• Summarize your findings
• Discuss implications for future reseasrch

Editing and Finalization

The final word of the conclusion has been written, references added and alphabetized, the paper and the title page formatted. You are finally done. Or, maybe not! Now is the time for the final edit.

Teachers, above everything else, hate reading papers with spelling mistakes and poor grammar. To make sure your paper does not annoy the teacher (you don’t want a lower grade), make sure it is completely free of any errors.

The best way to do this is by using a machine learning tool combined with close reading on your own. The machine will weed out the glaring errors, and you will finish the job.

Read through the draft carefully. Remove any fluff or excess words that add nothing to the argument. You will likely find several sentences you will want to change. Do this now. Once done, start the second read-through.

In this read-through you will hone in on the arguments. Do they make sense? Are statistics properly cited, and do you sound coherent? If the answer is no, you will want to fix the mistakes until satisfied.

Now, finally, you are done! Congratulations. Pat yourself on the back. Oh, wait, we forgot about the abstract!

Abstract Comes First, or Last

In no uncertain terms, do not write the abstract before you’ve completed the term paper. This is always the last part of the writing process, but strangely enough the one your paper starts with. Go figure.

When you do get to this stage, use our secret formula. Well, it’s not really secret but we like to think so. The abstract needs three parts to work well, the introduction, the method/procedure, and the conclusion/findings. Depending on the topic these will vary slightly but you will always find them in an abstract.

Introduce your topic and what you plan to do in two to three sentences.

Describe what method you will use – such as literature review, an experiment, or something else. Two to three sentences.

Define the results you obtained after using the method. Two to three sentences.

Remember : The abstract should be between 120 and 200 words in length, no more is needed.

No, they are not. A research paper is an original piece of writing that comes after some type of original research has been done. Maybe you’ve found a new civilization during a dig, or a new chemical element. The research paper is meant to publicize this finding so other scientists can critique, refute, or confirm its validity. A term paper is a much simpler version that requires no original research. But, a term paper is your preparation for writing a research paper later in life.

This will depend on your teacher. In many cases, you will get a pre-defined format to follow, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. If not, we recommend using APA or Harvard, as they are relatively simple to learn and have a ton of resources to help you along.

It is important to remember you are not writing a book, so keep the topic narrow. For example, if writing about renewable energy, choose only one type of energy or just one region. Do not try to cram everything into 5-10 pages; it won’t work.

Writing a term paper is certainly a challenge, but it is also manageable if you dedicate yourself to the process. Prepare well in advance, read a lot, and do not be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. Your teachers are paid to help you, so email them if you get stuck. Above everything, make sure you are interested in the topic, as that will make the process so much easier.

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How To Write a Term Paper: A Guide That Works

30 June, 2020

16 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Once you’ve started your university career, you are going to be asked to present a term paper. What’s the difference between a term paper and a research paper? How can you write a good term? What’s the best way to structure it? Where can you find some tips to make the writing process faster? In this article, we’ll discuss a few tips to help you prepare a term paper quickly and professionally.

What Is a Term Paper… And What Is The First Step?

A term paper is a critical and analytical report on the topic or subject that you covered within the course of studies. It usually consists of two separate but equally important aspects: your own thoughts about the topic and a demonstration of your understanding of the existing literature. The main goal of this assignment is to summarize the material you learned and showcase your understanding of the topic. This aspect makes the term paper a universal instrument for assessing a student’s proficiency. It also explains why term papers cost so many points of your course grade.

We usually associate a term paper with a research paper , but although the concepts are quite similar, a research paper requires a more academic approach and a deeper investigation into the literature of your field of study.

To write an outstanding college term paper, you must understand that your professor has requested it in order to test your analytical thinking skills. You must collect relevant data, analyze it, and then make a summary or solve a particular problem. Such skills are highly relevant to the business world, so this type of the task is as practical as it is educational.

So, let’s start the preparation!

Before you begin writing

Unfortunately, there is no magical recipe that allows you to get everything done fast. You will need to choose the best way forward in whatever situation you find yourself, but here are some tips to help you prepare for the assignment.

To begin with, take the research stage seriously . Sometimes, when students are really interested in a topic, they only want to present their personal ideas about the problem. Unfortunately, if you’re not completely familiar with all the data from the various sources, you will need to reinvent the bicycle.

Term paper writing was never an easy ride. Well, not for our expert writers. Place an order with our term paper writing service and secure yourself an “A!”

In the initial stages of your research, investigate everything you can find on the topic . This may sound like a tall order, but you’ll find that it doesn’t actually entail that much reading. At this point you are only compiling the research, so you will be skimming through numerous prospects rather than reading them completely. Bear in mind that your aim is to get acquainted with the various aspects of your problem. The term paper summarizes the knowledge you gained within a course and requires to familiarize yourself with the research that other people have already made on your topic.

Thinking that your opinions are completely original and unique is quite egocentric, and it can get you into trouble. So, “your” thoughts about the problem are usually just somebody else’s statements that you have rephrased (or even a well-established academic concept!). Remember that your professor will be familiar with all the literature surrounding the issue: if you merely rewrite someone else’s thoughts and present them as your own (even if you don’t realize doing it), be prepared for criticism!

Applying a Structure To Your Term Paper

Once you have read all the leading authors and their approaches to your problem, it’s time to create a structure for your work. This is not yet an outline; you just need to decide what to write about. Sketch out the topic for the theoretical portion of your work and think about practical aspects and how you can approach the research in the best possible way.

At this point, you really need to call or email your supervisor . Your professor will have seen hundreds of term papers like yours (i.e., they have not yet been written, but a definite idea exists!) and will be prepared to give you feedback and advice. He or she will tell you what literature you have omitted, offer suggestions about what you should read, and give you feedback about your paper. It may well be that your approach has already occurred to somebody else, in which case there is no need to repeat it.

Choosing a Topic: Easy as Riding a Bike?

When you choose your topic, make sure you choose something that you are interested in . That’s our advice if you want a painless term paper. If you prefer to investigate a field that you’ve never really explored before, you can challenge yourself to do that, too. That might be sophisticated, but why not?

If you decide to investigate a topic or a problem that you are pretty familiar with, your writing will be more fluid. You will focus your attention on a specific aspect of the chosen field and expand your knowledge within that scope. On the contrary, choosing an unfamiliar subject matter can wash out your expertise.

Be prepared to change the topic if you find out that your research isn’t going anywhere. It might occur that you presuppose that your topic has a potential but somewhere at the stage of initial research, you find that it just won’t work. It’s always a good idea to consider two or three topics when you kick off the term paper writing – even if they are just different ways of examining the same problem. By doing this, you will be able to choose the best version, which may not be the one you started with at all!

Related Post: 100 Persuasive essay topics

Formulating a Thesis statement

Writing a proper thesis statement can also be challenging. To begin with, write down a couple of prominent ideas or concepts, then try to make rough drafts of them to see how they’ll work in the structural framework. You will probably find that one idea fits your style, interests, and knowledge base: you can choose that one as your thesis statement.

Remember that the thesis statement is the skeleton, the central concept of your paper. It is the elemental attribute of almost any academic paper – from master’s thesis to a simple five paragraph essay. If you do a thorough job on it, you will find that writing (and defending!) your argument is much easier.

Be aware that all of these stages are parts of a procedure – one leads to another. When writing a term paper, you should collect the material and wrap it up at the same time.

Planning – The Key To Success

Some people claim that they can write a term paper without any planning. In our opinion, this is impossible. If you don’t have a postgraduate degree and you aren’t a certified genius, you need to prepare an outline for your project. It may come as a surprise, but even people who claim otherwise actually prepare outlines – in their heads. But if you don’t have that much experience, use a pencil and your notebook to ensure that you don’t forget anything.

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That’s when we get to preparing your first draft . There’s only one thing to add here: do as many drafts as you need in order to achieve your goal. Understand that your aim is to create an excellent term paper and keep working at it until you are satisfied.

Term Paper Outline: Write Everything In The Proper Section!

In the Introduction , state the topic that you are going to investigate and the context of your work. This is the critical ‘selling’ moment of your work. In a nutshell, your introduction combined with a conclusion should give a sneak peek into what the whole paper is about. If your introduction is well-prepared, it will be quite complacent about the body of your project. The introduction must include an abstract that presents your thesis statement . You should explain your motivation (why should the reader be concerned about this problem?) , your methods (what scientific tools did you use?) , and the results (what you achieved) .

The Literature Review totally corresponds to its name – it is here to review the literature you compiled. Your professor will double check it to make sure that you understand the context of your argument. One more thing to add is: collect all the information you can! Ideally, you should read or at least glance through every book and author that you can find on the topic. Think of your task as a fascinating journey: if you approach it like that, reading hundreds of pages won’t seem like that much of a challenge.

In the Discussion , you must present the interpretations of the problem. Be honest, explain what you pieces of data you don’t agree with and what ideas and concepts you support. This section connects the dots between theory and practice when writing a term paper. Wherever possible, provide several interpretations of the subject matter, then choose the one(s) that are most relevant to the case you are presenting.

In the Body , focus on those arguments that prove your thesis statement. This section must be absolutely logical. If you have chosen a more complicated topic, use heading and sub-headings to improve the appearance of this section. While writing the body, keep your target audience (your professors) in mind. In other words, don’t just record the obvious causes/effects/solutions but also showcase your own findings – what you have discovered and how that proves your thesis statement. Demonstrate that you are familiar with the details and you will stun your readers with the prolific mastery of the topic.

Now, the Conclusion   is her to summarize both the content and the purpose of the paper. The most challenging part is not to make it too dry. Reiterate your thesis statement and briefly show how your results justified your proposition. At the very end, you can suggest a call to action or pose a rhetorical question or statement that leaves your reader wanting more.

What to do next?

When you have finished, reread your work a couple of times. You will almost certainly find a few faults, whether they are contextual, factual, syntactical, grammatical, or even simple spelling mistakes. A very useful tip is to wait for two or three days after writing your final draft to proofread it afterward. Your brain will have time to process the information, and you’ll be able to look at it with a fresh view.

When proofreading, take care to polish the structural problems. The skeleton (the logic and the thesis statement) should make sense. If they don’t, try to approach the problem from another perspective. The changes may take some time, but bear in mind that your objective is to produce professional work. Be patient!

After that, print the term paper. The human eye processes information differently on the paper than on a computer screen; that’s why you need to print it and take one final look for any possible mistakes. Even if you don’t see any serious defects, pay attention to formatting, punctuation, and synonyms. It’s an academic text, so make it shine!

Term Paper Sample

Be sure to check the sample of a term paper, completed by our writers. Use it as an example to perfect your own writing. Link:  Term Paper Sample: Consumer Buying Behavior .

The Do’s and Don’ts of Term Paper Writing

There you have the most important tips to help you succeed in writing a term paper. Now it’s up to you to stop reading and start writing!

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How to Write a Term Paper 101: A Tutorial to Takeover

As the end of the semester draws closer, many students are losing their sleep over the thought of writing a term paper. But you’re worrying pointlessly because  PaperPerk  has brought expert help to your doorstep! 

Our comprehensive guide on how to write a term paper is sure to help you with every step. So read this article thoroughly because we cover everything from definition to steps on composition and templates with examples.

Table of Contents

What Is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a written project required at the end of a semester. It is designed to evaluate a student’s knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. Typically, it takes the form of a discussion or analysis of an assigned topic. 

But it can also resemble a scientific report,  reflective essay , or even a research paper. As an essential component of a student’s academic journey, a term paper is characterized by its in-depth exploration of a specific subject matter.

Key Characteristics

One of the key features of a term paper is that it requires a significant amount of research , as it aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This research-intensive nature of the term paper sets it apart from other academic assignments. 

Additionally, term papers demand technical writing skills, as they need to be well-organized, structured, and adhere to specific formatting requirements. A high-quality term paper should be well-written, thoroughly researched, and analytical. 

It should demonstrate critical thinking and provide valuable insights into the subject matter. With an Impactful term paper, a student showcases their ability to synthesize and analyze information, ultimately contributing to their overall academic success.

How to Write a Term Paper: A Comprehensive Guide

The biggest step in learning how to write a term paper is to understand the importance of creating a term paper outline. This  research paper outline  is the beacon that will guide through your writing process. The following part of this post contains steps on composing an outline and its component. 

How to Write a Term Paper: Outlining a Term Paper

Below are the essential components of an outline. Once you gather your information, you’ll incorporate it within these compartments to avoid creating a chaotic cluster of random data. 

Introduction

Let’s look at these a bit more closely and understand how to use these elements in the best way. 

Also known as the  title page , the cover page of a term paper is the first impression of the paper. It provides all the necessary information about the paper along with a neat and professional look. It should include the following information:

• Title of the paper
• Course name and code
• Instructor’s name
• Date of submission

Steps to compose a cover page:

• Centrally align the title of your paper in the middle of the page.
• Add your name, course name, and number below the title.
• Include your instructor’s name and the date of submission at the bottom.

You might be required to add more than these common elements if your professor asks you to. Many students additionally write the name of the university, department or other relevant details. 

The abstract is a brief summary of your term paper, usually between 150-250 words. It should highlight the main points, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions. 

Using an  abstract  optimally allows readers to quickly grasp the main points and significance of your term paper. The abstract is usually placed at the beginning of the paper, right after the cover page. 

Steps to compose an abstract:

• Write a concise summary of your paper’s purpose and research question.
• Briefly describe the methods used in your research.
• Summarize the main findings or results.
• Conclude with a brief statement of your paper’s implications or significance.

Ensure that all the information you incorporate within your abstract accurately reflects the content and findings within your paper. Double-check that there is consistency between the abstract and the main body of the paper in terms of the research objectives, methodology, and conclusions. 

The  introduction  sets the stage for your term paper. It provides background information, states the research question, depicts the purpose of the study and explains the paper’s significance. 

Steps to compose an introduction:

• Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention.
• Provide background information on your topic.
• Clearly state your research question.
• Explain the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.

The body of your term paper is where you present your arguments , evidence, and analysis. It should be organized into sections or subheadings, each focusing on a specific aspect of your research.

Steps to compose the body:

• Organize your content into logical sections or subheadings.
• Present your arguments and support them with evidence from your research.
• Analyze the evidence and explain its relevance to your research question.
• Use appropriate citations to acknowledge the sources of your information.

The results section presents the outcomes and the findings of your research study. It should be clear, concise, and focused on the data collected during your study.

Steps to compose the results section:

• Summarize the data collected during your research.
• Use tables, charts, or graphs to visually represent your findings.
• Describe any patterns, trends, or relationships observed in the data.
• Ensure that your results are relevant to your research question.
• Avoid repetition of any information. 

The  discussion section  interprets the results of your term paper and explains their implications. It should also address any limitations of your research and suggest areas for future study.

Steps to compose the discussion section:

• Interpret your results and explain their significance.
• Discuss any limitations or weaknesses in your research.
• Compare your findings to previous studies and explain any differences.
• Suggest areas for future research based on your findings.

The  conclusion  brings your term paper to a close by summarizing the main points. This final section of your paper also restates the significance of your research.

Steps to compose a conclusion:

• Restate your research question and summarize the main points of your paper.
• Emphasize the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.
• Offer recommendations or suggestions for future research.
• End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can write a well-structured and impactful term paper that demonstrates your understanding of the subject and contributes valuable insights to the field.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal: A Tutorial

A term paper proposal serves as a blueprint for your research. It helps in organizing your thoughts and ideas. Lets focus on the essential features of a term paper proposal and understand steps on how to compose each part.

Essential Features of a Term Paper Proposal

Relevance and importance.

The title of your term paper proposal should attract your readers and provide them with a clear idea of your work. It should be clear, concise, and accurately reflect the subject of your research.

Steps to compose a title:

• Identify the main topic or theme of your research.
• Choose relevant keywords that represent the key concepts of your research.
• Combine these keywords to create a clear and informative title.
• Ensure that your  title  is not too long or overly complex.
• Consider your audience’s ability to understand your title.

The objectives section outlines the specific goals of your research. These goals should be clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.

Steps to compose objectives:

• Begin by stating the general purpose of your research.
• Break down this purpose into specific, measurable objectives.
• Ensure that your objectives are achievable within the timeframe and resources available for your term paper.
• Keep your objectives focused and relevant to your research question.

The relevance and importance section demonstrates the significance of your research within the context of your field of study. It should explain why your research is necessary and how it contributes to the existing body of knowledge.

Steps to compose the relevance and importance section:

• Explain the context of your research by providing background information on the topic.
• Identify gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Explain how your research contributes to the field by offering new insights or perspectives.
• Emphasize the potential impact of your research on the broader academic community or society as a whole.

Putting It All Together: Writing a Term Paper Proposal

Now that you clearly understand the essential features of a term paper  proposal , it’s time to put it all together. Follow these steps to create a well-structured and compelling proposal:

• Begin by writing a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the subject of your research.
• Compose a brief introduction that overviews your research topic and its significance. This introduction should also include a clear statement of your research question.
• Outline the specific objectives of your research, ensuring that they are clear, measurable, and achievable within the scope of your term paper.
• Explain the relevance and importance of your research by demonstrating its significance within your field of study. Highlight the gaps or limitations in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
• Provide a brief overview of your research methodology, including the methods you plan to use for data collection and analysis.
• Include a tentative timeline for your research, outlining the milestones and deadlines for each project stage.
• Conclude your proposal with a summary of the main points and a restatement of the significance of your research.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can create a well-structured and persuasive term paper proposal that demonstrates the importance of your research and sets the stage for a successful term paper.

How to Write a Term Paper: Formatting

A term paper format refers to the set of rules and standards that dictate the structure and presentation of a term paper. Formatting is essential to learn how to write a term paper as it ensures consistency, enhances readability, and maintains a professional appearance. 

A proper structure allows readers to concentrate on the content rather than the presentation. Several formatting styles are used in term papers, with the American Psychological Association (APA) style and the Modern Language Association (MLA) style being the most common.

Using APA Style in a Term Paper:

• Choose a standard font, such as 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, or 12-point Times New Roman.
• Apply double-spacing throughout the paper, including the abstract, main text, quotes, tables, figures, and references.
• Create a title page containing the paper’s title, author’s name, affiliated institution, and a running head.
• Organize the content using headings that adhere to  APA guidelines for different heading levels.
• Incorporate the author-date citation method for in-text citations and format the reference list according to APA guidelines.

Using MLA Style in a Term Paper:

• Opt for a standard font, such as 12-point Times New Roman.
• Double-space the entire paper, including the main text, quotes, and the Works Cited page.
• Include a header with the last name of the author and page number on the top right corner of all pages.
• Use parenthetical citations within the text and format according to  MLA guidelines .
• Follow MLA guidelines for formatting headings and subheadings, if applicable.

Adhering to the appropriate style guide when formatting term papers is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and ensuring that your work is easily comprehended and properly cited.

Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topics

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, but choosing the right term paper topics can make all the difference. In this part, we will provide you with some useful tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible.

The Starting Point

In most cases, students are assigned term papers by their professors. These topics are related to course outline to assess pupil’s understanding of the course material. As well as their ability to think critically and conduct research on a specific subject. 

Other times, teachers provide students a chance to choose a topic of their liking. But before you go on and pick a topic for your term paper, put the following concerns at the forefront. 

• The course objective 
• Your own interest. 

The Course Objective

Your term paper is essentially assigned to assess your command on the subject. Prioritize your course outline or objective before picking your  research paper topics . This will ensure that your paper is relevant and reflects what you have learnt so far about the subject. 

Your Interests

Your personal interests play a significant role in the success of your term paper. When you choose a topic that genuinely interests you, you are more likely to engage in  writing a research paper . This enthusiasm will not only make the writing process more enjoyable but also result in a higher quality term paper. 

Before picking a specific topic, make sure to conduct thorough research and align your personal liking to your course objective. The following tips on how to pick the perfect term paper topic will assist you in acing your grade.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Term Paper Topic

While picking a topic for yourself, be mindful of certain things:

Adjusting Topic Length

Consider if the topic would adjust your required length for a term paper. Suppose you’re to write a  10-page research paper , what kind of topic would adjust within those 10 pages? Registering the narrowness or broadness of the topic can help.

Authentic Resources

The second thing you need to consider is the resources of your information. Check if the source you’re working with is authentic. Reliable  sources for a research paper  include academic journals, books, think tanks, and reputable websites.

Complexity of the Subject

To ensure the clarity of your topic, consider its complexity. It is important that the chosen subject can be effectively presented to your audience. Additionally, ensure that you have a solid understanding of the subject matter yourself.

By considering the length, resources, and complexity of your chosen topic, you can ensure that your term paper is engaging, informative, and well-researched. So, take the time to select the perfect topic and get ready to ace your term paper!

How to Write a Term Paper: A Template With Example

This template also contains examples that are highlighted in a different color. 

Title Page 

Abstract .

• Remember to never exceed the abstract more than 250 words.

1.1 Background

1.2 problem statement, 1.3 objectives, 2. literature review, 3. methodology, 5. discussion, 6. conclusion, 7. references.

• The references section uses the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

8. Appendices

• If necessary, this section includes additional material such as raw data, survey questionnaires, interview transcripts, or any other supplementary information that supports the research.

This guide on how to write a term paper must have been helpful to you. But we understand that wrapping your head around something so detailed can be difficult when you’re stressed out. And most students are stressed out by the end of the semester due to multiple deadlines.  That’s why we have brought you our  term paper writing service  so you can relax and focus more on your upcoming exams. Our experts are dedicated to helping students excel academically with quality content and on-time submission. Check us out today and bid goodbye to academic worries!

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Term Paper Writing - A Step-by-Step Student's Guide

As the semester ends, some colleges and universities mandate that students must submit an end-of-the-year term paper to fulfill the course requirements. Writing a term paper is one of the many types of assignments students have to complete.

Like writing a research paper, a term paper assignment equips you with important writing skills, knowledge, and experience that come in handy as you advance your studies and your career. However, not every student takes the task lightly.

Most students dread writing a term paper. As a long research paper, a term paper contains organized information, analysis and synthesis, and structured paragraphs and sections.

In this comprehensive guide, our best research paper writers take you through the process of how to write a perfect term paper, what to do and what not to do, and more insights and tips to help you get the best grades.

What is a Term Paper?

A term paper is a long research paper, just like a thesis, dissertation, or capstone project, only that it is required at the end of the school semester. Term papers can be scientific reports, case studies, thesis-driven research papers, or scientific research papers based on an assigned topic, which contributes to your final grade.

Writing a term paper entails exploring a certain topic through thorough research and analysis of data that is collected throughout the course or part of the course period. Most term papers focus on a specific concept, issue, problem, or event, depending on the prompt that your academic advisor, professor, or instructor gives you.

The standard practice is for you to write the paper within the semester and submit it at the end of the college or university semester.

Professors and lecturers assign term paper assignments to evaluate the knowledge of students about the course concepts and contents. Most term papers take the structure of scientific reports.

Every course has its preferred term paper writing requirements, which your professor or teacher will share with you when you are given the assignment. Nevertheless, it is common to undertake in-depth research, analysis, synthesis, and use technical writing skills to achieve the intended goals.

As with any academic assignment, the term paper has to be organized, analytical, and polished to show that you have mastered the knowledge from the specific course.

How long is a Research Paper?

As a general rule of thumb, a term paper should be 10-double spaced pages or five single-spaced pages and above. However, for a term paper full of information, a minimum of 15 pages is fine.

A typical term paper is between 3000 and 5000 words long. It could be more or less, depending on what your professor wants, departmental/institutional requirements, and the complexity of the topic.

Regarding how many references a term paper should have, each page should have 1-3 references. If it is a ten-page term paper, it should have 10-15 references. If you have less than 10 pages, you skimped through the writing process, and your all-nighter probably did not pay.

A college term paper is between 5-7 pages. However, you can consult with your instructor or professor if you are unsure. This answers your question on how long is a term paper writing assignment, doesn't it?

Term Paper Outline or Structure

As you settle in to write a term paper, it is imperative to understand its structure so that you are prepared to handle it confidently.

A term paper outline is a roadmap of the specific components you want to achieve when writing the term paper. It gives a clear picture of every section, including the most pertinent details that you intend to include in every section of the paper.

A typical thesis-driven term paper has an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You can write the paper like an essay only that it will certainly have more paragraphs compared to a typical 5-paragraph essay. If you are writing such a paper, utilize headings and subheadings for the term paper sections to make your ideas flow well and for readers to easily follow the paper.

You can also write a term paper as a scientific research paper, especially if you have collected and analyzed data to make certain conclusions, answer research questions, or test hypotheses.

• Cover or Title Page. This should feature the course name, course code, your name, date of submission, instructor's name, and the number of words. The cover page differs depending on the formatting style. MLA, APA, Harvard, and Chicago each have different cover pages. See our research paper title page guide .
• Abstract. The abstract should describe the entire paper. It is written last. This one should be 200-250 words. Your thesis must contain the background, findings, and conclusions of the paper.
• Introduction. The introduction of your term paper should begin with general knowledge to focused knowledge on the topic. It should have a thesis statement.
• Body. Each body paragraph should have an introductory sentence, and facts (well-cited through APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago in-texts). There should also be a concluding sentence. Typically, the body expounds on the paper's main agenda (thesis statement of the term paper).
• Literature Review. This section contains organized information based on critical synthesis and analysis. Here, you explore concepts, methods, frameworks, and theories related to your topic as discussed by other authors. Organize the information in chronological, methodological, or thematic format. Ensure that you only use scholarly sources that are published recently, unless you are referring to seminal studies.
• Methodology. This is the section where you provide details of the theoretical frameworks, conceptual models, and the data collection strategies you used when gathering data for the term paper.
• Results. Here, you interpret the findings.  Explain what the term paper has covered and discovered.
• Discussion. Your paper should end with a summary and conclusion of the topic question. You should take note of the principles of writing a good essay.
• Conclusion. Winds up the paper by restating the thesis of the term paper and summarizing facts.
• References. This section has an alphabetical list of all the sources that you have cited in the paper.
• Appendix (optional). The appendix provides information, which though useful to the paper, would distract the readers if placed within the body of the paper. It should have images, tables, charts, figures, and other materials or documents. Any information that cannot be placed within the text is placed in the appendices.

You can add a list of figures, tables, or abbreviations to your term paper if it is a requirement.

Read more about making a perfect research paper outline to adopt an outline format that works for you for the term paper you are writing. Check out our guide on the parts of a research paper .

How to Do a Term Paper: Steps to Take

If you are writing a term paper, you are going to have a long time (entire semester), which means breaking everything down to avoid unnecessary writer’s block and procrastination. Failure to plan will make you write a last-minute term paper, riddled with mistakes and omissions.  To write a term paper effectively, follow these steps.

Step #1: Read the Assignment Prompt

As part of the preparation stages, begin the term paper writing process by reading the instructions. as you read, focus on:

• The requirements. Check whether you are to submit a term paper proposal with a topic. Also, check if you are required to submit a formal term paper outline or an annotated bibliography during the course of the semester.
• Ensure that you know the deadlines for each of the submission requirements, including the proposal, annotated bibliography, article reviews, literature reviews, or evidence synthesis tables.
• The number of pages. Most term papers range between 3000-5000 words. Ensure that you know the number of pages and page limits set for the paper.
• The number of sources. Some professors specify the number of academic or scholarly sources they expect you to use in your term paper.
• Some professors will give you a definite topic or a list of topics to choose from or leave you the liberty to select a suitable topic that resonates with your interests and aspirations.
• Check the questions you are expected to address in the paper.
• The prompt will have details about the formatting style to use when writing the paper. Check whether you are required to use MLA, APA, Harvard, Oxford, Chicago, or Bluebook formats.

The term paper prompt or instructions sometimes come with a rubric that breaks down what the instructor will be checking as they mark your paper. Ensure that you have everything figured out by the time you are writing and submitting the paper.

Step #2: Plan the Tern Paper Writing Process

Given the understanding, you need to plan the term paper writing process by coming up with a calendar to budget the time to achieve milestones. If there are deliverables such as research topic, proposal, annotated bibliography, outline, literature review, or anything else, ensure that you mark the dates on your calendar and plan for their delivery.

When planning the paper, brainstorm and come up with term paper topics and ideas. You should research widely by reading the course content (assigned readings). You should eliminate the topics and settle for the one that is interesting, relevant, relatable, and manageable. When selecting the topic, do your preliminary research to check if there are good scholarly sources you can use when writing the paper. You can also consult with your professor.

When you have the topic, write a term paper proposal that details the topic, rationale for choosing the topic, objectives of the term paper, research questions or hypotheses, thesis statement, purpose and problem statement, methodology, timelines, and budget.

Consult with your professor if there are any changes to be made on the topic or if you are unsure about the next step to take. If everything is approved, proceed to the research phase.

Step #3: Research, Take Notes, and Organize Sources

After getting approval for the topic, it is now time to delve deep into research. If you are doing secondary research, which mainly focuses on reading scholarly and official documents, ensure that you prepare well for it. Do systematic research to identify the sources of information to use in the research paper. As well, ensure that you execute the scientific research well so that you can prove a hypothesis or answer to a given research question. You can use qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approach, depending on the topic and the scope of research.

When you are doing a research-based term paper, consider primary and secondary sources. We recommend using University library databases such as EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Psych Net, Science Direct, PubMed, CINHAL, or Google Scholar. Google search is also a good place to begin.

DO NOT use WIKIPEDIA, YOUTUBE, Personal blogs, News websites, and other shoddy blogs you find online. Well, you can use non-scholarly sources to familiarize yourself with the topic, but not within the paper. You should strive to ensure that you have a balance for the selected sources.

Although most colleges and universities will give you access to scholarly sources, when supplementing such, choose a credible scholarly source wisely. Use specific keywords in Google Search and for academic libraries. Focus on data from science and educational resources, government records, official reports, open educational resources, journal articles, and other credible sources.

Take notes as you research, which comes in handy when preparing the outline and when writing the paper. Ensure that you indicate the source of information in your notes. You can use tables to organize similar information to make it easy to develop paragraphs.

Each time you get a befitting credible source, log it into your list of potential references. You can use online citation management tools to organize the sources you have selected in alphabetical order. If possible, download the source in pdf format and read it as you highlight major points using different color codes. You can even print them out and make physical notes in writing.

Step #4: Make a Term Paper Outline

Now that you have researched and have an idea of what your paper should look like, visualize it by creating an outline.

You can make a decimal, full-sentence, or alphanumeric outline for your term paper. The outline should contain the major points including the thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting ideas, research questions, hypotheses, and other fine details about the paper.

Format your term paper outline, as you would want the term paper itself to be when you are done writing it.

If you have any charts, images, figures, or data tables, ensure that you have an appendix section. We already covered the formal structure of a term paper, check the previous section.

Step #5: Write the First Draft

Now that you have the ideas outlined, it is time to start working on the first draft. If you had submitted a term paper proposal, it would be easier to develop everything going forward. However, you will need to change the tone, tenses, and language to match that of the term paper. The proposal is written in the future tense while a term paper in the present or past tense since it reports research that you conducted.

Begin writing your term paper from the introduction to the conclusion. After you are done with everything, write the abstract and polish your paper.

The introduction should start with an attention grabber to enthuse your readers. It can be a statement, fact, or statistic to point to the importance of the topic. You should then provide an overview of the topic, including stating the purpose of the term paper. Your introduction also entails your problem statement, including the rationale for exploring the topic. Include the research questions, hypothesis, and thesis statement of the term paper. You can use the funnel introduction approach so that your readers can appreciate your writing prowess. The introduction should also signpost (highlight) what the readers should expect in the subsequent sections.

With the results of the study or the research notes, write the body section of the paper. For the body paragraphs , write topic sentences, supporting details, explanations, links, and concluding sentences until you are done with the section. Write the literature review critically and present the facts chronologically. You should develop all the arguments gradually and use section headings and subheadings to organize information. Prioritize ideas in terms of their strengths and cite every piece of information from external sources to avoid plagiarism. Paraphrase the ideas from other sources well and avoid overusing vocabulary when developing ideas in the term paper. You should also balance the body paragraphs so that your audience/readers are not bored or confused when reading.

Finally, when writing the conclusion of the term paper, summarize the information you have discussed in the body. Restate the thesis and show how you have addressed it in the paper. Have a concluding sentence that gives your readers a good closure.

When you are done with the conclusion, write the abstract to summarize the entire term paper.

Step #6: Polish the Term Paper

You have spent the longest time writing the term paper and all you now have is a draft. It is recommended that you take a break from writing to refresh your mind. A few days off your writing schedule will not hurt the submission deadline. When on the break do anything unrelated to the term paper. Such breathers are great; you resume working on the paper with an objective mind and a keen eye.

An outstanding term paper has a good flow, contains minimal to no errors, and addresses the research topic. You must not tire to revise the paper until you are sure it meets the rubric requirements. You should focus on moving the paragraphs around, deleting unnecessary sections, replacing paragraphs, and re-writing some sections to make sense to the readers.

When polishing the paper, focus on removing all the grammatical, stylistic, and spelling errors in the paper. As well, ensure that the format of the paper is right. Check the in-text citations to ensure that they are referenced in the references list section. The goal here is to have a high-quality term paper that your professor reads and wants to keep reading or share with friends; one that they will post on the school website as a sample for a perfectly done paper.

Check the choice and use of words. You should ensure that every topic sentence makes sense. Additionally, ensure that you have used the right phrases and words within paragraphs. Your supporting sentences should have citations and explanations. The concluding sentences should use the right transition words to give your paper a good flow.

If you are sure you have edited it enough, consider having a peer review of the term paper to ascertain that you have met the requirements. You can also hire qualified scholars or editors to check your paper against the rubric and advise on areas to make changes or realign for better grades.

Incorporate the changes and turn the first draft into a final draft term paper that you can confidently submit.

Related: How to write a perfect nursing term paper .

Tips for Formatting a Term Paper

College and university papers have a preferred standard format. Students must ensure that they meet the formatting requirements for term papers as specified in the instructions.

Although considered straightforward, formatting alone carries some marks and can affect the grade you get for your term paper.

If you have written your paper but do not know how to format it, you can hire a proofreader or editor for the task.

There are several styles to format a term paper, including MLA, Chicago, APA, oxford, etc. Let us look at the most popular styles.

Formatting a Term paper in APA

Students pursuing social sciences such as psychology, anthropology, social work, sociology, education, geography, and other fields such as engineering, nursing, business, communications, and related fields mostly use APA formatting style . An APA term paper will have the following:

• Written in an A4 sheet 8.5 x 11 inches.
• Use Times New Roman font size 12 or any specific by your professor/instructor.
• Has a one-inch margin around the page.
• Double or single-spaced text (as per your instructor’s guidelines).
• 0.5-inch indent for every paragraph , except for the abstract.
• Headings and subheadings are placed on different levels
• Cover page with the title, course details, student details, instructor’s name, and submission date.
• The “References” is bold.
• All entries in the reference list are alphabetical and double-spaced. Use hanging indent for the citations that require more than one line.

We have a quick formatting guide for APA papers ; check it as you polish your paper.

Formatting a Term Paper in Chicago Style

The Chicago or Turabian formatting style is used mostly for religion, theology, law, and other humanities and social sciences.

When writing in Chicago or Turabian style, ensure to format your paper as follows:

• Font: Times New Roman
• Font Size : 12 points.
• Margins: 1 inch.
• Paragraphs: All paragraphs should be indented, half an inch from the margin.
• Spacing: All of the text in the body of your paper should be double-spaced.
• The title page contains a capitalized title, course name, your full name, and the date due for the paper.
• The text is left-aligned with a ragged right edge.
• The entire paper is double-spaced.
• If you are using the CMS, ensure that you place footnotes after any punctuation. Every number must have an entry at the bottom margin of the page.
• Include a page number on the top right corner of the page.
• Start the body of your paper on the first line on a new page.
• The word “Bibliography” is centered and not in bold.
• The citations in the bibliography section should be in alphabetic order.
• Every entry in the bibliography is single-spaced with a blank line separating each entry.
• Use hanging indent for the citations that require more than one line.

MLA Term Paper Formatting

You can format your term paper in MLA if you are pursuing humanities such as history, English and Literature, Arts, archeology, etc. some of the salient features of this style include:

• Type the paper on a standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper.
• Double-space the text of your paper.
• Use legible font, mostly Times New Roman, and font size 12.
• Leave a space after the period and other punctuation marks.
• You must indent the first line of every paragraph half an inch from the left margin or ONE tab space.
• Use headers and subheadings effectively.
• When quoting titles of longer works, use italics to mention the titles, only when necessary.
• If you have endnotes, include them on a separate page before the Works Cited section. The section should be titled Notes and centered and it should not be formatted.
• Use quotation marks when referring to literary works in your paper.
• The entire term paper should be left aligned.
• The references should be written in alphabetical order and use hanging indent for those that are more than a line long.

How do you end a Term Paper?

A good term paper should have a comprehensive conclusion. Refer to this source for  term paper writing tips  (external website). To end your term paper:

• Restate the topic in the topic sentence of your conclusion paragraph.
• Also,  restate the thesis statement  of your term paper.
• Briefly present a summary of the significant points in your term paper. Be clear and concise on the arguments.
• Have a call to action if there is a need to do so.
• Your conclusion should pass the "so what" test.
• Your conclusion should synthesize the primary Link from the introduction to the conclusion.
• End your term paper with logic. It will help if you have a suggestion in your conclusion.

Can I end the research paper with a question? Yes, why not? Ending a paper with a question leaves the reader thinking about the content. It entices them to read the piece yet again. A professor doing this means an excellent grade.

Typically, people use words such as sum, conclusion, closing, wind up, etc. However, these words are clichés. Be innovative at the end of your term paper.

Use words like:

• As seen in the discussion above.
• We can conclude from the research.
• It is generally agreed that
• The above discussion
• As can be proved by the findings...
• As research has demonstrated
• Reported and tested

These words are not as stiff as the common concluding transition words. Remember, a thesis should come in the introduction of your term paper. It is only restated in your conclusion.

Before you close this page…

This information on how to write a term paper can help you construct the best term papers and score the best grades. Choose the best topic and have an outline.

Related: Writing article titles in a term paper.

On your GPA hunt, though, writing a term paper can be tough. Getting time to complete college assignments is challenging due to work-life balance. Maybe you have a family to take care of, errands to run, or chores to complete; you can be literarily stuck with your paper.

Instead of worrying or stressing yourself, you can trust our online writing services. We offer discreet, reliable, and trustworthy  online assignment writing help . A term paper requires the input of the best writers. We have experts in  term paper writing  to help. You can purchase a term paper from our website and have it written from scratch based on your instructions. We are the website that writes your term papers at an affordable fee.

Our experienced professional writers will also offer proofreading and editing services free when you order from our website. Besides, they will also come through if you are stuck with choosing a topic for your term paper.

Get a well-written paper in APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Any style, we have you covered! Order at GradeCrest.

If you are hoping to choose the best term paper topics, consider our posts and guides including:

• Research Paper Topics
• Nutrition research topics
• List of global and social issues to write about
• How to write a research paper
• Best Topics for international business research papers
• Criminology and criminal justice Research Topics
• Sports term paper topics
• Making a title page for a research paper
• Technology research topics for students
• Research topics on discrimination
• Education research topics
• How to make a Research paper Longer
• Political Science research topics
• How to write any paper fast when you don’t have much time
• Aviation Research Papers for students
• Steps and tips for writing a term paper proposal.
• Psychology research topics for term papers.
• Essay Outlining Process
• Writing a Research Proposal

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

How to Write a Term Paper With Examples and Tips

11 December 2023

last updated

Students in higher learning institutions must submit their term papers at the end of each semester. Basically, these papers play a crucial role in evaluating the learner’s knowledge of a specific subject. In this case, scholars should engage in adequate preparation before writing a complete term paper. Then, some of the essential steps include defining a topic, finding credible sources, creating and revising a paper’s outline, and drafting a term work. Moreover, an outline of a term paper differs from that of other essays since it must include subsections. Further on, writers should ensure that all the subtopic relates to a thesis statement. Besides, each body paragraph must contain a topic sentence, supportive proof, appropriate descriptions, and a concluding and transitioning statement. In turn, the term paper’s conclusion should include a concise summary of the main points discussed in such work. Hence, students need to learn how to write a term paper to pass their academic goals.

Definition of a Term Paper

Students must prepare research papers for them to succeed in their studies. For example, a term paper refers to a serious research paper that a student should submit at the end of a semester. In this case, professors use these works to track and evaluate their learners’ knowledge about the area of expertise. Moreover, the process of organizing a term paper involves comprehensive research and methodological writing skills. Then, outstanding term papers contain analytical and organized structures. Besides, they have well-researched evidence that supports significant claims. In turn, learners in higher educational institutions prepare term papers when reflecting on their knowledge in a specific study area.

Possible Topics for Term Papers

Students in higher learning institutions may come across different topics for writing their term papers. In practice, term paper themes vary from one subject to another and require one to engage in detailed research. Hence, possible topics for writing a term paper that one may come across are:

• Is there a cancer epidemic due to industrial chemicals in the environment?
• Should federal courts be bound by the “original intent” of the framers?
• Do foreign investments threaten U.S. economic independence?
• Should morality and human rights influence foreign trade policy?
• Do rich nations have a responsibility to help developing countries?
• Partnership benefits at state and federal institutions.
• Same-sex adoption and access to reproductive technologies.
• Execution of juveniles.
• The lengthy appealing process for death row inmates.
• The Constitutional question of “cruel and unusual punishment.”

Term paper topics have a broad scope. Basically, term paper themes given above show that a writer must carry out extensive research to provide a comprehensive response. Also, students decide on the content that they must include in their term papers to give a comprehensive analysis of a subject.

Step-by-Step Guide for Writing a Term Paper

A student must prepare a term paper to achieve desired grades and complete a study course. Basically, adequate preparation allows scholars to gather relevant evidence and draft a term paper effectively. Hence, the necessary steps in writing a term paper that one should take to organize an academic piece are:

Step 1: Preparation

A. defining a topic for a term paper.

Defining a specific subject for a term paper is the first and most crucial activity that a writer must consider. For instance, describing an issue allows scholars to understand their course prompts and understand key ideas required to complete a term paper. In this case, one must understand the meaning of essential terms with the paper’s context. Moreover, students should use resources, like a dictionary and thesaurus, to obtain the necessary definitions. In turn, writers may opt to seek help from peers and lecturers when defining a topic for a term paper.   

B. Preparing Ideas

Preparing ideas for a term paper leads to outstanding works. For example, writers should identify all the relevant ideas and points needed to be covered before engaging in the actual writing process. Unfortunately, many learners fail to consider preparing thoughts as an essential step when writing a term paper. As a result, they prepare low-quality papers and achieve low grades. In turn, students need to redo their papers to pass their classes. Hence, writers should prepare ideas for writing a term paper by using acceptable methods.

C. Brainstorming

Scholars should consider brainstorming as an acceptable method to prepare ideas for a term paper. For example, brainstorming helps learners to come up with fresh and new facts. In this case, students think of the ideas that relate to their research topics. Moreover, the process generates unique ideas that can make one’s work to stand out. Hence, some ideas for brainstorming that one may use when preparing concepts and thoughts for term papers are:

• Come up with bad ideas first – Learners should think about research concepts related to their topics. In this case, successful students do not consider raising positive thoughts during brainstorming. Instead, they should present both good and bad ideas concerning their subjects. Also, writers should not feel stupid for raising bad ideas since the strategy helps identify weaker and more robust ideas. Then, one should allow ideas to flow during the brainstorming strategy. Besides, scholars should focus on raising positive opinions after exhausting throwaway thoughts. Hence, authors should increase both bad and good ideas that relate to their research topics.
• Breaking and building ideas – One of the most effective strategies of turning a few ideas into many is to break them down. Basically, learners should identify general themes that relate to a term paper and break them into smaller details. In this case, the process helps authors to see if some narrower ideas branch from main themes. Alternatively, one may combine different ideas to create a broader subtopic for a term paper. Hence, writers should break down more general concepts while combining narrow ones.
• Play word games – Outstanding term papers contain original and unique ideas. For example, word games are instrumental tools that prevent learners from producing generic and unoriginal ideas. In this case, word games motivate some out-of-box thinking. Moreover, “word storm” is an excellent method for a student to generate related ideas. In turn, this method allows authors to create thoughts naturally without overthinking.
• Creating a mood board – Learners should rely on methods that motivate them to generate fresh and unique ideas related to a research topic. For instance, combining imagery, color, and visual-spatial elements evoke emotions and feelings that spark fresh and new thoughts. In this case, students manage to recall some concepts acquired during learning by improving the term paper’s quality.
• Doodling – Successful students spur creativity insights and increase attention when generating essential ideas for a term paper. Basically, doodling allows a learner to engage with visuals that spark new thoughts. Also, practical doodling approaches help authors to break out of the traditional brainstorming approaches that rely on reading and talking. In this case, learners should break visual objects into small objects or combine unrelated items. Hence, these approaches motivate the brain to generate unique ideas for supporting a central theme.
• Changing a physical environment – Ordinary motivation plays a crucial role in the generation of new ideas. For example, students should change the physical environment to avoid boredom. In this case, enriched and attractive environments affect how the human brain works and speeds up how one generates new ideas and thoughts. In turn, a successful learner must select the location for brainstorming effectively. 

Reading is an appropriate method that students may consider when generating ideas for term papers. For instance, reading is a traditional method that writers use to raise arguments related to a specific topic. In this case, scholars should identify credible sources that relate to a research topic and read them to understand an assigned subject better. Also, this strategy plays a crucial in raising viable and accurate ideas about the term paper’s topic. However, scholars must take the necessary precautions since extensive reading is a tedious and monotonous process.   

E. Considering an Academic Audience

Different scholars read term papers for specific reasons. Basically, students must consider the target audience as academic readers to ensure that term papers meet their needs. In most cases, writers must use the official language when expressing thoughts. Moreover, formal language suits academic documents because it reveals professionalism and academic excellence.

Step 2: Setting Up the Stage

A. researching for sources.

Terms papers must contain credible evidence obtained from academic sources . Basically, scholars must gather adequate evidence from different reliable sources , like books, journal articles, financial and laboratory reports, credible websites, and magazines. As a ground rule, all sources must provide adequate and irrefutable evidence to support the main arguments. Also, one should find scholarly sources published in the last ten years because they contain the latest evidence and facts on research issues. Hence, writers should look for credible sources to support the main arguments in their term papers.

B. Making Notes for a Term Paper

Taking notes is a crucial step when writing term papers. Basically, scholars should read all the sources critically. In this case, the strategy allows one to understand the major concepts and ideas that relate to a research topic. Moreover, students should consider writing short notes to avoid unnecessary misunderstanding of the main messages made by authors of credible sources. Then, successful scholars take notes and revise them to ensure that they obtain the most substantial evidence that supports their research work. In turn, improving research notes involves breaking broader ideas into smaller ones and combining others to make them stronger and sensible. Therefore students should take the necessary points to support the main arguments in their term papers.    

C. Developing a Term Paper Outline

Organizing thoughts play a crucial role in preparing a quality paper. Basically, one should combine research notes obtained from scholarly sources and those gathered during brainstorming and put them into developing a term paper outline. Basically, an essay outline helps writers to connect ideas. However, a term paper outline should contain a research topic with the main thoughts and concepts needed to be covered. Besides, clear outlines have smaller ideas that relate to the main ones. In turn, the strategy allows one to see direct connections between the main ideas and leads to an organized term paper. Hence, students should follow the basic steps below to create a clear term paper outline:

• Organize notes and relevant evidence into groups of related ideas.
• Review a thesis statement to determine if it communicates the intended message.
• Identify the main points that support a working thesis statement or research hypothesis .
• Include ideas and thoughts that support the main points.
• Match supportive ideas with relevant sources obtained through research.
• Organize all the ideas to achieve a unique flow of information logically.
• Identify if some of the points presented need more research and where thoughts require development.
• Revise points and ideas to enhance the overall quality of a term paper.

D. Writing an Annotated Bibliography for a Term Paper

Successful scholars prepare annotated bibliographies that contain relevant and irrefutable research. Basically, each entry in an annotated bibliography for a term paper should include citation information with a short description and analysis. In this case, scholars should follow accepted citation styles, depending on instructions given by professors. Besides, an annotated bibliography must focus on a research topic of a term paper. The scholar should ensure that all sources remain relevant to the topic. However, one should remember that the annotated bibliography requirements may vary depending on the topic and term paper’s requirements. In turn, a useful annotated bibliography should help learners to keep track of research readings and gain a sense of a literature review . Hence, one should prepare an annotated bibliography for a term paper when conducting research.

Step 3: Start Writing a Term Paper

A. organizing a first draft of a term paper.

Drafts of the term papers help one to organize ideas in a good flow. Basically, students should use their outlines and annotated bibliographies to write the first draft of a term paper. In this case, scholars should focus on presenting all the ideas in this draft. Moreover, an appropriate draft enables one to test an outline and elaborate theories to support the central argument. In practice, good drafts resemble complete term papers. Also, good drafts should contain a title page, abstract or executive summary , introduction, body, and conclusion with a reference page.

B. Putting Everything Together

A scholar should put all the ideas together into a complete term paper. For example, learners should ensure that a written document contains a logical flow of ideas. In this case, the strategy enables students to identify some research gaps in the presented concepts of a term paper. Besides, putting everything together helps authors to identify some points that require more investigation.

C. Finding New Sources or Deleting Old Ones

Term papers must contain compelling ideas and arguments. For example, learners must review their drafts to determine if all sources provide relevant and credible evidence. In practice, scholars must change some sources that offer weak arguments. Besides, writers should remove previous scholarly sources that provide weak points of view or are irrelevant to a study since a research hypothesis may be changed during writing the first draft. Hence, one must change credible sources where necessary.

D. Altering an Outline

Learners should change their outlines of the term papers to make such pieces more substantial and compelling. For instance, one must use the first draft and new scholarly sources to make relevant changes in a term paper’s outline. Besides, the primary goal of this strategy is to strengthen study arguments and improve their clarity.

E. Creating a Working Thesis

Compelling term papers must contain well-organized thesis statements by considering research hypotheses and rationales. Basically, scholars must develop a working thesis statement that includes the claim and significant points that scholars try to make. In this case, writers should create a sentence that explains their positions taken on topics in question based on their hypotheses and rationales. Also, lecturers evaluate all the body paragraphs and how they relate to the thesis and research question. In this case, one should use a revised outline, draft, and annotated bibliography to create the working hypothesis and ensure that it meets the necessary quality.

Step 3: Wrapping It Up

A. revisions.

Outstanding term papers contain minimal or no flaws. Basically, learners must revise their drafts to remove all the mistakes. For example, some of the factors that one must consider are spelling and grammatical errors, various writing technicalities, and idea flow. In this case, revisions play a significant role in improving the term paper’s overall quality and ensuring that readers develop the motivation to evaluate all its sections. Hence, students must revise the term paper’s draft to remove unnecessary mistakes.  

Editing is an important task that helps authors to make term papers compelling. In particular, students must focus on enhancing the readability and relevance levels of a term paper. Hence, when writing a term paper, one must consider:

• Scholars should change the order of words during the editing process. In this case, the primary purpose of enhancing the term paper’s euphony is to improve the rhythm and other dynamics. Also, students should replace weak expressions to remove clichés and conversational style.
• Effective editing helps authors to enhance the brevity of statements and claims made throughout a term paper. In turn, short and concise words sound better than long or wordy statements.
• An effective editing process improves the honesty of claims made and evidence presented throughout a study work. In this case, term papers should include proven facts in each paragraph. Moreover, one should specify scholarly sources of any data used in supporting topic sentences.
• Students should edit their term papers to improve the quality of their literacy levels. For instance, one must proofread the work to remove punctuation, spelling and syntax mistakes, and typos. Also, this process requires reading a term paper several times to identify all errors and correct them accordingly.

C. Topic Sentences

Every paragraph in the body of a term paper must begin with a topic sentence. For example, learners must ensure that each section dwells on a single point related to the thesis statement. Moreover, one should reread the work to ensure that all paragraphs have the necessary opening statements.

E. Concluding Sentences

Every paragraph of a term paper should end with a concluding sentence. In this case, students should summarize covered ideas in a section. Besides, last sentences of paragraphs should include a summative claim that brings all the concepts and thoughts into a unique closure.  

F. Transitions

All ideas presented in a term paper must have a unique transitioning of ideas. For example, writers should use the necessary phrases to transition sentences and paragraphs. In particular, the approach improves the overall readability and flow of ideas in a research paper. As a rule, each paragraph’s last sentence must act as a transition to the next section. Hence, readers must find connections between all the paragraphs in a term paper.

G. Formatting

Any learning institution requires students to follow specific formatting rules. In this case, learners must follow such guidelines when writing their term papers. Also, marking rubrics are useful tools that each learner must use to format their works.

H. Peer Reviewing

Peer review is an essential step in enhancing the term paper’s quality. Basically, one should identify scholars who are familiar with a study subject to read a term paper. Also, qualified scholars help students to identify some mistakes that may undermine the term paper’s readability. Besides, peers provide positive criticism that allows students to make the necessary changes to their works.

Step 4: Writing a Final Draft of a Term Paper

The term paper’s final draft must include all the changes made during revisions, editing, formatting, and peer review. In this case, scholars should focus on submitting flawless documents that do not contain any forms of plagiarism. Besides, the final draft must capture all the aspects covered during a research study with results , discussion, recommendations, limitations, and information for further research.

Basic Outline Template of a Term Paper Format

Cover Page with a Title of a Term Paper

Abstract (150 words)

Outline (if needed)

I. Introduction

A. Relevance of research.

B. The purpose of a term paper or a discussed problem.

C. Personal reaction to a study subject.

D. Hypothesis and Rationale

E. Short descriptions of methodology and key findings.

F. Principal conclusions and thesis statement.

A. Literature Review

• Topic sentence.
• Explanation.
• Concluding sentence and transition.

B. Methodology

D. discussion.

E. Recommendations and Limitations (if needed)

III. Conclusion

A. Summary of the main points.

B. A strong response to the thesis statement.

C. A summative statement.

The outline of the term paper appears different since it contains different sections. For example, a term paper includes various subheadings that relate to the main topic. Each subheading may have several body paragraphs. However, each paragraph must contain a topic sentence, a supporting example, and a relevant explanation.

Explanations for Key Aspects of a Term Paper’s Outline Format

1. introduction part of a term paper.

The introduction must state the primary purpose of a term paper. Basically, scholars should ensure that the first part of the work acquaints readers with a problem under discussion. Besides, one must include a compelling and robust thesis statement in this section. As a rule, the introduction should not take up a large part of the entire paper. Hence, the introduction should provide an overview of the whole work in a straightforward and precise manner.

The term paper’s body should have different headings and subheadings that connect to the topic. In this case, scholars must ensure that the process of dividing a term paper into different sections enhances the clarity of the message. Moreover, the strategy should not distract readers from appreciating the intended message.

3. Conclusion

The closing paragraph should restate the thesis statement included in the introduction. Basically, students must sum up the ideas presented in all the body paragraphs. Also, the most effective strategy that one may use is to restate all the topic sentences. Besides, authors must provide a concluding statement that brings the entire work into a unique closure.

How to Write a Term Paper Proposal

A term paper proposal outlines the structure of the future work that scholars must complete. Basically, practical recommendations provide crucial elements that support the research included in the actual term paper. In this case, term proposals aim to constrict a wide area of interest into a complicated or specific topic. Moreover, writers define the intention to discover a study issue and base the decision on the need to make changes, improve the condition of the matter, or advance scholarly knowledge in the specific area of interest. In turn, one should select essential parts of a term paper and put them together in a unified format. Besides, one should briefly describe each section and tie key details to a chosen topic. Hence, a good term paper proposal should include the following parts:

• Title – A term paper should have a concise and brief title. In practice, this title should resemble that of the actual term paper.
• Objectives – Term paper proposals should state the research goals of a study. In this case, one must include the intended purpose of the research.
• Research question – An outstanding proposal must state research questions that scholars intend to answer through adequate research.
• Thesis statement – Term paper proposals should include a clear thesis statement that responds to the research question directly. In this case, a suitable thesis should be factual, clear, and subjective. Besides, one must ensure that the central claim is a verifiable statement.
• Methodology – Research proposals should state study methods used to gather and evaluate the relevant data. Moreover, students should use appropriate and proven methods to conduct their research.

Possible Writing Formats for Term Papers

Different educational institutions require learners to use writing formats when preparing term papers. For example, the most common formatting styles that one may come across include MLA 8, APA 7, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian. In turn, each of these formats has specific guidelines that one must observe.

Term papers formatted in MLA 8 do not require a cover page unless specified. In particular, writers must include a header that contains surnames and page numbers. Moreover, one must flush these details to the right margin of the page. In turn, all in-text citations should have the author’s last name and the exact page containing the evidence used.

Term papers formatted in APA 7 should contain a title page that includes the relevant heading and identifies the student, date, and relevant institution. In this case, each page must contain a header that consists of a shortened title of the term paper and the specific page. However, the first page should have the phrase “running head” preceding the shortened title. In turn, in-text citations should contain the author’s last name and publication date.

Term paper formatted in Harvard style must contain a title page that includes the title and other details identifying the student, professor or tutor, and the relevant institution. Also, one must write the title in capital letters. Then, the header should contain the title and page number. However, one must flush these details to the right margin. As a result, in-text citations should include the author’s surname, publication date, and the page containing the relevant evidence.

4. Chicago/Turabian

Term papers formatted in Chicago/Turabian should contain a title page that has the title and identifies the author. Basically, one must capitalize all the letters in the heading. Moreover, page numbers should begin on the second page and must appear on the top right side. In turn, in-text citations should appear as footnotes that contain full bibliographic details of sources.    

Sample of Writing a Simple Term Paper

Research Topic: Is the “war on terror,” a global civil war?

Scholars develop different conceptions of the term “war on terror.” Basically, some scholars argue that the United States uses the war on terror to control the weaker nations. In this case, the current research examined whether the war on terror is a civil war. Then, a review of relevant literature was an effective method of gathering the necessary data. In turn, study results show that the United States uses the war on terror to protect citizens’ rights, which proves the alternative hypothesis to be a valid statement.

Keywords : War on terror, hypothesis, and review of literature

I. Sample of a Term Paper’s Introduction

The term war on terror became standard after the extremist attacks of September 11, 2001. Basically, President George W. Bush’s government confirmed a global campaign that involved open and secret military actions, new security lawmaking, and determinations to block extremism’s sponsoring, among other factors. In this case, the movement rallied for support from other countries, which willingly joined in the fight against terrorism. Although most scholars argue that the war on terror is an American strategy to control other countries, civil war theories prove otherwise.

Hypotheses:

H 0 – The United States uses the war on terror to control other countries.

H 1 – The United States uses the war on terror to protect the rights of its citizens.

II. Example of Body Paragraphs for a Term Paper

Different theories of civil wars prove that persistent rebel groups that engage in criminal activities. For example, some of the civil war philosophies include motivation and feasibility, ideas of rebellion, organization of the uprising, and evidence of the causes, among other factors (Kimbrough & Sheremeta, 2019). In turn, these theories prove that civil war results from the emergence and persistence of a rebel army. Moreover, motivation and feasibility theories argue that rebels with excessive power engage in terrorism. Hence, persistent rebel groups engage in terrorism as a way of addressing their interests.

A review of relevant literature is a suitable method for gathering the necessary data for the essay. According to Reale et al. (2017), a literature review is an effective method for gathering information for research papers in history and other social sciences. Therefore, reviewing scholarly sources related to civil war and terrorism will contribute to gathering the necessary data.

Standard game theory shows that economic grievances lead to terrorism. According to traditional game theory, economic dissimilarities in the community motivate some people to engage in crime (Kimbrough & Sheremeta, 2019). In this case, the less productive but healthy groups tend to participate in violence against industrious but weak groups. Besides, such conflict levels undermine fairness, equity, or coercion, depending on the analyst’s political standpoint. Hence, economic grievances motivate some groups to engage in terrorism.

Study findings show that the United States targets specific terror groups since their predatory behavior in a country or region leads to adverse economic and social outcomes. In this case, militant groups lead to redistribution through violence when productive and weak agents engage in defensive actions. Moreover, militant groups engage in activities that cause other people to reiterate. In turn, research results from such activities include reciprocated hatred that inflicts harm to innocent citizens. Hence, the United States participates in peacekeeping missions that can lower the negative impacts of such conflicts.

III. Conclusion Sample in a Term Paper

Most scholars argue that the war on terror is an American strategy to control other countries. In this case, different theories on civil wars prove that terrorism results from grievances and economic interests of some specific groups. Moreover, such activities destabilize the economic and social welfare of ordinary citizens. Thus, citizens focus on such terror groups intending to protect citizens of the affected countries. 

Kimbrough, E. O., & Sheremeta, R. M. (2019). Theories of conflict and war. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization , 159 , 384–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebo.2019.02.007

Reale, E., Avramov, D., Canhial, K., Donovan, C., Flecha, R., Holm, P., Larkin, C., Lepori, B., Mosoni-Fried, J., Oliver, E., Primeri, E., Puigvert, L., Scharnhorst, A., Schubert, A., Soler, M., Soòs, S., Sordé, T., Travis, C., & Van Horik, R. (2017). A literature review on evaluating the scientific, social, and political impact of social sciences and humanities research. Research Evaluation , 27 (4), 298–308. https://doi.org/10.1093/reseval/rvx025

Summing Up on How to Write a Good Term Paper

Term papers refer to a research assignment completed by learners toward the end of educational semesters. In this case, students must ensure that research papers meet the necessary quality since they track and evaluate one’s knowledge. Hence, when writing a term paper, one should remember:

• rely on comprehensive research and methodological writing skills.
• include analytical and organized structures;
• present well-researched evidence that supports significant claims;
• consider various formatting strategies as required by learning institutions. 

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Table of contents

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A term paper is a research project written by students over an academic term, typically accounting for a significant part of a grade. It is intended to describe an event, a concept, or argue a point. The paper is usually original research involving a detailed study of a subject, requiring a considerable amount of preparation and effort.

The length and complexity of a term paper can vary but it's generally more comprehensive and detailed than regular academic essays. It usually includes an introduction, body, conclusion, and a bibliography citing the sources used.

Writing a term paper can be a piece of cake if you know how to properly structure it and where to begin. Browse this guide and learn how to write a term paper worth a A+.

Discover How to Write a Term Paper & What It Is

Students who earn Cs (70 per cent equivalent) do obtain degrees, but they barely get valuable, interesting job offers. Tell Granny to get ready with the magnets: we are about to start our amazing academic adventure! What is a term paper ? It is an effective method to increase the overall great point average and professional skills every student should not ignore. What is a term paper? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word this way: “A major written assignment in a school/college course representative of a student's achievement during a semester.” No matter which is your personal answer to “what is a termpaper,” it is the last chance to fix the final course grade. There will be no other chance to improve the academic performance as it is the final assignment to pop up during the semester. The need to learn how to write a term paper appears closer to of the educational year’s finish; try to be ahead of your class by reviewing the steps to writing a term paper earlier! Or you can simply get the best term paper writing service .

Accepted Essay’s Format

How to write an outline for a term paper? Do not bother – have a look at the helpful guide prepared by the talented scholars to understand what the main parts of the good final projects are! Here are five main parts of this process. Please do not be confused with five paragraph essay. Term paper help can get your assignment written in half a day, by the way.

Brief (1/3 of A4 page) description of the written work. Wonder how to write an abstract ? Write down what the topic is, reasons to discuss it (how it is related to the core college discipline/major), and your results.

Introduction

What is a termpaper without a powerful introduction? It does not make any sense; stick to the following checklist to avoid missing an important introduction element: 

• Define the problem.
• Include a literature review made of recent thoughts, findings, and approaches to the solution.
• Is the chosen issue significant?
• Write about the ways you plan to handle the existing problem.

Buy term papers online if that doesn't seem interesting for you at the moment. 

• Explain the methods used to research corresponding sources plus the ways you selected the relevant data.
• Describe the impression of the tool, relevance, and quality of the gathered information.
• Write down the steps required to choose/utilize the information.

In this section, list the results of the experiment (trying to solve the problem) and the obstacles faced on the way while trying to answer every related question.

In the final part, the student is willing to do whatever they think is relevant. In personal words, it is important to explain what the findings mean, make a summary of the main points, draw some conclusions, & interpret the role of the findings in the context of the studied subject. The outline will prevent the student from falling off the topic, forgetting the next item in the line to discuss. Need some help with it? Call online academic writing services to allow them explain how to write a term paper by developing the most powerful essay!

“What Is a Term Paper?” on the Essay Examples

To understand a topic better, it is critical to have great examples in front of your nose. You may know how to write a term paper, having an idea of the outline, but choosing a good topic might be a challenge. A topic reflects the title, which is the face of your writing. Do not hope that your teachers/professors will give a list of great topics every time the end of the semester is closer. Modern instructors prefer to leave freedom of choice to their students. Many ways exist to help with the choice of topic:

• Recent articles
• Current news
• Favorite literature
• Movies & documentaries
• Conferences

If you decide to pick one of the sources as your primary source of information, do not forget to cite the quotes. It is important to add a Reference list on the last page. The basic rule of choosing the appropriate topic is to have the one, which fulfills the purposes of the college course and is the subject of the student’s interest. It makes no sense to select the topic you do not know at the advanced level. It is important to understand the criteria of choosing a topic to realize how to write a term paper. In case your head goes spinning from all the new information, simply shop for custom written term papers and call it a day.

Selecting the Topic: Criteria

What length are you planning to handle? What is a termpaper regarding of volume? It is not a typical argumentative, narrative essay ; a project of this type is a lengthy document, which contains no less than 5-10 pages. If your teacher asks for the certain amount of words, leave the word count to your Microsoft Word app. If writing huge pieces does not inspire you, try to select narrower topics. Take into account the length and plan how many words you plan to include into each part. Resources: school, college, or community libraries are no longer the best places to look for the relevant information. The modern world offers high technologies! Go to the Internet, open Google, type whatever you wish to research, and you will get millions of results. Remember: every source requires a reference. These are the top resources that will help to write a great term paper: 

• Class notes
• Academic journals
• Documentaries

The final page of your essay should contain a full Bibliography made of the cited sources. The last thing to think about is the complexity level. It is better to avoid topics you are not expert in; try choosing something you know from your personal experience & life examples, what can be explored in details. In case of any questions, professionals working in the field of your study may help. Teachers put extra credits to the works with interviews & surveys. Do not use primary sources only! Wish to learn how to write a history term paper, biology lab report , art movie review, capstone project , or how to write a dissertation in psychology? Buy a ready solution online!

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What is a Term Paper? A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

If you are a university student, you are probably familiar with the term paper. It is an academic assignment that is assigned to students at the end of the term or semester. The term paper is a written research paper that students must complete on a specific topic or subject.

Definition of a Term Paper

In simple terms, a term paper is a research paper that students must complete at the end of the term or semester. It is usually a long essay that is based on extensive research on a specific topic or subject. The term paper is an essential part of the academic curriculum as it helps students to develop their research and writing skills.

Purpose of Writing a Term Paper

The primary purpose of writing a term paper is to evaluate a student’s understanding of a particular topic or subject. It requires extensive research and analysis of the topic to present a well-written paper. Writing a term paper helps students to develop their research and writing skills, which are essential for their academic and professional growth.

A well-written term paper can also help students to improve their grades and academic performance. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a subject, which can be beneficial for their future academic or professional careers.

A term paper can be of various types, depending on the topic or subject. Here are the most common types of term papers:

Research Papers

A research paper is a type of term paper that requires extensive research on a specific topic. It is usually written in the sciences, social sciences, or humanities. The research paper requires students to analyze and interpret data, and present their findings in a well-written paper.

Argumentative Papers

An argumentative paper is a type of term paper that requires students to present an argument on a specific topic. It is usually written in the humanities or social sciences. The argumentative paper requires students to present their opinion on a particular issue and support it with evidence and research.

Stay tuned for the next two sections – “Steps in Writing a Term Paper” and “Format of a Term Paper.”

Steps in Writing a Term Paper

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, especially if you do not know where to start. Here are the steps you should follow to write a successful term paper:

Choosing a Topic

Choosing a topic is the first step in writing a term paper. It is essential to select a topic that you are interested in and has enough research material available. Once you have selected a topic, it is beneficial to narrow it down to a specific aspect of the subject.

Conducting Research

Conducting research is a critical step in writing a term paper. You should gather information from various sources, such as books, journals, and online databases. It is essential to evaluate the credibility of the sources before using them in your paper.

Outlining is the process of organizing your ideas and arguments into a structured format. It helps you to create a clear outline of your paper and ensures that you do not miss any critical points. The outline should include the main sections of the paper, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Writing the Paper

Once you have completed the research and outlined your paper, it is time to start writing. The paper should have a clear structure, with each section building on the previous one. The introduction should provide a background to the topic and state the purpose of the paper. The body should present your arguments and evidence, and the conclusion should summarize your findings.

Revising and Editing

Revising and editing are essential steps in the writing process. It helps you to ensure that your paper is well-structured, coherent, and free of errors. You should read through your paper multiple times, checking for grammar and spelling mistakes, and ensuring that your arguments are clear and concise.

Format of a Term Paper

The format of a term paper is an essential aspect of the writing process. It is essential to follow the guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution. Here are the main sections of a term paper:

The title page should include the title of the paper, your name, the instructor’s name, and the date of submission.

The abstract is a brief summary of your paper. It should provide an overview of the main points and arguments of your paper.

Introduction

The introduction should provide a background to the topic and state the purpose of the paper. It should also include a thesis statement that presents the main argument of your paper.

The body of the paper should present your arguments and evidence. It should be well-structured, with each section building on the previous one.

The conclusion should summarize your findings and restate your thesis statement. It should also provide recommendations for future research.

The references section should include a list of all the sources that you have cited in your paper. It should follow the citation style guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution.

Tips for Writing a Successful Term Paper

Writing a term paper can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for writing a successful term paper:

Start Early

Starting early is essential when it comes to writing a term paper. It gives you enough time to research and analyze the topic, and write a well-written paper. Starting early also reduces the stress of rushing to complete the paper before the deadline.

Use Reliable Sources

Using reliable sources is crucial when writing a term paper. It ensures that the information presented in the paper is accurate and credible. When researching, use academic sources such as journals, books, and scholarly articles.

Stay Organized

Staying organized is essential when writing a term paper. Create an outline of the paper, and break it down into sections. This will help you to stay on track and ensure that you cover all the necessary information.

Follow Guidelines

Following the guidelines provided by your professor or instructor is crucial when writing a term paper. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter.

Proofreading is an essential part of the writing process. It helps you to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Make sure to proofread your paper before submitting it.

In conclusion, writing a term paper is an essential part of the academic curriculum. It helps students to develop their research and writing skills, and showcase their knowledge and understanding of a subject. By following the tips mentioned above, students can write a successful term paper and achieve academic success. Remember to start early, use reliable sources, stay organized, follow guidelines, and proofread your paper. Writing a term paper may be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Analytical Term Papers with Data and Arguments

In these analytical term papers, your role transforms into that of a detective, meticulously examining each piece of data and argument to uncover the hidden truths. This process is not just about aggregating information; it’s about actively engaging with it, challenging assumptions, and proposing new interpretations. 

Term papers stand out among the various types of term papers due to their depth of inquiry and the level of intellectual engagement they demand. The beauty of an analytical term pape lies in its ability to take seemingly disparate pieces of information and weave them into a cohesive, insightful narrative. 

This narrative should illuminate the topic in a way that a simple description or summary cannot. It’s a process that enhances your understanding of the subject and sharpens your analytical skills, which is essential in any academic or professional setting. As you explore the types of term papers, the analytical style stands out as a rigorous test of your ability to engage deeply with content and present it thoughtfully and enlighteningly.

Argumentative Term Papers

In argumentative term papers, the art of persuasion takes center stage. These papers put you in the position of a debater tasked with asserting your viewpoint and effectively dismantling the opposing arguments. This term paper requires a keen understanding of the topic and the ability to construct logical, convincing arguments. It’s a type of academic writing where your skill in using evidence and reasoning is key.

Your ability to sway the reader hinges on the strength of your arguments and the precision of your evidence. A successful argumentative term paper seamlessly intertwines facts, logic, and rhetorical flair. It’s not just about stating your case; it’s about building it brick by brick, using relevant spelling evidence. The challenge lies in presenting your ideas in a way that is both assertive and respectful of differing viewpoints.

Moreover, an influential argumentative term paper doesn’t just not one side of an argument; it acknowledges and critically evaluates opposing views. This approach strengthens your argument and demonstrates your depth of understanding and your ability to think critically about complex issues. In these papers, each paragraph works like a chess move, strategically advancing your position while anticipating and neutralizing counterarguments.

Argumentative term papers test persuasiveness through logic, evidence, and eloquent writing. They stand as a crucial component among the different types of term papers, challenging you not just to argue but to argue convincingly and thoughtfully. 

Comparative Term Papers

Comparative term papers stand out for their focus on juxtaposition and analysis. These assignments aim to meticulously examine and compare two or more subjects, identifying their similarities and differences and the reasons behind these relationships. 

This type of paper goes beyond mere comparison; it involves a detailed and thoughtful exploration of each subject, drawing out nuanced insights and often revealing unexpected parallels or contrasts.

This form of term paper is akin to placing two distinct pictures side by side and analyzing their features about each other. 

A comparative term paper’s real challenge and beauty lies in its ability to highlight subtle nuances and underlying connections between the subjects. It’s about moving past the obvious surface-level observations and uncovering deeper, more intricate layers of comparison.

In writing a comparative term paper, you become an analyst who examines the intricate dynamics between the subjects. 

It’s not just about stating that two things are similar or different; it’s about articulating why these similarities or differences matter. 

Descriptive Term Papers

Descriptive term papers are an art form where the canvas is your paper and words are your brushes and colors. In these assignments, the primary objective is to vividly illustrate your subject, allowing the reader to fully visualize and grasp its essence. This type of paper transcends the boundaries of simple fact-telling; it demands creating an immersive experience for the reader.

Precision and vividness in language are paramount in writing a descriptive term paper. Every word you choose should work towards building a clear and

vivid image in the reader’s mind. It’s akin to an artist carefully selecting hues to bring a scene to life. You’re not just informing the reader about the subject; you’re transporting them into the narrative, enabling them to see, feel, and almost touch the elements you’re describing.

This type of term paper encourages you to pay attention to the nuances and subtleties of your subject. It’s about capturing the atmosphere, the mood, and the context, weaving them into a narrative that is both informative and evocative. Your success in a descriptive term paper is measured not just by the accuracy of your descriptions but by the impact these descriptions have on the reader’s

understanding and imagination.

The challenge in descriptive through the term paper guide lies in balancing detail with readability. Too much detail can overwhelm the reader, while too little may fail to create the desired impact. It’s about finding that sweet spot where your descriptions are rich and vivid yet concise enough to keep the reader engaged.

A well-written descriptive by term paper writers is a symphony of words that creates a sensory experience. It should give the reader a deeper appreciation and understanding of the subject.

Report-Based Term Papers

Report-based term papers are all about demonstrating thorough, comprehensive research. These papers require you to not only collect data but also to present it coherently and understandably. It’s a test. You can sift through information, identify what’s relevant, and then organize it into a logical, compelling narrative. This type of paper values clarity and precision, challenging you to transform complex data into understandable and insightful content.

Reflective Term Papers

Reflective term papers are unique in that they blend personal insights with academic research. This type invites you to reflect on your experiences with the subject matter. It’s an intrIt’sctive journey where you analyze how your personal experiences inform and enrich your understanding of the term paper topic . Reflective papers require a delicate balance – weaving together narrative storytelling with scholarly analysis. This paper showcases your academic skills and ability to introspect and draw meaningful connections between your experiences and the wider academic discourse.

Conclusion 

The world of term paper rubric is vast and intricate, offering students myriad avenues for academic exploration. Each type of term paper presents challenges and rewards, shaping students into more adept researchers, critical thinkers, and eloquent communicators. 

If you still have doubts, let the Writing Metier team help with your term paper.

Free topic suggestions

Laura Orta is an avid author on Writing Metier's blog. Before embarking on her writing career, she practiced media law in one of the local media. Aside from writing, she works as a private tutor to help students with their academic needs. Laura and her husband share their home near the ocean in northern Portugal with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books.

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200 term paper topics in different fields.

Our extensive collection of term paper topics, meticulously curated to cater to diverse interests and fields of study. From the intricacies of argumentative essays to the innovative realms of experimental research, discover the perfect topic to ignite your curiosity and challenge your academic prowess.

Guide for Term Paper Writing

The complexities of term paper writing with ease using our expert guide.

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How to Write a Term Paper

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How to Write a Term Paper? Guide for Students

This guide to writing a term paper gives some simple and practical advice: how to get started, how to get organized, how to break down the huge task into less scary chunks, and how to attack them in a nice layout. We also give some practical hints for surviving the ordeal.

What Is a Term Paper?

In order to know how to write a term paper, you need a deeper understanding of its nature. A term paper is a student’s final qualification work of a research nature, performed by a student upon graduation from an educational institution. The diploma work consolidates and expands practical knowledge, develops skills of independent scientific work, and evaluates the student’s creative potential.

The topics of the paper are also approved by the relevant department at the university. These vary slightly from year to year. Sometimes the student may propose their own topic, with justification for its development. The term paper is supervised (checked for accuracy and timeliness) by the supervisor, who is the instructor for the specific discipline on the chosen topic of your research.

Term Paper Format Examples

Any essay writing service knows that term paper format matters as you are going to refer to many different works for research to this extent. Thus, making a mistake with format might make you a plagiarism tool that highlights many citations as the stuff you copied without permission, thus making you guilty of intellectual property theft. There are certain ways you can format your file, but give an intricate connection of your paper to academics, you have a choice between two styles:

• American Psychological Association is the format that is usually connected to social sciences. This is probably the most common way of formatting sources, where you include the name of the work, the one who published it, and the location as well. Missing out on one of those details leads to a mistake.
• Modern Language Association is one you’d usually see in liberal arts, being more of a scholarly thing. It differs from APA in a way that you have to include the name, date, and location (thus no publisher name).

How to Write a Term Paper Outline?

The results and discussion chapters of your term paper are often filled in several chapters. Think about the chapter plan and decide what is best for reporting your work. Then make a list of headings that will indicate what you will put in each chapter. Try to do this list in detail, so that you end up with a list of points that correspond to the subdivisions or even paragraphs of your paper. At this stage, think carefully about the logic of the presentation: in each chapter, it is often possible to present the ideas in different orders, and these different versions will be more challenging to follow. If you make an outline of each chapter and section before you start writing, the result will probably be clearer and easier to read. It will also be easier to write.

Introductory Pages

To get a proper term paper structure for your paper, we advise you to ask the doctoral studies office of your institution if they have rules. It is also advised to look at examples of recent theses that have not suffered from bureaucratic problems. Usually, your research has a title page that presents the following main points:

• The name of the institution
• The type of term paper
• The specialty
• The name of the doctoral student
• The date of the defense
• The names of the jury members, with the president and the rapporteur(s) indicated.

It is followed by a page (optional) of acknowledgments, a table of contents, and then the chapters of the term paper. The abstract in English is at the end. It’s a nice way of summarizing the overall contents of your research to give the reader the right hints on the nature of your analysis. It goes without saying that you will get this structure even if you buy a term paper from a quality service.

Of your entire term paper, this part will have the largest audience. It is best to write it near the end, but not at the last minute because you will need to do several drafts. Also, the summary is so important that it’s really worth asking a fellow English speaker to edit your version. The abstract should be a distillation of the paper: a concise description of the problem(s) addressed, your method for solving them, your results, and your conclusions. An abstract should stand alone. It usually does not contain references. When a reference is needed, its details should be included in the text of the abstract. Check the length limit with your college.

Introduction

What is the topic and why is it important? Explain the problem(s) as simply as you can. Remember that you have worked on this project for a few years, so you know it very well. Try to step back mentally and take a broader view of the problem. How does your problem relate to the broad themes of your discipline?

Especially in the introduction, don’t overestimate the reader’s familiarity with your topic. You are writing for experts in your discipline, but they are not specialists in your particular topic. It helps to imagine a particular person, think of a colleague you may have met at a conference for your discipline, but who worked in a different field. She is smart, and has the same general education, but knows little about the literature or specific techniques of your particular topic.

Piquing the Attention of Your Readers

The introduction should be interesting. If the reader finds it tiresome, it is unlikely that you will rekindle his or her interest in the materials and methods chapter. For the first paragraph or two, tradition allows for language that is less dry than the scientific standard. I hope your topic still inspires you, and this is the place to take advantage of it. Try to inspire the reader to want to read the time that came across their desk. Go to the library and read the introductions to several theses. Were there any that made you want to read more? Were there others that were boring?

This chapter will probably go through several drafts so that it can be simple, logical, short, and interesting at the same time. For this chapter, I find it helpful to have someone who is not a specialist read it and critique it. Is it a sufficient introduction? Is it easy to follow? There are arguments for writing this chapter (or at least making a major revision of it) towards the end of the term paper writing. Your introduction should say where the text is headed, which will become more apparent during the writing process. In addition, this chapter needs everything you will learn about scientific writing.

Middle Chapters

In some term papers, the middle chapters are simply journal articles of which the candidate was the primary author. There are several reasons to avoid this format.

One reason is that, in a term paper, it is permissible and expected that the level of detail is deeper than that of a journal article. For publications, one is usually forced to reduce the number of curves. In many cases, all the data and interesting cases can be included in the term paper, not just those that have already appeared in the journal. Experimental detail is more explicit in research. Relatively often, a researcher will request a copy of a term paper in order to have more detail on how the study was done.

The exact structure of the middle chapters will vary from text to text. Often in research, it is necessary to establish a theoretical background, describe experimental techniques, and then report what has been done on several different problems or different stages of the problem, and then finally present a model or new theory based on the new work.

For such a term paper, try to make a term paper heading like this: Theory, Materials, and Methods, {first problem}, {second problem}, {third problem}, {proposed theory or model}, and then the concluding chapter. For other theses, it would make more sense to discuss different techniques in different chapters, rather than having a single chapter on materials and methods.

Conclusions

Your conclusions will appear in your summary but in a very brief form, because it must also include other material. A summary of conclusions can be longer than the conclusion of the abstract, so you have the space to be more explicit and careful with the qualifications. You may find it useful to put your findings in a bullet-point list.

It is often the case that a scientific investigation delivers more questions than answers. Does your work suggest interesting additional questions? How can a study like yours be improved in the future? What are the practical implications of your work?

In case you still have difficulties with writing a term paper, you can always count on our writing service!

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Table of contents

Writing a term paper is a commonly assigned research report you can face at the end of each semester. Yet for many people this task is not easily manageable as it hides a lot of challenges along the way. Full-scale study, search for arguments and facts, discussion of a topic is just a little part of the process that awaits each and every student while preparing this paper. Equally important is to include gathered information into several typed pages length in the required style and format, without grammar errors and plagiarism. Seems hard and overwhelming, and it is really so. But not for our experts! Our experienced academic writers are ready to prepare any type of a term paper writing within a short period of time!

What types of term papers can you order with us? All the existing!

Just for your information there are four types of term papers and formats available and they are as follows:

• Chicago Style.
• Turabian Style.

According to each of the samples mentioned above, one should stick to the specific requirements, guidelines and rules to prepare a good quality paper. It is also important to remember that your report will be judged in terms of other standards of writing paper terms, such as grammar and spelling. University instructors want to get papers not only with a deep analytical research, but written in fresh, native and correct language. Combination of these criteria, on the whole, determines a quality of your paper and gets you closer to your A grade. So, if you want to succeed in writing a term paper and get the highest grade, you need to pay attention to both these conditions.

No matter which of the existing types of term papers you need to write by the end of a semester, our term paper writing service hired the best master writers with a rich background and experience in paper writing, which allows preparing a solid research paper for you in a short time. Furthermore, you can get a quick help in selecting a competitive topic if you haven’t got any. So, all you need is to present the requirements given by your professor and enjoy your time while our best term paper service is working hard on your text. That’s it!

What does our service guarantee?

While you are making a right decision to trust your essential assignment to us, we’d like to present you some significant “pro’’ reasons to order with us. Here is what guarantees your success:

• A competitive topic (in case you don’t have any).
• 100% original term paper from scratch.
• Fresh research and analysis to the point.
• Errors absence, grammar and lexical correctness.
• Formatting with all the specifications followed.
• Prompt delivery (if you are running out of time).

You can also enjoy our 24/7 service to get quick answers from our friendly customer support managers at Papersmaster.com . They are always ready to help you and explain every little thing because we take care of you and do our best to provide the best service to make you feel happy and satisfied with us.

Do not wait until the last minute! Think of your best term paper beforehand and stay positive! Though, even if you postponed it, we can deliver your paper by yesterday!

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90 Types of Paper: The Ultimate Guide to Paper, From A-Z

Posted on Last updated: August 7, 2023

Paper has been one of the world’s most important commodities for thousands of years that has shaped history all the way to the humble shopping list.

Its many uses make it a versatile material, including currency, packaging, the creation of various crafts, printing, and filtering. Below are 90 different types of paper and how they’re used.

1. Tracing Paper

Architects, engineers, and people in similar professions are usually familiar with tracing paper. 

Tracing paper is placed atop another page, often featuring a diagram, after which one can carefully trace edges, points, and other areas. 

Certain tracing paper variations are made of cellulose and cotton fiber and contain lower opacity fillers, resulting in a dense final product that retains significant moisture.

2 . Bond Paper

As its name implies, bond paper comes from the kind of paper often used by banks and various governments to print bonds. 

Many bond paper varieties contain cotton, but all types are generally durable and of excellent quality. 

Bond paper’s weight of greater than 50GSM is the main characteristic separating it from ordinary writing paper, but it shares many of the same uses with the latter.

3. Print Paper

Print paper is a sort of catch-all term that usually refers to any type of paper used for printing. This may include paper used for books, flyers, or manuals. 

Typically a bit costlier than copy paper, print paper is a good choice for documents that require higher quality and better resolution than traditional copy paper. 

It is also the best choice for documents featuring images or fancy text. 

4. Coated & Uncoated Paper

Coated and uncoated paper are appropriate for different uses. Additionally, coated paper features a material coating designed to emphasize the paper’s quality, such as gloss or weight. The coatings decrease ink absorbency and result in a smooth finish. 

Uncoated paper does not have these features; therefore, it absorbs more ink and is a bit rougher to the touch. Uncoated paper has more uses than coated paper overall.

5. Text Paper

You may have heard the term text paper, but are unsure of exactly what it means .

Text paper is a common, daily-use paper. Versatile and lightweight, it’s often used for the interior pages of certain types of books. 

This relatively thin paper has many variations and can be used for virtually anything, such as posters, flyers, catalogs, or notebooks. Coated and uncoated versions are available.

6. Cardstock Paper

If you’ve ever sent out a greeting card, you already know what cardstock paper is. 

Greeting cards and packaging are two of the primary uses for cardstock paper. It’s also used in notebooks to divide different sections and for some types of crafts. 

It comes in a broad range of weights, most of which are over 170GSM. The letters refer to “ grams per square meter ,” which is how paper is measured. 

Cardstock paper can be found in virtually all colors and various finishes.

7. Newsprint Paper

You have probably handled newsprint paper thousands of times in your life. 

Virtually all newspapers around the world are constructed from this type of paper. This is likely because it’s the cheapest paper available that can withstand ink printing. 

It’s not high-quality paper and is made from ground wood pulp. Although very appropriate for daily newspapers, its short lifespan makes it useless for anything else.

8. Recycled Paper

Although recycled paper is not a definitive term , organizations such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency state that a paper is considered “recycled” if it is manufactured from 100% post-consumer, recovered fiber. 

An incredibly long list of fibers can be used to make recycled paper, but it’s usually made from other printed materials that would otherwise be thrown away.

9. Thermal Paper

Thermal paper is a heat-activated specialty paper. When heat is applied, its color changes. 

It’s manufactured by using heat-sensitive developers and dyes. It is often used in credit card terminals, cash registers, and adding machines. 

It produces fast, high-definition images and is frequently seen in retail outlets such as shopping malls or gas stations.

10. Kraft Paper

Kraft paper is made from wood chips and typically features a brown hue. 

Its uses include everything from printing to packaging, and it usually comes in large rolls that can be cut down to the desired size. 

It can be coated with oil or wax to make it moisture-proof, which is sometimes done by those who wish to use it for food packaging. Not surprisingly, it’s also commonly used for arts and crafts.

11. Carbonless Paper

Carbonless paper is a type of paper that allows a document to be copied multiple times. 

It’s commonly used for color-coded invoice pads or receipts to differentiate customer copies from business copies. 

The customer copy is typically yellow or pink, and the top copy–usually white–stays with the business. It essentially creates a “carbon copy” without the need for carbon paper.

12. Bristol Paper

Bristol paper’s most common use is for arts and crafts. This kind of paper is manufactured by gluing a variable number of sheets together with two felt layers in between. 

The result is a multi-ply sheet that’s sturdier than other craft paper. It gets its name from the papermaking mills in Bristol, England, where it was originally manufactured. Also called Bristol board, it is now used around the world.

13. Vellum Paper

Vellum is a type of translucent paper used by certain card makers and scrapbook artists. 

It’s loved for its elegant texture and was originally a type of fine parchment made from lambskin or calfskin. 

Eventually, the latter were imitated with the heavy, off-white vellum we see today. 

However, it should be handled as little as possible when working with it for crafts since it smudges easily, and all creases immediately become permanent.

14. Tissue Paper

Tissue paper is an extremely lightweight type of paper and is usually manufactured from recycled pulp. 

The term covers many products, including wrapping tissue, facial tissues, paper towels, and bathroom tissue. 

It’s used for everything from dusting to wrapping presents or completing crafts. One of the most versatile types of paper in existence, it can be found in virtually any color.

15. Rice Paper

When researching the phrase “rice paper,” you may be confused. 

This is because multiple types of paper use this name, all of which have different applications. 

One type comes from Asia and is used for painting or making shoe soles. Another is a kind of paper that is literally edible. 

This kind is used in certain types of Vietnamese fare. Then, there is the rice paper that’s used in architecture or craft making. 

They all feel a bit similar and are all made from wood pulp, but thickness varieties cover an extremely broad spectrum.

16. Corrugated Paper

You’ve probably seen corrugated paper hundreds of times and in various situations, such as wrapped around your morning coffee from your favorite cafe. 

Corrugated paper is simply paper that’s “fluted” during manufacturing to give it a specific texture. 

Often seen in cardboard varieties, it’s one of the world’s most commonly used paper types. It is extremely useful in crafts and can be acquired in various colors and weights.

17. Art Paper

There is a virtually limitless number of paper varieties that could be referred to as “art paper,” but in the simplest definition, this type of paper is a heavyweight, textured paper designed to allow artists to achieve depth in their creations. 

Certain varieties are made to allow for repeated erasing without the paper becoming damaged. 

Watercolor paper is one example, typically heavyweight, while drawing or sketch paper is similar but lighter.

18. Parchment Paper

If you’ve ever received a certificate or been given a business card, you probably handled parchment paper. 

It’s a thick, quality paper with sheer properties that make it professionally useful for many office needs. 

However, there is also a type of parchment paper that’s used in baking because of its ability to withstand high temperatures when covered with food matter. 

Its ability to go from the office to the oven, depending on its form, probably makes it one of the most versatile papers in existence.

19. Handmade Paper

As its name implies, handmade paper is made by human hands rather than machines. 

It’s a single layer of fibers that have been entwined and naturally connected by cellulose. This is done using a deckle, also called a flat frame. 

Handmade paper can be used in essentially any way mass-produced paper can, but people who use it generally do so because it’s far better for the environment.

20. Wove Paper

Wove paper is typically handmade. This is accomplished by casting the pulp onto a wire mesh or fabric woven screen. 

This paper is unique because it shows a characteristic impression from the screen pattern when it’s held up to the light. 

This is referred to as the “weave.” This paper has been around for a long time, and its most popular uses are for currency, books, and ledgers.

21. Laid Paper

Laid paper is similar to wove paper but is made by drying it on a more complicated patterned screen. This is typically one that has horizontal and vertical “chains.” 

When the light is shown through this paper, specific lines are present in a very distinct pattern, resulting from the paper pulp not being fully absorbed during the creation process. 

This type of paper is also used in ledgers, currency, and certain types of books. 

22. Cotton Paper

Also frequently referred to as “rag paper,”  cotton paper is highly durable and can last for hundreds of years . 

United States dollars have been printed on cotton paper due to its ability to stay intact rather than disintegrate if it becomes wet. 

There is a broad range of grades of cotton paper, typically beginning at 25% and going all the way up to 100 percent.

23.  Linen Paper

Linen paper is a sort of “fine stationery” paper with a similar feel to that used for certificates or fancy wedding invitations. 

It’s characterized by a raised, crosshatch pattern, which, from a distance, looks just like linen fabric. 

It’s popular for use in fine dining restaurant menus, business letterheads, resumes, or anything a person wants to appear upscale. 

24. Ledger Paper

Appropriately named, ledger paper is used for logbooks, ledgers, and record books. 

It is a high-quality paper that’s made to last and has good erasing capabilities. It is also sometimes used for documents containing tall tables, diagrams, or spreadsheets with complicated dimensions.

25. Tag Paper

Tag paper is a type of heavy utility paper with a high-performance grade on press. 

This is what makes it best for printing tags for consumer goods, particularly accessories, and clothing.

It can be printed on easily and remains strong and durable when handled multiple times. 

Just think how often a consumer touches a price tag on something, but the ink never runs.

26. Onion Skin Paper

Onion skin paper was once popular with typists but is now typically used for wrapping gifts or packing items in boxes when an attractive presentation is desired. 

This paper is almost translucent and is still sometimes used to write handwritten letters or personal invitations. 

One highly popular use for this paper that has never changed is for airmail letters for consumers who want to save on postage.

27. Glassine Paper

A staple in the craft world, glassine is generally used for laminating artwork that might otherwise “run” or become compromised. 

Some examples would be pictures drawn with colored pencils or markers or artwork embellished with craft items such as glitter or gems. 

It also protects documents, photos, and books from damage.

28. Sulphite Paper

Sulphite paper is a super high-quality form of ordinary construction paper found in craft stores. 

Many crafters use sulphite paper for all their art projects, particularly those that call for the use of markers, tempera paint, oil pastels, or collage paint. 

In fact, it is only acrylic paint and watercolors that should not be used with sulphite paper.

29. Cover Stock Paper

Similar to card stock paper, this kind of paper is generally smooth, although it is possible to get textured cover stock paper. 

It can have a glossy or matte appearance and is most often used for things such as catalog covers, greeting cards, business cards, invitations, postcards, and even playing cards . 

It’s also popular among scrapbooking fans, as it makes an ideal cover for such books.

30. Security Paper

Security paper is a broad term that refers to paper that is difficult or impossible to counterfeit. 

It may feature artificial watermarks, high-resolution, latent images, thermochromic ink, or enhanced laid lines. 

This paper is often used to manufacture paper currency, court records, medical records, or sensitive government files.

31. Chalk Paper

Chalk paper is a specific type of paper that’s used primarily for postage stamps. 

It has a very sensitive surface that is designed to be “canceled” with a stamp or through a similar method so that it cannot be used a second time. 

This is because it is almost impossible to remove the ink or other substance with which it was marred without destroying the original design. 

32. Manifold Paper

Manifold paper is a lightweight paper designed to work with carbon paper when multiple copies of something must be made. 

When carbon paper is placed in between multiple pieces of manifold paper, a person can type one document but make several copies simultaneously. 

Its lightweight texture is what makes it perfect for this use.

33. Wax Paper

Almost everyone has heard of wax paper, and there are many uses for this unique type of paper.

It’s a form of tissue paper that’s triple-waxed using food-grade paraffin wax. 

This wax is pushed into the paper’s pores during manufacturing, eventually creating an outside coating. 

Invented by Thomas Edi son , it can even be used in a microwave or conventional oven for cakes and cupcakes, provided the batter completely covers the paper.

34. Blotting Paper

Blotting paper contains highly absorbent cotton, which is not surprising since that is exactly what it is designed to do. 

It was initially invented to absorb excess ink in the days of fountain pens but is now more often used in that capacity with regard to crafts. It is a high-absorbency, sturdy type of paper.

35. Construction Paper

It’s almost certain that you have used construction paper at least a few times as a child, if not on many occasions since. 

Acid-free, versatile, and easy to cut and fold, it is no surprise that it is one of the most popular and commonly used papers for crafts. 

It can be used in virtually any capacity for such activity and comes in any color desired.

36. Graph Paper

Graph paper is nothing more than ordinary paper that comes with a preprinted pattern. 

This is often a grid of small squares for drawing curves, graphs, or specific patterns. 

It’s ideal for use in solving math problems or creating charts or tables in science laboratories. Its mathematical and scientific uses know no bounds.

37. Origami Paper

Origami, speaking of the word itself, is technically the word for a kind of craft rather than a type of paper. 

Origami is a folding art, and Washi is the paper most commonly used for this craft. 

Any type of paper made from long, interwoven fibers that is both light and flexible can be used for origami.

However, ideally, a weight of 60GSM offers the perfect sturdiness and flexibility for Origami art.

38. Wallpaper

Naturally, you know what wallpaper is, but do you know what it’s made from? 

Wallpaper technically has four parts: paste, ink, backing, and a ground coat. 

Like most paper, it’s made from wood pulp, but the wolven backing is coated and printed. 

Modern wallpapers have vinyl or latex coatings, making them “washable.”

39. Photographic Paper

Photographic paper is coated or infused with light-sensitive chemicals. 

These enable it to transform an image from a negative into a color or black-and-white paper image. 

It’s ideal for those who want to create photos that can be displayed in ways other than merely on digital devices.

40. Embossed Paper

If you know anyone who reads Braille, that person is essentially reading embossed paper. 

It is a special type of paper in which certain designs are raised while the rest of the paper remains flat. 

It’s used in all types of creative projects, invitations, and scrapbooking. 

Because an embossed area does not fade the way ink might, this type of paper is often used for certificates or diplomas.

41. Perforated Paper

It would be almost impossible to go through your life without using perforated paper at least a handful of times. 

Perforated paper simply refers to the kind of paper that can be torn without leaving a ragged edge. 

From simple wire notebooks that you’ve likely used countless times to a book of rent receipts or raffle tickets, perforated paper is literally everywhere.

42. Filter Paper

Filter paper is that paper you probably used to make a cup of coffee or tea this morning. 

It is a type of paper that allows air, water, moisture, or other substances to travel through its pores while holding back substances that have bulk, hence, the tea and coffee examples. 

Non-beverage-related uses for such paper include oil filters, fuel filters, and home or office air filters.

43. Carbon Paper

You may have heard the phrase “carbon copy” used in various ways that don’t involve paper, but it’s the paper from which the phrase originated. 

Carbon paper is designed to be placed between two ordinary sheets of paper so that something can be written and duplicated at the same time. 

Now, it is more often used in the arts and crafts category to transfer designs, images, and patterns to metal, glass, wood, canvas, and, of course, paper.

44. Synthetic Paper

Synthetic paper has many uses, and is made from countless materials, most of which are petroleum-based resins. 

This type of paper is often called “tree-free” paper because it is not made from wood pulp, hence its name. 

For almost every type of traditional paper, there is a polymer-based synthetic version, and the latter can generally be used in the exact same way as its tree-based counterpart.

45. Bible Paper

Bible paper, also commonly referred to as “scritta paper,” is a very thin paper that’s most often used for printing, specifically for very long books, such as dictionaries or, as its name implies, Bibles. 

This paper is a woodfree, uncoated paper that is enhanced with linen or cotton fibers to boost its strength despite its thin texture.

46. Butcher Paper

The most common form of butcher paper is the classic white paper that is used to wrap lunch meat, poultry, fish, or beef from a grocer. 

However, this paper has different types, such as pink butcher paper, which is used for barbecuing. 

Butcher paper is very similar to craft paper but is typically bleached to make it white.

47. Papyrus

Papyrus was some of the first paper that existed and was used in ancient times, long before modern paper was invented. 

Papyrus was the primary writing material in ancient Egypt and was used as far back as 3,000 BC.

It was made from the plant for which it is named and had made its way from Egypt to Greece and Rome by 2000 BC.

48. Stone Paper

True to its name, stone paper is made primarily from calcium carbonate rather than tree fiber. 

It boasts several properties that make it an impressive alternative to conventional paper. 

For instance, it is waterproof, tear-resistant, oil resistant, and highly durable. It is also significantly heavier than traditional paper. 

This paper is unique because it is recyclable but does not break down on its own, and therefore is not harmful to the environment.

49. Litmus Paper

You might remember using litmus paper in high school or college chemistry class. 

This type of paper is infused with a series of color dyes, all of which produce specific hues depending on what kind of solution the paper is dipped in and its pH. 

It absorbs the liquid quickly and is most often used in scientific applications.

50. Quilling Paper

Quilling refers to a type of art completed with paper during which the paper is cut into long, thin strips and is then pinched and rolled into various shapes. 

The most important thing about choosing the appropriate paper for quilling is its GSM.

For paper quilling, it’s best to choose paper featuring 80GSM because it is not too thick or thin.

51. Crêpe Paper

If you’ve ever hung a party streamer, you’ve touched crêpe paper.

This kind of paper is produced from wood cellulose and is more flexible and durable than most types of standard paper. 

Crêpe paper can be found in unique textures and colors, making it perfect for making ornamental crafts, wrapping gifts, or decorating for a party.

52. Flocked Paper

Flocked paper is created by depositing tiny fiber particles onto a surface. 

It’s sometimes referred to as “velvet paper,” and you have probably felt it at least once or twice on someone’s wall. 

Certain types of wallpaper featuring raised designs that are soft to the touch are perfect examples of flocked paper. 

Not surprisingly, such paper is perfect for lining craft boxes, making textured cards, or completing many other crafts where something fancier than ordinary paper is desired.

 53. Gummed Paper

You’ve probably handled gummed paper hundreds of times without realizing what it’s called. 

It is a type of stock paper, and on one side, an adhesive coating is added, which is protected with a removable liner. 

Stickers, self-sticking labels, and bumper stickers are all examples of gummed paper.

54. Banknote Paper

Banknote paper is the type of paper on which currency is typically printed. 

It generally has a thickness of approximately 0.1 mm, but this can vary from country to country. 

It lends itself well to watermarks and fiber distribution, which is often used to make it counterfeit-proof. 

Most banknote paper comprises 75% cotton and 25% linen, but this can vary from one area of the world to the next.

55. Laser Paper

Laser printers typically work by melting toner, which is a solid powder, onto a sheet of paper. 

This is done through a high heat level, which is why laser paper was designed. 

Such paper is highly heat resistant and is not coated like some papers, as any type of coating could theoretically melt and ruin both the printer and the paper. 

Laser paper cannot be substituted with any other type of paper without risking disaster.

56. Inkjet Paper

Paper and moisture often don’t mix, which is where inkjet paper comes in. Inkjets work by spraying paper with liquid, a specific type of paper is needed.

Otherwise, after the liquid sinks in and spreads, the result would be a blurry-edged image that would be of little or no good. 

Inkjet paper is specially formulated to encourage rapid drying, preventing ink from blurring and causing fuzzy images.

57. Magnetic Paper

Magnet paper is manufactured by blending paper and magnetized rubber.

It is typically available for most types of printing in standard, letter-sized sheets. 

It’s quite popular for marketing and advertising uses, particularly for things such as business cards, educational tools, magnet photos, and similar marketing products.

58. Oatmeal Paper

Oatmeal paper is a decorative paper that features shives and flecks. 

It’s made by adding a thin layer of chaff or sawdust, often contrasting colors, to ordinary wallpaper. 

It’s an inexpensive type of wallpaper but it can also be used in other ways. 

Artists enjoy using this paper for sketches or work done with charcoal or pastels. It is typically very affordable.

59. Pearlescent Paper

Pearlescent paper is a fancy, elegant type of paper with a smooth texture and a lustrous finish. 

It usually features 12.2 point thickness and is often used for invitations, printed advertisements, brochures, and various craft activities. 

It is laser printer compatible but should not be used with an inkjet printer.

60. Tea Paper

Tea paper is a type of recycled paper made from tea wastes acquired from incorrectly harvested black tea. 

This kind of paper is not made 100% from tea but rather a combination of flax and cotton pulp added to the tea waste. 

However, it’s not a sturdy paper, so its uses are limited. Because it looks somewhat like ancient parchment, it can be fun to write letters on or use to make homemade certificates that a frame can protect.

61. Velvet Paper

Velvet paper is a specific type of flock paper that is widely used in artwork because of its beautiful and versatile texture. 

It is also commonly used for fine art reproduction due to its bright, white surface that lends itself well to the exact colors required when reproducing art. 

It’s a cotton rag paper that’s virtually acid-free, and it dries almost instantly.

62. Washi Paper

Washi paper is a very thin but sturdy type of paper that takes creases well. 

For this reason, its most common use is for Origami art. The latter involves creating objects from paper using tiny, strategic folds. 

Also called traditional Japanese paper, Washi paper is made with ordinary substances, but extra plant-based materials and textiles are added to give it its thinness without causing it to lose its strength.

63. Watermarked Paper

The first thing that may come to mind when you think of watermarked paper is currency. 

This is essentially true since watermarks are placed in most forms of paper money to make counterfeiting difficult. 

However, there are various other uses for watermarked paper, such as professional and formal applications like personal correspondence, resumes, and business letters. 

64. Heat Transfer Paper

Heat transfer paper is a type of specialty paper designed for printing, but it allows the image to be transferred to a hard surface or a fabric via the use of the press. 

Heat transfer paper can be obtained in two varieties: laser printers and inkjet printers. Just don’t mix them up.

65. Decal Paper

Decal paper, also referred to as sticker paper or waterslide decal paper, is a type of ultra-thin paper that features water-activated adhesive on its back surface. 

Even a simple home printer can be used to print any image onto this type of paper, which transforms it into a sticker or decal.

66. Dissolvable Paper

Dissolvable paper is made from natural cellulose and wood pulp fibers. 

The cellulose ingredient dissolves when it comes to water, and the wood pulp fibers separate. 

It has many uses, the most popular of which are various types of arts and crafts. 

Designs can be drawn, embroidered, or painted, and water then easily dissolves the template without ruining the artwork.

67. Silicone Release Paper

Silicone release paper is something you’ve probably handled many times without knowing exactly what it was. 

This is the paper used to hold the backing in place on stickers, postage stamps, labels, band-aids, or anything that has an adhesive that needs to be protected until you are ready to stick the item on the surface. 

It’s a shiny sort of paper that typically curls up when it’s peeled away. 

68. Absorbent Paper

Absorbent paper is generally used for silkscreening, hot stamping, digital printing, and making items like air fresheners designed to absorb odors. 

It can even be used to make coasters. There are two types of this paper: pure wood pulp absorbent paper and high-grade pure cotton absorbent paper. The former is usually more expensive.

69. Mounting Paper

Mounting paper is a broad term that typically refers to any kind of paper used on which to mount artwork. 

Durable, thick, and stiff, this paper is in the card stock category, but there are numerous variations from which to choose. 

The appropriate one depends on the type of art for which it will be used. 

Delicate artwork completed on rice paper differs greatly from a charcoal sketch completed on fine tooth paper. Therefore, it’s important to choose carefully.

70. Manila Paper

Manila is a variety of paper manufactured from semi-bleached wood fibers. 

As its name implies, it’s used to make the manilla board from which folders, envelopes, and similar items are made. 

There is also a type of specialized manila paper that is used as filter paper for teabags, but this is the less common use for this kind of paper.

71. Abaca Paper

Abaca paper is a thin, porous paper that demonstrates outstanding strength when wet and does not disintegrate or turn to mush like many paper varieties.

It’s commonly used for teabags and certain coffee filters. It is centuries old, but its demand has not decreased over the years. 

Other uses include vacuum cleaner bags, wrapping for certain types of meat, and currency.

72. Dó Paper

Dó Paper is a handmade paper that first appeared in Vietnam centuries ago and has an 800-year lifespan . 

It is primarily used for Vietnamese folk art. The paper is handmade, and the steps are complicated and must be completed in a meticulous fashion. 

There are over 50 steps to the process–sometimes up to 100–and it takes approximately one month before the handmade papers are ready for use.

73. India Paper

India paper was designed for taking engravings or impressions. 

It’s a delicate paper created from vegetable fiber and is opaque and very thin, similar to Bible paper. 

It is used for certain books, such as the aforementioned Bibles, but has few other uses due to its delicate nature.

74. Seeded Paper

Seeded paper, as its name indicates, is a type of paper that contains seeds and can be planted in moistened soil. 

It is a recycled paper and therefore is highly popular with environmentalists. 

The seeds start germinating as soon as the paper is “planted,” making planting and sowing much easier for some gardeners.

75. Mulberry Paper

Mulberry paper is handmade paper crafted from the tree, after which it takes its name. 

It has a distinctive finish due to its long fibers and also features an attractive, fine, wispy edge. 

This kind of paper is usually textured and can be found in numerous weights. 

Because it’s handmade, no two pieces are identical. It’s ideal for handmade cards, scrapbooks, and rubber stamping projects.

76. Hemp Paper

Hemp paper is made from industrial hemp fibers acquired from the inner core of the plant’s stalks. 

One of the biggest advantages of hemp paper is its sustainability. 

Hemp paper has a higher yield than traditional paper, fewer chemicals are needed to process it, and it offers greater longevity than conventional wood pulp paper. 

It can be used the same way standard paper is used, the only downside is that it’s a bit more expensive.

77. Silk Paper

This paper is made by binding silk fibers together to create a softer, more luxurious surface. 

It’s often used to print logos or text on advertising materials, sort of like an elegant form of highlighting. 

Silk-coated paper has a sumptuous feel and a low surface sheen, and the colors on this paper have a tendency to be much brighter when compared with other stock paper. 

It’s an excellent choice if readability is a priority. 

78. Archival Paper

Archival paper was designed to ensure the quality of paper documents will be maintained over time. 

It’s acid-free, and rather than being made from wood pulp, it is made 100% from cotton. 

Its primary purpose is to prevent deterioration, yellowing, and aging.

79. Bamboo Paper

No, it’s not that App that turns your device into a traditional notebook. 

Bamboo paper is a recyclable form of paper designed to lessen society’s carbon footprint. 

It‘s the single, fastest-growing plant species on earth and even thrives in depleted soil.

It’s strong, versatile, sustainable and an excellent alternative to traditional paper.

80. Elephant Hide Paper

Elephant hide paper is a rough bookbinding paper with a parchment-like grain. 

It’s often used for book covers, Origami art, or tessellation crafts. Since 2021, most elephant hide paper is available in 110GSM, but there is not a huge variety of colors. 

It’s mostly available in earth tones, such as shades of gray or tan.

81. Tobacco Paper

Also called rolling paper, tobacco paper is a specialized paper used to roll up tobacco or other plants or herbs to be smoked. 

It is made from wood pulp, just like traditional paper, but is much thinner. 

Recently, other variations of tobacco paper have become available, such as those made from transparent cellulose, hemp, or rice. 

82. Shoe Paper

Not surprisingly, shoe paper is that thin, brown paper that’s typically stuffed into shoeboxes. 

It’s used both inside the shoes to help them keep their shape and wrapped around the shoes.

Its primary purpose is to prevent damage, such as scuffing, prior to the shoes being purchased.

However, it is widely used for crafts, wrapping household items for a move, packing breakable items in boxes to be mailed, and many other practical applications.

83. Book Paper

As you might suspect, book paper is used for producing all types of books, including paperbacks, hardcover books, children’s books, and manuals or diaries. 

The number of varieties of book paper is virtually limitless, including thin, light paper, such as Bible paper, to the thicker paper seen in manuals or certain hardcover books, and everything in between.

84. Banana Paper

Banana paper is an environmentally-friendly paper made from recycled materials sourced from banana harvests. 

During manufacturing, fibers from banana harvest byproducts are bound together at a microscopic level. 

The paper is biodegradable, tear resistant, and lightweight, but don’t expect it to resemble ordinary paper. 

It has a leather-like texture and is even used to make shoes and handbags.

85. Sandpaper

Sandpaper is an abrasive paper used for smoothing or polishing surfaces such as drywall, metal, or wood. 

Despite its name, however, sand particles are not used in its construction. 

Rather, it’s made from grit materials like silicon carbide and aluminum oxide.

86. Xuan Paper

Xuan paper is a traditional, oriental paper that is manufactured by hand. 

It is used for painting, primarily with watercolors, and Chinese calligraphy. 

It is made from the rough bark of Blue Sandalwood and Tara Wing-Celtis trees and sometimes contains rice straw. 

It’s known for its smooth, strong surface, and absorbs ink and paint very quickly.

87. Flax Paper

Flax paper, not surprisingly, is manufactured from flax fiber. The latter is a strong, resilient fiber containing high cellulose levels. 

Flax paper is very sturdy, and byproducts from its manufacturing have been used to make yarn. 

The natural color of flax paper is brown, and is frequently used as packing paper in factories and distribution centers.

88. Beeswax Paper

Beeswax paper, sometimes called beeswax wrap, is an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional wax paper, saran wrap, and freezer bag products. 

Although this type of paper is not limited to the use of food preservation, that is its main use. 

Beeswax paper is made by infusing pure organic jojoba oil, pine tree rosin, and Canadian beeswax into 100% cotton. 

The nice thing about this type of “paper” is that it is not a single-use item but can be used multiple times.

89. Chart Paper

Chart paper, also called recording chart paper, is used in devices such as EKG or brain scan equipment, seismometers, and power meters. 

It is a lightweight, slightly shiny paper, resembling old-fashioned fax paper, and is very heat sensitive. It may or may not have a printed pattern on its surface.

90. Blueprint Paper

Blueprint paper is a type of heat and light-sensitive paper that features a special coating.

The coating is designed to turn blue when it’s exposed to light, while other areas remain white. 

Blueprint manufacturing processes have changed significantly over the years, but architects still use it widely to make copies of drawings or plans for homes, offices, and other structures.

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52 Types of Paper

Paper, an integral part of human civilization, evolved over many centuries and has served a variety of purposes beyond mere writing. The world of paper encompasses a vast array of types that are tailored to satisfy specific needs and applications.

This article will discuss 52 types of papers, exploring their characteristics, advantages, drawbacks, and costs. 

.css-2xf3ee{font-size:0.6em;margin-left:-2em;position:absolute;color:#22445F;} .css-14nvrlq{display:inline-block;line-height:1;height:1em;background-color:currentColor;-webkit-mask:url(https://assets.xometry.com/fontawesome-pro/v6/svgs/light/link.svg) no-repeat center/contain content-box;mask:url(https://assets.xometry.com/fontawesome-pro/v6/svgs/light/link.svg) no-repeat center/contain content-box;-webkit-mask:url(https://assets.xometry.com/fontawesome-pro/v6/svgs/light/link.svg) no-repeat center/contain content-box;aspect-ratio:640/512;vertical-align:-15%;}.css-14nvrlq:before{content:"";} 1. Wallpaper 

Wallpaper is a decorative type of paper used to enhance the visual appeal of interior walls. A big advantage of wallpaper is its customizable nature and extensive range of design possibilities, making it suitable for many different environments and styles. Disadvantages of wallpaper are that its installation is labor intensive, and its removal may damage the wall. The cost of wallpaper varies based on its design and quality of fabrication.

2. Graph Paper 

Graph paper is a type of paper with a grid of horizontal and vertical lines. It is used to make it easier to plot mathematical functions, to facilitate drawing diagrams, and to provide an easy way to neatly order the steps of computations. Graph paper is commonly employed in educational, mathematical, or engineering environments. Graph paper’s grid lines are a big advantage since they make plotting diagrams easy. However, its disadvantages include limited use beyond drawing diagrams and note-taking. Graph paper is cost-effective and easily accessible.

3. Parchment Paper 

Parchment paper is a type treated with sulfuric acid or zinc chloride to give it a smooth, nonstick surface. It can also refer to an obsolete type that documents like the Declaration of Independence were written on. In today’s use, parchment paper is frequently employed in cooking, where its nonstick properties make it a viable alternative to cooking oil in some situations. Key advantages include its nonstick performance and ease of use, while disadvantages include environmental considerations due to chemicals leaching into the environment upon disposal.

4. Wrapping Paper 

Wrapping paper is an ornamental type of paper that is used to cover gifts for special occasions such as birthdays or holidays. It is lightweight and covers a myriad of design choices, though the fact that it is intended as a single-use, disposable product is a disadvantage. Wrapping paper is affordable. Its cost depends on the quality and design of the paper. 

5. Cardstock 

Cardstock, a thick and durable type of paper, is known for its heavy weight. Because of these properties, cardstock is often used for greeting cards, invitations, postcards, playing cards, business cards, and more. Its durability is an advantage while its lack of flexibility is a disadvantage. Cardstock is still inexpensive but typically costs more than other types of paper such as tissue or copy paper.

6. Butcher Paper 

Butcher paper is used to wrap meats like: beef, pork, poultry, fish, and more. Its thickness, durability, and waterproof coating make it useful for wrapping meats, but it has limited use outside of that application since the waterproof coating affects printing capability. Butcher paper is affordable and widely available.

7. Tissue Paper 

Tissue paper is a type of paper that is characterized by its thinness, softness, light weight, and ornamental potential. Because of these characteristics, tissue paper is often used to wrap and protect gifts and fragile objects with an elegant presentation. Another common use is facial tissue or toilet paper. Its light weight and ability to conform to irregular surfaces are advantages, but it can be easily torn. Tissue paper is cheap compared to other types of paper.

8. Construction Paper 

Construction paper is a popular type of paper used for arts and crafts. It comes in a variety of colors and is known for its thickness compared to copy paper, its flexibility, and versatility. Despite these advantages, a disadvantage of construction paper is its rough texture which makes it less than ideal for printing, and its brittleness compared to other types of paper.. Construction paper is widely accessible and affordable.

9. Watercolor Paper 

Watercolor paper is a paper type that is commonly used in art and comes in hot-pressed and cold-pressed varieties. The difference between the varieties is in their texture — cold-pressed has a textured surface, while hot-pressed has a smooth surface. An advantage of watercolor paper is that it absorbs water well, which makes it useful for watercolor painting. Limitations include the expensive price compared to other types of paper and limited use beyond watercolor painting.

10. Wax Paper 

Wax paper consists of layers of tissue paper that are coated with food-grade paraffin wax. This makes it useful for nonstick cooking applications and moisture resistance. Parchment paper has a similar function, but compared to parchment paper, wax paper is cheaper and less tolerant of high temperatures.

11. Crepe Paper 

Crepe paper is another type of ornamental paper that is used in crafts and gift wrapping. It is similar to tissue paper in that it is thin and comes in a variety of colors and textures. This makes it commonly used for decorating parties or special occasions or for wrapping gifts. However, crepe paper is easily torn and has limited use outside of its ornamental value.

12. Vellum Paper 

Vellum, a translucent paper, is favored by scrapbook makers and card artists for its appearance, elegant texture, and capacity for creative endeavors. Initially crafted from lambskin or calfskin, modern vellum imitations are composed of cotton and come in, off-white varieties in varying weights. Despite its appeal, caution is advised when handling vellum for crafts due to its tendency to smudge and crease easily.

13. Copy Paper 

Copy paper serves the purpose of document copying and printing and is typically available in standard legal and letter sizes. Copy paper is versatile and can be used for a variety of applications — from printing official documents to sketching — due to its moderate weight. Advantages of copy paper include its widespread availability and low price, but a major disadvantage is that its thickness may not be ideal for certain applications, like printing photos.

14. Sandpaper 

Sandpaper is a heavy-duty paper with abrasive bonded to it and is characterized by its diverse range of grit sizes. It is commonly utilized to alter the surface textures of wood, plastic, drywall, metal, and other materials by removing, smoothing, or roughing surfaces. The grit size numbering system assigns low numbers to more coarse abrasives, while high numbers denote finer abrasive textures. Sandpaper’s ability to alter surfaces is an advantage, although a disadvantage is the risk of damaging delicate surfaces. Sandpaper is affordable but more often more expensive than other types such as copy paper and tissue paper.

15. Litmus Paper 

Impregnated with dyes extracted from lichens, litmus paper undergoes color changes based on the pH level of any solution it contacts. This property allows for quick assessment of the pH level of various liquids. Its rapid response time is a notable advantage, although it may lack precision in determining specific acidity or alkalinity levels. Litmus paper is a specialized type of paper that is cost-effective over time given the price of test strips. A pack of 100 test strips can be purchased for less than $5.

16. Tracing Paper 

Thin and translucent, tracing paper serves as an ideal medium for replicating patterns for design and artwork. Its lightweight construction and translucent appearance contribute to its preferred use in artwork, though, like tissue paper, it is susceptible to ripping. Tracing paper allows a user to precisely copy designs and drawings, facilitating the creation of intricate artwork or precise patterns in a variety of projects. Tracing paper is relatively inexpensive. A 1’ wide by 150’ long roll can be purchased for roughly $15.

17. Photo Paper 

Photo paper has special design features to enable it to accurately reproduce images. Photo paper is thicker and heavier than copy paper and has specialty surface coatings composed of various polymers or resins that make it ideal for use in photography where it bolsters the image quality of photos. Despite its advantages for optimizing image quality, photo paper can be expensive and is seldom used for other applications. For example, 20 sheets of letter-sized photo paper cost roughly $10.

18. Printing Paper 

Printing paper is a versatile paper type that encompasses a range of types tailored for various commercial purposes. Uses of printing paper include: books, magazines, newspapers, office documents, and more. Each type of printing paper has distinct characteristics such as varying weight or surface texture that make it suitable for different applications. The advantage of printer paper lies in its versatility and compatibility with various printing devices. However, this versatility means that it does not offer the same excellent results as specialized papers made for specific applications, such as photo printing or greeting cards.

19. Blotting Paper 

A convenient accessory in calligraphy, blotting paper is a type of paper known for its absorbency and smudge prevention. Blotting paper is porous and easily absorbs extra oil or ink when doing calligraphy. This trait is a well-known advantage. However, a big disadvantage of blotting paper is its limited thickness.

20. Kraft Paper 

Kraft paper, manufactured from wood pulp, is typically brown and is known for its tear resistance. Its strength and versatility make it a popular choice for food packaging, envelopes, and paper bags. It is both flexible and strong which makes it ideal for various packaging applications. However, one disadvantage of kraft paper is that it becomes weak when wet. 

21. Bristol Paper 

Bristol paper typically refers to drawing paper composed of multiple layers of paper bonded under high pressure between felt rollers. This paper type offers a sturdy surface for artistic endeavors without the need for additional mounting. Outside of drawing and painting, Bristol paper can also fulfill many of the same uses as cardstock.

22. Linen Paper 

Linen paper is a type used for “fine stationery.” It is often used for elegant certificates, wedding invitations, restaurant menus, resumes, and more. Its aesthetic appeal and resemblance to linen fabric is an advantage. However, it is expensive compared to other types of paper.

23. Manila Paper 

Crafted from partly bleached wood fibers, manila paper finds extensive use in businesses as document storage folders and in art for many of the same applications as cardstock or paperboard. Compared to these two types of paper, manila paper is the lighter, more pliable, and more cost-effective option. However, its pigmented appearance may be aesthetically undesirable for some applications.

24. Thermal Paper 

Thermal paper is a unique type of paper that changes color as heat is applied due to heat-sensitive dyes present in its composition. Thermal paper is often used in point-of-sale terminals commonly seen in retail and food-service environments or financial institutions like banks. Thermal paper’s advantages include instant printing without the need for expensive consumables like ink. However, a disadvantage is that it fades over time and is not suitable for archival documents.

25. Foil Paper 

Foil paper is a unique and lustrous paper type that consists of mylar-coated paper sheets. The malleability of foil paper allows it to easily be bent or wrapped around objects, allowing it to satisfy many uses — from cooking and food storage to packaging to arts and crafts. Advantages include malleability and heat resistance while a big disadvantage is that it is unsuitable for printing.

26. Newsprint

Newsprint is a thin, weak, and not tear-resistant paper variant fabricated from finely ground wood pulp. It is commonly employed in the printing of newspapers, magazines, and other publications. Newsprint is characterized by its affordability, light weight, and availability in multiple grades that are often used for advertisements and or vibrant color photos. The cost-effectiveness, lightweight, and suitability for large-scale printing operations are notable advantages of newsprint paper but disadvantages include brittleness.

27. Filter Paper

Filter paper serves to separate contaminants from liquids or gasses. Its filtering properties originate from the web of fibers that limit the passage of oversized particles. This makes it useful for air filters, coffee filters, oil filters, teabags, and more. The advantages of filter paper are its affordability and filtering capability. However, certain disadvantages include limited compatibility with certain particles that are desired to be filtered. Filter paper is inexpensive.

28. Bond Paper 

Bond paper, a premium type of paper, finds widespread use for letterheads, reports, and stationery. Crafted from rag pulp or textiles, it boasts superior strength compared to the majority of paper varieties. However, a big disadvantage is that it can be expensive.

29. Chart Paper 

Chart paper is commonly used in the medical or scientific fields. It is a lightweight, lustrous, and heat-sensitive paper that resembles graph paper. Medical diagnostic scans such as EKGs can be printed onto chart paper due to their ability to facilitate organized presentation of content. However, chart paper is expensive and has limited use beyond the specific tasks it was designed for.

30. Mulberry Paper 

Mulberry paper is named after the bark of the tree it is fabricated from. Mulberry paper is often textured and available in a variety of weights. Because of its composition and processing, mulberry paper has a distinct finish that features long fibers and irregular, yet attractive, edges. Mulberry paper is often used in traditional papermaking practices, arts and crafts, and is on par in price with other types of art papers, but has limited use outside of the arts.

31. Art Paper 

Art paper is a general term used to describe types of paper that are used in many different art endeavors, including: drawing, painting, and printmaking. It is also available in acid-free options, which makes it useful for artists concerned about the longevity of their work. However, one potential drawback is that the quality of art paper may vary depending on the specific brand or type, which can impact its performance for different artistic techniques.

32. Canvas Paper 

Canvas paper resembles canvas fabric, and is often employed in painting and other mixed-media artwork. Compared to traditional canvas, it is lighter and thus easier to frame. However, it has less durability than actual canvas and can be relatively expensive compared to actual canvas and other types of art paper.

33. Rag Paper 

Rag paper is a high-quality paper type fabricated from cotton or linen fibers. It is often used for fine art and archival documents. Its notable advantages include its longevity and ability to maintain the integrity of documents and artwork over extended periods. However, one potential drawback is its higher cost compared to standard paper options. Additionally, rag paper may have limited availability, particularly in certain sizes or formats, which can pose challenges for specific projects. 

34. Archival Paper 

Archival paper, a type of rag paper, was developed to guarantee the preservation of the quality of paper documents over time by preventing degradation and discoloration. It is acid-free and manufactured entirely from cotton instead of wood pulp. While this is a desirable advantage of archival paper, it also makes it expensive in comparison to other types of paper.

35. Photographic Paper 

Photographic paper is infused with chemicals sensitive to light. These chemicals facilitate the conversion of images into either a color or black-and-white printed image. The photographic paper serves as an excellent choice for individuals aiming to produce photographs suitable for display in printed formats. Additionally, photographic paper comes in multiple finishes. However, it requires specialized printing equipment and can be expensive.

36. Book Paper 

Book paper is specifically designed for use in books due to its balance of weight, texture, and ease of printing. From paperbacks and hardcover books to manuals and diaries, book paper is a versatile paper type. The range of book paper varieties is extensive and encompasses thin, lightweight options like Bible paper, to thicker variants utilized in manuals or specific hardcover books, with numerous options available in between. It is affordable and widely available, however it is prone to yellowing over time.

37. Coated Paper 

Coated paper is a type of paper that is covered with a gloss or matte layer. This coated layer helps to enhance print quality and paper durability. Additionally, it makes the paper more resistant to ink bleed which is often a challenge when using a rougher type of paper.. A major drawback of coated paper is that it is more expensive than copy paper or bond paper.

38. Greaseproof Paper 

Greaseproof paper, also known as butcher paper, is a type of paper specially treated to resist grease and oil. This makes it a popular choice for baking and food packaging. Its advantages include preventing food from sticking and maintaining food freshness. However, it has limited heat resistance. Regarding cost, it falls within the moderate range compared to wax paper and parchment paper on the low end and sandpaper on the upper end.

39. Honeycomb Paper 

Honeycomb paper is a type of kraft paper characterized by its lightweight nature and hexagonal cell structure which makes it suitable for packaging, insulation, and crafting purposes. Its advantages include being lightweight, yet remarkably strong. However, it may have limited availability and is typically reserved for specialized applications.

40. Wove Paper 

Wove paper is a paper type that is commonly handmade by straining pulp with a wire mesh screen or woven fabric. Its name, wove paper, is attributed to its woven appearance when held against light due to the imprint of the screen used during its fabrication. Wove paper was an early type of paper and is still common today amongst hobbyists and in cultural traditions.

41. Typewriter Paper

Typewriter paper is a type of lightweight paper used for manual typewriters that is seldom used today due to the prevalence of personal computers. The benefits of typewriter paper include the availability of different colors and a specialized type for airmail due to weight considerations. 

42. Uncoated Paper 

Uncoated paper is similar to copy paper or printer paper but unlike these types of paper, it does not have a matte or glossy top layer. This makes it more prone to absorbing ink, and it has a rougher surface. These traits have both advantages and disadvantages. The capability to absorb more ink makes it more compatible with writing or printing compared to coated paper but also makes it more prone to smudging and having less vibrant printed images.

43. Greeting Card Paper 

Greeting card paper is a type of cardstock that is used for special occasions such as: anniversaries, holidays, bereavement, and graduations. Because it is cardstock, greeting paper is heavier and thicker than regular printer paper or copy paper. Its aesthetic appeal and ease of taking on creative designs are advantages, but its lack of flexibility can be limiting. Cardstock is relatively expensive compared to copy paper and printer paper, but cheaper than photo paper.

44. Food Paper 

Food paper encompasses other types of paper such as wax paper, parchment paper, and butcher paper. All of these papers are commonly used in cooking applications. Food paper’s characteristics depend on the specific application. For instance, meats are wrapped in butcher paper which is thicker than the wrapping paper used for candy. A big advantage of food paper is that there is a type to fit every need and every food. However, the single-use nature of these paper types can be wasteful.

45. Tobacco Paper 

Tobacco paper is a type of thin paper specifically tailored for the manual rolling of cigarettes. Tobacco paper is traditionally composed of wood pulp, but can also be fabricated from cellulose from other plants, such as hemp or rice. Advantages of tobacco paper include minimal taste interference and slow-burning, however, disadvantages include limited use beyond smoking applications.

46. Offset Paper 

Offset paper is a medium-weight paper that is wood-free and brighter than copy paper. It is frequently used in large-volume offset printing processes due to its smooth surface texture. While its smooth texture and compatibility with large volume tasks are an advantage, it has limited availability in specialty sizes which poses challenges for specific printing requirements.

47. Envelope Paper 

Envelope paper is a type of paper for enclosing and protecting documents or mail during transit or storage. Envelope paper offers security to sensitive documents through an opaque texture printed on its surface and often features an adhesive or clasp for closure. Envelope paper comes in different colors and sizes. Envelope paper is affordable compared to more expensive options like Tyvek envelopes.

48. Acid-Free Paper 

Acid-free paper is characterized by its neutral or alkaline pH level, which prevents yellowing and deterioration over time. It is appreciated for its ability to preserve documents, photographs, and artwork — making it a popular choice for archival applications. However, one potential drawback is its higher cost. Overall, the cost of acid-free paper typically falls within the moderate to high range due to its superior quality and preservation properties.

49. Banknote Paper 

Banknote paper is a paper type that is often used for printing currency. Commonly composed of cotton and linen, banknote paper is known for its fiber distribution which adds aesthetic appeal to the paper, and watermarks which help to make currency counterfeit-proof.

50. Laid Paper

Laid paper is a type of paper similar to wove paper in that it is created by using a screen. Unlike wove paper, however, the screen used leaves vertical and horizontal ribs on the laid paper due to inadequate absorption of pulp during the fabrication process. Like banknote paper, laid paper is used for currency due to its counterfeit-proof characteristics, but also in ledgers and books.

51. Shoe Paper 

Shoe paper is a specially tailored paper used to protect shoes while in transit or storage. It is a thicker type of paper and an effective barrier to scuffs and dust, but its limited use beyond shoe protection is a disadvantage.

52. Post-Consumer Recycled Paper 

Post-consumer recycled paper is fabricated from previously used paper that is recycled back into the paper manufacturing process. Breaking the recycled paper back down to pulp requires processes to remove inks and adhesives and then mix it with newly created pulp. Post-consumer recycled paper products find many uses — from copy and printer paper to cardstock and more. This type of paper is often more expensive, 10-25% more, than other types due to the extra processes required to create it.

What Is Paper?

Traditionally, paper is a material composed of cellulose fibers derived from wood, rags, grasses, or other sources, processed into thin sheets. These sheets are then utilized for writing, printing, drawing, packaging, and a multitude of other applications. Generally, paper can also be defined as any thin, flexible material that can be written on, printed on, or used for packaging.

What Are the Considerations When Choosing a Paper Type To Use?

Selecting the appropriate paper type depends on such factors as: its intended use, durability requirements, printing method, and budget constraints. Factors like weight, texture, finish, and composition play crucial roles in decision-making.

What Type of Paper Is Used for Embossing? 

Embossing typically requires thicker paper types such as cardstock or Bristol paper, which can withstand the pressure required for embossing without tearing or warping. These papers provide a sturdy base for creating raised designs or patterns.

What Type of Paper Is Used for Laser Engraving? 

Laser engraving requires paper that can withstand the intense heat generated by the laser without scorching or igniting. Therefore, coated papers such as cardstock, or specialty laser engraving paper are commonly used for this purpose.

Are There Any Types of Paper That Are Suitable for 3D Printing?

While conventional paper is not suitable for 3D printing due to its lack of structural integrity and flexibility, some specialty papers infused with polymers or other additives can be 3D printed through a type of 3D printing called selective deposition lamination (SDL). SDL consists of bonding successive layers of coated paper together that are cut into the desired shape.  However, the use of paper in 3D printing remains limited compared to other materials such as plastics, metals, and resins.

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Astrophysics > Solar and Stellar Astrophysics

Title: long-term stellar activity of m dwarfs: a combined k2 and tess study of two early m-type stars.

Abstract: Studies of the rotation and activity of M type stars are essential to enhance our understanding of stellar dynamos and angular momentum evolution. Using the outstanding photometric capabilities of space telescopes rotation signals even with low amplitudes can be investigated in up to now unrivaled detail. By combining data of K2 and the TESS prime mission the star spot activity of M dwarfs can be monitored on half a decade timescale. In the framework of our study on the rotation-activity relation for bright and nearby M dwarfs we also aim at an investigation of the long-term activity. While K2 was observing fields distributed around the ecliptic plane, the TESS prime mission was oriented along a line of ecliptic longitude with one camera centered on an ecliptic pole. Due to these different observing strategies, the overlap between K2 and the TESS prime mission is marginal. However, 45 stars from our sample were observed with both missions of which two early M-type stars that fulfill our selection criteria, EPIC 202059229 and EPIC 245919787, were analyzed in more detail. We found that for both stars the rotation period did not change while the rotational phase did change for EPIC 245919787 by ~0.2. The amplitude of the spot induced variability changed for both stars but more significant for EPIC 245919787. By comparing the cumulative flare frequency distributions we found that the flare activity for EPIC 202059229 is unchanged while it slightly changes for EPIC 245919787 between the K2 and TESS epochs. Using a combination of light curves from K2 and TESS that span a baseline up to 4.5 years we could measure significant differential rotation for EPIC 245919787. Furthermore, we show that combining missions like K2 and TESS is a promising method for detecting stellar activity cycles.

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Energy & Environmental Science

Repairing humidity-induced interfacial degradation in quasi-2d perovskite solar cells printed in ambient air.

Due to the moisture sensitivity of organic cations, the presence of adsorbed water (H2Oad) during the printing process in air tends to complicate the structure transformation and poses potential hazards to the long-term operational stability, particularly in alternating-cation interlayer layered halide perovskite (LHPs) solar cells with a sophisticated organic cation composition. Here, H2Oad as a nucleation medium skillfully expanded the humidity processing window for scalable LHPs solar cells, revealing the feasibility of the thermodynamically favored reaction pathways in promoting atomic layer deposition in direct contact with the perovskite films without damage. Besides, the interfacial aging mechanism and inhibition of ion diffusion were comprehensively investigated. Finally, target devices based on GA(MA)5Pb5I16 (n = 5) with effective areas of 0.09 cm2 and 1.01 cm2 exhibited impressive power conversion efficiencies of 21.0% and 19.7%, respectively, which was one of the highest values in the large-area 2D LHPs devices. The target device maintained 93% of its initial efficiency over 170 days (4080 h) in an air environment, while further validating the scalability of our strategy on LHPs modules with an area of 100 cm2.

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Z. Xing, B. Fan, X. Meng, D. Li, Z. Huang, L. Li, Y. Zhang, F. Wang, X. Hu, T. Hu, T. Riedl and Y. Chen, Energy Environ. Sci. , 2024, Accepted Manuscript , DOI: 10.1039/D4EE00912F

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