Once you have all your notes, it's time to organize the information and create the final product (e.g. report, poster, multimedia project, or presentation). If it's a report then you can use the following:
Write a thesis statement
You should start by writing your thesis statement. A thesis statement is the central idea for your paper. It typically answers How? and Why? and should be based on your own critical thinking. The rest of your paper will support your thesis statement. Click here for tips from CRLS on writing a thesis statement.
|
|
Make an outline
Making an outline will help you organize your thoughts so you can write your paper. One method is to organize your note cards into topics and using those topics to create an outline. Click here for tips from CRLS on making an outline.
|
|
Write your introduction
Your introductory paragraph should have an attention catcher, your thesis statement and a preview of your main points. This paragraph should set the stage for your paper and help direct the readers understanding. Click here for tips from CRLS on writing your introduction.
|
|
Write the body of your paper
Each paragraph of your paper should address a different topic that supports your thesis statement. Click here for tips from CRLS on writing the body of your paper.
|
|
Write your conclusion
Your concluding paragraph is your closing statement and should reemphasize your thesis statement and supporting evidence. If possible, you should also answer the question "so what". What is it that you want the reader to walk away with. Click here for tips from CRLS on writing your conclusion.
|
|
Multimedia Tools
Here are some tools to consider, if you have to do a presentation or project. Make sure you pick the tool that will best make your point.
|