If your teacher doesn’t have a preference, you might as well
use the MLA rules, which I use as well. Also, be sure to refer to
Improve Your Writingfor a more in-depth examination of source
documentation.
(The MLA guidelines are used primarily for papers in the arts and
humanities. If you are doing a paper for a physical or social science
class, check with your teacher or professor as to which style you
are to follow. Specific— and different—style sheets are used in
biology, chemistry, math, physics, engineering, psychology, and
so forth.)
Step 8: Do Additional Research
Did you discover any gaps in your research as you put together
your first draft? Raise some questions that you need additional
information to answer? If so, now’s the time to head for the library
for one last crack at the books.
Step 9: Write the Second Draft
The goal for this phase is to edit for meaning—improve the flow
of your paper, organize your thoughts better, clarify confusing
points, and strengthen weak arguments.
As you review your rough draft, ask yourself the following questions:
■ Do your thoughts move logically from one point to the next?
■ Is the meaning of every sentence and paragraph crystal clear?
■ Does every sentence make a point—or support one?
■ Do you move smoothly from one paragraph to the next?
Or do you jump randomly from one topic to another?160 How to Study