■ Do you support your conclusions with solid evidence—
research data, examples, statistics?
■ Do you include a good mixof evidence—quotes from experts,
scientific data, personal experiences, historical examples?
■ Do you have a solid introduction and conclusion?
■ Did you write in your own words and style? Or have you
merely strung together phrases and quotes “borrowed” from
other authors?
■ Have you explained your subject thoroughly, or assumed that
readers have more knowledge about it than they actually
might? (Remember: You’refamiliar with the topic now, but
just because something is now obvious to you doesn’t mean
your readers will know what you’re talking about.)
■ Have you convinced your readers that your thesis is valid?
■ Is there any information that, while correct and informative,
just doesn’t belong? Cut it out!
■ Have you maintained a consistent point of view (i.e., first,
second, or third person throughout)?
■ Does your last paragraph successfully summarize the entire
paper and effectively “close” your argument?Mark any trouble spots with a colored pencil or pen. If you have
an idea on how to fix a section, jot it down on your rough draft. Now
sit down and begin to rewrite. Focus on all of those problem areas
you found. If necessary, add new information. Play with sentences,
paragraphs, even entire sections.
Chapter 7 ■How to Write Terrific Papers 161