Department of History

Researching & Writing A History Paper: A Step by Step Guide!

Step 1: Selecting a Topic

The best places to start when selecting a research topic:

1. Read and understand the assignment.
2. Understand when it is due.
3. Contact your professor with any questions.
4. Check the 1998 Fall Class Web Pages if you have any questions.
5. Department of History Website Homepage.

Step 2:Researching the Topic

• History Department Handbook 
• UCCS Library
• World Wide Web Search Engine Links
• Table of United States History Pages
• Table of Asian, European, and other History Pages
• History Organizations, Libraries, Archives Page
• Citation Guide for Electronic Sources
  Make sure you get all of the information for each citation as you research!

Step 3: Writing the Paper

• Tips on writing a thesis and organizing your paper
• Caution! The definition of plagiarism and how to document your sources!
• Samples of Excellent Papers Written for the UCCS History Department

Step 4: Proofreading, Editing and Technical Assessment of the Paper

• On-line Dictionaries
• On-line Grammar and Style Guides
• Citation Guide for Electronic Sources

Ready, Set, Go!!

• But remember, you can always contact your professor for help.

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