1. Create an Outline. Taking a few minutes to create an outline for your paper can ensure that your document is well organized and that you’ve covered all the major details. Once the outline is completed, use it to flesh out the details of the paper. Major points in your argument should be numbered topics in the outline, with minor details underneath. As you create your outline, review the rubric for the assignment to ensure your outline hits all the required points of the paper.
2. Know your subject. Do not attempt to write about a subject you do not understand. Choose a topic on which you are well versed. Then research appropriately in order to provide support to your thesis. Use your textbook, books from the library, and reliable online sites to ensure your facts are correct. Don’t forget to footnote your paper and list your sources in a bibliography.
3. Be sure to explain complex terms. Terms like autolysis and fumaric acid may roll off your tongue easily because you are studying the subject. But, it’s important to explain these terms so that other readers will understand your points just as completely. In addition, explaining the terms will help demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter to the professor.
4. Make your point clear. Your paper should have a clear and specific point. This point should be presented in the opening paragraph and reiterated in the closing paragraph. The paragraphs in the middle should provide the details to support your argument.
5. Edit carefully. Review your paper for structure, grammar and spelling. Be certain that it has an opening and closing, and that it adheres to your outline from an organizational standpoint. If grammar and spelling are not your strong suit, enlist the help of an editor to ensure your paper reads well.

Writing a term paper is a great way to demonstrate your biochemistry expertise.

• Choose a Topic You Already Know About

If you’re lucky your professor will have provided you with a list of research paper topics. If this is the case, choose something you already know and are comfortable writing about. If you have to come up with your own topic, follow the same piece of advice and stay within an area you with which you are familiar.

• Find Enough Supportive Resources

Start your background and in-depth search for resources. You can’t spend too much time doing this, so make sure you take accurate notes. Look for materials that support your initial ideas in relation to your topic. Ask the reference librarian for assistance; he or she can show you how to focus your search.

• Develop a Clear and Concise Thesis

Now, it’s time to develop a clear and concise thesis to guide the rest of your argument. Write down a few different versions of your thesis so that you can quickly select the most relatable one should your assignment take a different direction than you had originally intended.

• Write the Main/Body Paragraphs First

The body paragraphs make up the core of the assignment and are usually much easier to write before either the introduction or conclusion. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence, followed by supporting evidence, your interpretation of the information presented, ending with a transition to the next idea.

• Write the Intro and Conclusion Paragraphs

After the body paragraphs you can write both the introduction and conclusion. These should be easier now that you know exactly what your paper is specifically about. Make sure you start broadly and gradually focus in on your thesis, and then do the opposite in the conclusion. This will give your work an appropriate sense of completeness.

• Revise, Edit, and Proofread in Three Stages

Finally, always revise, edit, and proofread your document in three separate stages. You might be tempted to do these all at once, but this can get pretty messy and will likely lead to missed phrases that are poorly written or mistakes that could have easily been corrected.