It's the end of the semester as we know it...

Between papers, proposals, and presentations, time flies by....Here are some tips on writing that I texted to my niece at Morgan State University about writing papers. I hope this helps someone.

Niece: How are things for you?

Me: I have A LOT of work to do. I have a paper due on Tuesday. Based on what I learn from writing it, I'm going to update a proposal I have for a conference in Mexico City, Mexico by midnight on Monday. I'll do the best I can with the help of the Lord. At this point, the very thought of having so much work seems ridiculous. But that kind of brings the stress level down for me in a way. It is ridiculous-lol. So why even bother to stress about it? Stressing will not help.

Niece: I'm dealing with something similar. I have a paper due on next Tuesday, and it's kind of stressing me out. So I've been continuously praying about it.

Me: Well, to get started,  pull out the assignment instructions. Did the assignment come with instructions?

Niece: Yes. I am supposed to write about a topic that I've chosen (why more Syrian Refugees should be allowed in the United States) and then talk about how to solve the issue.

Me: Is this a political science or public policy course?

Niece: Political Science

Me: Did your professor give you a rubric?...in addition to the instructions?

Niece: Yes

Me: Good. The instructions tell you what to do, and the rubric tells you how you will be graded. Take the instructions and create an outline for your paper in a Word document.

Niece: Yes

Me: These are my instructions [screen shot of instructions and title page]. Make sure that you title your paper (I'll make a more unique title later, this is just to get started). [Screen shot of outline.] Here is my outline. With the rubric, find the column with the highest score/achievement. Is the highest a 4 or a 5?

Niece: I don't have it with me rn [right now].

Me: Okay, when you get them, copy and paste the requirements for the highest level of achievement (be sure to include the criteria and descriptions) at the bottom of your outlined instructions. The highest achievement column is the checklist for your paper so you can determine whether or not you followed the instructions in the way your professor wanted you. I hope this helps. From there, chip away at your outline. Pull references first to support your argument. Use what you read for class and see what else you can find on your own. And then start to fill in your outline (keep track of your citations in the paper and at the end in your reference section as you go).

Niece: Yes, thank you aunty Nay Nay.
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​Me: Okay, you're welcome

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