Organizing a Research Paper

Point and Counterpoint Method

Worth Weller

Step 1. write a short introduction

• (no more than half a page, preferably less)

• that sets the scene

• and states both the problem and the solution (or the thrust of your argument).

However, avoid defining the problem or explaining the

solution in the introduction.

Step 2. make a transition to your first paragraph and

discuss the back ground of the problem fairly briefly and without too much detail

• use some sources to show/prove/illustrate that it is indeed a problem.

• one could be proof that it is indeed a problem; • another could be the history of the problem, • and a third could be where the problem

stands today. • Try to use a source or an example to illustrate

each paragraph and lend some authenticity to your statements

You may need to break this into several paragraphs;

At this point you could easily have two pages of text

Step 3. start your argument

• use a transition from the previous material, like, “One of the biggest reasons…”

• Make just one point in this paragraph, and use a source to authenticate your point.

• Be sure to use the “quote sandwich” technique.

Step 4 - now use an opposing or contrary point, with a

transition.

• “On the other hand, many politicians feel…”

Step 5 - add a paragraph about why politicians feel this

way

• use a quote from a source to authenticate your assertion as to why they feel this way

Step 6 - now add another paragraph showing why they

are stupid (or venal)

• show what the sources have to say against them

• in other words, you could “box” in your opponents.

By now you are up to four pages

Step Seven – repeat steps three and four five and six,

focusing on another element of your argument.

Now you are up to six pages.

Step 8 – repeat this process four more times

• (meaning you really need to have just six points you want to make)

Step 9 – now write a paragraph summarizing your

points.

Step 10 – write a paragraph summarizing the opponents’

claims.

Step 11 – write a paragraph summarizing the weaknesses

of their claims • why they are the type of people who

make those claims

• (politician are always looking for ways to enrich the pockets of their friends and major donors).

Step 12 - now write a short concluding paragraph that

ends the paper on a positive and philosophical note

• repeat in a recognizable but not blatant fashion your argument/solution from the intro