How to write a reflective paper?

How do you write a research paper quickly and efficiently?

• Compared to other college students, I take way too long writing (typing) college research papers. On easy papers it usually takes me about an hour to write one page but on the more difficult papers it can take me up 3 hours to write a page. Even when I have already spent hours before on the research. I know college students who can write 3 pages per hour when typing up their research papers. Some even do the research for the paper and write them the night before its due, even when it is a 15 page paper. What are some tips that I can use to write research papers quickly? Also, what are some tips that could help me to focus and concentrate better while writing papers (other than turning the tv off, going to the library, and staying off of facebook)?

• Answer:

  Your rate of one page per hour is actually very good. I am going to assume that in taking that time your writing is far more coherent and precise that your 3 page and hour classmates. Good writing is the point, not speed. I can bet your papers are far better than the "speedy" one. I have studied and taught for a number of years. When you do your prep thoroughly, your writing will go faster. One thing that helps is to make your mind up about your tactics,; your "bullet points," arguments, etc before you start typing. I always wrote out much of my work in longhand - though I used many abbreviations- long before I started typing. It made for another step, but the final product was much better. Try thinking out loud. Say your sentences out loud before you write or type them. That too will help your work "flow," and give a more considered pace and tone to your work. I know you want speed- but do not sacrifice quality for an extra hour of the fun stuff. You will be happier in the long run turning in what I suspect is quality work!