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Pittsburgh History: Writing a History Paper

Reading Your Assignment

Before you begin, make sure you understand the following. If you are unsure of any of the below, ask your professor.

  • How long your paper should be
    The length of the paper often implies the number and types of resources you should use.
  • What type of resources you should use
    Are you expected to use certain types of sources? Or can you use anything on the Web? Any limitation to the type of Web/Internet resources you can use?
  • What type of sources you should use
    Are you expected to use primary sources? Or can you use only secondary works?
  • If a draft is due at anytime
    Drafts can give you useful feedback and prevent a total paper disaster.
  • When the final paper is due
    Knowing the due date can help you avoid late penalties or ultimate failure.
  • What format your bibliography should be in
    There are many types of formats-make sure you know which you should be using. (Citation manuals for all styles are at the Hunt Library Reference desk):