TIPS ON WRITING SOCIOLOGY PAPERS

Introduction

The introduction should make the writer’s position or argument clear. It should also suggest a general outline that the paper will follow in order to substantiate the thesis.

The Body

The first portion of the body should discuss the basic tenants of the argument. It may be useful to use outside sources to supplement support from the readings. The second portion of the body should present a sociological analysis of the evidence because in sociology, the facts never speak for themselves. Depending on the assignment, the writer may also have to outline the proposed solutions the author makes as the third part of the body.

The Conclusion

The conclusion should do one or more of the following in addition to summarizing the position of the paper: introduce further questions or advanced evidence, place the argument in a broader social context, or suggest a course of action.

Critiquing the arguments made by the author

It helps to keep the following questions in mind as you read the text. Does the author make sweeping generalizations? Good indicators are words such as all, never, completely, definitely, always, etc. Does the author refute the opposing viewpoint? Has the author used words that suggest he or she is not confident in his or her position? Does the argument advance in a logical conclusion as the paper progresses? Does the author use an appropriate and consistent tone?

Questions to ask about your own paper upon its completion

Does the paper address all the questions required in the assignment?

Is the paper clear and accessible to non-sociology students?

Is the paper well-developed, concise, and structured in a logical order? It may be helpful to go back to your thesis paragraph and then check the first sentence of every paragraph.

How concentrated and direct is the paper?