Everyone knows them. Everyone fears them. Whether it be an easier task or a hard one, they require lots of extra work. Projects.

I had recently finished up a big project: the notorious research paper. Looking back on the experience, there are a few things I wish I could have done differently which I believe could benefit us all.

Once I finished the paper, I never wanted to see or edit it again. Looking back, that was a mistake. I finished the project, but never felt a drive to make sure it actually was complete, I just wanted it done. The difference between a mediocre paper and an excellent one is how well it exceeds the given expectations. Every night, I should have gone back over it, even if it was simply reading through it once and making changes such as removing ‘to be’ verbs or making sure the focus remains on the thesis throughout the papers entirety. Every time I went back to it, my mind was different than the time before. I would look at it in a new light. So, I advise that you check over it as much as possible. It can only benefit you in the long run and increase the quality of your paper exponentially.

Secondly, you should have a clear focus as to where you want the paper to go in mind the entire time you are working. Sometimes when I was working, I felt I drifted away from my main focus. That hurt me overall. Do yourself a favor, and focus.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. Having someone look over your work is always beneficial. Peer reviews allow you to get a fresh look on the paper. After you have looked it so long, there may be a blatant error that you overlook but they may find.. They want to help you. Plus, it helps you sharpen your review skills while helping make someone else and their paper better.