Time Blocking for a Research Paper Example

Writing a systematic theology position paper (or any research paper!) can be a daunting task, but with a structured plan, it becomes much more manageable. Below is a comprehensive outline to guide you through the process, from selecting a topic to finalizing your paper. Each week has specific goals and suggestions to help you stay on track and produce a thorough and well-argued paper.

As you begin the second week of the term, I encourage you to look ahead at your schedule and identify the assignments that will take more time to complete, such as book reviews, research papers, or other projects. Mark out dedicated time on your calendar for each task or goal you need to complete. Time will not magically appear, so planning ahead will help you avoid feeling rushed later.

Week 2 Goal: Pick a Topic

Monday: 8:30 pm - 9:00 pm

• Review the list of topics provided by the professor. If no topics are given, then create three topics and email your OTA for approval.

Suggestions for the Week:

• Choose a topic that interests you and has ample resources available. Ensure it aligns with the course objectives.

Week 4 Goal: Find 6 Resources for the Paper

Tuesday: 6:00 am - 7:30 am

• Gather 3 resources from the library’s website
• Write 2-3 sentences on how each source will contribute to the paper

Thursday: 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm

• Gather 3 additional resources from the library’s website
• Write 2-3 sentences on how each source will contribute to the paper

Suggestions for the Week:

• Use reputable academic sources such as journals, books, and theological commentaries.
• Diversify your sources to include different perspectives and strengthen your argument.

Week 5 Goal: Research

Tuesday: 6:00 am - 7:30 am

• Read through each of the sources
• Make notes on the position they argue for, pros and cons, and other necessary resources

Thursday: 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm

• Continue reading and note-taking

Saturday: 9:00 am - 10:30 am

• Gather additional resources needed from the research conducted on Tuesday and Thursday

Suggestions for the Week:

• Organize your notes by themes or arguments to make writing easier later.
• Highlight key quotes and reference them correctly to save time later.
• Ensure you have a balance of sources supporting and challenging your position.

Week 6 Goal: Outline and Begin Rough Draft

Tuesday: 6:00 am - 7:30 am

• Write a detailed outline matching the professor’s guidelines

Thursday: 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm

• Begin rough draft (set a specific goal closer to the time)

Saturday: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

• Continue rough draft (set a specific goal closer to the time)

Suggestions for the Week:

• Break down your outline into introduction, main arguments, counterarguments, and conclusion.
• Focus on writing sections where you have the most information first.
• Don’t worry about perfection; focus on getting your ideas down.

Week 7 Goal: Rough Draft

Tuesday: 6:00 am - 7:30 am

• Continue rough draft (set a specific goal closer to the time)

Wednesday: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

• Continue rough draft (set a specific goal closer to the time)
• Note: Pack a lunch and have it ready to work on the paper over the lunch hour

Thursday: 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm

• Finish rough draft
• Submit to Writing Center for review

Suggestions for the Week:

• Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supports your thesis.
• Review the draft for coherence and logical flow before submitting.

Week 8 Goal: Finalize Paper

Tuesday: 6:00 am - 7:30 am

• Review comments from the Writing Center
• Finalize paper
• Note: Wait a couple of days to reread the paper for final edits

Thursday: 9:30 pm - 11:00 pm

• Finalize and submit the paper

Suggestions for the Week:

• Read the paper aloud or have someone else review it for clarity and errors.
• Double-check all citations and formatting against the professor’s guidelines.