Academic Writing Checklists 

These interactive checklists serve as comprehensive guides to refine and elevate the quality of your written academic works, including essays, research papers, theses, and dissertations. They provide a systematic framework to scrutinize and optimize critical elements, facilitating an enriched and polished final product that adheres to scholarly standards.

College essay topic checklist

Here is a checklist for college essay topics:

• I have chosen a topic focused on me and my own experiences, not someone else’s story.
• I have a topic that shares something new and different that isn’t already covered in other parts of my application.
• I have a specific and original topic idea that most other applicants could not write a nearly identical essay about.
• I have a topic that reflects positively on my character, values, and behaviors in a compelling way.
• I have framed the essay around how I overcame it or what insights I gained.
• If I have chosen a more familiar topic, I have given it a surprising narrative arc, unique personal insights, and/or an advanced, thoughtful writing style.

College application checklist

Here is a checklist for how to apply for college:

•  I have researched colleges thoroughly and finalized my college list.
•  I have noted important deadlines and requirements for each college.
•  I have created a timeline and checklist to stay organized.
•  I have taken all required standardized tests (SAT, ACT, etc).
•  I have requested that my test scores be sent to the colleges.
•  I have requested my high school transcripts be sent to the colleges.
•  I have submitted my academic records, including any college credits.
•  I have brainstormed unique essay topics that reveal my personality.
•  I have written engaging personal statements and supplemental essays.
•  I have carefully proofread and revised all my application essays.
•  I have requested letters of recommendation from teachers/mentors.
•  I have provided recommenders with adequate information and time.
•  I have completed and submitted the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile.
•  I have applied for relevant scholarships and financial aid.
•  I have created accounts on each college’s application portal.
•  I have filled out all the required information accurately.
•  I have paid application fees or requested fee waivers if needed.
•  I have carefully reviewed and submitted all final applications.

College admissions essay checklist

•  I have reviewed the essay prompts and instructions for each college.
•  I have created a schedule to complete my essays promptly.
•  I have done a thorough brainstorming process to explore potential topics.
•  I have chosen a meaningful topic that reveals something unique about me.
•  I have selected a topic that highlights my positive qualities and values.
•  I have picked a passionate topic that will engage the reader.
•  I have created an outline to organize the structure and flow of my essay.
•  I have written a compelling introduction that hooks the reader’s interest.
•  I have shown rather than told by using vivid details and examples.
•  I have demonstrated profound insights through introspection and analysis.
•  I have concluded my essay powerfully and thoughtfully.
•  I have written in an authentic voice that allows my personality to shine.
•  I have used an appropriate and consistent tone, style, and language.
•  I have avoided clichés, hyperboles, and gimmicky techniques.
•  I have thoroughly revised and refined the content and messaging.
•  I have checked for proper grammar, spelling, word usage, and mechanics.
•  I have adhered to the specified word count or length requirements.
•  I have had others provide feedback to improve my essays further.

Is my source credible?

Here is a checklist for credible sources and how to spot them:

•  I have verified the author’s expertise and qualifications to write on the topic.
•  I have checked if the author has an appropriate educational background or experience.
•  I have identified the publisher or sponsor of the source material.
•  I have confirmed the publisher is a respected and reputable organization.
•  I have checked if the source is peer-reviewed or edited by qualified experts.
•  I have examined if the information is fact-based or contains high levels of opinion/bias.
•  I have looked for potential conflicts of interest or hidden agendas.
•  I have cross-referenced the information against other credible sources.
•  I have verified when the source was published or last updated.
•  I have checked if the information provided is current and up-to-date.
•  I have confirmed that the source properly cites other credible sources.
•  I have evaluated the quality of the references and sources cited.

Academic writing

Here is a checklist for academic writing:

•  I have used a variety of relevant, scholarly, and credible sources.
•  I have properly quoted, paraphrased, and cited all sources.
•  I have maintained objectivity and avoided over-reliance on any one source.
•  I have a clear and specific thesis statement or research question.
•  I have introduced my topic with sufficient background information.
•  I have logically organized my paper with clear transitions between sections.
•  I have divided my essay into coherent paragraphs focused on one main idea.
•  I have supported key points and assertions with analysis and evidence.
•  I have explained the significance and relevance of the evidence provided.
•  I have acknowledged counterarguments or limitations.
•  I have drawn well-reasoned conclusions aligned with my analysis.
•  I have maintained formal diction and an objective tone throughout.
•  I have used discipline-specific vocabulary and terminology appropriately.
•  I have defined crucial terms and acronyms when first introduced.
•  I have ensured my writing is clear, precise, and avoids ambiguity.
•  I have adhered to the required citation style guidelines.
•  I have included a bibliography/reference page with all sources cited.
•  I have proofread thoroughly to correct any spelling or grammatical errors.
•  I have checked that my paper meets all outlined formatting requirements.

Essay

Here is a checklist for writing academic essays:

•  I have begun with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention.
•  I have provided relevant background information on the topic.
•  I have clearly stated my thesis or central argument.
•  I have outlined the key points I will cover in the essay.
•  I have started each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
•  I have supported my key claims with specific evidence and examples.
•  I have analyzed and explained how the evidence relates to my argument.
•  I have addressed counterarguments fairly and refuted them.
•  I have used appropriate transitions to logically connect ideas.
•  I have incorporated relevant citations from credible academic sources.
•  I have avoided over-relying too heavily on any one source.
•  I have properly quoted, paraphrased, and attributed all borrowed information.
•  I have maintained an objective, formal tone throughout the essay.
•  I have used precise language and avoided vague, informal, or colloquial terms.
•  I have defined important concepts and technical terms when first introduced.
•  I have varied my sentence structure to enhance flow and readability.
•  I have restated my thesis and summarized my main supporting points.
•  I have discussed the broader significance and implications of my argument.
•  I have provided insightful concluding thoughts that leave an impression.
•  I have adhered to the required style guidelines for formatting and citations.
•  I have included a full reference list of all sources cited in the essay.
•  I have thoroughly proofread to correct any spelling, grammar, or typos.

Essay introduction

Here is a checklist for how to write an essay introduction:

•  I have begun with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention.
•  I have used an interesting quote, rhetorical question, anecdote, or striking statistic.
•  I have provided sufficient context and background on the topic for the reader.
•  I have reviewed key terminology, concepts, or history necessary to understand my thesis.
•  I have given this information in a concise, relevant, and objective way.
•  I have included a clear, specific, and well-crafted thesis statement.
•  I have stated my central claim or argument that the essay will support and defend.
•  I have ensured my thesis is arguable, focused, and precise.
•  I have previewed the main points or areas I will cover in the essay.
•  I have framed these points in a logical way that supports and flows from the thesis.
•  I have avoided explicitly stating, “I will discuss…” or “This essay is about…”

Research paper

Here is a checklist for writing a research paper:

•  I have chosen a topic that is focused, manageable, and researchable.
•  I have clearly defined my research’s scope, parameters, and objectives.
•  I have conducted a thorough review of relevant scholarly sources.
•  I have synthesized key findings, theories, and perspectives from prior research.
•  I have identified gaps in existing knowledge that my study aims to address.
•  I have outlined my research methodology in detail.
•  I have justified why my chosen methods are suitable and appropriate.
•  I have described data collection and analysis procedures.
•  I have presented my research findings objectively and comprehensively.
•  I have analyzed the results through the lens of existing literature.
•  I have used visual elements like tables/figures to represent data clearly.
•  I have interpreted and explained the significance of my key findings.
•  I have addressed limitations and counterarguments to my study.
•  I have discussed the theoretical and practical implications of the research.
•  I have organized content into coherent sections with logical transitions.
•  I have used consistent heading styles, in-text citations, and references.
•  I have thoroughly proofread for grammar, spelling, and typos.
•  I have adhered to all specific formatting requirements.

Statement of purpose

Here is a checklist for how to write a statement of purpose:

•  I have captured the reader’s attention with an engaging opening paragraph.
•  I have provided relevant background information about myself and my interests.
•  I have clearly stated my goals and reasons for pursuing this program.
•  I have highlighted relevant coursework, projects, and academic achievements.
•  I have explained how my previous education has prepared me for this opportunity.
•  I have discussed specific academic areas of interest and future research goals.
•  I have described professional, internship, research, and other formative experiences.
•  I have articulated specific skills, knowledge, and qualifications I have gained.
•  I have connected how my experiences make me a strong fit for this program.
•  I have explained why I am interested in attending this specific institution.
•  I have discussed how my background aligns with the program’s strengths.
•  I have proposed ways to contribute to and get involved in the community.
•  I have outlined my future academic, research, and career aspirations clearly.
•  I have described how this program will help me achieve my short and long-term goals.
•  I have written clearly, concisely, engaging personal statement style.
•  I have used specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate my points effectively.
•  I have conveyed my authentic voice, personality, and enthusiasm throughout.

Plagiarism prevention

Here is a checklist for avoiding plagiarism:

•  I have maintained academic integrity as one of my highest priorities.
•  I have given proper credit through citations for all borrowed ideas or words.
•  I have not recycled or reused any of my own previously submitted work.
•  I have carefully quoted word-for-word any verbatim text from sources.
•  I have enclosed quoted material in quotation marks and included citations.
•  I have paraphrased outside sources in my own words and cited them accordingly.
•  I have avoided patchwriting by altering words but maintaining the source’s sequence.
•  I have provided in-text parenthetical citations each time I reference a source.
•  I have included a complete corresponding entry in the references/bibliography.
•  I have consistently used the proper citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
•  I have checked that all in-text citations have matching reference entries.
•  I have composed the entirety of my own original thoughts, analysis, and conclusions.
•  I have attributed any borrowed facts or statistics from sources.
•  I have rephrased any repeated associations or interpretations from outside works.
•  I have run my work through a plagiarism detection service or software.
•  I have carefully reviewed any similarity reports for potential plagiarism issues.
•  I have revised and made corrections as needed to eliminate unintended plagiarism.

Dissertation

Here is a checklist for writing a dissertation:

• I have included a title page with all the required information per my university’s guidelines.
• I have written acknowledgments thanking those who assisted my dissertation.
• I have crafted a concise abstract summarizing my dissertation’s key results or arguments.
• I have created a table of contents to guide readers through the chapters, excluding ancillary sections.
• I have composed an engaging introduction that establishes the relevance of my research topic.
• I have clearly defined the introduction’s focus, research questions, and objectives.
• In the introduction, I have provided an overview of the dissertation structure as a reading guide.
• I have conducted a literature review critically evaluating existing research, identifying patterns/debates, and addressing gaps my study aims to fill.
• I have outlined the theoretical framework, explaining the theories and models supporting my approach.
• I have thoroughly described my data collection and analysis methodology.
• I have concisely and objectively reported all relevant results from my research.
• I have interpreted and discussed the meaning of the results, acknowledging important limitations.
• In the conclusion, I have clearly stated the answer to my primary research question.
• I have explained the implications, emphasizing the new insights contributed by my research.
•  I have provided relevant recommendations for further research or practical applications.
•  I have included appendices with supplemental information, if applicable.
•  I have provided an in-text citation whenever I used words, ideas or information from a source.
•  I have listed all cited sources in a complete reference list at the end.
•  I have consistently followed the rules of my chosen citation style throughout.
•  I have adhered to all formatting guidelines required by my university.

Abstract

Here is a checklist for how to write an abstract:

•  I have ensured the abstract falls within the required word count or a maximum of one page.
•  I have placed the abstract after the title page and acknowledgments before the table of contents.
•  I have clearly stated the research problem and objectives in the abstract.
•  I have briefly described the methodology used in my research.
•  I have summarized the most crucial and important results.
•  I have stated the main conclusions drawn from the results.
•  I have mentioned any significant limitations and recommendations, if applicable.
•  I have written the abstract in a manner that can be understood by someone without prior topic knowledge.

Tables

Here is a checklist for creating tables in your dissertation:

• I have assigned a unique number to each table in my document.
•  I have provided a clear and descriptive title for every table.
•  I have consistently formatted all tables according to the required style guide or department’s formatting requirements.
•  I have ensured the content of each table is understandable on its own without additional context.
•  I have referred to and mentioned each table at the relevant points in the main text.
•  I have correctly cited the original source for any tables reproduced or adapted from other authors’ works.

Introduction

Here is a checklist for writing a thesis or dissertation introduction:

• I have introduced my research topic in an engaging and interesting manner to capture the reader’s attention.
•  I have provided the necessary background information and context to help the reader understand the topic area.
•  I have precisely specified and defined the particular focus of my research study.
•  I have demonstrated the dissertation topic’s relevance, significance, and importance.
•  I have clearly identified the research problem, question, or gap my study aims to address.
•  I have outlined the key objectives that guided the research investigation.
•  I have included an overview that previews the structure and organization of the remaining dissertation sections.

Research results

Here is a checklist for how to write a results section:

•  I have thoroughly conducted the data collection process and analyzed the results.
•  I have comprehensively included all findings pertinent and relevant to addressing the research questions.
•  I have reported each result concisely and objectively, including relevant descriptive and inferential statistical information.
•  I have clearly indicated whether the data supported or refuted each proposed hypothesis.
•  I have appropriately utilized tables and figures to visually represent and illustrate the results where applicable.
•  I have ensured all tables and figures are correctly labeled and explicitly referenced within the text.
•  I have avoided subjective interpretation or speculative discussion of the results’ meaning in this section.

Discussion

Here is a checklist for writing a dissertation discussion section:

•  I have succinctly summarized the key, most significant findings from my research results.
•  I have provided an interpretative discussion analyzing the results directly related to the research questions.
•  I have cited and referenced pertinent literature to contextualize how my findings align with or diverge from existing knowledge.
•  I have clearly explicated the broader significance and importance of the results obtained.
•  I have considered and explored potential alternative explanations for the results if applicable.
•  I have delineated the practical and/or theoretical implications that can be derived from the results.
•  I have acknowledged and evaluated the inherent strengths and limitations of the research methodologies employed.
•  I have provided relevant recommendations for further research focus or actions from the findings.

Recommendations

Here is a checklist for writing a recommendations section:

• I have ensured the recommendations/measures can be implemented by the client in the short-term.
•  I have clearly indicated what specific actions should be taken and by whom in each recommendation.
•  I have utilized active verb constructions in formulating each recommendation.
•  I have maintained a consistent style across all recommendations.
•  I have presented each recommendation individually and provided a brief justification for it.
•  I have included at least three but at most seven distinct recommendations.
•  I have provided evidence backing up how the recommended actions will effectively resolve the problem.
•  I have ensured any new recommendations are substantiated by previously established information.

Conclusion

Here is a checklist for writing a thesis or dissertation conclusion:

•  I have provided a clear and concise answer to the primary research question.
•  I have succinctly summarized the overall findings, arguments, and key takeaways.
•  I have acknowledged any significant limitations inherent to the research.
•  I have included relevant recommendations stemming from the research conclusions.
•  I have explicitly explained the novel contributions this research makes to the field.
•  I have ensured no new data, information, or arguments are introduced in the conclusion.

Appendix

Here is a checklist for writing a research paper appendix:

•  I have included information in the appendices that is relevant but not critical to the main text.
•  I have ensured each appendix begins on a new page separately.
•  I have assigned a distinct number and descriptive title to each appendix.
•  I have numbered and titled any sub-components, like tables or figures, within each appendix.
•  I have formatted the appendices in a clear and easy-to-follow manner.
•  I have referenced and mentioned each appendix at the relevant points in the main body of the work.

Formal email contact

Here is a checklist for email contact with your dissertation supervisor:

•  I have used an appropriate salutation to address the recipient formally, such as “Dear Dr. X,”
•  I have clearly explained the purpose behind sending the email in the opening line.
•  I have communicated my message or request briefly and directly without ambiguity.
•  I have expressed appreciation in advance for the recipient’s time and assistance.
•  I have included an appropriate complimentary close befitting a formal email, such as “Sincerely,”