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Writing a college term paper can be a challenge for plenty of students. If you're having some trouble of your own, don't fret – you're not the only one. High schools don't always arm students with the level of essay writing that college professors expect, so it's normal to feel frustrated. The good news is, there are ways to improve your essay writing skills and make your task easier.

Write about something unique and interesting, as long as it is appropriate for the assignment. Don't pick a subject that your classmate has already chosen. The topic should interest and inspire you; if you write about something you don't like, it will show. If you're struggling to come up with some good ideas, visit your professor for some help with brainstorming.

Make sure you completely understand the instructions. Read your assignment sheet thoroughly and find out exactly what your professor wants. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. You can also arrange a meeting with your professor to discuss your paper plan with him.

Write an outline and show it to your professor before you begin writing your paper. Your outline doesn't have to be too detailed, but it's very important to have one. Good organization contributes largely to the success of a college term paper, and it's nearly impossible to be organized without an outline.

Support your claims with ample evidence. If your paper is about the link between hotdogs and leukemia in children and you want to state that the former causes the latter, you need to provide evidence that backs it up. Good sources of evidence include statistics, studies, and quotes from reputable figures. You can also conduct surveys to acquire honest feedback and timely information.

Use reliable sources. Take the time to find good references as the credibility of your sources (or lack thereof) can make or break your paper. Choose materials that were written by people who aren't very biased and know what they're talking about. Don't rely too much on a single reference, and avoid outdated sources. As mentioned earlier, surveys can provide valuable information, especially if your topic is time sensitive.