Research

• 1). Write a list of general questions you would like to answer in your paper. Keep in mind the autobiographical aspect of the paper. This is the beginning of a research plan.
  
  
• 2). Narrow the focus from the list of general questions to a few central ideas. Remember that race and community are two themes. Incorporate some element from these themes in the research plan.
  
  
• 3). Compile a list of interview questions. Consider who among your family and community you wish to interview.
  
  
• 4). Interview your subjects. Take careful notes and at the same time maintain a conversational manner.
  
  
• 5). Visit the local library or historical society and take notes on the community's history. See if you can learn your family's genealogy.
  
  

Writing

• 1). Assemble into an outline your research notes and interview responses. Organize the information into at least three body sections.
  
  
• 2). Draft an introduction and conclusion. This is preliminary, so do not stress about achieving perfection at this point.
  
  
• 3). Add details to the body sections. Think about the overall organization. Do not be afraid to leave out research that does not integrate well with the rest of the paper.
  
  
• 4). Scan the outline and make sure that the organization is as straightforward as possible.
  
  
• 5). Write the content. This is only a first draft.
  
  
• 6). Read the completed paper. Remove grammatical and typographical errors, and rework awkward phrases. Focus on critical points that you had originally intended to elaborate in your paper.