A GOOD CONFERENCE PAPER…

1. Clearly demonstrates an original, compelling, and clear argument or a new interpretation of existing material.

2. Clearly explains why the research is essential and why the audience should be interested in the topic.

3. Selects and uses well-chosen sources.

4. Clearly states the paper’s central argument at the outset.

5. Develops ideas in a logical order, using clear topic sentences.

6. Signposts the structure with words and phrases such as “first,” “second,” or “in addition” to help the audience follow the progress of the presentation.

7. Explicitly states the purpose and main claims of the paper in the introduction and provides a summary of the paper’s main points in the conclusion.