For me, the idea of a research paper begins with some sort of question, and the most interesting ones usually relate to some current event. For instance, this week we have heard about a new method to create stem cells, and news reports recall the breakthrough techniques developed in Scotland that begat Dolly the sheep. Now I don't usually think of Scotland as a hotbed of scientific inquiry, but here's the question that comes to mind: What other contributions have Scotland's people given to the advancement of science, and what impact have those contributions had on modern culture?

What are you interested in? Geology? (What are Scotland's natural resources? How have those resources been exploited?) Politics? (What motivates Scottish citizens when they go to the voting booth?) Music? (Is there a connection between bouncy music of the Scots and the undulating music of the middle east?) Archeology? (Have any new discoveries changed how we see the early inhabitants of the Scottish isles?)

The best ideas will come from your own curiosities. I say start there, form a question and then go look into it.

Part of this exercise is not just writing, you know. It's learning how to dig for resources. Ask a question. Look for current research on related subjects. Look at their references. Collect data from those that help answer your question. Cajunscot will show you how.

Good luck with that. Looking forward to seeing the results.

Regards,
Rex.