To write a term paper means answering a clearly defined question with scientific sources. It consists of an introduction, a main part and a conclusion, and it follows an outline that you set before you start writing. How long it has to be is decided by your subject and your lecturers. You will find the required length in the module description or in the course information.
If you narrow down your topic early, work with a schedule and revise thoroughly at the end, you avoid most problems. Here you can see how this works step by step and which mistakes most often pull the grade down.
Key points at a glance
- A good term paper answers a tightly defined question, not a broad overview of a topic.
- The outline is created before you write and is adjusted as you work.
- Length, citation style and formatting are set out in the guidelines of your lecturer or institute. Read them first.
- Plan time for revision and proofreading, at least a few days before the deadline.
How to write a term paper: where to start
Start with a topic that you can narrow down and a question that can be answered. A broad topic such as “marketing” only becomes manageable through a research question, for example: How does influencer marketing affect the purchasing behaviour of young adults? This example is chosen freely and only illustrates the principle.
Then get an overview with textbooks and review articles, and afterwards read specialist journal articles. Record every source in a reference management program straight away. If you do not have a topic yet, our guide on choosing a topic will help you. The same method applies to your final thesis, as described in our tips on writing a bachelor’s thesis (in German).
What does a good outline for a term paper look like?
A term paper is divided into an introduction, a main part and a conclusion. The main part is broken down into chapters, each of which answers one part of your research question. Depending on the requirements, the paper also includes a title page, a table of contents and a bibliography.
| Part | Task |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduce the topic, the research question, the approach and the structure of the paper |
| Main part | Define key terms, present the state of research, develop the argument and analysis |
| Conclusion | Bring the findings together, answer the question, name limitations and give an outlook |
| Bibliography | All sources used, in the required style |
Every chapter should contribute to the question. If a section is interesting but not necessary, cut it.
How do I write the introduction of a term paper?
The introduction leads into the topic, states the research question and explains how you will proceed. It should remain short and must not give away results that are only justified later in the main part.
Four building blocks are common: the relevance of the topic, the research question, the aim and the structure of the paper. The introduction is best written once the main part is finished, because then you know what you actually show. A first draft as a working basis is still useful, though.
How do I write the main part?
In the main part you develop your argument step by step. Each paragraph makes one point and provides evidence, and each chapter leads to the next. First clarify the central terms, then present the state of research and finally analyse.
Academic writing means writing precisely and objectively. Avoid colloquial language and unsupported claims. Whether first-person wording is allowed is regulated differently by subject and lecturer, so ask before you decide.
Always mark other people’s ideas. The rules for direct and indirect quotations are explained in our guide to the most important citation rules (in German). If you want to know what counts as plagiarism (in German), you will find the basics there.
How do I write the conclusion of a term paper?
The conclusion answers the research question in a few clear sentences. You summarise the most important findings without repeating the main part, and you name the limits of your work. A short outlook on open questions rounds it off.
The conclusion must not introduce new arguments or sources. It is where the reader learns what your paper has found.
How long does a term paper have to be?
This depends on your subject, the module and your lecturer. There is no fixed page count that applies everywhere. The module description, the examination regulations or the seminar information are decisive. If in doubt, ask before you start writing and note the requirement in writing.
Do not write towards a page count. The length follows from the question you are answering.
How do I plan my time for a term paper?
Work backwards from the deadline. Divide the time into phases and build in buffers, because research and revision almost always take longer than expected. The order is: choosing a topic, research, outline, writing, revising, formatting and submission.
- Set a date in your calendar for each phase.
- Fix regular writing times and keep to them.
- Formulate small daily goals, such as “revise chapter 2”.
- Schedule the final proofreading at least two days before the deadline.
More on planning can be found in our guide Organising your studies efficiently (in German).
How do I revise a term paper properly?
Revise in layers. First check the content: Does the paper answer the question, does each chapter contribute to it, and are the arguments supported? Then come the structure, paragraphs and transitions, and finally language, spelling and form.
- Put the text aside for one to two days and then read it again.
- Read it aloud to find awkward sentences.
- Compare the text and the bibliography entry by entry.
- Check the title page, page numbers, font and spacing against the requirements of your department.
- Ask someone who does not know the topic to proofread the paper.
Which mistakes lower the grade?
- A question that is too broad and is only answered on the surface.
- A missing red thread because the outline does not match the question.
- Many quotations and little of your own analysis.
- Missing or incorrect references and an inconsistent citation style.
- Unchecked sources, such as blogs without a named author.
- Drafts handed in too late, leaving no time for revision.
- Formal errors on the title page, in the tables of contents or in the page numbers.
If you want to improve your grade, feedback and revision help most. Talk to your lecturer, use your university’s writing centre and let fellow students read your drafts. If you want to use AI tools, clarify the rules beforehand. Everything on this topic is in our article on AI tools in your studies (in German).
Frequently asked questions
How do you structure a term paper?
In an introduction, a main part and a conclusion, plus a title page, table of contents and bibliography, depending on the requirements. The main part is divided into chapters that together answer the research question. Draft the outline before you write and adjust it if something shifts while you work.
What belongs in the introduction?
The relevance of the topic, your research question, the aim of the paper and a brief overview of the structure. Results do not belong there yet. The final version is best written once the main part is finished.
How long does a term paper have to be?
Your subject, the module and your lecturer determine this. There is no value that applies everywhere. Check the module description or ask, and note the requirement before you start writing.
How can I improve my term paper further?
Check whether the question is clearly answered and cut what is unnecessary. Add sources where claims are unsupported and make the transitions smooth. Ask fellow students or the writing centre for feedback, and finally check the quotations and the bibliography.
How to proceed now
- Read the requirements for length, citation style and submission.
- Narrow the topic down to a question you can answer.
- Create an outline and a schedule that works backwards from the deadline.
- Write regularly, cite every adopted idea and record sources from the start.
- Keep the last few days free for revision and a formal check.
Related
- Writing a bachelor’s thesis: guide, timeline and tips (in German)
- Citing made easy: the most important rules at a glance (in German)
- Avoiding plagiarism: what to watch for when writing (in German)
- Organising your studies efficiently: structure, schedule and tools (in German)
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
