Write a research assignment is to give you the opportunity to become “the” expert in a narrow area of business law. Ideally, in the near future, you will be in a meeting (firm, board, department, etc.), a topic relating to business ethics comes up and those in attendance look to you for guidance, wisdom and direction, having just written a graduate paper on that specific topic. The topic that you select should be of interest to you personally, relate to your current professional setting, or help you toward your professional goals in a future endeavor. Your final paper should include a review of relevant literature and, ideally, would include a bit of original research (survey, interviews, etc.). That stated, remember that you only have five pages (exclusive of cover and bibliography) for your final produce—that’s not much space. For those new to business writing, covering your topic within five pages may seem like a daunting task initially. Note that I don’t dictate that you use a particular style manual, only that you be consistent.
And, your topic MUST be narrow. You only have 5 (double-spaced) pages in which to show that you are the expert on your topic. Think about a specific ethical dilemma/ethical gray area in your profession. Is there a question you can answer? Is there original research you can do? This is not an op/ed piece, no opinions.
4. Your writing goes a long way. Graduate level writing is clear and concise. Ask yourself ‘what is my research and writing contributing to the discussion of my topic?’ Read your submissions aloud before submitting them. If I have to read it more than once to understand what you’re saying, that is a problem.
