Economics Second Paper

ECON 2500W Writing in Economics Key Points

• Cite Sources • Analyze, Don’t Summarize

- Clear, principle argument - Good logical argument

• Write actively - Write in Anglo Saxon - Avoid the passive voice - Avoid weak verbs and nominalizations

• Edit, Edit, Edit • Coherence and Flow

Paper Structure

1. Introduction 1.1. Introduction – open the paper and introduce the topic 1.2. Overview – in a few sentences describe the overall problem and cause, potential

solutions and how they work

1.3. Thesis – state your case for which solution is best & why in 1-2 clear sentences

2. Problem 2.1. Describe problem & argue why it is a problem 2.2. Explain why this problem exists, how it came to be, and why it doesn’t resolve 2.3. Detail who is involved and especially who suffers from this problem 2.4. Show some evidence (data, tables, graphs)

3. Potential Solution #1 3.1. Describe solution & how it would work (How would it resolve the problem?) 3.2. Advantages of this solution? 3.3. Disadvantages of this solution? 3.4. Who is involved with and who is affected by this solution?

4. Potential Solution #2 (& #3) 4.1. …

5. Comparison 5.1. Compare solutions against each other 5.2. What type of considerations would lead to choosing one solution or another?

6. Preferred Solution 6.1. Say which solution you prefer and argue why it is the most beneficial overall 6.2. Describe why you prioritize the advantages/disadvantages of your solution over others 6.3. Discuss any reluctance you have about your solution & how you might address it?

7. Summarize & Conclude

7.1. Remind readers of scope of problem and possible solutions 7.2. Recap which factors are most important in making a decision about the solution to

choose

7.3. Connect those factors to your chosen solution and summarize why it is the best option First Paper: Can School Finance Reforms improve long term earnings?

• School finance reforms increase school spending in low income school districts.

Reference List? 1