Your first draft should be roughly 75% to 85% of the length of your final paper.
Here's why:
* Allows for revision and expansion: This leaves room for you to add more information, flesh out your arguments, and revise your writing based on feedback.
* Encourages deeper research and analysis: You can use the draft to identify gaps in your research or areas that need further exploration.
* Provides a solid foundation: Having a substantial draft allows you to focus on polishing your writing, editing for clarity, and ensuring your paper flows well.
Important considerations:
* Your professor's expectations: Check your syllabus or ask your professor for their preferred length for the first draft.
* The complexity of your topic: If your paper is highly complex or requires in-depth research, you may need a longer first draft.
* Your writing style: Some writers prefer to work in shorter bursts, while others benefit from writing a longer, more complete first draft.
Remember: The most important thing is to have a draft that allows you to thoroughly explore your topic and make meaningful revisions before submitting the final paper.