Categories and Prompts

A. Sociology/Anthropology

• Format: AAA or ASA Style

• Focus: Social structures, cultural analysis, ethnographic methods

• Recent prompt examples: Social media's impact on community, cultural globalization effects

B. Psychology

• Format: APA Style

• Focus: Cognitive processes, behavioral analysis, mental health

• Recent prompt examples: Decision-making psychology, social isolation effects

C. Political Science

• Format: APSA Style

• Focus: Government systems, policy analysis, political behavior

• Recent prompt examples: Youth voter engagement, democratic institutions comparison

D. Philosophy

• Format: MLA Style

• Focus: Ethical theory, moral reasoning, philosophical argumentation

• Recent prompt examples: AI ethics, justice theory applications

E. Economics

• Format: APA Style

• Focus: Economic theory, market analysis, policy impacts

• Recent prompt examples: Remote work economics, behavioral economics

F. History/Geography

• Format: Chicago Style

• Focus: Historical analysis, geographic factors, temporal patterns

• Recent prompt examples: Migration patterns, geographic development factors

Essay Requirements

• Length: 1,500-2,500 words (excluding bibliography)

• Sources: Minimum 8 credible academic sources

• Originality: Must be original work; plagiarism (including the usage of AI) results in immediate disqualification

• Language: English only; no translations accepted

• Submission: PDF format only via NASSS competition portal

Research Guidelines

Acceptable Sources:

• Peer-reviewed academic journals

• University press publications

• Government reports and statistics

• Established news organizations (New York Times, BBC, Reuters)

• Think tank reports from reputable organizations

Unacceptable Sources:

• Wikipedia (can be used for initial research only)

• Personal blogs or opinion websites

• Social media posts

• Unpublished undergraduate papers

• Commercial websites without clear authorship

Writing Standards

• Introduction: Clear thesis statement within first 200 words

• Body: Logical organization with smooth transitions

• Evidence: Proper integration of sources with analysis

• Conclusion: Synthesis of arguments with broader implications

• Citations: Consistent formatting throughout

• Grammar: Professional writing standards expected

Submission Process

1. File Naming: LastName_FirstName_Category_Essay.pdf

2. Portal Upload: Submit through competition portal only

3. Confirmation: Email confirmation sent upon successful submission

4. Deadline: 11:59 PM EST, 3 days before competition

5. Late Submissions: Not accepted under any circumstances