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Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

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Research Paper

Definition:

Research Paper is a written document that presents the author’s original research, analysis, and interpretation of a specific topic or issue.

It is typically based on Empirical Evidence, and may involve qualitative or quantitative research methods, or a combination of both. The purpose of a research paper is to contribute new knowledge or insights to a particular field of study, and to demonstrate the author’s understanding of the existing literature and theories related to the topic.

Structure of Research Paper

The structure of a research paper typically follows a standard format, consisting of several sections that convey specific information about the research study. The following is a detailed explanation of the structure of a research paper:

The title page contains the title of the paper, the name(s) of the author(s), and the affiliation(s) of the author(s). It also includes the date of submission and possibly, the name of the journal or conference where the paper is to be published.

The abstract is a brief summary of the research paper, typically ranging from 100 to 250 words. It should include the research question, the methods used, the key findings, and the implications of the results. The abstract should be written in a concise and clear manner to allow readers to quickly grasp the essence of the research.

Introduction

The introduction section of a research paper provides background information about the research problem, the research question, and the research objectives. It also outlines the significance of the research, the research gap that it aims to fill, and the approach taken to address the research question. Finally, the introduction section ends with a clear statement of the research hypothesis or research question.

Literature Review

The literature review section of a research paper provides an overview of the existing literature on the topic of study. It includes a critical analysis and synthesis of the literature, highlighting the key concepts, themes, and debates. The literature review should also demonstrate the research gap and how the current study seeks to address it.

The methods section of a research paper describes the research design, the sample selection, the data collection and analysis procedures, and the statistical methods used to analyze the data. This section should provide sufficient detail for other researchers to replicate the study.

The results section presents the findings of the research, using tables, graphs, and figures to illustrate the data. The findings should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with reference to the research question and hypothesis.

The discussion section of a research paper interprets the findings and discusses their implications for the research question, the literature review, and the field of study. It should also address the limitations of the study and suggest future research directions.

The conclusion section summarizes the main findings of the study, restates the research question and hypothesis, and provides a final reflection on the significance of the research.

The references section provides a list of all the sources cited in the paper, following a specific citation style such as APA, MLA or Chicago.

How to Write Research Paper

You can write Research Paper by the following guide:

Choose a Topic: The first step is to select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. Brainstorm ideas and narrow down to a research question that is specific and researchable.
Conduct a Literature Review: The literature review helps you identify the gap in the existing research and provides a basis for your research question. It also helps you to develop a theoretical framework and research hypothesis.
Develop a Thesis Statement : The thesis statement is the main argument of your research paper. It should be clear, concise and specific to your research question.
Plan your Research: Develop a research plan that outlines the methods, data sources, and data analysis procedures. This will help you to collect and analyze data effectively.
Collect and Analyze Data: Collect data using various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. Analyze data using statistical tools or other qualitative methods.
Organize your Paper : Organize your paper into sections such as Introduction, Literature Review, Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion. Ensure that each section is coherent and follows a logical flow.
Write your Paper : Start by writing the introduction, followed by the literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and follows the required formatting and citation styles.
Edit and Proofread your Paper: Review your paper for grammar and spelling errors, and ensure that it is well-structured and easy to read. Ask someone else to review your paper to get feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Cite your Sources: Ensure that you properly cite all sources used in your research paper. This is essential for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism.

Research Paper Example

Note : The below example research paper is for illustrative purposes only and is not an actual research paper. Actual research papers may have different structures, contents, and formats depending on the field of study, research question, data collection and analysis methods, and other factors. Students should always consult with their professors or supervisors for specific guidelines and expectations for their research papers.

Research Paper Example sample for Students:

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health among Young Adults

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults. A literature review was conducted to examine the existing research on the topic. A survey was then administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Introduction: Social media has become an integral part of modern life, particularly among young adults. While social media has many benefits, including increased communication and social connectivity, it has also been associated with negative outcomes, such as addiction, cyberbullying, and mental health problems. This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults.

Literature Review: The literature review highlights the existing research on the impact of social media use on mental health. The review shows that social media use is associated with depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health problems. The review also identifies the factors that contribute to the negative impact of social media, including social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Methods : A survey was administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The survey included questions on social media use, mental health status (measured using the DASS-21), and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis.

Results : The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Discussion : The study’s findings suggest that social media use has a negative impact on the mental health of young adults. The study highlights the need for interventions that address the factors contributing to the negative impact of social media, such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Conclusion : In conclusion, social media use has a significant impact on the mental health of young adults. The study’s findings underscore the need for interventions that promote healthy social media use and address the negative outcomes associated with social media use. Future research can explore the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health. Additionally, longitudinal studies can investigate the long-term effects of social media use on mental health.

Limitations : The study has some limitations, including the use of self-report measures and a cross-sectional design. The use of self-report measures may result in biased responses, and a cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causality.

Implications: The study’s findings have implications for mental health professionals, educators, and policymakers. Mental health professionals can use the findings to develop interventions that address the negative impact of social media use on mental health. Educators can incorporate social media literacy into their curriculum to promote healthy social media use among young adults. Policymakers can use the findings to develop policies that protect young adults from the negative outcomes associated with social media use.

References :

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2019). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive medicine reports, 15, 100918.
Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Escobar-Viera, C. G., Barrett, E. L., Sidani, J. E., Colditz, J. B., … & James, A. E. (2017). Use of multiple social media platforms and symptoms of depression and anxiety: A nationally-representative study among US young adults. Computers in Human Behavior, 69, 1-9.
Van der Meer, T. G., & Verhoeven, J. W. (2017). Social media and its impact on academic performance of students. Journal of Information Technology Education: Research, 16, 383-398.

Appendix : The survey used in this study is provided below.

Social Media and Mental Health Survey

How often do you use social media per day?
Less than 30 minutes
30 minutes to 1 hour
1 to 2 hours
2 to 4 hours
More than 4 hours
Which social media platforms do you use?
Others (Please specify)
How often do you experience the following on social media?
Social comparison (comparing yourself to others)
Cyberbullying
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Have you ever experienced any of the following mental health problems in the past month?
Do you think social media use has a positive or negative impact on your mental health?
Very positive
Somewhat positive
Somewhat negative
Very negative
In your opinion, which factors contribute to the negative impact of social media on mental health?
Social comparison
In your opinion, what interventions could be effective in reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health?
Education on healthy social media use
Counseling for mental health problems caused by social media
Social media detox programs
Regulation of social media use

Thank you for your participation!

Applications of Research Paper

Research papers have several applications in various fields, including:

Advancing knowledge: Research papers contribute to the advancement of knowledge by generating new insights, theories, and findings that can inform future research and practice. They help to answer important questions, clarify existing knowledge, and identify areas that require further investigation.
Informing policy: Research papers can inform policy decisions by providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers. They can help to identify gaps in current policies, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and inform the development of new policies and regulations.
Improving practice: Research papers can improve practice by providing evidence-based guidance for professionals in various fields, including medicine, education, business, and psychology. They can inform the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards of care that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
Educating students : Research papers are often used as teaching tools in universities and colleges to educate students about research methods, data analysis, and academic writing. They help students to develop critical thinking skills, research skills, and communication skills that are essential for success in many careers.
Fostering collaboration: Research papers can foster collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers by providing a platform for sharing knowledge and ideas. They can facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships that can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems.

When to Write Research Paper

Research papers are typically written when a person has completed a research project or when they have conducted a study and have obtained data or findings that they want to share with the academic or professional community. Research papers are usually written in academic settings, such as universities, but they can also be written in professional settings, such as research organizations, government agencies, or private companies.

Here are some common situations where a person might need to write a research paper:

For academic purposes: Students in universities and colleges are often required to write research papers as part of their coursework, particularly in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. Writing research papers helps students to develop research skills, critical thinking skills, and academic writing skills.
For publication: Researchers often write research papers to publish their findings in academic journals or to present their work at academic conferences. Publishing research papers is an important way to disseminate research findings to the academic community and to establish oneself as an expert in a particular field.
To inform policy or practice : Researchers may write research papers to inform policy decisions or to improve practice in various fields. Research findings can be used to inform the development of policies, guidelines, and best practices that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
To share new insights or ideas: Researchers may write research papers to share new insights or ideas with the academic or professional community. They may present new theories, propose new research methods, or challenge existing paradigms in their field.

Purpose of Research Paper

The purpose of a research paper is to present the results of a study or investigation in a clear, concise, and structured manner. Research papers are written to communicate new knowledge, ideas, or findings to a specific audience, such as researchers, scholars, practitioners, or policymakers. The primary purposes of a research paper are:

To contribute to the body of knowledge : Research papers aim to add new knowledge or insights to a particular field or discipline. They do this by reporting the results of empirical studies, reviewing and synthesizing existing literature, proposing new theories, or providing new perspectives on a topic.
To inform or persuade: Research papers are written to inform or persuade the reader about a particular issue, topic, or phenomenon. They present evidence and arguments to support their claims and seek to persuade the reader of the validity of their findings or recommendations.
To advance the field: Research papers seek to advance the field or discipline by identifying gaps in knowledge, proposing new research questions or approaches, or challenging existing assumptions or paradigms. They aim to contribute to ongoing debates and discussions within a field and to stimulate further research and inquiry.
To demonstrate research skills: Research papers demonstrate the author’s research skills, including their ability to design and conduct a study, collect and analyze data, and interpret and communicate findings. They also demonstrate the author’s ability to critically evaluate existing literature, synthesize information from multiple sources, and write in a clear and structured manner.

Characteristics of Research Paper

Research papers have several characteristics that distinguish them from other forms of academic or professional writing. Here are some common characteristics of research papers:

Evidence-based: Research papers are based on empirical evidence, which is collected through rigorous research methods such as experiments, surveys, observations, or interviews. They rely on objective data and facts to support their claims and conclusions.
Structured and organized: Research papers have a clear and logical structure, with sections such as introduction, literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. They are organized in a way that helps the reader to follow the argument and understand the findings.
Formal and objective: Research papers are written in a formal and objective tone, with an emphasis on clarity, precision, and accuracy. They avoid subjective language or personal opinions and instead rely on objective data and analysis to support their arguments.
Citations and references: Research papers include citations and references to acknowledge the sources of information and ideas used in the paper. They use a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Peer-reviewed: Research papers are often peer-reviewed, which means they are evaluated by other experts in the field before they are published. Peer-review ensures that the research is of high quality, meets ethical standards, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
Objective and unbiased: Research papers strive to be objective and unbiased in their presentation of the findings. They avoid personal biases or preconceptions and instead rely on the data and analysis to draw conclusions.

Advantages of Research Paper

Research papers have many advantages, both for the individual researcher and for the broader academic and professional community. Here are some advantages of research papers:

Contribution to knowledge: Research papers contribute to the body of knowledge in a particular field or discipline. They add new information, insights, and perspectives to existing literature and help advance the understanding of a particular phenomenon or issue.
Opportunity for intellectual growth: Research papers provide an opportunity for intellectual growth for the researcher. They require critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, which can help develop the researcher’s skills and knowledge.
Career advancement: Research papers can help advance the researcher’s career by demonstrating their expertise and contributions to the field. They can also lead to new research opportunities, collaborations, and funding.
Academic recognition: Research papers can lead to academic recognition in the form of awards, grants, or invitations to speak at conferences or events. They can also contribute to the researcher’s reputation and standing in the field.
Impact on policy and practice: Research papers can have a significant impact on policy and practice. They can inform policy decisions, guide practice, and lead to changes in laws, regulations, or procedures.
Advancement of society: Research papers can contribute to the advancement of society by addressing important issues, identifying solutions to problems, and promoting social justice and equality.

Limitations of Research Paper

Research papers also have some limitations that should be considered when interpreting their findings or implications. Here are some common limitations of research papers:

Limited generalizability: Research findings may not be generalizable to other populations, settings, or contexts. Studies often use specific samples or conditions that may not reflect the broader population or real-world situations.
Potential for bias : Research papers may be biased due to factors such as sample selection, measurement errors, or researcher biases. It is important to evaluate the quality of the research design and methods used to ensure that the findings are valid and reliable.
Ethical concerns: Research papers may raise ethical concerns, such as the use of vulnerable populations or invasive procedures. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines and obtain informed consent from participants to ensure that the research is conducted in a responsible and respectful manner.
Limitations of methodology: Research papers may be limited by the methodology used to collect and analyze data. For example, certain research methods may not capture the complexity or nuance of a particular phenomenon, or may not be appropriate for certain research questions.
Publication bias: Research papers may be subject to publication bias, where positive or significant findings are more likely to be published than negative or non-significant findings. This can skew the overall findings of a particular area of research.
Time and resource constraints: Research papers may be limited by time and resource constraints, which can affect the quality and scope of the research. Researchers may not have access to certain data or resources, or may be unable to conduct long-term studies due to practical limitations.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Research paper

How to Write a Research Paper | A Beginner's Guide

A research paper is a piece of academic writing that provides analysis, interpretation, and argument based on in-depth independent research.

Research papers are similar to academic essays , but they are usually longer and more detailed assignments, designed to assess not only your writing skills but also your skills in scholarly research. Writing a research paper requires you to demonstrate a strong knowledge of your topic, engage with a variety of sources, and make an original contribution to the debate.

This step-by-step guide takes you through the entire writing process, from understanding your assignment to proofreading your final draft.

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Understand the assignment, choose a research paper topic, conduct preliminary research, develop a thesis statement, create a research paper outline, write a first draft of the research paper, write the introduction, write a compelling body of text, write the conclusion, the second draft, the revision process, research paper checklist, free lecture slides.

Completing a research paper successfully means accomplishing the specific tasks set out for you. Before you start, make sure you thoroughly understanding the assignment task sheet:

Read it carefully, looking for anything confusing you might need to clarify with your professor.
Identify the assignment goal, deadline, length specifications, formatting, and submission method.
Make a bulleted list of the key points, then go back and cross completed items off as you’re writing.

Carefully consider your timeframe and word limit: be realistic, and plan enough time to research, write, and edit.

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There are many ways to generate an idea for a research paper, from brainstorming with pen and paper to talking it through with a fellow student or professor.

You can try free writing, which involves taking a broad topic and writing continuously for two or three minutes to identify absolutely anything relevant that could be interesting.

You can also gain inspiration from other research. The discussion or recommendations sections of research papers often include ideas for other specific topics that require further examination.

Once you have a broad subject area, narrow it down to choose a topic that interests you, m eets the criteria of your assignment, and i s possible to research. Aim for ideas that are both original and specific:

A paper following the chronology of World War II would not be original or specific enough.
A paper on the experience of Danish citizens living close to the German border during World War II would be specific and could be original enough.

Note any discussions that seem important to the topic, and try to find an issue that you can focus your paper around. Use a variety of sources , including journals, books, and reliable websites, to ensure you do not miss anything glaring.

Do not only verify the ideas you have in mind, but look for sources that contradict your point of view.

Is there anything people seem to overlook in the sources you research?
Are there any heated debates you can address?
Do you have a unique take on your topic?
Have there been some recent developments that build on the extant research?

In this stage, you might find it helpful to formulate some research questions to help guide you. To write research questions, try to finish the following sentence: “I want to know how/what/why…”

A thesis statement is a statement of your central argument — it establishes the purpose and position of your paper. If you started with a research question, the thesis statement should answer it. It should also show what evidence and reasoning you’ll use to support that answer.

The thesis statement should be concise, contentious, and coherent. That means it should briefly summarize your argument in a sentence or two, make a claim that requires further evidence or analysis, and make a coherent point that relates to every part of the paper.

You will probably revise and refine the thesis statement as you do more research, but it can serve as a guide throughout the writing process. Every paragraph should aim to support and develop this central claim.

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A research paper outline is essentially a list of the key topics, arguments, and evidence you want to include, divided into sections with headings so that you know roughly what the paper will look like before you start writing.

A structure outline can help make the writing process much more efficient, so it’s worth dedicating some time to create one.

Your first draft won’t be perfect — you can polish later on. Your priorities at this stage are as follows:

Maintaining forward momentum — write now, perfect later.
Paying attention to clear organization and logical ordering of paragraphs and sentences, which will help when you come to the second draft.
Expressing your ideas as clearly as possible, so you know what you were trying to say when you come back to the text.

You do not need to start by writing the introduction. Begin where it feels most natural for you — some prefer to finish the most difficult sections first, while others choose to start with the easiest part. If you created an outline, use it as a map while you work.

Do not delete large sections of text. If you begin to dislike something you have written or find it doesn’t quite fit, move it to a different document, but don’t lose it completely — you never know if it might come in useful later.

Paragraph structure

Paragraphs are the basic building blocks of research papers. Each one should focus on a single claim or idea that helps to establish the overall argument or purpose of the paper.

Example paragraph

George Orwell’s 1946 essay “Politics and the English Language” has had an enduring impact on thought about the relationship between politics and language. This impact is particularly obvious in light of the various critical review articles that have recently referenced the essay. For example, consider Mark Falcoff’s 2009 article in The National Review Online, “The Perversion of Language; or, Orwell Revisited,” in which he analyzes several common words (“activist,” “civil-rights leader,” “diversity,” and more). Falcoff’s close analysis of the ambiguity built into political language intentionally mirrors Orwell’s own point-by-point analysis of the political language of his day. Even 63 years after its publication, Orwell’s essay is emulated by contemporary thinkers.

Citing sources

It’s also important to keep track of citations at this stage to avoid accidental plagiarism . Each time you use a source, make sure to take note of where the information came from.

You can use our free citation generators to automatically create citations and save your reference list as you go.

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The research paper introduction should address three questions: What, why, and how? After finishing the introduction, the reader should know what the paper is about, why it is worth reading, and how you’ll build your arguments.

What? Be specific about the topic of the paper, introduce the background, and define key terms or concepts.

Why? This is the most important, but also the most difficult, part of the introduction. Try to provide brief answers to the following questions: What new material or insight are you offering? What important issues does your essay help define or answer?

How? To let the reader know what to expect from the rest of the paper, the introduction should include a “map” of what will be discussed, briefly presenting the key elements of the paper in chronological order.

The major struggle faced by most writers is how to organize the information presented in the paper, which is one reason an outline is so useful. However, remember that the outline is only a guide and, when writing, you can be flexible with the order in which the information and arguments are presented.

One way to stay on track is to use your thesis statement and topic sentences . Check:

topic sentences against the thesis statement;
topic sentences against each other, for similarities and logical ordering;
and each sentence against the topic sentence of that paragraph.

Be aware of paragraphs that seem to cover the same things. If two paragraphs discuss something similar, they must approach that topic in different ways. Aim to create smooth transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and sections.

The research paper conclusion is designed to help your reader out of the paper’s argument, giving them a sense of finality.

Trace the course of the paper, emphasizing how it all comes together to prove your thesis statement. Give the paper a sense of finality by making sure the reader understands how you’ve settled the issues raised in the introduction.

You might also discuss the more general consequences of the argument, outline what the paper offers to future students of the topic, and suggest any questions the paper’s argument raises but cannot or does not try to answer.

You should not :

Offer new arguments or essential information
Take up any more space than necessary
Begin with stock phrases that signal you are ending the paper (e.g. “In conclusion”)

There are four main considerations when it comes to the second draft.

Check how your vision of the paper lines up with the first draft and, more importantly, that your paper still answers the assignment.
Identify any assumptions that might require (more substantial) justification, keeping your reader’s perspective foremost in mind. Remove these points if you cannot substantiate them further.
Be open to rearranging your ideas. Check whether any sections feel out of place and whether your ideas could be better organized.
If you find that old ideas do not fit as well as you anticipated, you should cut them out or condense them. You might also find that new and well-suited ideas occurred to you during the writing of the first draft — now is the time to make them part of the paper.

The goal during the revision and proofreading process is to ensure you have completed all the necessary tasks and that the paper is as well-articulated as possible. You can speed up the proofreading process by using the AI proofreader .

Global concerns

Confirm that your paper completes every task specified in your assignment sheet.
Check for logical organization and flow of paragraphs.
Check paragraphs against the introduction and thesis statement.

Fine-grained details

Check the content of each paragraph, making sure that:

each sentence helps support the topic sentence.
no unnecessary or irrelevant information is present.
all technical terms your audience might not know are identified.

Next, think about sentence structure , grammatical errors, and formatting . Check that you have correctly used transition words and phrases to show the connections between your ideas. Look for typos, cut unnecessary words, and check for consistency in aspects such as heading formatting and spellings .

Finally, you need to make sure your paper is correctly formatted according to the rules of the citation style you are using. For example, you might need to include an MLA heading or create an APA title page .

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Checklist: Research paper

I have followed all instructions in the assignment sheet.

My introduction presents my topic in an engaging way and provides necessary background information.

My introduction presents a clear, focused research problem and/or thesis statement .

My paper is logically organized using paragraphs and (if relevant) section headings .

Each paragraph is clearly focused on one central idea, expressed in a clear topic sentence .

Each paragraph is relevant to my research problem or thesis statement.

I have used appropriate transitions to clarify the connections between sections, paragraphs, and sentences.

My conclusion provides a concise answer to the research question or emphasizes how the thesis has been supported.

My conclusion shows how my research has contributed to knowledge or understanding of my topic.

My conclusion does not present any new points or information essential to my argument.

I have provided an in-text citation every time I refer to ideas or information from a source.

I have included a reference list at the end of my paper, consistently formatted according to a specific citation style .

I have thoroughly revised my paper and addressed any feedback from my professor or supervisor.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (page numbers, headers, spacing, etc.).

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What Is a Research Paper?

An Introduction to Punctuation

Olivia Valdes was the Associate Editorial Director for ThoughtCo. She worked with Dotdash Meredith from 2017 to 2021.

B.A., American Studies, Yale University

A research paper is a common form of academic writing . Research papers require students and academics to locate information about a topic (that is, to conduct research ), take a stand on that topic, and provide support (or evidence) for that position in an organized report.

The term research paper may also refer to a scholarly article that contains the results of original research or an evaluation of research conducted by others. Most scholarly articles must undergo a process of peer review before they can be accepted for publication in an academic journal.

Define Your Research Question

The first step in writing a research paper is defining your research question . Has your instructor assigned a specific topic? If so, great—you've got this step covered. If not, review the guidelines of the assignment. Your instructor has likely provided several general subjects for your consideration. Your research paper should focus on a specific angle on one of these subjects. Spend some time mulling over your options before deciding which one you'd like to explore more deeply.

Try to choose a research question that interests you. The research process is time-consuming, and you'll be significantly more motivated if you have a genuine desire to learn more about the topic. You should also consider whether you have access to all of the resources necessary to conduct thorough research on your topic, such as primary and secondary sources .

Create a Research Strategy

Approach the research process systematically by creating a research strategy. First, review your library's website. What resources are available? Where will you find them? Do any resources require a special process to gain access? Start gathering those resources—especially those that may be difficult to access—as soon as possible.

Second, make an appointment with a reference librarian . A reference librarian is nothing short of a research superhero. He or she will listen to your research question, offer suggestions for how to focus your research, and direct you toward valuable sources that directly relate to your topic.

Evaluate Sources

Now that you've gathered a wide array of sources, it's time to evaluate them. First, consider the reliability of the information. Where is the information coming from? What is the origin of the source? Second, assess the relevance of the information. How does this information relate to your research question? Does it support, refute, or add context to your position? How does it relate to the other sources you'll be using in your paper? Once you have determined that your sources are both reliable and relevant, you can proceed confidently to the writing phase.

Why Write Research Papers?

The research process is one of the most taxing academic tasks you'll be asked to complete. Luckily, the value of writing a research paper goes beyond that A+ you hope to receive. Here are just some of the benefits of research papers.

Learning Scholarly Conventions: Writing a research paper is a crash course in the stylistic conventions of scholarly writing. During the research and writing process, you'll learn how to document your research, cite sources appropriately, format an academic paper, maintain an academic tone, and more.
Organizing Information: In a way, research is nothing more than a massive organizational project. The information available to you is near-infinite, and it's your job to review that information, narrow it down, categorize it, and present it in a clear, relevant format. This process requires attention to detail and major brainpower.
Managing Time: Research papers put your time management skills to the test. Every step of the research and writing process takes time, and it's up to you to set aside the time you'll need to complete each step of the task. Maximize your efficiency by creating a research schedule and inserting blocks of "research time" into your calendar as soon as you receive the assignment.
Exploring Your Chosen Subject: We couldn't forget the best part of research papers—learning about something that truly excites you. No matter what topic you choose, you're bound to come away from the research process with new ideas and countless nuggets of fascinating information.

The best research papers are the result of genuine interest and a thorough research process. With these ideas in mind, go forth and research. Welcome to the scholarly conversation!

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What Is a Research Paper?

Research papers are a vital part of academic study. They allow scholars to explore, evaluate, and present their findings on an issue or topic in an organized manner. Research papers require critical thinking skills, resourcefulness, and attention to detail from the researcher. Furthermore, research papers often serve as launching points for further investigation into an area of study or for deeper analysis into particular topics within a subject matter. This article explores what constitutes a research paper and examines its components such as literature review methods; approaches to problem solving; data collection techniques; hypothesis testing strategies; conclusion presentation formats; style guidelines used when formatting citations and bibliographies according to preferred conventions (e.g., MLA/APA); evaluation criteria used by instructors when grading student work; sample assignment types that can be completed using this type of document format (e.g., position paper); possible online sources where additional information may be obtained about this genre of writing tasks (e.g., journal articles). Finally, helpful tips are provided regarding ways that students can improve the quality of their own written work while avoiding common pitfalls associated with composing lengthy assignments like these types

I. Introduction

Ii. definition of a research paper, iii. purposes of a research paper.

IV. Structure and Components of a Research Paper

V. Process for Writing an Effective Research Paper

Vi. strategies for conducting quality academic research vi . guidelines for referencing sources in a research paper vii . conclusion.

The research paper is a cornerstone of higher education. It tests the student’s ability to comprehend and apply concepts taught in the classroom, as well as their capacity for independent thought. The objective of this type of assignment is twofold: firstly, it allows students to hone and demonstrate their understanding of any given subject; secondly, it encourages originality by requiring them to come up with new ideas on an existing topic.

What Is A Research Paper?

A research paper requires diligent preparation
It includes gathering data from credible sources such as textbooks, scholarly journals or internet databases

Research papers are documents that contain the results of an in-depth study and evaluation of a particular topic or issue. They are scholarly pieces that demand rigorous research, analysis, and writing skills to create.

A research paper is typically defined as a piece of academic work which involves investigating facts and opinions related to an assigned subject matter, presenting them logically in a structured format with evidence taken from both primary sources (original text or experimental data) and secondary sources (previously published works). The purpose behind producing such comprehensive documentations lies in helping readers gain deeper insights into said topics by providing appropriate references along with detailed explanations for each argument presented.

In summary, research papers involve deeply exploring multiple angles associated with specified topics through carrying out independent investigations while citing trusted sources wherever necessary. Ultimately these documents serve as vehicles for students to express their knowledge base on given subjects whilst showcasing their analytical reasoning capabilities at the same time.

Research papers are scholarly articles that present the findings of an investigation or experiment. They typically involve rigorous research and meticulous preparation , and their purpose is to help spread knowledge, advance a field of study, or educate readers on a particular subject.

Most research papers begin with an introduction which outlines what the topic entails.
The body follows this introduction which contains any background information about the topic as well as discusses related topics relevant to it.

The main goal in creating such documents is to analyze specific data sets and draw conclusions based on one’s observations. By reading through these conclusions, people can better understand how certain phenomena may be connected with each other.

Research Papers provide the foundation for research, experimentation and communication in every scientific field. They bring together information from a variety of sources to share knowledge with an audience that is typically knowledgeable in the given subject matter. In order to write a successful paper, it is important to have an understanding of what should be included in each section:

Title Page : The title page displays essential elements about your study including its title, author(s), institution name and date.
Abstract : An abstract summarizes the key components of your paper such as its purpose, methodology and results.

A Research Paper contains various parts which are generally divided into four distinct sections: Introduction (background information on topic being studied), Methods (procedures followed during experiment or survey) Results/Analysis (findings generated by conducting experiment or survey)and Discussion/Conclusion (interpretation and application based on findings). Each section will require specific content depending upon the type of research paper being written; however all papers must include these basic components if they are looking for significant academic credibility. Additionally, any definition provided at the beginning can assist readers who may not know exactly what constitutes a ‘research paper’ – this could look something like “a research article typically focuses on exploring existing evidence relating to a problem statement”.

Understanding the Research Paper An effective research paper is a result of careful thought and consideration. Before starting any project, it is essential to understand what one will be writing about. A research paper can be defined as an organized collection of information that explores a particular topic or question in depth. As such, constructing a good research paper requires both knowledge and creativity: synthesizing existing ideas with relevant primary sources in order to reach new conclusions.

The Process for Writing an Effective Research Paper Completing a successful research paper entails multiple steps that should be completed according to logical sequence; these steps include:

Formulating your topic
Conducting thorough literature review
Developing hypothesis/argument

Gathering data from primary sources (e.g., interviews) or secondary source material (e.g., published books) Analyzing evidence logically and accurately Organizing your arguments into persuasive narrative form. .It may also involve revising & rewriting until you are satisfied with final results before submission of assignment

Conducting Quality Academic Research: Performing quality research is essential for any academic paper. To ensure that you are producing the most accurate and credible results, it is important to use reliable sources such as scholarly journals, books written by experts in the field, and websites run by reputable institutions or organizations. Utilizing these types of resources will provide your readers with more concrete evidence than personal anecdotes or general statements. Additionally, be sure to cite all of your sources according to accepted standards so that other scholars can easily identify where you gathered information from.

Referencing Sources in a Research Paper: A research paper is an extended work using primary and secondary sources which attempts to answer a question or solve a problem. It requires skillful reading comprehension skills as well as critical thinking about the topics being discussed within various documents related to one’s topic area – making inferences based on facts stated therein; avoiding assumptions (unless otherwise specified). Referencing source material appropriately when compiling this type of document helps validate conclusions drawn while also indicating who wrote/published them – attributing credit properly for those ideas used throughout one’s own writing.

When referencing text taken directly from another person’s work, place quotation marks around it.
If paraphrasing someone else’s words make sure not just rearrange their sentence structure but present their idea accurately.

In conclusion, it is evident that a research paper is an essential part of the academic process and should be taken seriously by students. A well-crafted research paper can yield rewards not only in terms of improved grades but also through increased understanding of its subject matter. Despite its complexity, this type of written work does not have to be overwhelming; following the outlined steps can help ensure successful completion while providing ample opportunity for learning and growth along the way.

What Is Research + How To Do It

What is research and how do i do it.

Written by Mariana Horta and Emily Smith

So you have a research paper to write. But … what is research? How do you know if that paper you were assigned is a research paper (vs. a paper that requires a bit of research)? And how do you start a research project? In this guide, we’ll answer these three questions and more, as well as provide resources to help you tackle your next research project.

However, most of this research does not ultimately add to an existing academic conversation about a topic. In an academic context, researchers look for solutions to problems and answers to questions that advance knowledge in their disciplines. Then they publish their research to contribute to a scholarly conversation on their topic.

You will generally conduct your research in stages:

First, you will identify a research question by reading broadly on your topic until you find a controversy or an unanswered question you wish to address (see 8 steps to jumpstart your research, below).

Next, you will find an appropriate methodology to answer this question and develop a research plan. As you implement this plan, you will write, documenting your process and your findings and organizing your ideas. For example, if you are writing an empirical paper¹, you will draft a methods section where you will describe the data you used, how they were acquired, and the techniques you employed to analyze these data and interpret the results. If you are writing a literature review or a humanities essay, you will document your sources and the criteria you used to decide whether to include or exclude sources from your research.

Finally, when you complete your analyses (of your data, your sources, etc.), you will draft a research paper to share your findings. Through this process, you will usually discover that answering your research question raises further inquiries, which can start the cycle anew.

As a student, you will share your findings with your professors and your colleagues if you present your results in class. You may also seek to publish your research papers to share them with a broader audience. Here is a great list of undergraduate research journals that may publish your papers.

You are likely to encounter a broad range of assignments in college, most of which will require some research, but not all are true research assignments. Sometimes, you just need to find a few references to support an argument, interpretation, or position.

Conversely, research assignments ask you to explore a topic of your choice or answer a question that has not been addressed in lectures or assigned readings. Because research takes time, these assignments are often longer-term projects such as a term paper or a senior thesis.

As you approach a new research topic, it may be helpful to distinguish between essays where you use research to advance a position and papers where you seek to answer a research question :

Argumentative essays start with a thesis (a position) you believe to be true. Then you collect evidence from various sources to support this thesis. You will often find these types of essays in the editorial pages of newspapers. For example, Paul Krugman is a Nobel prize laureate who offers insights into current affairs in his New York Times column . If you read these op-eds, you will note that Krugman is sharing his insights on issues of the day.

A research paper starts with a research question or problem and proceeds with a rigorous approach to find an answer . Naturally, the approaches viewed as legitimate and “rigorous” vary by discipline. Krugman’s theoretical work offers an example from economics. You can read one of his most influential papers here .² If you do, you will notice that Krugman’s scholarly work is very different from his op-eds. In this paper, he follows strict disciplinary norms to propose an economic model and examine its implications analytically (i.e. with math). This paper advanced economists’ understanding of international trade and helped explain why industries become geographically concentrated.

If your assignment prompt asks for your position on a topic, write an argumentative essay. Research your topic so you can defend your thesis using logical and persuasive evidence.

However, if your assignment is to research a topic of your choice or a question that is not yet settled in the academic literature, start with a research question and approach it with rigor, curiosity, and an open mind (check out our unpacking prompts guide for more useful advice on interpreting writing prompts).

Eight steps to jump-start your research

Assuming you are embarking on a research project, consider taking the following steps:

Talk to your professor. Go to office hours to discuss your initial ideas with your professor, gather some feedback, and clarify the parameters of the research assignment.

Give yourself enough time. You will need plenty of time to read widely on your topic, find a research question, and figure out the best methods to answer your question or solve your problem. Once you plan your research, you will need time to implement your plan and write your research paper. If a research paper is due at the end of the term, go to office hours during the first two weeks of the semester to discuss potential topics with your professor. If you are planning a senior thesis, start the process in your junior year so that you can use the summer months for field research or other data collection.

Explore your field and settle on a topic. Start by reading broadly to understand the different lines of research and identify any controversies or unanswered questions within your field. Asking a librarian for help is a great way to get started. They can teach you how to use all of your library’s resources. In addition, reading literature reviews is particularly helpful for this early stage of research. If Annual Reviews cover your subject, look for an annual review article on your topic or one closely related to it.

Find a research question. Once you acquire a broad understanding of your topic, you will need to narrow your focus to a single controversy or unanswered question. Try writing a short paragraph introducing your topic and closing with your research question. Can you do it? If you find yourself writing several questions or discover that your topic is too broad to be stated as a question, you will likely need to narrow it down. Try breaking your topic into somewhat independent “parts” and select one to research further. Now focus your reading on this “part,” and try writing that paragraph again, ending with your revised research question. You may need to go through a couple of iterations of this exercise, but don’t get stuck on it. You will have opportunities to refine your research question's scope, focus, or language as you start researching. Check-out lessons from cats for more advice on refining your research question.

Consider how you can best answer your research question. Your academic discipline (or the course you are taking) will influence the range of research questions and the methodologies available to you. Your methodology is the approach you choose to conduct your research, and it will define the type of research paper you will write. The next section provides an overview of several different types of research papers and resources to help you write them. You may also want to check out locating your primary sources for insight on identifying the best approaches for your research question.

Draft a practical research plan. Start with a brief explanation of the topic you want to research, including your research question. Then describe the methodology you will employ to answer your question and what type of paper you will write. You may find it helpful to break down your plan into discrete tasks and include a timeline to keep yourself organized. Keep your practical plan brief and informal. It only needs to include as much information as you require to organize your process, and no one but you needs to read it. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to draft a “good enough” practical plan in a couple of hours and keep editing it as you research.

Consider drafting a research proposal. Often a professor will ask you to submit a research proposal, which will be a longer and much more formal version of your research plan. Research proposals tend to include an introduction to motivate your research question, a background section or literature review where you show that you have read broadly and deeply on your research topic, a proposed methodology, a research plan, and a bibliography.

Write your paper while you research. While you might think of writing as something you do when you have finished your research, you should actually write throughout the research process. Writing brings rigor and clarity to your work. It helps you identify tangents or dead-ends so that you can course-correct, eventually producing a clear, linear research paper. The best part is that you will have a complete first draft when you finish your analyses. This draft will still need a few rounds of revisions, but it will save you from facing a blank page at a point when you may be running out of steam and out of time.

What type of research paper will you write?

The type of research paper you will write depends on your assignment and the methods you choose to answer your research question. Although this is not a universal typology, we like to think of research papers as belonging to one of the following five categories:

Literature reviews establish what others have written about a topic by summarizing the existing academic research surrounding it. Literature reviews can also synthesize or evaluate relevant sources, identify gaps and controversies in the literature, and propose directions for future research. Need to write a literature review for a class or for part of a larger research project? We’ve got you covered! Read our guide to writing a literature review to learn more.

Empirical papers use data to answer a research question. These data come in several forms—qualitative or quantitative, observational or experimental.

Qualitative data usually comes in the form of texts, such as human answers to open-ended questions, fieldworkers' observations, or an archive of documents.

Quantitative data include numbers, which can be summarized and analyzed with statistical methods.

Observational data are collected when researchers measure or describe phenomena as they occur in the world, or when human beings answer survey questions or generate other data over the course of their everyday lives, such as computer logs or medical records.

Experimental data are collected when researchers measure an outcome in the presence and in the absence of an intervention they can manipulate. This approach allows them to estimate the effect of the intervention on the outcome of interest.

Owing to this diversity of data types and methodological approaches, disciplines as disparate as chemistry and anthropology rely on empirical research.

Humanities essays. Research papers in the humanities will generally follow an analytical essay format . First, you will read broadly and critically on your topic to develop a thesis. You will then employ various sources to support your argument . Beyond our guide for writing a literary analysis (one of the most common forms of analytical writing), you may find this guide from the Yale Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning helpful as you embark on a humanities research project. If your humanities essay is a cultural critique, you will also enjoy this interview with bell hooks , who explains cultural criticism better than we could ever hope to. Finally, you may appreciate this concise guide to humanities essays by Professor Easton from the English Department at SUNY Geneseo.

Historical essays. Historians have their own methods of understanding and explaining the past. Thus, while the format of a history paper will be somewhat similar to the essays you produce in your humanities courses, you will need to follow specific conventions. If you are writing an essay for a history class, you are in luck! We asked a historian to write a guide for aspiring history writers. Our guide focuses on writing historical essays employing a diversity of primary sources. However, another approach to historical essays is to critically analyze the work of previous historians to produce a historiography , which explains how historians’ perspectives on a topic evolved over time. Thus, you may think of historiographies as historians’ literature reviews.

Theoretical papers approach problems from first principles and solve them without relying on data. These papers often follow strict disciplinary conventions for defining the problem and writing the solution. Sound complicated? It doesn’t have to be. If you are taking a class in a theoretical discipline, you are already reading texts that follow its norms, so you can model your writing on those materials. You may also find one of the following resources helpful: a guide to writing philosophy papers , a guide to writing mathematical proofs , and a concise guide for computer science papers .³ We did not write these three guides, but we think they are excellent and will help you write great papers. And remember: you can always ask your professor to clarify the parameters of the assignment and the conventions you need to follow.

Get started!

Now that you have a better sense of what's involved in academic research, it's time to dive into your project! Here are four steps you can take right now to get the ball rolling:

Check on your professor’s office hours or email to request an appointment

“Go” (either in person or online) to the library to look for sources

Make an appointment with a research librarian

Schedule a session with a tutor at your college’s writing center

Suggestions for further reading from CEG and beyond:

Learn to read and understand your assignment prompts

Learn how to incorporate sources into your writing.

Learn how to evaluate sources .

Learn how to avoid plagiarism in your research paper.

Learn how to write an annotated bibliography.

Learn how to write an analytical essay .

Learn how to write a literature review .

Learn how to plan your senior thesis .

If you enjoyed our Paul Krugman example and are interested in economics, you will like this short essay where Krugman outlines his research strategy .

Similarly, if you are interested in mathematics and computer science, don’t miss this great one-page advice on writing a computer science paper.

¹ Empirical research is based on experiments or observations rather than theoretical knowledge. In other words, you do empirical research when you use data to find an answer to a question.

² Krugman, Paul. "Increasing returns and economic geography." Journal of political economy 99.3 (1991): 483-499.

³ Lamport, Leslie. "State the problem before describing the solution." ACM SIGSOFT Software Engineering Notes 3.1 (1978): 26-26.

Special thanks to Emily Smith & Mariana Horta for writing this post and contributing to other College Writing Center resources

Emily Smith (she/her) has worked with hundreds of students to become more thoughtful, intentional, and confident writers in her work as a composition instructor, college essay specialist, and, most recently, as a writing center director. Leveraging her background in writing center work, Emily loves to collaborate with students to find ease in the writing process. When not coaching students, she can likely be found baking in pursuit of the perfect chocolate chip cookie, watching TCM, and spoiling her cat.

Top Values: Empathy | Inclusion | Balance

Asking For Help In College + Using Your Resources

How to Write a Literature Review

College Writing Center

First-Year Writing Essentials

College-Level Writing

Unpacking Academic Writing Prompts

What Makes a Good Argument?

How to Use Sources in College Essays

Evaluating Sources: A Guide for the Online Generation

What Are Citations?

Avoiding Plagiarism

US Academic Writing for College: 10 Features of Style

Applying Writing Feedback

How to Edit a College Essay

Asking for Help in College & Using Your Resources

What Is Academic Research + How To Do It

Subject or Context Specific Guides

Literary Analysis–How To

How to Write A History Essay

A Sophomore or Junior’s Guide to the Senior Thesis

College Research

Pick a Topic
Ask a Research Question
Thesis Statement
Reliable Sources
Primary & Secondary Sources
Fact Checking
MLA Citations This link opens in a new window
APA Citations This link opens in a new window
Annotated Bibliography Research Project

Reference and Instruction Librarian

Getting Started

The process of researching and writing your paper can be broken down into the following steps:

Pick a topic
Ask a research question
Find and read research about your topic - evidence, perspectives, interpretations, data, etc. ► take notes as you read, and use what you learn to find more research ► evaluate the sources you read carefully
Write your thesis statement - the answer to your research question.

The following pages in this guide will help you with these steps.

What is a Research Paper?

Writing a research paper can be challenging. So it may be helpful to first understand what a research paper is and what it is not .

A research paper is NOT

a mix of other people's ideas
an analysis of other people's writing or work
a mix of quotes from other sources
a way for you to prove what you already think is true

A research paper IS

a way for you to develop your own ideas with evidence
an opportunity to challenge your own beliefs
one of the best ways to learn deeply about a topic that interests you

What is Research?

College research might be different from other types of writing you've done before, such as writing your opinion or simply reporting facts. Research can be defined as

the investigation into and study of
materials and sources
in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Watch the video below to better understand the process of research and to avoid common mistakes some students make when writing their research paper.

Next: Pick a Topic >>
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2024 9:28 AM
URL: https://libguides.sowela.edu/college-research

Research Paper: What is it & How to Write it? (Template Included)

Every student is asked to write a research paper at least once in their lives. As a result, they often feel a bit of confusion or anxiety since writing a research paper is widely considered a tough task. For starters, it requires well, a ton of research! However, since writing a research paper is an indispensable part of academics, it should be embraced with open arms…

A research paper is a type of academic writing based on its author’s independent research on a distinct topic. It also includes a complete analysis of the research along with the author’s interpretation of the finding and further use cases.

Most people find writing research paper intimidating and for a good reason. Writing a comprehensive research paper requires analytical as well as research skills. Piecing together findings from different sources and forming meaningful interpretations can be a bit tough.

To make this process easier for you, we have decided to share a free research paper template with you. But before we dive straight into the template, let us first briefly discuss what a research paper is and what one needs to include in a research paper. Read on…

What is a Research Paper?

A research paper is a study conducted by yourself or analyzed across published information and shared in a report. There is typically a hypothesis, tests, and a conclusion as to what the findings were. In other words, research papers are nothing, but an organized report by a student or an academic which involves researching a topic, taking a stand on said topic, and providing evidence for that position on the topic.

Why Research Papers are Important?

Research papers are an important way of sharing unique findings around a specific question. Writing research papers is considered widely as the primary device for passing knowledge along to those working in your or related fields.

It’s an important method of sharing your findings with instructors, classmates, and others in the industry. Unique important insights in research papers have the ability to change thoughts and actions.

‍ Read more: How To Write A Case Study (With Template)

What You Should Include in Your Research Paper?

Before drafting your research paper, it’s important you understand the key elements of a research paper. A well-written research paper includes the following elements:

Add an abstract at the start of your research paper that provides a short summary of the most important elements of your paper.

Introduction

Add an introduction to tell your reader what they will be learning from this research paper.

Use various headings and subheadings to organize the sections of your paper.

Subheadings help make sub-points easy to understand for the reader.

Footnotes: Write any additional notes.

References: List the source of information on your research and data.

Appendix: Any additional or supplementary information.

You can also go through the alternative way and buy college essays to check out how professionals structure their research papers. Now that you know the key elements to include in your research paper, it’s time to introduce you to an awesome tool that will make writing a research paper, a breeze!

Read more: Scientific Paper: What is it & How to Write it? (Steps and Format)

Ditch Your Boring and Old Document Editor for Writing Research Papers

Research today is dynamic in nature. We no longer go to the library to study a distinct topic and take notes on a writing pad. Instead, we simply turn on our computers and go online, scan websites, watch videos, study analytics, and manage our research by searching different types of digital content.

In other words, in order to create an awesome research paper that gets the respect it deserves, you need the right tool. This is where Bit comes in.

Read more: How to create a UX Research Plan Document?

Write Your Research Paper the Smart Way with Bit.ai

Bit.ai is a new-age documentation and knowledge management tool that allows researchers and teams to collaborate, share, track, and manage all knowledge and research in one place.

Bit documents, unlike your standard Word Docs, are interactive . This means that students and academics can use Bit to create interactive, media-rich research papers easily!

Bit documents come alive and help you share research work beyond just plain boring text. You can add rich media like YouTube videos, Google Docs, One Drive, Excel Spreadsheets, SlideShares, etc. Basically, anything on the internet with a link (i.e. https://example.com) can be shared and Bit will automatically turn it into visual content.

Thus, Bit brings together everything you need to conduct and write a comprehensive research paper under one roof, cutting down your work in half! Bit has a super easy and fun interface, making onboarding new users easier than ever!

Add Excel spreadsheets, PDFs, Google Forms, Gantt charts, social media posts, YouTube videos- basically anything on the internet with a link, and Bit will automatically convert that into live content living inside your proposal!

Recommended power links and files you can add to your research paper:

PDFs, PowerPoint in Google Drive/OneDrive
Google Sheets, OneDrive Excel, Airtable
YouTube, Vimeo
Social Media posts
Draw.io & Lucidcharts

Collaboration: Multiple people can simultaneously collaborate on a Bit smart document in real-time. As research can take up a lot of time and effort, invite colleagues or fellow classmates to help you out and share the content they find in a common workplace.

It’s a wonderful way to conduct research by working simultaneously with your peers and superiors. Thanks to its smart editor, Bit makes the process of documentation and content creation quick and easy.

Content Library: Bit has a content library that you can use to save the images, files, and digital content you want to your research so that you can access and reuse them easily. This brings all your content and information under a single roof and makes it easy for you to organize the data you need.

Workspaces: Smart workspaces are created around projects, teams, departments, and clients to keep your research data and information organized. Workspaces make it easy to collaborate and ensure that the right team members have access to the right documents at the right time. They are fluid so your information can move through your organization’s workflows.

Search: Bit documents also support smart search, which allows anyone to search and find any files, documents, etc. quickly and easily across all of their workspaces. With the ability to effectively label content, users can search their digital assets using keywords, titles, descriptions, or tags. They can even search for files based on their source. (i.e., YouTube).

Manage Permissions: Bit allows users to manage permissions and information access that suits your organizational needs. It supports features like document tracking, password protection, file access restrictions, etc that help keep your important information safe.

Bit provides a common workplace for researchers to collaborate with peers, share their research and knowledge, brainstorm ideas, store digital assets, and innovate together. The best part is that this knowledge is safely secured in your workspaces and can be shared (or kept private) with anyone in your organization!

Here are some of the main benefits of using Bit:

Collaborate in real-time
Interlink research papers and other documents
Create fully responsive documents
Create research papers only visible to yourself or your classmates
Track engagement on shared research papers with classmates, colleagues, instructors, etc.
Embed your research paper onto any website or blog.

How to use Research Paper Template with Bit

The process of creating a research paper on Bit is insanely easy! Just follow these four simple steps to create a research paper quickly:

Step 1: Create a Bit Account

Go the home page of Bit.ai and click on Get Started for Free or Sign Up to get started. Enter your email address to sign up. Once in, you can create your personal profile.

Step 2: Create a Workspace

Workspaces are where the work gets done. Click on the ‘Create Workspace’ button on the right. A popup will show up prompting you to add a name for your new workspace.

You can create a workspace around a team, department, large project, client, partner, etc. Inside each workspace, you can create an unlimited amount of Bit documents and access your content library (storage area for all of your digital assets – web links, files, cloud files, rich embeds, etc.).

Step 3: Add Team Members

Bit allows your team members to collaborate in real-time and get work done. Collaboration starts at the workspace level.

You create private workspaces by default. However, you can invite others to join you inside of a workspace and collaborate together with the knowledge, projects, documents, and content inside of the workspace.

Step 4: Create Your Desired Document

Once you are in the workspace, click on the ‘ Create New’ button. Select ‘From Template’ in the dropdown. A pop up will display allowing you to select a template from the gallery.

In the search box on the top left corner, you can search for the “research paper template”. Once your desired template pops up, click on it and click on the “Use Template ” button on the bottom right corner.

That’s it! Your research paper document is ready for use!

Our team at bit.ai has created a few awesome templates to make your research process more efficient. Make sure to check them out before you go, y our team might need them!

Case Study Template
Competitor Research Template
Brainstorming Template
SWOT Analysis Template
White Paper Template

🎥Watch this video to learn more👇

Over to you!

Writing a research paper can be overwhelming. Bit makes this long and tiring task easy to manage by allowing users to store all of their research data in one place. With the ability to collaborate with peers and friends, you can quickly take feedback from trusted sources and get work done quickly.

Moreover, using a research paper template can significantly reduce the time and effort required to create such documents. If you need any help with the research paper template or want to know how Bit can help you, let us know by tweeting us @bit_docs. Cheers!

Further reads:

How to Write an Insane White Paper that Gets High Engagement
Collaborative Research: Definition, Benefits & Tips!
Thesis Statement: Definition, Importance, Steps & Tips!
Top 11 Tools for Researchers in 2022
How to Write a Research Proposal?
How to Create an Agile Product Roadmap?
How To Create Product Launch Marketing Documentation

Virtual Data Rooms (VDR) Explained with Use Cases

Top 9 Wunderlist Alternatives That Are Worth Checking Out!

Confirmation letter: definition, importance, and format, how to embed videos to documents, electronic signatures and their impact on remote work, operations manual: what is it & how to write it, how bit.ai can help students better manage their schoolwork, 12 marketing kpis every marketing team should monitor.

About Bit.ai

Bit.ai is the essential next-gen workplace and document collaboration platform. that helps teams share knowledge by connecting any type of digital content. With this intuitive, cloud-based solution, anyone can work visually and collaborate in real-time while creating internal notes, team projects, knowledge bases, client-facing content, and more.

The smartest online Google Docs and Word alternative, Bit.ai is used in over 100 countries by professionals everywhere, from IT teams creating internal documentation and knowledge bases, to sales and marketing teams sharing client materials and client portals.

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What is a research paper?

A research paper is not simply a summary of a topic using sources. It is not a book report or an essay. With a research paper, you need to investigate and evaluate sources with the intention of offering an interpretation of the source material in the context of the overall topic. In short, you use your source material and your own insights to prove your point.

College research assignments have your ask a question, to read widely in search of possible answers, to interpret what you read, to draw reasoned conclusions and to support those conclusions with valid and well-documented evidence (Hacker, 2009, p. 92). Thus, a research paper at the college level is a time-consuming, sometimes difficult, writing endeavor.

Here are additional resources for writing a research paper:

Writing Guide: http://guides.rasmussen.edu/writing/research
Steps for writing a research paper: http://rasmussen.libanswers.com/faq/32286
To schedule with a writing tutor or submit a paper for review: https://guides.rasmussen.edu/WritingLab
Reading and Writing
Research Papers
Last Updated Dec 22, 2023
Answered By Ashley Librarian

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Research Paper - Structure, Examples and Writing Guide
The purpose of a research paper is to present the results of a study or investigation in a clear, concise, and structured manner. Research papers are written to communicate new knowledge, ideas, or findings to a specific audience, such as researchers, scholars, practitioners, or policymakers.
How to Write a Research Paper | A Beginner's Guide - Scribbr
A research paper is a piece of academic writing that provides analysis, interpretation, and argument based on in-depth independent research. Research papers are similar to academic essays, but they are usually longer and more detailed assignments, designed to assess not only your writing skills but also your skills in scholarly research ...
What Is a Research Paper? - ThoughtCo
A research paper is a common form of academic writing. Research papers require students and academics to locate information about a topic (that is, to conduct research), take a stand on that topic, and provide support (or evidence) for that position in an organized report.
What is a Research Paper? Defining the Basics. - University ...
A research paper is a comprehensive document that expands upon previously established knowledge within a given field of study. It takes an in-depth look at both primary and secondary sources to provide new information and insight into the topic.
What Is a Research Paper? - University Manual
Research papers are documents that contain the results of an in-depth study and evaluation of a particular topic or issue. They are scholarly pieces that demand rigorous research, analysis, and writing skills to create.
What Is Research + How To Do It - College Essay Guy
At a basic level, research is what you do when looking for solutions to a problem or answers to a question. For example, when you compare prices for your next flight, you are doing consumer research. In this sense, you probably research stuff all the time.
Writing a Research Paper - College Research - LibGuides at ...
A research paper IS. a way for you to develop your own ideas with evidence. an opportunity to challenge your own beliefs. one of the best ways to learn deeply about a topic that interests you. What is Research? College research might be different from other types of writing you've done before, such as writing your opinion or simply reporting facts.
Research Paper: What is it & How to Write it? (Template ...
A research paper is a study conducted by yourself or analyzed across published information and shared in a report. There is typically a hypothesis, tests, and a conclusion as to what the findings were.
Understanding Research Papers and the Research Process
Often as students, we believe a research paper is a process of hunting down information or ideas and gathering it together in some more-or-less organized way. But we are here to learn, and research papers provide an intensive, focused, and individual learning experience. Research papers are individualized learning experiences.
What is a research paper? - FAQS - LibAnswers
A research paper is not simply a summary of a topic using sources. It is not a book report or an essay. With a research paper, you need to investigate and evaluate sources with the intention of offering an interpretation of the source material in the context of the overall topic.

Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Research Paper

Structure of Research Paper

Introduction

Literature Review

How to Write Research Paper

Research Paper Example

Applications of Research Paper

When to Write Research Paper

Purpose of Research Paper

Characteristics of Research Paper

Advantages of Research Paper

Limitations of Research Paper

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Muhammad Hassan

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