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How to Write a Research Paper: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a research paper can seem daunting, but breaking it down into clear steps can make the process manageable and even enjoyable. An essential part of this process is data collection , which involves gathering information systematically to support your thesis or inquiry. This guide will walk you through each stage of writing a research paper, from understanding what a research paper is to choosing an engaging topic, conducting preliminary research, crafting a thesis statement, and more. By following these steps, you will be well-equipped to produce a well-structured and compelling research paper.

Key Takeaways

Research papers are structured academic writings that rely on empirical evidence to articulate findings and differ from research proposals.

Choosing an engaging and specific research topic is vital, as it shapes the research process and the effectiveness of the resulting paper. A good research paper involves not only presenting one's interpretation and conducting thorough research but also requires adherence to a structured format that includes essential components like an abstract and accurate reference. This highlights the importance of organization and credibility in the writing process, ensuring that the paper effectively communicates its insights to the academic community.

Proper citation and adherence to formatting guidelines are essential for academic integrity and professionalism in research writing.

Understanding What a Research Paper Is

Academic research papers are essential pieces of scholarly writing that focus on scrutinizing, interpreting, or discussing a particular subject based on empirical evidence and statistical analysis . These documents diverge from informal or non-scholarly compositions in that they require a formal tone free from bias while presenting outcomes systematically and rigorously. They play a pivotal role within the academic community as they enable the circulation of new insights and foster knowledge growth across various fields.

There is an important distinction between research proposals and actual research papers: whereas the former aims to procure financial support by detailing proposed studies, the latter relies on concrete findings derived from already-concluded investigations. This crucial difference dictates each document’s format and development strategy. To establish legitimacy and precision in their discourse, authors of academic research papers draw extensively from peer-reviewed literature sources alongside empirical data.

These scholarly articles are marked by their conventional composition style, which includes several key components—an introductory section with a precise thesis statement, followed by an extensive  literature review and  methodically arranged main sections reinforced through evidential backing. Culminating with conclusions that coherently consolidate all discerned results—thereby distinguishing them clearly from other varieties of writing endeavors. Grasping these fundamentals constitutes an imperative step for anyone aiming to excel at composing effective scientific inquiries through meticulous research documentation.

Grasping Assignment Requirements

Before embarking on the writing process, it is crucial to have a comprehensive grasp of the task at hand. Understanding these parameters will guide your work and dictate how you approach your research paper. Every scholarly document is subject to its own set of exacting standards, including word count, formatting requirements, and referencing techniques—all of which are essential for compliance and achieving high marks.

Reexamining the assignment brief thoroughly while allocating sufficient time for crafting your work is vital in adhering to deadlines and meeting academic expectations. Scrutinize elements such as typography, title placements, and overall design according to what has been outlined by your instructors. By meticulously following these instructions during each stage of composition, you ensure that not only does your research paper adhere strictly to scholarly criteria but also maintains an appearance that reflects attention to detail and professionalism.

Choosing an Engaging Research Paper Topic

Selecting a topic for your research paper is pivotal as it lays the foundation for all subsequent work. Opting for a subject that captivates you will not only make conducting research more enjoyable but also infuse vitality into your writing. Techniques to come up with a research paper topic include brainstorming sessions, unfettered free writing, engaging in discussions with colleagues or mentors, and analyzing existing research papers.

It’s imperative to select a research topic rich enough to sustain depth in your document while steering clear of themes that are excessively broad. Instead, focus on uniqueness and particularity, which aligns with the requirements of your assignment. You should consider both its pertinence within your academic domain and practical considerations about thoroughness and feasibility when undertaking a comprehensive investigation of this theme.

Initial stages of exploration may prompt adjustments to your chosen theme based on new insights gained from preliminary inquiry efforts. Crafting an incisive question related to the theme can sharpen both investigative direction and composition, enhancing overall efficiency and pleasure throughout the journey of research. Considering various angles regarding your selected matter enriches critical examination, leading to crafting an extensively examined scholarly article.

Conducting Preliminary Research

Commencement with a chosen topic, it is imperative to embark on preliminary research as an initial step in the evolution of your paper. This foundational stage is instrumental for cultivating an informed and perceptive body of work. The act of conducting early research serves to refine your topic, paving the way toward developing a robust thesis statement.

To ensure reliability in your groundwork, seek out reputable resources such as online databases, scholarly periodicals, and books from university libraries. As you accumulate information, take meticulous notes and categorize them by themes or arguments. This organization is vital for subsequently crafting a structured research paper outline.

Guide your exploratory phase with well-considered research questions targeting specific elements within the subject matter. Formulate inquiries starting with phrases like ‘I wish to uncover how/what/why…’ which can not only enhance comprehension but also steer you through a focused inquiry process. Spotting gaps in existing academic works may lead to innovative questions that instigate unique discussions.

Keep in mind that diligent preliminaries are key to establishing strong foundations and concentrated direction for constructing your thesis statement later on.

Crafting a Concise Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the backbone of your research paper, aligning your research and analysis around a central idea. It introduces the topic to the reader and aids other researchers in assessing the paper’s usefulness. A strong thesis statement should be concise, contentious, and coherent, condensing the main argument into one or two sentences.

To formulate a strong thesis statement, ensure it is specific and argumentable, avoiding vague language. If you’re struggling, try phrasing your topic as a question and then answering it.

Every paragraph in your paper should aim to support and develop the central claim established by the thesis statement. This coherence ensures that your paper remains focused and persuasive throughout.

Creating a Detailed Research Paper Outline

Creating an outline for your research paper is critical as it forms a robust base for the entirety of your research and provides clear direction in showcasing results. A meticulously devised outline ensures you have a sturdy framework to build upon, presenting arguments cohesively while systematically weaving in supporting evidence. It should feature major themes, points of argumentation, and data sectioned appropriately.

Incorporating key categories along with specific subtopics that align with corresponding evidence into an outline is crucial. This alignment maintains the rational progression of ideas within your discourse, fostering unity across the document. The process of outlining serves not just to pinpoint central concepts but also to crystallize intended pathways—essentially serving as a navigational guide throughout the writing endeavor.

Structuring your outline by individual paragraphs assists in preserving orderliness and guiding gradual advancements within your manuscript. This approach boosts efficacy during drafting phases by keeping writers attentive to structural integrity and logical development from one point to another. With such detailed preparation, you can ensure that each segment contributes effectively towards an organized exposition and coherent delivery of investigative insights.

Writing a Compelling Introduction

Begin the introduction of your research paper by engaging the reader’s curiosity with an arresting hook. This could be a thought-provoking question, an intriguing fact, or a bold assertion that grabs the audience’s attention. It is beneficial to outline briefly what the paper will cover, giving readers insight into its structure and preparing them for what lies ahead.

It is critical that you clearly state your thesis statement at the conclusion of your introductory section. This thesis serves as a beacon throughout your work, illuminating your central argument while providing just enough information on study outcomes and relevance to whet the reader’s appetite without delving into too much detail prematurely.

Crafting an impactful introduction lays down a foundational framework for an organized and persuasive entire research paper, guiding both writer and reader through the impending exploration laid out in subsequent sections.

Developing the Main Body with Supporting Evidence

Your research paper’s core should bolster your thesis with well-founded supporting evidence. Initiate each paragraph in the body with a clear topic sentence that conveys the primary notion it intends to discuss. These paragraphs must be crafted such that they reinforce your thesis, concentrating on individual assertions or concepts.

To effectively incorporate evidence, one must summarize and scrutinize sources as they pertain to the main idea of each paragraph. The MEAL plan is an approach that dictates including a Main idea, Evidence for backing it up, Analysis of this evidence, and finishing off a lead-out sentence within every paragraph. Utilizing transition sentences between paragraphs can significantly enhance logical flow and interconnectedness throughout your document.

Employing a reverse outline can greatly assist in demystifying how ideas are structured within your work. Investigating contrary perspectives during the preliminary stages of research could lend more weight to your argument by preemptively tackling potential counterarguments. Ultimately, constructing a solidly arranged body fortified by robust supporting evidence is indispensable for crafting an influential and convincing research paper.

Concluding Your Research Paper Effectively

In concluding your research paper, it’s essential to reaffirm your thesis statement and meld the principal elements of your study without bringing in fresh insights. By encapsulating the central assertions or discoveries, you highlight their connection to the problem at hand while underscoring how they uphold your thesis.

An effective conclusion not only recapitulates but also opens up potential paths for future investigation that stem from your results and recontextualizes the issue under scrutiny, reinforcing its relevance. Avoid using trite introductory phrases like ‘In conclusion’ to preserve a polished tone throughout.

A finely honed conclusion will etch itself into memory, thereby bolstering the stature of your research endeavor in readers’ minds.

Revising and Refining Your Draft

The revision stage is an essential aspect of the writing process, designed to polish your manuscript and fortify your points. During this phase, it’s important to reassess and modify the structure and progression of your content for improved clarity. Such adjustments might include reorganizing sections or modifying parts of the text.

Engage in meticulous proofreading by printing out a copy of your document. Evaluating a hard copy often facilitates better recognition of errors. Employing strategies such as reading aloud at a measured pace can bring light to typographical errors and unnatural sentences. Utilize digital aids like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor for assistance with identifying spelling mistakes and grammatical issues while also receiving recommendations for more straightforward expressions that could refine clarity.

Incorporating peer feedback offers an indispensable viewpoint from someone other than yourself on what you have composed. Distancing oneself momentarily from one’s draft before initiating revisions may yield renewed insight into improving its substance upon return.

Editing and Proofreading Your Work

Editing and proofreading are crucial steps in the research paper writing process. These steps help refine your work, enhance its quality, and ensure that it is free of errors. Here are some tips to help you edit and proofread your research paper effectively:

• Revise for Structure and Flow: Start by revising the content for structure and flow, ensuring that each argument is clearly presented and logically follows from the last. This will help maintain coherence and make your research paper more compelling.
• Check Grammar and Spelling: Pay attention to grammar and spelling errors; these can distract readers and undermine the professionalism of your paper. Use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to help identify and correct these errors.
• Use a Style Guide: Refer to a style guide, such as the Modern Language Association (MLA) or the American Psychological Association (APA), to ensure consistency in formatting, citations, and references. This will help maintain academic integrity and professionalism.
• Punctuation Matters: Check for punctuation errors, including commas, semicolons, and apostrophes. Proper punctuation is essential for clarity and readability.
• Read Aloud: Read your paper aloud to detect awkward phrasing, unclear sentences, and other errors that may have been missed. This technique can help you catch mistakes that are not immediately obvious when reading silently.
• Peer Review: Consider having a peer or mentor review your paper. A fresh set of eyes can provide valuable feedback and catch errors you might have overlooked.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your research paper is polished, professional, and ready for submission.

Properly Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism

Acknowledging the work of others through proper citation is a cornerstone in academic writing, as it helps to avoid plagiarism and honors intellectual honesty. Incorrect or omitted citations are tantamount to plagiarism, which equates to academic dishonesty. Research papers must contain precise in-text references and a well-organized bibliography for accurate source attribution.

Ensuring that all sources are acknowledged according to the prescribed style guide is vital by rigorously reviewing citations. Mosaic plagiarism can occur when an author stitches together various pieces from different sources without properly paraphrasing or directly quoting them, thus falsely presenting them as original concepts.

It’s imperative for writers to diligently monitor their use of citations throughout the research paper process so as not to fall into unintentional acts of plagiarism. Accurately citing sources upholds the integrity and validity of your research paper’s findings and conclusions.

Formatting According to Guidelines

Adhering to formatting guidelines is a critical aspect of writing a research paper format. Common formatting styles include MLA, APA, CMOS, AMA, and IEEE, with the modern language association being one of the key styles. The IEEE style is particularly relevant to electrical and electronics engineers, emphasizing the importance of precise formatting rules in the scientific community. Each style has specific requirements, such as APA’s running head on each page intended for publication.

MLA format mandates the use of a header that includes your last name and page number on each page. All formats generally require 1-inch margins and double spacing throughout the document. Each new paragraph in both APA and MLA styles should be indented by half an inch.

Following these guidelines ensures that your paper meets academic standards and presents a professional appearance.

Finalizing the Paper

Once you have completed the editing and proofreading process, it’s time to finalize your research paper. Here are some steps to help you finalize your paper:

• Meet Length and Formatting Guidelines: Ensure that your paper meets the required length and formatting guidelines. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for academic compliance and presentation.
• Include All Necessary Elements: Check that your paper includes all the necessary elements, such as an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Each section plays a vital role in presenting your research comprehensively.
• Verify Citations and References: Verify that your citations and references are accurate and consistent. Proper citation is essential to avoid plagiarism and give credit to original sources.
• Check for Plagiarism: Make sure that your paper is free of plagiarism and that all sources are properly cited. Use a plagiarism detection tool, such as Turnitin or Quetext, to help identify any instances of plagiarism.
• Final Proofread: Finally proofread your paper one last time to ensure that it is error-free and polished. This final review can help catch any lingering mistakes and ensure your paper is of the highest quality.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your research paper is thoroughly prepared and ready for submission.

Using Tools and Resources for Research Papers

Numerous instruments and materials are available to support the research process. Google Scholar, which is a complimentary search engine specifically for academic papers, serves as an important tool in locating trustworthy sources. Zotero offers itself as a freemium open-source manager of research that can scour the internet for pertinent resources and distribute them.

Implementing these utilities can refine the procedure of researching by aiding in both the discovery and systematization of sources with greater effectiveness. To carry out comprehensive research and guarantee your work’s integrity, relying on academic databases and tools is crucial.

By capitalizing on these aids and assets, you have the potential to substantially elevate both the caliber and productivity of your scholarly paper.

Tips for Writing Academic Research Papers

Writing an academic research paper can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can produce a high-quality paper that showcases your knowledge and skills. Here are some tips to help you write an effective research paper:

• Select an Engaging Topic: Start by selecting a research paper topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. An engaging topic will make the research process more enjoyable and your paper more compelling.
• Conduct Extensive Research: Conduct extensive research on your topic using a variety of sources, including academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Thorough research provides a solid foundation for your paper.
• Develop a Concise Thesis Statement: Develop a concise thesis statement that clearly states the purpose and scope of your paper. A strong thesis statement guides your research and writing process.
• Create a Research Paper Outline: Create a research paper outline to help organize your thoughts and structure your paper. An outline ensures that your paper is well-organized and logically structured.
• Use Supporting Evidence: Use supporting evidence, such as statistics, quotes, and analysis, to back up your arguments and make your paper more convincing. Evidence-based research strengthens your paper’s credibility.
• Ensure Clarity and Organization: Ensure that your paper is well-organized, clearly written, and free of errors. Clear writing and logical organization make your paper easier to read and understand.
• Use a Style Guide: Use a style guide, such as the MLA or APA, to ensure consistency in formatting, citations, and references. Adhering to a style guide maintains academic standards and professionalism.
• Proofread Carefully: Finally, proofread your paper carefully to ensure that it is error-free and polished. A well-proofread paper reflects attention to detail and enhances the overall quality of your work.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can produce a high-quality research paper that showcases your knowledge and skills. Remember to always approach your research paper with a critical and analytical mindset and to use evidence-based research to support your arguments.

Throughout this manual, we have explored the fundamental stages involved in composing a research paper. This includes understanding the nature of what constitutes a research paper and utilizing various tools and resources for conducting your study. We emphasized how critical it is to fully understand the assignment requirements, select an intriguing subject matter, carry out preliminary investigations, formulate a succinct thesis statement, design an extensive outline, craft an engaging introductory section, construct the core content with corroborative evidence, and conclude in a meaningful way.

The process also involves critically reviewing and polishing your initial drafts while meticulously citing references according to established formatting standards, which are vital tasks that contribute significantly to elevating the caliber of your academic work. Adhering to these steps, as well as taking advantage of available support systems during your writing journey, can make navigating through complexities associated with drafting research papers both feasible and rewarding - culminating in top-tier scholarly output that truly shines. It’s essential not just to focus on reaching completion but rather embrace every aspect of crafting such scholarly works. Allow yourself to engage deeply throughout each step so that perseverance coupled with intellectual rigor is reflected within every page of your final manuscript.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose a research paper topic.

Select a topic for your research paper by exploring areas of personal intrigue, seeking advice from colleagues or mentors, and examining scholarly works that currently exist.

Ensure the chosen subject offers ample scope for detailed investigation, holds significance within your domain of study, and is practical to delve into thoroughly.

What are the key elements of a strong thesis statement?

A strong thesis statement must be concise, specific, argumentable, and coherent, effectively introducing the topic while guiding the research and analysis around a central idea.

This foundation ensures clarity and direction in your writing.

How can I avoid plagiarism in my research paper?

To avoid plagiarism in your research paper, ensure you properly cite all sources with in-text citations and bibliography and adequately paraphrase or quote materials.

Maintaining accurate tracking of your citations throughout the writing process is also essential.

What are some useful tools for conducting research?

Zotero serves as a tool to organize and manage research sources, while Google Scholar offers entry to scholarly academic papers.

Employing these instruments can substantially boost the effectiveness of your research process.

What are the common formatting styles for research papers?

The common formatting styles for research papers include MLA, APA, CMOS, AMA, and IEEE. Each style has distinct requirements, such as APA’s running head and MLA’s header with the author’s last name and page number.

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How To Write A Research Paper

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024

F or many students, crafting a strong research paper from scratch can feel like a daunting task – and rightly so! In this post, we’ll unpack what a research paper is, what it needs to do , and how to write one – in three easy steps. 🙂

Overview: Writing A Research Paper

What (exactly) is a research paper.

• How to write a research paper
• Stage 1 : Topic & literature search
• Stage 2 : Structure & outline
• Stage 3 : Iterative writing
• Key takeaways

Let’s start by asking the most important question, “ What is a research paper? ”.

Simply put, a research paper is a scholarly written work where the writer (that’s you!) answers a specific question (this is called a research question ) through evidence-based arguments . Evidence-based is the keyword here. In other words, a research paper is different from an essay or other writing assignments that draw from the writer’s personal opinions or experiences. With a research paper, it’s all about building your arguments based on evidence (we’ll talk more about that evidence a little later).

Now, it’s worth noting that there are many different types of research papers , including analytical papers (the type I just described), argumentative papers, and interpretative papers. Here, we’ll focus on analytical papers , as these are some of the most common – but if you’re keen to learn about other types of research papers, be sure to check out the rest of the blog .

With that basic foundation laid, let’s get down to business and look at how to write a research paper .

Overview: The 3-Stage Process

While there are, of course, many potential approaches you can take to write a research paper, there are typically three stages to the writing process. So, in this tutorial, we’ll present a straightforward three-step process that we use when working with students at Grad Coach.

These three steps are:

• Finding a research topic and reviewing the existing literature
• Developing a provisional structure and outline for your paper, and
• Writing up your initial draft and then refining it iteratively

Let’s dig into each of these.

Need a helping hand?

Step 1: Find a topic and review the literature

As we mentioned earlier, in a research paper, you, as the researcher, will try to answer a question . More specifically, that’s called a research question , and it sets the direction of your entire paper. What’s important to understand though is that you’ll need to answer that research question with the help of high-quality sources – for example, journal articles, government reports, case studies, and so on. We’ll circle back to this in a minute.

The first stage of the research process is deciding on what your research question will be and then reviewing the existing literature (in other words, past studies and papers) to see what they say about that specific research question. In some cases, your professor may provide you with a predetermined research question (or set of questions). However, in many cases, you’ll need to find your own research question within a certain topic area.

Finding a strong research question hinges on identifying a meaningful research gap – in other words, an area that’s lacking in existing research. There’s a lot to unpack here, so if you wanna learn more, check out the plain-language explainer video below.

Once you’ve figured out which question (or questions) you’ll attempt to answer in your research paper, you’ll need to do a deep dive into the existing literature – this is called a “ literature search ”. Again, there are many ways to go about this, but your most likely starting point will be Google Scholar .

If you’re new to Google Scholar, think of it as Google for the academic world. You can start by simply entering a few different keywords that are relevant to your research question and it will then present a host of articles for you to review. What you want to pay close attention to here is the number of citations for each paper – the more citations a paper has, the more credible it is (generally speaking – there are some exceptions, of course).

Ideally, what you’re looking for are well-cited papers that are highly relevant to your topic. That said, keep in mind that citations are a cumulative metric , so older papers will often have more citations than newer papers – just because they’ve been around for longer. So, don’t fixate on this metric in isolation – relevance and recency are also very important.

Beyond Google Scholar, you’ll also definitely want to check out academic databases and aggregators such as Science Direct, PubMed, JStor and so on. These will often overlap with the results that you find in Google Scholar, but they can also reveal some hidden gems – so, be sure to check them out.

Once you’ve worked your way through all the literature, you’ll want to catalogue all this information in some sort of spreadsheet so that you can easily recall who said what, when and within what context. If you’d like, we’ve got a free literature spreadsheet that helps you do exactly that.

Step 2: Develop a structure and outline

With your research question pinned down and your literature digested and catalogued, it’s time to move on to planning your actual research paper .

It might sound obvious, but it’s really important to have some sort of rough outline in place before you start writing your paper. So often, we see students eagerly rushing into the writing phase, only to land up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on in multiple

Now, the secret here is to not get caught up in the fine details . Realistically, all you need at this stage is a bullet-point list that describes (in broad strokes) what you’ll discuss and in what order. It’s also useful to remember that you’re not glued to this outline – in all likelihood, you’ll chop and change some sections once you start writing, and that’s perfectly okay. What’s important is that you have some sort of roadmap in place from the start.

At this stage you might be wondering, “ But how should I structure my research paper? ”. Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here, but in general, a research paper will consist of a few relatively standardised components:

• Introduction
• Literature review
• Methodology

Let’s take a look at each of these.

First up is the introduction section . As the name suggests, the purpose of the introduction is to set the scene for your research paper. There are usually (at least) four ingredients that go into this section – these are the background to the topic, the research problem and resultant research question , and the justification or rationale. If you’re interested, the video below unpacks the introduction section in more detail. 

The next section of your research paper will typically be your literature review . Remember all that literature you worked through earlier? Well, this is where you’ll present your interpretation of all that content . You’ll do this by writing about recent trends, developments, and arguments within the literature – but more specifically, those that are relevant to your research question . The literature review can oftentimes seem a little daunting, even to seasoned researchers, so be sure to check out our extensive collection of literature review content here .

With the introduction and lit review out of the way, the next section of your paper is the research methodology . In a nutshell, the methodology section should describe to your reader what you did (beyond just reviewing the existing literature) to answer your research question. For example, what data did you collect, how did you collect that data, how did you analyse that data and so on? For each choice, you’ll also need to justify why you chose to do it that way, and what the strengths and weaknesses of your approach were.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that for some research papers, this aspect of the project may be a lot simpler . For example, you may only need to draw on secondary sources (in other words, existing data sets). In some cases, you may just be asked to draw your conclusions from the literature search itself (in other words, there may be no data analysis at all). But, if you are required to collect and analyse data, you’ll need to pay a lot of attention to the methodology section. The video below provides an example of what the methodology section might look like.

By this stage of your paper, you will have explained what your research question is, what the existing literature has to say about that question, and how you analysed additional data to try to answer your question. So, the natural next step is to present your analysis of that data . This section is usually called the “results” or “analysis” section and this is where you’ll showcase your findings.

Depending on your school’s requirements, you may need to present and interpret the data in one section – or you might split the presentation and the interpretation into two sections. In the latter case, your “results” section will just describe the data, and the “discussion” is where you’ll interpret that data and explicitly link your analysis back to your research question. If you’re not sure which approach to take, check in with your professor or take a look at past papers to see what the norms are for your programme.

Alright – once you’ve presented and discussed your results, it’s time to wrap it up . This usually takes the form of the “ conclusion ” section. In the conclusion, you’ll need to highlight the key takeaways from your study and close the loop by explicitly answering your research question. Again, the exact requirements here will vary depending on your programme (and you may not even need a conclusion section at all) – so be sure to check with your professor if you’re unsure.

Step 3: Write and refine

Finally, it’s time to get writing. All too often though, students hit a brick wall right about here… So, how do you avoid this happening to you?

Well, there’s a lot to be said when it comes to writing a research paper (or any sort of academic piece), but we’ll share three practical tips to help you get started.

First and foremost , it’s essential to approach your writing as an iterative process. In other words, you need to start with a really messy first draft and then polish it over multiple rounds of editing. Don’t waste your time trying to write a perfect research paper in one go. Instead, take the pressure off yourself by adopting an iterative approach.

Secondly , it’s important to always lean towards critical writing , rather than descriptive writing. What does this mean? Well, at the simplest level, descriptive writing focuses on the “ what ”, while critical writing digs into the “ so what ” – in other words, the implications . If you’re not familiar with these two types of writing, don’t worry! You can find a plain-language explanation here.

Last but not least, you’ll need to get your referencing right. Specifically, you’ll need to provide credible, correctly formatted citations for the statements you make. We see students making referencing mistakes all the time and it costs them dearly. The good news is that you can easily avoid this by using a simple reference manager . If you don’t have one, check out our video about Mendeley, an easy (and free) reference management tool that you can start using today.

Recap: Key Takeaways

We’ve covered a lot of ground here. To recap, the three steps to writing a high-quality research paper are:

• To choose a research question and review the literature
• To plan your paper structure and draft an outline
• To take an iterative approach to writing, focusing on critical writing and strong referencing

Remember, this is just a b ig-picture overview of the research paper development process and there’s a lot more nuance to unpack. So, be sure to grab a copy of our free research paper template to learn more about how to write a research paper.

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Background: Energy and sports drinks have gained popularity among diverse demographic groups, including adolescents, athletes, workers, and college students. While often used interchangeably, these beverages serve distinct purposes, with energy drinks aiming to boost energy and cognitive performance, and sports drinks designed to prevent dehydration and replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates lost during physical exertion.

Objective: To assess the nutritional quality of energy and sports drinks in Egypt.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study assessed the nutrient contents, including energy, sugar, electrolytes, vitamins, and caffeine, of sports and energy drinks available in major supermarkets in Cairo, Alexandria, and Giza, Egypt. Data collection involved photographing all relevant product labels and recording nutritional information. Descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests were employed to analyze and compare the nutritional values of energy and sports drinks.

Results: The study analyzed 38 sports drinks and 42 energy drinks. Sports drinks were significantly more expensive than energy drinks, with higher net content and elevated magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. Energy drinks contained higher concentrations of caffeine, sugars, and vitamins B2, B3, and B6.

Conclusion: Significant nutritional differences exist between sports and energy drinks, reflecting their intended uses. However, these beverages’ high sugar content and calorie loads raise health concerns. Proper labeling, public awareness, and responsible marketing are essential to guide safe consumption practices in Egypt.

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• How to write a research paper

Last updated

11 January 2024

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With proper planning, knowledge, and framework, completing a research paper can be a fulfilling and exciting experience. 

Though it might initially sound slightly intimidating, this guide will help you embrace the challenge. 

By documenting your findings, you can inspire others and make a difference in your field. Here's how you can make your research paper unique and comprehensive.

• What is a research paper?

Research papers allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of a particular topic. These papers are usually lengthier and more detailed than typical essays, requiring deeper insight into the chosen topic.

To write a research paper, you must first choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to the field of study. Once you’ve selected your topic, gathering as many relevant resources as possible, including books, scholarly articles, credible websites, and other academic materials, is essential. You must then read and analyze these sources, summarizing their key points and identifying gaps in the current research.

You can formulate your ideas and opinions once you thoroughly understand the existing research. To get there might involve conducting original research, gathering data, or analyzing existing data sets. It could also involve presenting an original argument or interpretation of the existing research.

Writing a successful research paper involves presenting your findings clearly and engagingly, which might involve using charts, graphs, or other visual aids to present your data and using concise language to explain your findings. You must also ensure your paper adheres to relevant academic formatting guidelines, including proper citations and references.

Overall, writing a research paper requires a significant amount of time, effort, and attention to detail. However, it is also an enriching experience that allows you to delve deeply into a subject that interests you and contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your chosen field.

• How long should a research paper be?

Research papers are deep dives into a topic. Therefore, they tend to be longer pieces of work than essays or opinion pieces. 

However, a suitable length depends on the complexity of the topic and your level of expertise. For instance, are you a first-year college student or an experienced professional? 

Also, remember that the best research papers provide valuable information for the benefit of others. Therefore, the quality of information matters most, not necessarily the length. Being concise is valuable.

Following these best practice steps will help keep your process simple and productive:

1. Gaining a deep understanding of any expectations

Before diving into your intended topic or beginning the research phase, take some time to orient yourself. Suppose there’s a specific topic assigned to you. In that case, it’s essential to deeply understand the question and organize your planning and approach in response. Pay attention to the key requirements and ensure you align your writing accordingly. 

This preparation step entails

Deeply understanding the task or assignment

Being clear about the expected format and length

Familiarizing yourself with the citation and referencing requirements 

Understanding any defined limits for your research contribution

Where applicable, speaking to your professor or research supervisor for further clarification

2. Choose your research topic

Select a research topic that aligns with both your interests and available resources. Ideally, focus on a field where you possess significant experience and analytical skills. In crafting your research paper, it's crucial to go beyond summarizing existing data and contribute fresh insights to the chosen area.

Consider narrowing your focus to a specific aspect of the topic. For example, if exploring the link between technology and mental health, delve into how social media use during the pandemic impacts the well-being of college students. Conducting interviews and surveys with students could provide firsthand data and unique perspectives, adding substantial value to the existing knowledge.

When finalizing your topic, adhere to legal and ethical norms in the relevant area (this ensures the integrity of your research, protects participants' rights, upholds intellectual property standards, and ensures transparency and accountability). Following these principles not only maintains the credibility of your work but also builds trust within your academic or professional community.

For instance, in writing about medical research, consider legal and ethical norms , including patient confidentiality laws and informed consent requirements. Similarly, if analyzing user data on social media platforms, be mindful of data privacy regulations, ensuring compliance with laws governing personal information collection and use. Aligning with legal and ethical standards not only avoids potential issues but also underscores the responsible conduct of your research.

3. Gather preliminary research

Once you’ve landed on your topic, it’s time to explore it further. You’ll want to discover more about available resources and existing research relevant to your assignment at this stage. 

This exploratory phase is vital as you may discover issues with your original idea or realize you have insufficient resources to explore the topic effectively. This key bit of groundwork allows you to redirect your research topic in a different, more feasible, or more relevant direction if necessary. 

Spending ample time at this stage ensures you gather everything you need, learn as much as you can about the topic, and discover gaps where the topic has yet to be sufficiently covered, offering an opportunity to research it further. 

4. Define your research question

To produce a well-structured and focused paper, it is imperative to formulate a clear and precise research question that will guide your work. Your research question must be informed by the existing literature and tailored to the scope and objectives of your project. By refining your focus, you can produce a thoughtful and engaging paper that effectively communicates your ideas to your readers.

5. Write a thesis statement

A thesis statement is a one-to-two-sentence summary of your research paper's main argument or direction. It serves as an overall guide to summarize the overall intent of the research paper for you and anyone wanting to know more about the research.

A strong thesis statement is:

Concise and clear: Explain your case in simple sentences (avoid covering multiple ideas). It might help to think of this section as an elevator pitch.

Specific: Ensure that there is no ambiguity in your statement and that your summary covers the points argued in the paper.

Debatable: A thesis statement puts forward a specific argument––it is not merely a statement but a debatable point that can be analyzed and discussed.

Here are three thesis statement examples from different disciplines:

Psychology thesis example: "We're studying adults aged 25-40 to see if taking short breaks for mindfulness can help with stress. Our goal is to find practical ways to manage anxiety better."

Environmental science thesis example: "This research paper looks into how having more city parks might make the air cleaner and keep people healthier. I want to find out if more green spaces means breathing fewer carcinogens in big cities."

UX research thesis example: "This study focuses on improving mobile banking for older adults using ethnographic research, eye-tracking analysis, and interactive prototyping. We investigate the usefulness of eye-tracking analysis with older individuals, aiming to spark debate and offer fresh perspectives on UX design and digital inclusivity for the aging population."

6. Conduct in-depth research

A research paper doesn’t just include research that you’ve uncovered from other papers and studies but your fresh insights, too. You will seek to become an expert on your topic––understanding the nuances in the current leading theories. You will analyze existing research and add your thinking and discoveries.  It's crucial to conduct well-designed research that is rigorous, robust, and based on reliable sources. Suppose a research paper lacks evidence or is biased. In that case, it won't benefit the academic community or the general public. Therefore, examining the topic thoroughly and furthering its understanding through high-quality research is essential. That usually means conducting new research. Depending on the area under investigation, you may conduct surveys, interviews, diary studies , or observational research to uncover new insights or bolster current claims.

7. Determine supporting evidence

Not every piece of research you’ve discovered will be relevant to your research paper. It’s important to categorize the most meaningful evidence to include alongside your discoveries. It's important to include evidence that doesn't support your claims to avoid exclusion bias and ensure a fair research paper.

8. Write a research paper outline

Before diving in and writing the whole paper, start with an outline. It will help you to see if more research is needed, and it will provide a framework by which to write a more compelling paper. Your supervisor may even request an outline to approve before beginning to write the first draft of the full paper. An outline will include your topic, thesis statement, key headings, short summaries of the research, and your arguments.

9. Write your first draft

Once you feel confident about your outline and sources, it’s time to write your first draft. While penning a long piece of content can be intimidating, if you’ve laid the groundwork, you will have a structure to help you move steadily through each section. To keep up motivation and inspiration, it’s often best to keep the pace quick. Stopping for long periods can interrupt your flow and make jumping back in harder than writing when things are fresh in your mind.

10. Cite your sources correctly

It's always a good practice to give credit where it's due, and the same goes for citing any works that have influenced your paper. Building your arguments on credible references adds value and authenticity to your research. In the formatting guidelines section, you’ll find an overview of different citation styles (MLA, CMOS, or APA), which will help you meet any publishing or academic requirements and strengthen your paper's credibility. It is essential to follow the guidelines provided by your school or the publication you are submitting to ensure the accuracy and relevance of your citations.

11. Ensure your work is original

It is crucial to ensure the originality of your paper, as plagiarism can lead to serious consequences. To avoid plagiarism, you should use proper paraphrasing and quoting techniques. Paraphrasing is rewriting a text in your own words while maintaining the original meaning. Quoting involves directly citing the source. Giving credit to the original author or source is essential whenever you borrow their ideas or words. You can also use plagiarism detection tools such as Scribbr or Grammarly to check the originality of your paper. These tools compare your draft writing to a vast database of online sources. If you find any accidental plagiarism, you should correct it immediately by rephrasing or citing the source.

12. Revise, edit, and proofread

One of the essential qualities of excellent writers is their ability to understand the importance of editing and proofreading. Even though it's tempting to call it a day once you've finished your writing, editing your work can significantly improve its quality. It's natural to overlook the weaker areas when you've just finished writing a paper. Therefore, it's best to take a break of a day or two, or even up to a week, to refresh your mind. This way, you can return to your work with a new perspective. After some breathing room, you can spot any inconsistencies, spelling and grammar errors, typos, or missing citations and correct them. 

• The best research paper format 

The format of your research paper should align with the requirements set forth by your college, school, or target publication. 

There is no one “best” format, per se. Depending on the stated requirements, you may need to include the following elements:

Title page: The title page of a research paper typically includes the title, author's name, and institutional affiliation and may include additional information such as a course name or instructor's name. 

Table of contents: Include a table of contents to make it easy for readers to find specific sections of your paper.

Abstract: The abstract is a summary of the purpose of the paper.

Methods : In this section, describe the research methods used. This may include collecting data , conducting interviews, or doing field research .

Results: Summarize the conclusions you drew from your research in this section.

Discussion: In this section, discuss the implications of your research . Be sure to mention any significant limitations to your approach and suggest areas for further research.

Tables, charts, and illustrations: Use tables, charts, and illustrations to help convey your research findings and make them easier to understand.

Works cited or reference page: Include a works cited or reference page to give credit to the sources that you used to conduct your research.

Bibliography: Provide a list of all the sources you consulted while conducting your research.

Dedication and acknowledgments : Optionally, you may include a dedication and acknowledgments section to thank individuals who helped you with your research.

• General style and formatting guidelines

Formatting your research paper means you can submit it to your college, journal, or other publications in compliance with their criteria.

Research papers tend to follow the American Psychological Association (APA), Modern Language Association (MLA), or Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) guidelines.

Here’s how each style guide is typically used:

Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS):

CMOS is a versatile style guide used for various types of writing. It's known for its flexibility and use in the humanities. CMOS provides guidelines for citations, formatting, and overall writing style. It allows for both footnotes and in-text citations, giving writers options based on their preferences or publication requirements.

American Psychological Association (APA):

APA is common in the social sciences. It’s hailed for its clarity and emphasis on precision. It has specific rules for citing sources, creating references, and formatting papers. APA style uses in-text citations with an accompanying reference list. It's designed to convey information efficiently and is widely used in academic and scientific writing.

Modern Language Association (MLA):

MLA is widely used in the humanities, especially literature and language studies. It emphasizes the author-page format for in-text citations and provides guidelines for creating a "Works Cited" page. MLA is known for its focus on the author's name and the literary works cited. It’s frequently used in disciplines that prioritize literary analysis and critical thinking.

To confirm you're using the latest style guide, check the official website or publisher's site for updates, consult academic resources, and verify the guide's publication date. Online platforms and educational resources may also provide summaries and alerts about any revisions or additions to the style guide.

Citing sources

When working on your research paper, it's important to cite the sources you used properly. Your citation style will guide you through this process. Generally, there are three parts to citing sources in your research paper: 

First, provide a brief citation in the body of your essay. This is also known as a parenthetical or in-text citation. 

Second, include a full citation in the Reference list at the end of your paper. Different types of citations include in-text citations, footnotes, and reference lists. 

In-text citations include the author's surname and the date of the citation. 

Footnotes appear at the bottom of each page of your research paper. They may also be summarized within a reference list at the end of the paper. 

A reference list includes all of the research used within the paper at the end of the document. It should include the author, date, paper title, and publisher listed in the order that aligns with your citation style.

10 research paper writing tips:

Following some best practices is essential to writing a research paper that contributes to your field of study and creates a positive impact.

These tactics will help you structure your argument effectively and ensure your work benefits others:

Clear and precise language:  Ensure your language is unambiguous. Use academic language appropriately, but keep it simple. Also, provide clear takeaways for your audience.

Effective idea separation:  Organize the vast amount of information and sources in your paper with paragraphs and titles. Create easily digestible sections for your readers to navigate through.

Compelling intro:  Craft an engaging introduction that captures your reader's interest. Hook your audience and motivate them to continue reading.

Thorough revision and editing:  Take the time to review and edit your paper comprehensively. Use tools like Grammarly to detect and correct small, overlooked errors.

Thesis precision:  Develop a clear and concise thesis statement that guides your paper. Ensure that your thesis aligns with your research's overall purpose and contribution.

Logical flow of ideas:  Maintain a logical progression throughout the paper. Use transitions effectively to connect different sections and maintain coherence.

Critical evaluation of sources:  Evaluate and critically assess the relevance and reliability of your sources. Ensure that your research is based on credible and up-to-date information.

Thematic consistency:  Maintain a consistent theme throughout the paper. Ensure that all sections contribute cohesively to the overall argument.

Relevant supporting evidence:  Provide concise and relevant evidence to support your arguments. Avoid unnecessary details that may distract from the main points.

Embrace counterarguments:  Acknowledge and address opposing views to strengthen your position. Show that you have considered alternative arguments in your field.

7 research tips 

If you want your paper to not only be well-written but also contribute to the progress of human knowledge, consider these tips to take your paper to the next level:

Selecting the appropriate topic: The topic you select should align with your area of expertise, comply with the requirements of your project, and have sufficient resources for a comprehensive investigation.

Use academic databases: Academic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and JSTOR offer a wealth of research papers that can help you discover everything you need to know about your chosen topic.

Critically evaluate sources: It is important not to accept research findings at face value. Instead, it is crucial to critically analyze the information to avoid jumping to conclusions or overlooking important details. A well-written research paper requires a critical analysis with thorough reasoning to support claims.

Diversify your sources: Expand your research horizons by exploring a variety of sources beyond the standard databases. Utilize books, conference proceedings, and interviews to gather diverse perspectives and enrich your understanding of the topic.

Take detailed notes: Detailed note-taking is crucial during research and can help you form the outline and body of your paper.

Stay up on trends: Keep abreast of the latest developments in your field by regularly checking for recent publications. Subscribe to newsletters, follow relevant journals, and attend conferences to stay informed about emerging trends and advancements. 

Engage in peer review: Seek feedback from peers or mentors to ensure the rigor and validity of your research . Peer review helps identify potential weaknesses in your methodology and strengthens the overall credibility of your findings.

• The real-world impact of research papers

Writing a research paper is more than an academic or business exercise. The experience provides an opportunity to explore a subject in-depth, broaden one's understanding, and arrive at meaningful conclusions. With careful planning, dedication, and hard work, writing a research paper can be a fulfilling and enriching experience contributing to advancing knowledge.

How do I publish my research paper? 

Many academics wish to publish their research papers. While challenging, your paper might get traction if it covers new and well-written information. To publish your research paper, find a target publication, thoroughly read their guidelines, format your paper accordingly, and send it to them per their instructions. You may need to include a cover letter, too. After submission, your paper may be peer-reviewed by experts to assess its legitimacy, quality, originality, and methodology. Following review, you will be informed by the publication whether they have accepted or rejected your paper. 

What is a good opening sentence for a research paper? 

Beginning your research paper with a compelling introduction can ensure readers are interested in going further. A relevant quote, a compelling statistic, or a bold argument can start the paper and hook your reader. Remember, though, that the most important aspect of a research paper is the quality of the information––not necessarily your ability to storytell, so ensure anything you write aligns with your goals.

Research paper vs. a research proposal—what’s the difference?

While some may confuse research papers and proposals, they are different documents. 

A research proposal comes before a research paper. It is a detailed document that outlines an intended area of exploration. It includes the research topic, methodology, timeline, sources, and potential conclusions. Research proposals are often required when seeking approval to conduct research. 

A research paper is a summary of research findings. A research paper follows a structured format to present those findings and construct an argument or conclusion.

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Writing a Research Paper

This page lists some of the stages involved in writing a library-based research paper.

Although this list suggests that there is a simple, linear process to writing such a paper, the actual process of writing a research paper is often a messy and recursive one, so please use this outline as a flexible guide.

Discovering, Narrowing, and Focusing a Researchable Topic

• Try to find a topic that truly interests you
• Try writing your way to a topic
• Talk with your course instructor and classmates about your topic
• Pose your topic as a question to be answered or a problem to be solved

Finding, Selecting, and Reading Sources

You will need to look at the following types of sources:

• library catalog, periodical indexes, bibliographies, suggestions from your instructor
• primary vs. secondary sources
• journals, books, other documents

Grouping, Sequencing, and Documenting Information

The following systems will help keep you organized:

• a system for noting sources on bibliography cards
• a system for organizing material according to its relative importance
• a system for taking notes

Writing an Outline and a Prospectus for Yourself

Consider the following questions:

• What is the topic?
• Why is it significant?
• What background material is relevant?
• What is my thesis or purpose statement?
• What organizational plan will best support my purpose?

Writing the Introduction

In the introduction you will need to do the following things:

• present relevant background or contextual material
• define terms or concepts when necessary
• explain the focus of the paper and your specific purpose
• reveal your plan of organization

Writing the Body

• Use your outline and prospectus as flexible guides
• Build your essay around points you want to make (i.e., don’t let your sources organize your paper)
• Integrate your sources into your discussion
• Summarize, analyze, explain, and evaluate published work rather than merely reporting it
• Move up and down the “ladder of abstraction” from generalization to varying levels of detail back to generalization

Writing the Conclusion

• If the argument or point of your paper is complex, you may need to summarize the argument for your reader.
• If prior to your conclusion you have not yet explained the significance of your findings or if you are proceeding inductively, use the end of your paper to add your points up, to explain their significance.
• Move from a detailed to a general level of consideration that returns the topic to the context provided by the introduction.
• Perhaps suggest what about this topic needs further research.

Revising the Final Draft

• Check overall organization : logical flow of introduction, coherence and depth of discussion in body, effectiveness of conclusion.
• Paragraph level concerns : topic sentences, sequence of ideas within paragraphs, use of details to support generalizations, summary sentences where necessary, use of transitions within and between paragraphs.
• Sentence level concerns: sentence structure, word choices, punctuation, spelling.
• Documentation: consistent use of one system, citation of all material not considered common knowledge, appropriate use of endnotes or footnotes, accuracy of list of works cited.

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