A research paper is a creative written piece that contains your opinion, methods, and conclusion on a particular topic you researched. It is sometimes called a journal and most times a thesis or academic paper.
Writing a research paper can be a challenging task, as it requires critical thinking, analysis, synthesis of information, and adherence to specific guidelines and standards. During a study, every piece of information gotten and steps taken, even the mistakes made, are penned down and later edited and compiled into a small document and submitted after study.
Let’s explore the fundamental aspects of a research paper, including its purpose, structure, and key components, to help you understand how to write a successful research paper.
Types of Research Paper
- Survey
- Experimental
- Analytical
- Persuasive
- Interpretive
#1. Survey
A survey research paper deals with asking questions to get answers and results on a certain topic. Some studies don’t require experiments or the use of high-level technology to get the solution to the problem, a few questions here and there quantitatively can get you the answer you want.
Survey research is just like the one that is sent to you by a friend or formal personnel to help answer some questions, it’s like a form that doesn’t require your personal information, all that is required is your opinion on the topic under study. This makes work easier for the researcher, the answers with the majority take the win, and the best solution is gotten by the highest pick on the survey research.
It is used in schools, companies, and even the government to get the public’s opinion on a study. If this is the survey method you wish to ensure the audience you reach out to are those that can give the best answers to what you need. After getting the survey questions back, sort out the needful and best options, write on them, and give your conclusion on your research.
#2. Experimental
The experiment simply means practical or test. This type of research paper is compiled by experimenting before giving a report. Unlike the others that you report based on theory or what is belief, this is purely practical, seen with the eyes that it is real and true.
This is used mostly in chemistry, physics, and biology in school and sometimes computer science. For example, if the research is on osmosis, you have to go through the whole step in the lab, pen down how osmosis occurred, the challenges faced when experimenting, answers to questions asked, and your thoughts on osmosis as a topic.
It is also called analytical research because all the readers will hold at hand is based on your experiment. It is advised that you truthfully state if it was put to test or not, if not, it’s best to stick with another research paper else one will be penalized or the study nullified.
#3. Analytical
An analytical research paper is a type of research paper that allows you to reconstruct from your point of view. After the introduction of your topic, you state the problem, arguments, and then your insight on the topic.
The research must be done well to the point when you can be termed a professional in that topic, with enough knowledge you can now make your point of view count in the research paper. It is used for chronological events and experimental studies too.
#4. Persuasive
To make your research paper one thing you can’t leave out is evidence, and proof showing that you did the research well. A persuasive research paper is written with the following steps.
- Choose a topic that you love so much
- Picture the perfect audience(your readers, research helps)
- Do thorough research on it and get your facts right on both ends of your argument
- Give a brief and catchy introduction
- State your main text with results objectives
- Draw your conclusion.
#5. Interpretive
This is also known as a qualitative research paper. This makes all the methodology and information given in the research understandable to the reader.
Below is a perfect way of writing an interpretive Research Paper
- Remember you want to make it clear for the reader in your terms, first give a simple introduction stating your topic
- Compile all the information get into the body in sub-topics and paragraphs
- List out likely questions to be asked, and give your answers
- Live space for the audience to give opinions too.
- You might read it out loud to see if it is understandable enough for the reader.
- Wrap up with a good conclusion.
Parts of a Research Paper
A typical research paper generally includes the following parts:
- Title page
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Literature Review
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- References
- Appendices
Title page: This is the opening page of the paper that includes the title of the research, the author’s name and affiliation, the name of the institution where the research was conducted, and the date of submission.
Abstract: This is a brief summary of the research that provides an overview of the research problem, the methods used, the results obtained, and the main conclusions.
Introduction: This section provides a background of the research problem, outlines the research questions or objectives, and explains the significance and relevance of the research.
Literature Review: The theoretical foundation for the study is established in this section and a critical review of the previous research on the topic establishes the theoretical framework for the research.
Methods: This section outlines the methods used in the research, including the research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
Results: This section presents the results obtained from the research, usually in the form of tables, graphs, or charts.
Discussion: This section interprets and discusses the results in the context of the research questions and objectives and relates the findings to the previous research.
Conclusion: This section summarizes the main findings of the research, highlights the contributions of the research, and suggests areas for future research. See our article on How to Write a Research Paper Conclusion.
References: This section lists all the sources cited in the paper, following a particular citation style such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.
Appendices: This section includes any supplementary material, such as additional data or graphs, that supports the research findings.
Conclusion
In summary, A well-structured and coherent research paper is the result of significant research, critical thinking, and effective communication techniques. Writing and presenting a research paper is one of the best ways for students to build their research techniques, critical thinking skills, and writing and presentation talents. As a result, it is a crucial step in the academic process, and students must put out the effort necessary to write an excellent research paper that satisfies the standards set by their professors or instructors. Writing a research paper is, in the end, a fulfilling activity that aids students in expanding their knowledge of a certain topic and contributing to the academic debate.
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