Format For a Research Paper - A Guide For Students

A research
paper is an academic essay, a thesis, or a dissertation that is based on the
original research and analysis of a certain topic and the explanation of the
research outcome. The basic format for a research paper involves choosing a
topic, finding information, making thesis statement, and organizing your
findings to arrive at a conclusion.

Here is a
step wise guide for students to understand the format for a research paper:

1.     Pick a topic

Start by
selecting a topic that intrigues and challenges you. Pick a topic on which you
can find enough source materials. Avoid essay writing topics that seem
too academic, technical, or advanced for you to manage.  

2.      Collect information

The internet is
an accessible medium that offers plenty of information on everything. Browse
the sites that seem more reliable such as official or government sites. Check
domain names to narrow your search. You can consult library books, printed
materials like encyclopedias, reports, newspapers, magazines, etc. Online
resources can be checked to retrieve past research work related to your topic.
Read, evaluate, and record relevant information. Remember to write down
bibliographical information (URLs, author, the title of publication, place,
etc.) since you must cite all the bibliographical information in your research
paper.

3.    Create a thesis statement

A research
paper requires a thesis statement that conveys the main point of your paper.
The arguments provided in the paper are based on this main point so; think
critically before writing your thesis statement. A thesis statement declares
your belief and your paper provides a series of arguments to support this
belief. The statement should appear early in your paper like in the
introduction section or in the second paragraph. You can formulate a thesis
statement only when you have completed your research and gathered all relevant
information. A well-organized thesis increases the credibility of your paper.

4.    Prepare an outline

The basic
outline of a research paper includes the Title Page, Abstract (brief summary),
Introduction, Main Body, Materials and Methodologies, Results, and Conclusion
etc. You can create an informal outline to clarify key points and arrange them.
However, a formal outline includes alphabets and numbers to organize topics and
subtopics. The text denoted by headings must be arranged in a logical order.

5.    Arrange your notes

This is an
important step in writing a research paper. Arrange the gathered information
according to the outline. Analyze your data critically. Use the best sources
for accurate and verified information that captures the interest of the reader.
Keep note of opposing views if they support your thesis. Analysis and sorting
of information will help you learn more about your chosen topic. In addition,
you will be able to communicate your ideas and research findings effectively to
others.

6.   Write a draft

Start with
writing your topic in the outline. Add all the relevant information you have
gathered and label it in Roman numerals. Paraphrase, summarize, or directly
quote for each point you plan to make in your essay. You can use cards or
sheets to write your first draft. Check the facts and figures in your draft for
errors. Restructure the outline keeping your research topic and readers in
mind. There is a specific essay writing format that you must
follow depending on the area of studies or university requirements. Ask your
supervisor to know which particular style to follow.

7.   Type your paper

All research
papers or essays should be printed or typewritten. Proofread the final paper
for typos, punctuation, or repeated words. Make sure that your final paper is
neat and eye-catching. Academic
writing experts at Arab essay can help you write your research paper from
scratch. Contact our experts for guidance on writing quality research papers.

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