Call/WhatsApp/Text: +1(838)201-9170

How to Write a Great Research Paper: Tips, Tricks, and Examples

05 Oct 2022,4:36 AM

6466

 

If you're anything like me, you always have good intentions at the beginning of the semester for giving yourself ample time to complete an assignment...and then life happens. Don't wait until the last minute to start your research paper! You'll end up panicking and rushing through it, which will result in a less than stellar grade. Start early instead. That way, you'll have plenty of time to do proper research, write multiple drafts, and revise your paper until it's perfect.

 

What Is a Research Paper?

A research paper is a piece of academic writing that presents a clear and well-argued opinion on a particular topic. It should be based on sound evidence and data and must be clearly written in order to communicate its message effectively. To write a good research paper, you will need to invest time and effort into planning and conducting your research, as well as writing and editing your paper. However, the effort you put in will be worth it, as a well-written research paper can be very valuable in furthering your career or advancing your knowledge in your field. When writing a research paper, it is important to remember that you are trying to persuade your reader to see your point of view. Therefore, you will need to make sure that your paper is well-organized and presents your arguments clearly and convincingly. To do this, you should first take some time to plan your paper before you start writing.

 

Key Differences Between a Research Paper and a Research Proposal

When you are assigned a research paper, you are usually expected to write a comprehensive document that covers all aspects of the topic at hand. On the other hand, a research proposal is a more focused document that presents your argument or idea for research concisely and clearly.

 

  • One key difference between a research paper and a research proposal is that a research paper is typically longer and more detailed than a proposal. A typical research paper will be around 10-12 pages in length, while a research proposal will usually be shorter, around 5-7 pages.

 

  • Another key difference is that a research paper should be written in the third person point of view, while a proposal can be written in the first person. This is because a proposal is more focused on your idea or argument, and is less concerned with presenting a comprehensive overview of the topic.

 

  • Finally, it is important to note that a research paper will typically be graded by your professor, while a proposal is not usually graded. This is because a proposal is meant to be a starting point for further research, and is not expected to be a complete and finished product.

 

If you are confused about whether you should be writing a research paper or a proposal, it is always best to ask your professor for clarification. By doing so, you can ensure that you are on the right track and avoid any confusion or frustration down the road.

 

How to Start Writing a Research Paper: Tips and Tricks to Follow

There is no one answer to the question of how to start a research paper. Every student will have to approach this process differently, depending on their skills and experiences. However, here are some general tips that can help make the process easier and more successful.

 

1. Decide on a topic

Choosing a topic for your research paper can be difficult. You want to make sure that you pick something that you're interested in, but you also need to make sure that the topic is feasible to research. Here are a few tips to help you choose a topic:

 

-Choose a topic that you are interested in. This will make it easier to do the research and write the paper.

 

-Make sure that the topic is feasible to research. There needs to be enough information available on the topic so that you can write a comprehensive paper.

 

-Talk to your professor about potential topics. They may have specific topics that they would like you to focus on.

Examples of good and bad research paper topics

 

Bad Research Paper Topics

 

1. The Salem Witch Trials: Were the accused really, witches?

2. 9/11: Was the U.S. government really behind the attacks?

3. Adolf Hitler: Was he really as evil as history makes him out to be?

4. The Holocaust: Could it have been prevented?

5. The Crusades: Were they justified?

 

Good Research Paper Topics

 

1. How did the Cold War shape American foreign policy?

2. What were the causes of World War I, and how did it change Europe?

3. Why did the United States become involved in Vietnam, and what were the consequences?

4. The civil rights movement in America

 

 

2. Do your research

Once you've chosen a topic, it's time to start doing some research. You'll need to find sources of information that you can use in your paper. Here are a few tips:

 

-Use the library. The library is a great place to find academic sources of information.

 

-Use the internet. There are many reputable sources of information online. Just make sure that you're using credible sources.

 

-Talk to experts. If you know someone who is an expert on your topic, talk to them and see if they have any recommendations for sources of information.

 

3. Do preliminary research

Once you've gathered your sources of information, it's time to start doing some preliminary research. This means reading through all of your sources and taking notes on what you find. This will help you to develop a thesis statement and outline for your paper. Here are a few tips:

 

-Read your sources critically. Don't just take everything at face value. Look for contradictions and gaps in the information.

 

-Start developing a thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the main idea of your paper. It should be clear and concise.

 

-Start developing an outline for your paper. An outline will help you to organize your thoughts and make sure that you cover all of the key points in your paper.

 

4. Create an outline

When it comes to writing a research paper, having an outline is key. It will help you to organize your thoughts and make sure that you cover all of the key points in your paper. Here are a few tips for creating an outline:

 

-Start by writing down your thesis statement. This is the main idea of your paper and should be clear and concise.

Examples of excellent thesis statements when writing a research paper include:

 

1. Thesis: The Revolution led to a more equal, just society for all citizens.

 

2. Thesis: The Treaty of Versailles ended World War I and helped create a stable world order.

 

3. Thesis: Women's suffrage was a major step forward in the fight for equality and social justice.

 

4. Thesis: The industrial revolution led to increased pollution and environmental degradation.

 

5. Thesis: The Cold War was caused by the ideological differences between the United States and the Soviet Union.

 

-Then, write down the points that you want to cover in your paper. Make sure to include both evidence and analysis for each point.

Stuck Looking For A Model Original Answer To This Or Any Other
Question?

-Once you have a general outline, start dividing it up into sections and subsections. This will help you to create a more detailed outline that will be easier to follow.

 

Here is a good example of what a research paper outline should look like:

 

I. Introduction

 

A. Background Information

 

B. Thesis Statement

 

II. Body paragraphs

 

A. Topic sentence 1

supporting evidence 1

supporting evidence 2

 

B. Topic sentence 2

…etc.

 

III. Conclusion

A. Restate Thesis Statement

B. Summary of Main Points

C. Implications or Applications of Research Findings

 

D. Works Cited

 

As you can see, a research paper outline is very helpful in organizing and writing your research paper. It is recommended that you use this outline when drafting your own research paper. This will help ensure that your paper is well-organized and flows smoothly from one point to another. I hope this was helpful in understanding how a research paper outline should look like!

 

 

 

5. Write the first draft of your paper

Once you have a solid outline, it's time to start writing the first draft of your paper. This can be a daunting task, but if you follow your outline it will be much easier. Here are a few tips:

 

-Start by writing the introduction. This is where you introduce your topic and thesis statement.

 

-Then, write the body of your paper. Make sure to include evidence and analysis for each point that you make.

 

-Finally, write the conclusion. This is where you summarize your findings and argue for your thesis statement.

 

6. Write the body of the paper

When writing the body of your research paper, it's important to include both evidence and analysis for each point that you make. This will help to back up your argument and make your paper more convincing. Additionally, analysis allows you to go beyond simply stating facts and provides a deeper understanding of your topic.

 

Here are a few tips for including evidence and analysis in your paper:

 

-Make sure to cite your sources. Whenever you include information from a source, you need to include a citation. This helps to show that you're using credible sources and that your information is accurate.

 

-Include quotations from sources. When you include a quotation from a source, it helps to support your argument and provides credibility to your paper.

 

-Include statistics or other numerical data. This can help to bolster your argument by providing concrete evidence.

 

-Use examples to illustrate your points. This will help the reader to understand your argument better.

 

An approximate structure for your body should look as follows:

 

Introduction: Introduce the topic of your paper and your research question(s).

 

The introduction should provide a brief overview of the topic, explain the research question(s), and discuss why it is important to investigate. For example, if you are discussing a new medical treatment, you might explain how the treatment works and why it is an important advance in medical care. If you are discussing a new scientific discovery, you might explain the discovery and why it is important.

 

Background: Review the relevant literature on your topic.

 

The background should review the relevant literature on your topic. This should include a review of both scholarly sources and more general sources such as newspapers or magazines. You should discuss both the major findings of this literature and how it relates to your research question. Additionally, you should discuss any gaps in the literature that your research will attempt to fill.

 

Methods: Describe your research methods.

 

The methods section should describe how you conducted your research. This might include a discussion of your research design, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures. You should also explain why you chose these particular methods and how they help you answer your research question.

 

Results or Findings: Present your data and/or results. Include any statistical analyses you performed.

 

The results or findings section should present your data and/or results. This should include a discussion of any statistical analyses you performed. Additionally, you should explain the significance of your findings and what they mean for your research question. You should also discuss how your findings compare to the findings of previous studies.

 

Discussion and Conclusion: Interpret the meaning of your results and the limitations of your study. Make suggestions for future research on this topic.

 

The discussion and conclusion section should interpret the meaning of your results and the limitations of your study. You should also make suggestions for future research on this topic. Additionally, you should discuss how your findings compare to the findings of previous studies. Finally, you should summarize the main points of your paper in a brief concluding paragraph.

 

Here is a SAMPLE RESEARCH PAPER

 

7. Edit and revise your work

The editing and revision process is an important part of the writing process. It helps to ensure that your paper is clear and concise and that all of the key points are covered. Here are a few tips for editing and revising your work:

 

-Read your paper critically. Make sure to read through it several times and look for mistakes in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

 

-Check for clarity. Make sure that your paper is easy to read and that the main points are clear.

 

-Make sure that your argument is logical. Check to make sure that your argument makes sense and that there are no contradictions or gaps in the information.

 

-Check for spelling and grammar errors. This is probably the most important part of the editing process. Make sure to run a spell check and to use a grammar checker.

 

8. Format your paper

 

The other step in the writing process is to format your paper. This includes ensuring that it is correctly formatted for the specific type of paper that you're writing. For example, if you're writing an MLA research paper, then you need to make sure that it follows the MLA format. The same is true for APA, Chicago, and other styles.

 

Here are a few tips for formatting your paper:

 

-Check the requirements for the specific type of paper that you're writing. Make sure to adhere to all of the requirements for formatting, citations, etc.

 

-Use a template. If you're not sure how to format your paper, then consider using a template. This will help to ensure that your paper is correctly formatted.

 

-Proofread your paper. Once you've finished formatting your paper, make sure to proofread it for any mistakes.

 

Writing a research paper can be a daunting task, but if you follow these simple tips it will be much easier. Just remember to start early, make a solid outline, and proofread your work.

 

If you need help with writing a research paper, then consider using our professional writing services. We can help you with every step of the process, from choosing a topic to formatting your paper. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

 

9. Cite your sources

When writing a research paper, it's important to cite your sources correctly. This helps to ensure that your information is accurate and that you're using credible sources. Additionally, it helps to give credit to the authors of the sources that you're using.

 

There are a few different ways to cite your sources depending on the style that you're using. Here are a few of the most common citation styles:

 

-MLA style

-APA style

-Chicago style

 

Each style has its own specific formatting requirements, so be sure to check the specific guidelines for the style that you're using.

 

In addition to including citations in the text of your paper, you also need to include a list of references at the end of your paper. This list contains all of the sources that you've cited in your paper.

 

Here are a few tips for creating a references list:

 

-List all of the sources in alphabetical order by author's last name.

 

-If there is more than one author, list them in reversed order (last name first).

 

-If there is no author listed, then list the source by its title.

 

-Include all of the relevant information for each source, including author(s), title, publication information, etc.

 

10. Celebrate! You've just written a research paper!

Stuck Looking For A Model Original Answer To This Or Any Other
Question?

Final Checklist When Writing a Research Paper: What to Look For

When you are ready to submit your research paper, it is important to go through a final checklist to ensure that everything is in order. Here is a quick guide to help you out:

 

1) Make sure that all of your sources are properly cited. All quotes, statistics, and other information that you have used from outside sources must be credited. Failure to do so could result in plagiarism charges.

 

2) Check your grammar and spelling. Nothing will make your paper look worse than simple errors in these areas. Use a spell checker and/or have someone proofread your work before you submit it.

 

3) Make sure that your paper flows well. Read it over several times to ensure that there are no awkward transitions or choppy sentences.

 

4) Ensure that your paper is on the correct topic. If you were assigned a specific topic, make sure that your paper covers that topic. Otherwise, you risk getting a lower grade.

 

5) Check the length of your paper. Most research papers are required to be between 5-7 pages in length. Make sure that your paper falls within this range.

 

6) Is your thesis correct, strong, and clear? Is your argument convincing? Do you have enough evidence to support your claims?

 

7) Ensure it is unique: The final aspect of writing a research paper that you should be aware of is ensuring that your work is unique. In other words, don't plagiarize! Not only is this morally wrong, but it is also illegal and could get you into a lot of trouble. If you are unsure about how to properly credit your sources, ask your professor

 

By following this final checklist, you can be confident that your research paper is ready to be submitted and will meet all of the requirements set forth by your instructor.

 

Common and Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Research Paper

A research paper is a challenging task, and there are many common mistakes that can lead to its downfall. Here are some of the costliest errors to avoid when writing a research paper:

 

1. Not Defining Your Terms

One of the biggest mistakes researchers make is failing to properly define their terms. This can lead to all sorts of problems, from misunderstanding the data you're working with to making invalid conclusions. Always take the time to define any terms you'll be using in your paper before you start writing. One way to ensure that your terms are properly defined is to provide concrete examples. This will help your readers to understand what you're talking about and avoid any potential confusion. For instance, if you're discussing a particular theory, be sure to provide a brief explanation of it. If you're using technical terms, make sure to define them clearly. The more specific you can be, the easier it will be for your readers to follow your argument.

 

2. Relying on Secondary Sources Too Much

While it's important to use sources outside of your own mind, relying too much on secondary sources can weaken your argument. Make sure to include your own observations and analysis in your paper to give it real strength.

 

3. Neglecting the Editing Process

After you've finished writing your first draft, it's important to go back and edit your work. This is where you'll catch any errors or typos, as well as tighten up your argument. Don't skip this vital step!

 

4. Overlooking the Conclusion

The conclusion of your paper is just as important as the introduction and body. Make sure to wrap up your argument in a satisfying way that leaves readers with something to think about.

 

5. Failing to Proofread

One last mistake to avoid is failing to proofread your work before submitting it. Even if you think you don't have time, this step is essential to catch any small errors that could cost you points.

 

Avoiding these mistakes will help you write a stronger research paper. Take your time and double-check your work, and you'll be sure to produce a quality piece of writing.

Stuck Looking For A Model Original Answer To This Or Any Other
Question?

Research Paper FAQs

 

What is a research paper?

A research paper is a piece of writing that reports on a particular topic. It can be either an essay or a research report. The main difference between the two is that an essay focuses on one specific aspect of the topic, while a research paper covers multiple aspects.

 

How do I choose a good research paper topic?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a research paper topic. First, you need to make sure that the topic is interesting to you. Second, you need to make sure that there is enough information available on the topic. Third, you need to make sure that the topic is relevant to your field of study. Finally, you need to make sure that the topic is feasible to research.

 

What are the different types of research papers?

There are many different types of research papers. The most common type is the argumentative research paper. This type of paper takes a position on a particular issue and supports that position with evidence. Other common types of research papers include the compare and contrast paper, the analytical paper, the literature review paper, and the historical paper.

 

How do I write a good research paper?

There is no one right way to write a research paper. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow to help you produce a well-written paper. First, you need to choose a good topic. Second, you need to gather information on that topic. Third, you need to organize that information in a logical manner. Finally, you need to write your paper in a clear and concise way.

 

What are some common research paper formats?

There are many different research paper formats. The most common format is the MLA format. This format is used by most colleges and universities. Other common formats include the APA format, the Chicago Manual of Style format, and the Turabian format.

 

Where can I conduct research for my paper?

There are many different places to conduct research for your paper. You can use the library, the Internet, and other resources. You can also interview people who are experts on your topic. Finally, you can visit sites that specialize in research papers such as eHow and about.com. These sites will provide you with tips and resources that you can use to write your paper

What Clients Say About Us

WhatsApp us