Whether for a doctoral or post-graduation degree writing a research paper seems to be a complicated process for all novices or first-timers. The hard work one needs to put in forunbiased analysis, elucidation and development of arguments often deter a student from writing a research paper. They have the hunger to flaunt the degree but are wary of putting in the effort to earn it. Ask these individuals; they will say – “why will you work so hard when I can pay someone to do my homework.” No one can put the finger on these individuals; it is just a perspective. However, another cult of people lies who like to tastethe fruits of hard labour- the feeling is heavenly.
They often confuse the steps to craft an impressive research paper. In reality, it is nothing more than an extended academic essay with more detailed information and a different structure.
Follow the simple steps to write a business report writing to understand the difference.
Note the requirement
Finishing a research paper fruitfullyindicatescompleting the specific assigned tasks. Before beginning the task, it is essential to note the project requirements:
- Go through the prompts carefullyand get the confusion clarified by the professor.
- Consider the project objective, deadline, word or page limits, formatting, and submission method.
- Bullet the essential points, then strike through the completed items after writing.
Carefully reflect onthe timeframe and word limit: be practical, and mapsufficient time to research, draft and edit.
Choose a research paper topic
There are several ways to get ideas for a research topic:
- Brainstorming – with co-researchers with pen and paper
- Free writing – writing what pops into the mind on a broad topic for continuous 3 minutes to find some relevant ideas
- Getting inspiration from other research – while going through their discussion or recommendations sections
Once several ideas mound up at the end of the process, it is time to narrow down the choices. One must consider the interest, research criteria, and scope of research on the subject before going further with it. Make sure that it is original and specific.
Let’s take a look at these two examples:
Example 1: Sequence of events of World War II
Example 2: Life of Danish Citizen dwelling close to the German border during World War II.
Which one seems compelling and original? Obviously, example 2
Conduct preliminary research
Note any dialogue that appears to besignificant to the topic, and find asubject that can shed light on the research topic. Work on all the available sources spanning journals, books and reliable websites, to guaranteeanything prominent is not missed out.
Moreover, look for information that contradicts the research’s perspectives to make it more practical.
Ponder over the thoughts:
- Are there any heated debates that can be addressed?
- Is the perspective on the subject unique enough?
- Have there been anyfreshdevelopments on the subject decided to be discussed in the research?
These thoughts will help develop the research question and guide the entire project. A simple trick is helpful – make a research question that answers what, why, how, where and when related to the research topic.
Develop a thesis statement
A thesis statement is a line that talks aboutthe purpose of developing the paper. It must answer the research question and glimpse into the evidence and reasoning the paper will unfold to support that answer.
Here are a few things to keep in mind while developing a thesis statement:
- It must be concise, contentious, and coherent
- Sum up the primary argument in no more than sentences
- Open doors to add evidence, analysis, and coherent points
- It is a guide to the entire writing process
Create a research paper outline
An outline must enlist the primary topics, arguments, and evidence to include, split into sections with headings. It will give an outlook on what the paper will look like at the end before one starts writing the paper. Setting a time limit to complete each section of the paper will help me write the paper more efficiently.
Write a first draft of the research paper
The first draft will never be perfect, but it must:
- Keepthe momentum — note down now, adjust later.
- Have paragraphs and sentences organized logically?
- Expressing clear ideas.
Starting with the introduction is not mandatory. One can begin with the section that seems easy and then map the ways as per the outline.
Other things to take care of:
- Paragraph structure
Paragraphs are the lintel pillars of research papers. Each must take the load of one idea to help establish the overall argument.
- Citing sources
It is essential to keep track of citations to steer away from accidental plagiarism. While using a source, ensure to know where the information came from.
Male The Final Draft
The final draft must include the following:
- An introduction
It must answer the following questions related to the topic:
- What – is the background of the research – use key terms
- Why – the research – use important information to offer insights on the topic
- How – will the paper unfold – a map of the topic to be discussed
- Body chapters
The body of the research paper must have compelling chapters that mimic the structure as decided in the outline and are tallied with the thesis statement and the topic sentences.
To ensure that the topic sentence of each body paragraph lines with the thesis statement, place all topic sentences and the thesis statement against each other and check their sound arrangement.
- Conclusion
Everybody knows that a conclusion must wrap up all the points discussed in the paper and state the grounds for further research on the topic. However, it must not:
- Add any important information
- Be lengthy
- Start with stock phases
Create the Second draft
The second draft must check the 4 points:
- It answers the given prompt
- Ascertain the assumptions that require substantial justification
- The paragraphs and chapters are arranged sequentially
- There are no out-of-the-blue statements or ideas that break the flow of the words
Revise the solution
At the beginning of the revision, keep the research paper prompt sheet and the research paper outline handy. Then begin the task. Revise and proofread, keeping in mind the following:
- Overall concerns
- The paper has all the information mentioned in the assignment sheet
- Logical arrangement and smooth flow of paragraphs
- Each paragraph links to the introduction and thesis statement
- Textural details
While revising the contents of each paragraph, ensure that:
- Each sentence holds up the topic sentence.
- There are no fluffs in the information.
- All technical terms are understandable to the audience of the paper
- Grammatical concerns
Keep an eye on the following:
- Sentence structure, grammatical and syntactical errors, and typos
- Accurate use of transitional words and phrases
- The density of words in the heading and subheading
- Citation Concerns
- Ensure that the accurate citation style is used in-text and reference the sources
- In-text citations and references are formed accurately
- The entire document is formatted according to the latest citation regulation
Key Takeaways:
Now that the entire research paper is devised, ensure that all steps are taken to create an impressive paper. Here is a checklist to tally the details:
- The instructions in the assignment sheet are followed
- Theintroduction presents an engaging topic with necessary background information.
- The introduction has a focused research problem or thesis statement
- The paper is arranged logically with relevant paragraphs and subheadings
- Each paragraph talks about one idea, including a clear topic sentence
- The contents of each paragraph are pertinent to the research problem or thesis statement.
- Appropriate transitional words are used to define the relationships between each chapter, paragraph, and sentence.
- The conclusion is crisp and reciprocates the research question or focuses on supporting the thesis statement.
- The conclusion reflects the writer’s in-depth subject knowledge or understanding.
- The conclusion does not add any new information or ideas essential to the paper.
- Every sourced idea is in-texted in the paper.
- The reference list is present at the end of the document, formatted according to the latest guidelines of the citation style.
- The research paper is revised thoroughly, and the professor’s comments and feedback are incorporated.
- All formatting guidelines are followed precisely.
Author Bio: Daisy Ray is a lecturer at a reputed university in the UK. She also supervises the assignment paper solutions at a reputed assignment help online service. If you need her assistance, you may connect with her at MyAsssignmenthelp.com.