Basic Structure of a Research Paper
Karin Duran, Ph.D
(Adapted from 12 Easy Steps to Successful Research Papers- Nell W. Meriwether)

I. Introduction

Sets the tone for the paper
Creates interest
Makes it clear that you have adequately researched the topic
Will be longer than one paragraph
Most common types of introductions:
  1. “funnel” or “reverse pyramid” approach

    2. Begin with general or broad statements, then work down to your thesis which is the last statement in the introduction
  2. short anecdote

    3. Uses accounts of interesting incidents to stimulate reader’s interest
  3. outline approach

    4. Acquaints your reader with what you will discuss in your paper by leading the reader through the major points
  4. quotation

    5. Use a quotation that succinctly describes the topic. Keywords or phrases may be identified here because of their importance to the paper
  5. compare/contrast

    6. Shows how two or more similar or dissimilar ideas will be presented
 

II. Body of the paper

Transition from introduction to the development of your ideas with supporting documentation
  1. Chronological order
  2. Spatial order such as geographic
  3. Cause and effect OR effects and causes
  4. General to particular/broad to specific
  5. Particular to general/specific to broad
  6. Compare/contrast

III. Conclusion

Ties together and shows reader what has been presented.
Generally no longer that 1-2 paragraphs
  1. Restate thesis
  2. Summarize main points
  3. Emphasize key words/phrases
  4. Use succinct quotation
Remember to keep track of the identifying information for each of your sources so that you can create complete and correct bibliographic references.
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Last updated: 11 September 2000 Questions about the content of this page, contact: Instructional Web Pages.