High school, college, and university students must write several essays or academic papers as part of their education program. These papers play a significant role in the final performance of the students. In fact, failing an academic paper may deny a student a chance to graduate and move to the next career level.
Teachers give these papers based on the field a student is specializing in. The tutors then weigh the understanding level of different students on a particular subject. So, as a student, you must know how to gather useful information related to a given topic using different materials and resources, the present the ideas following an approved academic paper structure. Keep reading to find out the appropriate order of a research paper.
Research paper sections: how to organize a research paper
Apart from grading the context of the paper, professors also grade students according to how they have presented the order of sections in a research paper. Therefore, it wouldn’t make any sense to do admirable research and present content with incredible supporting evidence only to miss good grades as a result of ignoring parts of a research paper.
So, the structure of research paper is made up of the following sections:
- The title
Of course, every academic paper must have a clear title, showing the reader what you are writing about. The topic will always relate to the discipline a student is specializing in. Make sure the topic or the title is simple to understand and eye-catching at the same time.
- The introduction
Next, you need to introduce the reader to what you intend to present in your essay. Therefore, you must include an introduction section with compelling ideas that will hook the reader, making them want to read more of what you have included in other sections.
- The thesis statement
Each academic paper must have a thesis statement that demonstrates the focus or central point of the paper. This is a simple statement that explains your argument for the essay based on the topic.
- Main body
The main body section is made up of different paragraphs describing your arguments in detail. Each paragraph should have a strong and valid point with supporting evidence. All the concepts and ideas you share in the main body paragraphs should match or align with the thesis statement.
- The conclusion
Finally, do not leave your academic paper hanging. The reader needs to know when they are almost coming to the end of your paper and when they finally finish reading your paper. Therefore, use transition words to engage your reader throughout.
The conclusion should be a summary of what you have described in the main body paragraphs. Do not share fresh details in the introduction section.
How to structure a paper: tips for research paper writing
Having described the order of a research paper, what approaches can a student apply to ensure the paper stands out? The tips include:
- Choose a desirable topic
Your research paper starts with selecting an ideal topic. Therefore, your ideal topic should be unique, researchable, and interesting for you to write about.
- Always write an outline
Sparing time to write an outline is the best way to ensure you include all other sections of your research paper appropriately. In your outline, highlight all the details you intend to present in each section of the research paper.
- Write, then proofread later
In your academic paper, spare time specifically for writing, then time for proofreading later. This will give you adequate time to write all your valid points without forgetting useful elements. Again, never submit a paper you haven’t revised or proofread. There will always be some errors, both typos and grammar mistakes. If possible, give another person to review your work before submitting it.
Conclusion
Many concepts are basic in making an academic paper stand out. Once you master how to organize a research paper, the next element is to master the tips to make your paper outstanding.