Consider the type of research paper you’re writing as well as the style guide you’re using when deciding on the best research paper structure. For example, you could consult the Modern Language Association or the American Psychological Association style guides, each of which has its own set of requirements for research paper structure. Furthermore, you will structure the research paper in such a way that it is read in the most logical order possible, with each supporting argument presented in a logical order.
The style guide for your research paper structure will most likely be assigned by the instructor rather than chosen by you. It is recommended that you purchase the style guide and keep it as a reference; this will assist you in learning how to cite sources, as well as what elements of a research paper you may need to include. An abstract is required in some style guides, but it is not required in others.
It is up to you to create the structure of your research paper once you have decided on the style guide you will use. The majority of research papers don’t just provide information; they also present a thesis statement that serves as an argument. You’ll then use research and factual examples from other sources, as well as expert opinions, to try to prove your point in the research paper.
You can structure your research paper in a variety of ways. You could start by presenting all of the facts that support your thesis, then move on to some examples of counter-arguments. You could also start with the counter-arguments and then refute them throughout your paper. If your research paper is more informational than argumentative, you may want to present all of the important details in chronological order, or any other order that is easier for the reader to follow.
The basic elements of a research paper are the same in most cases. The thesis statement is included in the introductory paragraph, which serves as an introduction to the paper. Following that is the body of the research paper, which is divided into paragraphs, each with its own subject. In most cases, a conclusion wraps up the paper and restates the thesis. A bibliography of the sources used to write the paper is frequently included after this. Unless otherwise instructed by a teacher or professor, keeping it simple and following this standard research paper structure is often the best way to go.