properties of a research paper

What Should Be the Characteristics of a Good Research Paper?

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When people want to get answers to various issues, they search for information on the problems. From their findings, they expand them, aiming to agree or refute them. Research papers are common assignments in colleges. 

They follow specific research and writing guidelines to answer particular questions or assigned topics . They look into the critical topic of credible research sources and argue their findings in an orderly manner. To be termed as good, the research paper must bear the following characteristics.

In this Article

Gives credit to previous research work on the topic

• It’s hooked on a relevant research question.

It must be based on appropriate, systematic research methods

• The information must be accurate and controlled.
• It must be verifiable and rigorous.

It must be clear and coherent.

It must be dealt with critical analysis., it must be original., it must possess ethical integrity., be careful with the topic you choose, decide the sources you want to use, create your thesis statement , plan your points, write your paper, characteristics of a good research paper.

Writing a research paper aims to discover new knowledge, but the knowledge must have a base. Its base is the research done previously by other scholars. The student must acknowledge the previous research and avoid duplicating it in their writing process.

A college student must engage in deep research work to create a credible research paper. This makes the process lengthy and complex when choosing your topic, selecting sources, and developing its design. In addition, it requires a great deal of knowledge to piece everything together. Fortunately, Studyclerk will give you professional help anytime you need it. If you do not have enough knowledge and time to write a paper on your own, you can ask for  research paper help  by StudyClerk, where experienced paper writers will write your paper in no time. You can trust their expert writers to handle your assignment well and get a well-written paper in a short time.

It’s hooked on a relevant research question .

All the time a student spends researching multiple sources is to answer a specific research question. The question must be relevant to the current needs. This question guides them into the information they use or the line of argument they take.

The methodology of research a student chooses will determine the value of the information they get or give. The methods must be valid and credible to provide reliable outcomes. Whether the student chooses a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed approach, they must all be valuable and relevant. 

The information must be accurate and controlled .

A good research paper cannot be generalized information but specific, scientific information. That is why they must include references and record tests or information accurately. Moreover, they must keep the information controlled by staying within the topic from the first step of research to the last. 

It must be verifiable and rigorous .

The student must use information or write arguments that can be verified. If it’s a test, it must be replicable by another researcher. The sources must be verifiable and accurate. Without rigorous deep  research strategies , the paper cannot be good. They must put a lot of labor into both the writing and research processes to ensure the information is credible, clear, concise, original, and precise. 

The paper should be written clearly, concisely with logical progression from one section to another. This includes having a well-structured introduction, body, and conclusion. Each section should be coherent and contribute directly to the reader’s understanding of the research question, findings, and implications.

A good research paper involves not just reporting facts and data, but also critically analyzing them. This means evaluating the strengths and limitations of the research, discussing the implications of findings, and situating the results within the broader field of study. The analysis should engage with different perspectives and theories, showing an awareness of the complexity of the topic.

While it builds on previous research, a good research paper offers new insights or approaches to the topic. This could be through presenting new findings, developing a novel theoretical approach, or offering a unique combination of existing knowledge. Originality, especially the research statement , is crucial for advancing knowledge and adding value to the field.

Ethical considerations are paramount in research. A good research paper adheres to ethical standards when it comes to data collection, reporting, and analysis. This includes obtaining necessary permissions for using data, respecting participant privacy in the case of human subjects, and being transparent about any conflicts of interest.

How to write a good research paper

To write a good research paper, you must first understand what kind of question you have been assigned. Then, you will choose the best topic that you will love to write about. The following points will help you write a good research paper.

You must select a topic you love. Go for a topic that will be easier to research, which will give you a broader area of study. 

Your instructor doesn’t restrict you on the sources you must use. Broaden your mind so that you don’t limit yourself to specific sources of information. Sometimes you will get helpful information from sources you slightest thought as good.

Write your central statement to base your position on the research. Make it coherent contentious, and let it be a summary of your arguments.

Create an outline that will guide you when arguing your points

• Start  with the most vital points and smooth the flow.
• Pay attention to  paragraph structure  and let your arguments be clear.
• Finish with a compelling conclusion, and don’t forget to cite your sources.

A research paper requires extensive research methods to get solid points for supporting your stand. First, the sources you use must be verifiable by any other researcher. You must ensure your research work is original for your paper to be credible. Third, each point should be coherent with each paragraph. Finally, your research findings must be tagged on the research question and provide answers that apply to the current society. 

Author’s Bio

Helen Birk is an online freelance writer who holds an outstanding record of helping numerous students do their academic assignments. She is an expert in essays and thesis writing, and students simply love her for her high-quality work. In addition, she enjoys cycling, doing pencil sketching, and listening to spiritual podcasts in her free time.

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Research Paper: Student Guidelines & Examples

• Icon Calendar 16 October 2024
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A research paper is a product of seeking information, analysis, human thinking, and time. Basically, when scholars want to get answers to questions, they start to search for information to expand, use, approve, or deny findings. In simple words, research papers are results of processes by considering writing works and following specific requirements. Besides, scientists study and expand many theories, developing social or technological aspects of human science. However, in order to provide a quality product, they need to know the definition of such a work, its characteristics, type, structure, format, and how to write it in 7 steps.

What Is a Research Paper and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a research paper is a detailed and structured academic document that presents an individual’s analysis, interpretation, or argument based on existing knowledge and literature. The main purpose of writing a research paper is to contribute to existing literature, develop critical thinking and scientific skills, support academic and professional growth, share findings, demonstrate knowledge and competence, and encourage lifelong learning (Wankhade, 2018). Moreover, such a work is one of the types of papers where scholars analyze questions or topics, look for secondary sources, and write papers on defined themes. For example, if an assignment is to write about some causes of global warming or any other topic, a person must write a research proposal on it, analyzing important points and credible sources (Goodson, 2024). Although essays focus on personal knowledge, writing a scholarly document means analyzing sources by following academic standards. In turn, scientists must meet the strict structure of research papers (Busse & August, 2020). As such, writers need to analyze their topics, start to search for sources, cover key aspects, process credible articles, and organize final studies properly. However, a research paper’s length can vary significantly depending on its academic level and purpose.

• Length: Typically 2-10 pages.
• Word Count: Approximately 500-2,500 words.
• Length: Usually 10-30 pages.
• Word Count: Around 2,500-7,500 words.
• Length: Master’s theses are generally 40-80 pages, while doctoral dissertations can be 100-300 pages or more.
• Word Count: Master’s theses are typically 10,000-20,000 words, and doctoral dissertations can range from 20,000-100,000 words, depending on the discipline and complexity.
• Length: Generally 8-12 pages for short articles, but review articles and comprehensive studies can be longer.
• Word Count: Approximately 3,000-8,000 words.
• Length: Usually 5-10 pages.
• Word Count: Around 2,000-4,000 words.
• Length: Typically 6-12 pages.
• Word Count: Approximately 2,500-6,000 words.
• Length: Varies widely, often 20-100 pages.
• Word Count: Around 5,000-30,000 words.
• Length: Generally 5-15 pages.
• Word Count: Approximately 2,000-5,000 words.
• Length: Varies, usually 20-40 pages per chapter.
• Word Count: Around 5,000-10,000 words.
• Length: Typically 100-300 pages.
• Word Count: Approximately 30,000-100,000 words.

Research Characteristics

Any type of work must meet some standards. By considering a research paper, this work must be written accordingly. In this case, their main characteristics are the length, style, format, and sources (Graham & McCoy, 2014). Firstly, the study’s length defines the number of needed sources to be analyzed. Then, the style must be formal and cover impersonal and inclusive language (Graham & McCoy, 2014). Moreover, the format means academic standards of how to organize final works, including its structure and norms. Finally, sources and their number define works as research papers because of the volume of analyzed information (Graham & McCoy, 2014). Hence, these characteristics must be considered while writing scholarly documents. In turn, general formatting guidelines are:

• Use a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, 12-point).
• Double-space the text.
• Include 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Indent the first line of each paragraph.
• Number all pages consecutively, usually in the upper right corner.

Types of Research Papers

In general, the length of assignments can be different because of instructions. For example, there are two main types of research papers, such as typical and serious works. Firstly, a typical research paper may include definitive, argumentative, interpretive, and other works (Goodson, 2024). In this case, typical papers are from 2 to 10 pages, where students analyze study questions or specific topics. Then, a serious research composition is the expanded version of typical works. In turn, the length of such a paper is more than 10 pages (Wankhade, 2018). Basically, such works cover a serious analysis with many sources. Therefore, typical and serious works are two types that scholars should consider when writing their documents.

Typical Research Works

Basically, typical research works depend on assignments, the number of sources, and the paper’s length. So, this composition is usually a long essay with the analyzed evidence. For example, students in high school and college get such assignments to learn how to research and analyze topics (Goodson, 2024). In this case, they do not need to conduct serious experiments with the analysis and calculation of data. Moreover, students must use the Internet or libraries in searching for credible secondary sources to find potential answers to specific questions. As a result, students gather information on topics and learn how to take defined sides, present unique positions, or explain new directions (Goodson, 2024). Hence, they require an analysis of primary and secondary sources without serious experiments or data.

Serious Research Studies

Although long papers require a lot of time for finding and analyzing credible sources, real experiments are an integral part of research work. Firstly, scholars at universities need to analyze the information from past studies to expand or disapprove of topics (Wankhade, 2018). Then, if scholars want to prove specific positions or ideas, they must get real evidence. In this case, experiments can be surveys, calculations, or other types of data that scholars do personally. Moreover, a dissertation is a serious research paper that young scientists write based on the analysis of topics, data from conducted experiments, and conclusions at the end of work (Wankhade, 2018). Thus, they are studies that take a lot of time, analysis of sources with gained data, and interpretation of results.

The structure and format of research papers depend on assignment requirements. In fact, when students get their assignments and instructions, they need to analyze specific research questions or topics, find reliable sources, and write final works. Basically, their structure and format consist of the abstract, outline, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, recommendations, limitations, conclusion, acknowledgments, and references (Graham & McCoy, 2014). However, students may not include some of these sections because of assigned instructions that they have and specific types they must follow. For instance, if instructions are not supposed to conduct real experiments, the methodology section can be skipped because of the data’s absence. In turn, the structure of the final work consists of:

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🔸 The First Part of a Research Study

Abstract or Executive Summary means the first section of a research paper that provides the study’s purpose, its questions or suggestions, and main findings with conclusions. Moreover, this paragraph of about 150 words should be written when the whole work is finished already (Graham & McCoy, 2014). Hence, abstract sections should describe key aspects of studies, including discussions about the relevance of findings.

Outline or Table of Contents serves as a clear map of the structure of a study.

Introduction provides the main information on problem statements, the indication of methodology, important findings, and principal conclusion. Basically, this section covers rationales behind the work or background research, explanation of the importance, defending its relevance, a brief description of experimental designs, defined study questions, hypotheses, or key aspects (Busse & August, 2020). Hence, scholars should provide a short overview of their studies.

🔸 Literature Review and Research or Experiment

Literature Review is needed for the analysis of past studies or scholarly articles to be familiar with research questions or topics. For example, this section summarizes and synthesizes arguments and ideas from scholarly sources without adding new contributions (Scholz, 2022). In turn, this part is organized around arguments or ideas, not sources.

Methodology or Materials and Methods covers explanations of research designs. Basically, techniques for gathering information and other aspects related to experiments must be described in a research paper. For instance, students and scholars document all specialized materials and general procedures (Turbek et al., 2016). In this case, individuals may use some or all of the methods in further studies or judge the scientific merit of the work. Moreover, scientists should explain how they are going to conduct their experiments.

Results mean the gained information or data after the study or experiment. Basically, scholars should present and illustrate their findings (Turbek et al., 2016). Moreover, this section may include tables or figures.

🔸 Analysis of Findings

Discussion is a section where scientists review the information in the introduction part, evaluate gained results, or compare it with past studies. In particular, students and scholars interpret gained data or findings in appropriate depth. For example, if results differ from expectations at the beginning, scientists should explain why that may have happened (Turbek et al., 2016). However, if results agree with rationales, scientists should describe theories that the evidence is supported.

Recommendations take their roots from a discussion section where scholars propose potential solutions or new ideas based on obtained results. In this case, if scientists have any recommendations on how to improve this research so that other scholars can use evidence in further studies, they must write what they think in this section (Graham & McCoy, 2014). Besides, authors can provide their suggestions for further investigation after their evaluations.

Limitations mean a consideration of research weaknesses and results to get new directions. For instance, if scholars find any limitations in their studies that may affect experiments, scholars must not use such knowledge because of the same mistakes (Busse & August, 2020). Moreover, scientists should avoid contradicting results, and, even more, they must write them in this section.

🔸 The Final Part of a Conducted Research

Conclusion includes final claims of a research paper based on findings. Basically, this section covers final thoughts and the summary of the whole work. Moreover, this section may be used instead of limitations and recommendations that would be too small by themselves (Wankhade, 2018). In this case, scientists do not need to use headings as recommendations and limitations.

Acknowledgments or Appendix may take different forms, from paragraphs to charts. In this section, scholars include additional information about what they did.

References mean a section where students, scholars, or scientists provide all used sources by following the format and academic rules.

How to Write a Research Paper in 7 Steps

Writing any research paper requires following a systematic process. Firstly, writers need to select a focused topic they want to analyze. To achieve this objective, comprehensive preliminary research must be conducted to gather credible and relevant sources (Scholz, 2022). After reviewing the existing literature, writers must develop a clear and concise thesis statement sentence to guide the direction of their studies. Then, organizing the main arguments and evidence into a detailed outline ensures a coherent structure. In turn, the initial draft should be started with a compelling introduction, proceeded with body paragraphs that substantiate the thesis through analysis, and ended with a conclusion that underscores the study’s importance (Turbek et al., 2016). Basically, concluding the work by summarizing the findings and emphasizing the significance of the study is crucial. Moreover, revising and editing for content, coherence, and clarity ensures quality (Busse & August, 2020). Finally, proofreading for grammatical accuracy and ensuring adherence to the required formatting guidelines is necessary before submitting the final paper. Hence, when starting a research paper, writers should do the next:

Step 1: Choose a Topic

• Select a Broad Subject: Begin by identifying a specific subject or theme of interest.
• Narrow Down Your Topic: Focus on a specific aspect of the subject or theme to make your examination more focused.
• Establish the Background: Do a preliminary analysis of sources to ensure there is enough information available and refine your topic further.
• Formulate a Research Question : Create a first draft of a clear, concise research question or thesis statement to guide your study.

Step 2: Conduct Preliminary Analysis

• Gather Credible Sources: Use books, academic journals, scholarly articles, reputable websites, and other primary and secondary sources.
• Choose Only Relevant Sources: Review chosen sources for their content and pick only relevant ones.
• Take Notes: Organize your notes, highlighting key points and evidence and how they relate to your initial thesis.
• Create an Annotated Bibliography: Summarize each source in one paragraph and note how it will contribute to your paper.

Step 3: Develop a Working Thesis Statement

• Be Specific: Revise your initial thesis, making it a working one, outlining the main argument or position of your paper.
• Make It Debatable: Ensure that your working thesis presents a viewpoint that others might challenge or debate.
• Be Concise: Write your working thesis statement in one or two sentences.
• Stay Focused: Your working thesis must be focused and specific.

Step 4: Create an Outline

• Beginning: Outline your opening paragraph, including your working thesis statement.
• Middle Sections : Separate your body into sections with headings for each main point or argument and include sub-points and supporting evidence.
• Ending: Plan your concluding section to summarize your findings and restate your thesis in the light of the evidence presented.
• The List of Sources: Finish your outline by providing citation entries of your sources.

Step 5: Write the First Draft

• Introduction: Start with an engaging opening, provide background information, and state your thesis.
• Body Section: Each body paragraph should focus on a single idea and start with a specific topic sentence, followed by evidence and analysis that supports your thesis.
• Conclusion: Summarize your arguments, restate the importance of your topic, and suggest further investigation, analysis, examination, or possible implications.
• Reference Page: Include the list of references used in your first draft.

Step 6: Revise and Edit

• Content Review: Check for clarity, coherence, and whether each part supports your thesis.
• Structure and Flow: Ensure logical flow of ideas between sections and paragraphs.
• Grammar and Style: Correct grammatical errors, improve sentence structure, and refine your writing style.
• Citations: Ensure all sources are correctly cited in your chosen citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, etc.).

Step 7: Finalize Your Paper

• Proofread: Carefully proofread for any remaining errors or typos.
• Format: Ensure your paper adheres to the required format, including title page, headers, font, and margins.
• Reference List: Double-check your bibliography, reference, or works cited page for accuracy.
• Submit: Make sure to submit your paper by the deadline.

Research Paper Example

In conclusion, a research paper is a formal academic document designed to provide a detailed analysis, interpretation, or argument based on in-depth study. Its structured format includes providing opening components, such as the abstract, outline, and introduction; study aspects, such as literature review, methodology, and results; analysis of findings, such as discussion, recommendations, and limitations; and final parts, such as conclusion, acknowledgments, appendices, and references. Understanding the essential elements and adhering to academic standards ensures the creation of a well-organized and meaningful research paper.

Busse, C., & August, E. (2020). How to write and publish a research paper for a peer-reviewed journal. Journal of Cancer Education , 36 (5), 909–913. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-020-01751-z

Goodson, P. (2024). Becoming an academic writer: 50 exercises for paced, productive, and powerful writing . Sage.

Graham, L., & McCoy, I. (2014). How to write a great research paper: A step-by-step handbook. Incentive Publications by World Book.

Scholz, F. (2022). Writing and publishing a scientific paper. ChemTexts , 8 (1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40828-022-00160-7

Turbek, S. P., Chock, T. M., Donahue, K., Havrilla, C. A., Oliverio, A. M., Polutchko, S. K., Shoemaker, L. G., & Vimercati, L. (2016). Scientific writing made easy: A step‐by‐step guide to undergraduate writing in the biological sciences. The Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America , 97 (4), 417–426. https://doi.org/10.1002/bes2.1258

Wankhade, L. (2018). How to write and publish a research paper: A complete guide to writing and publishing a research paper . Independent Published.

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Home » Research Paper Format – Types, Examples and Templates

Research Paper Format – Types, Examples and Templates

Table of Contents

Research Paper Formats

The format of a research paper is essential for maintaining consistency, clarity, and readability, enabling readers to understand the research findings effectively. Different disciplines follow specific formats and citation styles, such as APA, MLA, Chicago, and IEEE. Knowing the requirements for each format ensures that researchers present their work in a professional and organized manner.

Why Research Paper Format is Important

• Consistency : A standardized format ensures that each paper has a similar structure, making it easier for readers to locate information.
• Credibility : Following a professional format enhances the credibility of the work, making it look polished and reliable.
• Guidelines for Citations : Proper format helps in organizing references and citing sources accurately, which is crucial for avoiding plagiarism.
• Reader Comprehension : An organized format improves readability, enabling readers to follow the research arguments and findings effortlessly.

Types of Research Paper Formats

1. apa format (american psychological association).

• Discipline : Commonly used in social sciences, psychology, education, and business.
• Title Page : Includes title, author’s name, affiliation, course, instructor, and date.
• Abstract : A brief summary of the research, usually around 150-250 words.
• Main Body : Contains sections such as introduction, method, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• References : Lists all sources cited in the paper in APA style.
• Double-spaced, Times New Roman 12-point font.
• One-inch margins on all sides.
• In-text citations include author’s last name and year (e.g., Smith, 2020).

2. MLA Format (Modern Language Association)

• Discipline : Commonly used in humanities, literature, and cultural studies.
• Header : Author’s name, instructor’s name, course, and date.
• Title : Centered on the first page, no separate title page required.
• Main Body : Sections for introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Works Cited : Lists all references in MLA style.
• One-inch margins, with in-text citations including the author’s last name and page number (e.g., Smith 45).

3. Chicago Format (Chicago Manual of Style)

• Discipline : Used in history, business, fine arts, and sometimes social sciences.
• Title Page : Includes the title, author’s name, and institutional affiliation.
• Abstract (Optional) : Brief summary, sometimes included depending on requirements.
• Main Body : Includes introduction, main sections, and conclusion.
• Footnotes/Endnotes : Citations are either in the form of footnotes or endnotes.
• Bibliography : Lists all sources in Chicago style.
• One-inch margins, with footnotes or endnotes for in-text citations.

4. IEEE Format (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

• Discipline : Primarily used in engineering, computer science, and technical fields.
• Title Page : Includes title, author’s name, affiliations, and acknowledgment.
• Abstract : Brief summary, typically 100-150 words.
• Main Body : Sections such as introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• References : Numbered list of references, with citations in brackets (e.g., [1], [2]).
• Double-column layout, single-spaced, Times New Roman 10-point font.
• One-inch margins, with citations indicated by numbers in brackets within the text.

5. Harvard Format

• Discipline : Widely used in academic publications, particularly in the UK.
• Title Page : Title, author’s name, date, and affiliation.
• Abstract : Summary of the research.
• Main Body : Sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• References : Alphabetized list in Harvard style.
• One-inch margins, with in-text citations including the author’s last name, year, and page number if applicable (e.g., Smith, 2020).

General Template for Research Paper

Here is a general template applicable across various formats, especially useful if a specific format isn’t required. Researchers can adjust sections based on the format style guide they need to follow.

• Paper Title
• Author’s Name(s)
• Institutional Affiliation
• Brief summary of the research, key findings, and significance.
• Typically 150-250 words.
• Background of the study and research questions.
• Purpose and significance of the research.
• Summary of existing research relevant to the topic.
• Identification of gaps in the literature.
• Detailed explanation of research methods and procedures.
• Description of sample, data collection, and analysis techniques.
• Presentation of findings, often with tables, charts, or graphs.
• Clear and objective reporting of data.
• Interpretation of findings.
• Comparison with other studies, implications, and potential limitations.
• Summary of the research and its contributions.
• Suggestions for future research.
• Complete list of all sources cited in the paper.
• Follow the specific citation style format (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Appendices (if required)
• Additional information, data, or materials relevant to the study but not included in the main text.

Tips for Formatting a Research Paper

• Check Formatting Guidelines : Each journal or institution may have specific requirements, so always refer to the official guidelines.
• Use Consistent Citations : Ensure all in-text citations and references follow the same format, matching the required style.
• Use Headings and Subheadings : Organize sections with clear headings to improve readability and structure.
• Proofread for Formatting Errors : Small formatting errors can detract from the professionalism of the paper, so carefully review layout and style.
• Use Templates in Word Processors : Many word processors offer built-in templates for APA, MLA, and other styles, helping streamline the formatting process.

Example of Research Paper Formatting in APA

Title Page Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health Author Name University Name Course Name, Instructor Name Date

Abstract This study explores the impact of social media use on adolescent mental health, focusing on levels of anxiety and depression. Data were collected from high school students through a survey. Results suggest a positive correlation between social media use and anxiety, highlighting the need for guidelines on healthy social media habits. (Word count: 150)

Main Body Introduction Discusses the background of social media’s popularity and its psychological effects on teenagers.

Methodology Details the survey process, sample selection, and data analysis techniques.

Results Presents survey findings on the levels of anxiety and depression associated with social media usage.

Discussion Interprets findings in light of previous research and discusses potential implications.

Conclusion Summarizes the key findings, suggesting areas for future study.

References Lists all references in APA format, alphabetically by author.

A research paper’s format is essential for presenting information clearly and professionally. By following specific guidelines, such as APA, MLA, or IEEE, researchers ensure that their work is accessible and credible. Using templates and formatting tips, researchers can structure their papers effectively, improving readability and impact.

• American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.
• Gibaldi, J. (2016). MLA Handbook (8th ed.). Modern Language Association of America.
• University of Chicago Press. (2017). The Chicago Manual of Style (17th ed.). University of Chicago Press.
• IEEE Standards Association. (2020). IEEE Citation Reference . IEEE.
• Pears, R., & Shields, G. (2019). Cite Them Right: The Essential Referencing Guide . Red Globe Press.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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