All research papers should be written using the following standard format:
Introduction:
Normally the first paragraph. Contains the topic sentence which informs
the readers about the basic purpose of the paper. A good topic sentence
states the main idea of the paper in clear and exact terms.
The introduction should capture the reader's interest and make him or her
want to continue reading the paper.
Please DO NOT use personalized statements such as "I am writing
about ..." or "My report is about ..." These are inappropriate comments
and should be avoided at all times.
Body:
The body of the paper is where you, the writer, will provide the factsand information that supports your topic statement (from the
Introduction). The body should contain at least three paragraphs
with each having specific data that provides the basis of your paper.
Each paragraph should gain strength from the previous and be in some
kind of sequential or chronological order (especially if the report is
historical in nature).
Please try to develop the use of transitional statements between paragraphs.
Conclusion:
The conclusion, normally one paragraph, sums up the main ideas and finishes the report.
The major points of the paper should be reviewed within the conclusion.
The main point (topic sentence) should be repeated in such a way that
the reader has developed a clear understanding of the purpose of your
report.
In addition, there should be not question that you, the writer, have
provided a source of knowledge to someone else, the reader.
Please DO NOT write the following in your conclusion: "This concludes
my report." The conclusion should be obvious and you do not need to
state it in writing.
As with anything else, practice makes perfect. Writing reports and
research papers requires skill. Be patient and your writing abilities will
improve with time.
