characteristics of an research paper

Here are some common characteristics of research papers: Evidence-based: Research papers are based on empirical evidence, which is collected through rigorous research methods such as experiments, surveys, observations, or interviews.

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).

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.

A good paper will make clear the type of research design, perhaps by reference to earlier, similar studies from different regions, different industries or different disciplines. The research must be focused on an appropriate unit of analysis.

The pages in this section provide detailed information about how to write research papers including discussing research papers as a genre, choosing topics, and finding sources.

Characteristics of academic writing include a formal tone, use of the third-person rather than first-person perspective (usually), a clear focus on the research problem under investigation, and precise word choice.

Characteristics of an Effective Research Report An effective research report has—at least—the following four characteristics: • Focus: an effective report emphasizes the important information. • Accuracy: an effective report does not mislead the reader. • Clarity: an effective report does not confuse the reader.

The introduction to a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals: Present your topic and get the reader interested. Provide background or summarize existing research. Position your own approach. Detail your specific research problem and problem statement.

A research paper presents an original thesis, or purpose statement, about a topic and develops that thesis with information gathered from a variety of sources. If you are curious about the possibility of life on Mars, for example, you might choose to research the topic. What will you do, though, when your research is complete?

Clarity: Cleary define terms; avoid nonrelevant information. Simplicity: Keep sentence structure simple and direct.