Description
Writing a research paper
A well-written research paper explains the motivation for doing the
research, the framework, approach and methodology for it, as well as
the results and their meaning. The style should be clear and concise.
Good English is critical, as grammatical and spelling errors will make readers lose their interest in the contents. For the same reason, an attractive,
easy-to-read layout is essential. For example, choose an appropriate font and font-size, and relate the text-width to the chosen font-size for good readability. This guideline uses an 11 pt sanserif font and a corresponding text-width of 13 cm.
A mere review of the academic "literature" in a field – i.e. a summary of the existing body of knowledge on your subject--does not make a
research paper. Such a review would not test your capacity for critical thinking. These kinds of summaries are made, but usually only as part of preparations for advanced scientific research.
Remember to pay attention to issues of plagiarism. If you use parts of a literature source (or webpage), then read it and restate in writing your impression of the important points. Then cite the source of that information in the text.
The following sections should be included in your paper. Additional
sections may be included where required and more descriptive headings
maybe appropriate in some cases.
Cover page
Select a paper title and a cover page layout that will increase the
readers’ interest in the paper.
Abstract
An abstract is a shortened version of the paper and should contain all
information necessary for the reader to determine:
? what the objectives of the study were
? how the study was done
? what results were obtained
? and the significance of the results
Frequently, readers will only read the abstract, choosing to read at
length those papers that are most interesting to them. This section
should, therefore, be written carefully and succinctly to have the
the greatest impact in as few words as possible.
Table of contents
In a report or book, a table of contents should normally be included,
not necessarily so in a short research paper. The table of contents can usually be produced automatically by the word processing software.
Ensure that the overall format of the paper is complied with and that
there are no missing links in the table of contents.
Introduction
The introduction should explain why this study is of interest and what
the objectives are. Here also the results and conclusions of previous studies may be discussed to explain the background of the current study. Limit the introduction to studies that relate directly to the present study. The specific contribution to the topic by the present study should be emphasized. The introduction should also state the objectives and hypotheses for the study.
Methods
In the methods section, it is explained how the objectives were met and the hypotheses tested. Where relevant the scientific approach
used, such as “by an inductive study…”, “according to Popper’s theory…”
etc., as well as specific methods (“least squares”, “Wilson formula for EOQ”) should be reported here, together with the rationale for them in the context of the study.
Results
This section presents the results of an experimental, statistical, comparative or interrogative study. Data may be presented in tables or diagrams, depending on what visual impression is desired.
Discussion
In this section, the results are explained, analyzed and interpreted.
They should also be related back to the hypotheses, objectives and research questions presented in the introduction section, as well as to
the results of other studies. For these, accurate citations are required.
Conclusions are to be drawn to the extent that the data and
findings can support them.
Future directions for research, new methods, explanations for deviations
from previously published results, etc. are further items typically
included here.
References (literature cited)
Use a consistent system for referenced literature, e.g. according to the
following example (Marlow, 2005): Marlow, P. F. (2005). Supply chain risk in textile global sourcing.
Journal of Demand Chain Management, 55, 893-896.
(i.e. Author (year). Title. Periodical, volume, pages)