Structuring a Research Paper A broad overview

The basic structure Abstract Introduction (with Literature Review) Methodology Results Discussion Conclusion References

1. The abstract Problem Statement (Little is known about the impact of global warming on the migratory patterns of penguins) Indication of Methodology (Using satellite imaging and big data processing, we collected satellite images every 30 seconds during the traditional migration season. We did so for a period of three years) Main finding (We discovered that penguins...) Principle Conclusion (We conclude global warming caused an interruption in penguin’s migration routes and has led to a decline in the penguin population.)

2. The introduction (with literature review) Establish a Territory (Survey the “landscape”) “In the past decade much research has focused on…” Establish a Niche (counter-claiming; indicating a gap; question raising; continuing a tradition) “It remains unclear why…” Occupying the Niche (outlining purposes; announcing present research; indicating structure) ”The purpose of this study was to…”

3. Methodology The Process of Data Collection “The data used for the this student were collected by…” A Description of the Techniques Used in Analyzing Data “Using a bivariate meta-regression models…”

4. Results—how to report them Two Methods for Reporting Results Present a synopsis of the results follow by an explanation of key findings Present a result and then explain it, before presenting the next result and explaining it. Do so until all results have been explained. Then conclude with a synopsis.

4. Results—What to include You Should Include the Following An introductory context for understanding the results by restating the research problem underpinning your study Inclusion of non-textual elements, such as, figures, charts, photos, maps, tables, etc. to further illustrate key findings, if appropriate. A systematic description of your results, highlighting for the reader observations that are most relevant to the topic under investigation The page length of your results section is guided by the amount and types of data to be reported. A short paragraph that concludes the results section by synthesizing the key findings of the study. Resist the urge to explain the results—that comes later

5. Discussion Introduction (Review findings; discuss outcomes; stake a claim!) “The finding of this study clearly show…” Evaluation (Analyze; offer explanations; reference the literature; state the implications) “One explanation for…”

6. Conclusion Present any limitations (e.g., small sample size) “This study was limited by…” Recommendations (e.g., future research; policy changes) ”We urge policy makers to…”

References Include all works cited. Remember to use the appropriate format (e.g., Chicago, APA, MLA…)