THE CLASSIC RESEARCH PAPER

Many college students dread the notion of writing a research paper. They consider such a paper a complicated, laborious project that is inherently boring as it is difficult. Well, such a cynical approach is not completely accurate. Research papers are complicated and difficult, but most of the negative sentiment that surrounding research papers will dissipate.

Basically, a research paper involves reviewing numerous resources on a particular subject matter and then writing a paper based on the material. Of course, all material will be properly cited and sourced so as to give credit where it is due. However, it is important to point out that a research paper is not a string of quotes or summations of another writer's arguments. That would be a summary paper and a dull one at that. This is why it is critical to understand the true purpose of a research paper.

There are a few points that need to be understood when it comes to writing a research paper. Probably the most important point regarding a research paper is that it provides a new theory or innovate approach to its subject matter. Hopefully, it will bring to light something new and innovative in the subject matter that is researched. Ultimately, the sources used in the research will prove the statements presented in the research paper are true and accurate. What the purpose of a research paper is most definitely not is simply restating the obvious. That is, a research paper should not be an exercise in pointing out the subject of the sources. After all, if all the writer is going to do is summarized someone else's work the paper is truly useless.

For example, if someone were to write a research paper on the effects science fiction films in the 1950's on public sentiment towards the atomic bomb something new would need to be offered. To simply state that science fiction films of the 1950's dealt with the subject (and providing a ton of references to prove this) would be one severely dull research paper. Again, there is nothing new being pointed out in the paper. To write the same paper with the intention of proving the impact of the films were stronger in urban areas as opposed to rural ones would be an interesting topic. The research material and sources must then be used to back up such a claim in a logical and convincing manner. This would be the epitome of a quality research paper.

When performing research it is important to stick with valid, reliable sources. This would include academic journals or legitimate news publications. Notes should be taken while performing research since this will make organizing the outline of the paper much easier. The outline, of course, will be the "skeleton" used to compose the first draft of the paper. Without a proper outline, a first draft will have the tendency to become unfocused. Also, lack of a proper outline will make writing the first draft much more laborious and difficult. This could prove even more problematic if the due date of the paper is quickly approaching.

The draft will include a proper introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion. The intro will introduce the paper's main thesis; the body paragraphs will develop and prove the thesis; and the conclusion will summarize the paper and restate its thesis. Mostly all points made in the paper will be backed up by research material.

Now, you can not cite a research paper in any manner you personally deem fit. There are established citation styles that must be adhered to. It is important to understand which style is required for the research paper since these methods vary greatly from one another even though they each provide the same information. Often, these citation styles are complex but someone with experience will be able to properly utilize these styles effectively.

In summation, a research paper's goal is to take established information and use it to provide the basis for a new discovery. Or, at least, it should provide a compelling case for the argument presented.