Writing Research Papers: Structure and Scientific Thinking

Structure of a Research Paper

• The face of a research paper is the Abstract.
• The Introduction is often compared to the skeleton, providing the framework for the paper.
• After the Introduction, the Methods section typically comes next in the body of a typical journal paper.
• The Introduction typically addresses the question 'Why', providing background and justification for the research.
• The Methods section is often compared to the vital organs, as it provides the details of the research design and procedures.
• The purpose of the Abstract is to provide a brief summary of the research, highlighting its main points and findings.
• The Methods section typically addresses the question 'How', detailing the procedures and techniques used to conduct the research.
• After the Results, the Discussion section typically comes next in the body of a typical journal paper.