Parts of a research paper

1. ABSTRACT

1.1. An abstract summarizes, usually in one paragraph of 300 words or less, the major aspects of the entire paper in a prescribed sequence that includes: 1) the overall purpose of the study and the research problem(s) you investigated; 2) the basic design of the study; 3) major findings or trends found as a result of your analysis; and, 4) a brief summary of your interpretations and conclusions.

2. INTRODUCTION

2.1. The introduction to a research paper simply introduces the topic being researched. The introduction contains a topic sentence, a thesis statement, then three to five reasons, details and/or facts supporting your research followed by a conclusion.

3. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

3.1. A literature review discusses published information in a particular subject area, and sometimes information in a particular subject area within a certain time period.

4. RESEARCH METHODS

4.1. Data may be grouped into four main types based on methods for collection: observational, experimental, simulation, and derived. The type of research data you collect may affect the way you manage that data.

5. FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS

5.1. Data analysis is the most crucial part of any research. Data analysis summarizes collected data.

6. LIMITATIONS

6.1. The limitations of a study are its flaws or shortcomings which could be the result of unavailability of resources, small sample size, flawed methodology, etc. No study is completely flawless or inclusive of all possible aspects.

7. FUTURE SCOPE AND REFERENCES

7.1. The main purpose of this part is to make the readers aware of the findings emerging from the study, and shortcomings. The shortcomings or the research gap guide for future researchers on a domain that they must consider to save time and avoid repetitive outcomes.

8. DISCUSSION

8.1. The discussion section is where you explore the underlying meaning of your research