I. Introduction
Introduce the general topic and provide context/background. Explain why this topic warrants in-depth research.
Clearly state the research question/problem and specific objectives of the paper. What do you hope to achieve in this research?
Preview your main arguments and how the paper will be structured. Provide an overview of key topics and how they relate to one another.
II. Literature Review
Provide an overview of existing research and literature on the topic. Discuss major theories, viewpoints, findings and debates.
Identify gaps in existing research. How will your research address these gaps?
Explain your methodology. What approach(es) will you take (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods)? What types of sources and methods of data collection will you use?
Outline any limitations or ethical considerations involved in your research approach.
III. Analysis and Discussion
A. Subtopic/Argument 1
Discuss your first main argument or analytical point in-depth, supporting it with evidence from research/literature.
Analyze key studies, data, and viewpoints that relate to this argument. Compare and contrast different perspectives.
Discuss what inferences can be drawn and any implications or next steps suggested by this analysis.
B. Subtopic/Argument 2
Follow the same structure as above to present and analyze your second main argument or analytical point.
C. Subtopic/Argument 3
Continue in the same manner for additional analytical sections or main arguments as needed.
IV. Conclusion
Summarize your main arguments and analytical takeaways. How have your research questions/objectives been addressed?
Discuss implications and significance of your research. How does it advance understanding of the topic? What are the limitations?
Suggest directions for further research. What questions remain unanswered? How could your research be extended or built upon?
Leave the reader with a strong concluding thought. Reinforce why this research matters and its potential impact/value.
V. References
Provide a properly formatted reference list for all in-text citations using the chosen style (e.g. APA, MLA, Chicago). Ensure references are credible academic/professional sources.
VI. Appendices (optional)
Include any supplemental materials, copies of surveys/questionnaires, codes, raw data, that add context but are not crucial to understanding the paper’s main points.