Scholarly research papers follow strict formatting guidelines that allow readers to easily identify key components at a glance. Mastering the proper research paper format is essential for academic success. Papers that adhere to accepted formats for in-text citations, headers, abstracts, etc. convey credibility and professionalism. By taking the time to learn and apply the proper format, researchers ensure readers can efficiently access the information needed to evaluate claims and conclusions.
Title Page
The title page comes first but is not numbered. It includes the full title of the paper, author’s name, course number, instructor name, and submission date. The title should summarize the major theme or question addressed and be fewer than 12 words. Author names are written last name first followed by initials.
Abstract
The abstract is a brief summary of the paper, typically 150-250 words. It should describe the background, purpose, methods, results, and conclusions without citations or references. The abstract is the only section that is single spaced. It appears on page two of the paper after the title page.
Introduction
The introduction section begins on page three and provides background information to introduce the topic and establish context for readers. It states the research problem and question being addressed, justification for pursuing the research, and objectives or goals of the study. The introduction concludes with a thesis statement conveying the main argument or conclusion.
Literature Review
The literature review follows the introduction on page four and analyzes previous scholarly works related to the topic. It synthesizes and evaluates key sources to demonstrate understanding of the research problem and show how the paper addresses gaps. Literature reviews organize sources thematically, identify areas of consensus and debate, and establish the framework and justification for the new research.
Methods
The methods section on page five describes the procedures and tools used to collect and analyze data related to the research question. It includes detailed descriptions of participants, materials, variables, research design, measures, and procedures. The methods allow readers to assess validity and reliability. Mixed methods or approaches are justified. Tables or figures are labeled and referenced in-text.
Results
The results section begins on page six and presents relevant findings without interpretation. Data is organized logically with tables and figures included. Statistical information includes measures of variability and significance levels. The section directly addresses the research question quantitatively or qualitatively as applicable.
Discussion
The discussion on page seven commences the analysis and interpretation of results as they relate to previous literature and theory. It describes how findings support or refute hypotheses or assumptions. Limitations are acknowledged along with implications and need for future research. Conclusions are justified and relate directly back to the introduction.
References
References begin a new page and are formatted consistently per the designated style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). Every source cited in-text must appear on the references page, and vice versa. References are double spaced and alphabetically ordered by first author’s last name.
Appendices
Any supplementary materials are included as individual appendices labeled alphabetically (Appendix A, Appendix B, etc.). Content may include raw data, transcripts, survey instruments, diagrams, charts. Appendices allow inclusion of helpful materials without interrupting the flow of the paper.