The Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL) provides a standard organizational format for research papers in order to help guide students as they draft and write their work. While the basic format presented by the Purdue OWL has remained largely unchanged over the years, there are variations and modifications that can be made depending on the subject matter, preferences of the instructor, and requirements of a specific assignment. Following a standard format provides structure, helping ensure all parts of the paper are included, while also allowing for a logical flow of ideas from introduction to conclusion.
The Purdue OWL recommends using a basic five paragraph structure for research papers, though the actual content and length of papers may vary based on disciplines, sources used, etc. The five recommended sections are:
Introduction
The introduction should introduce the topic being discussed and establish the scope and context of the paper. It should end with a clear thesis statement declaring the main argument or purpose of the paper. The introduction should be brief, generally 3-5 sentences. It accomplishes three main goals: it gets the reader’s attention, provides background on the topic, and presents the thesis statement. Getting right to the point in the introduction allows readers to understand immediately what they will be learning.
Body Paragraphs
The body paragraphs form the bulk of most research papers. They typically include multiple paragraphs presenting evidence to support the thesis statement. Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence related to the thesis and containing one of the main ideas or points to be discussed in the paragraph. The body paragraphs should follow a logical sequence and flow coherently from one paragraph to the next. Transitional phrases are useful for connecting ideas between sentences and paragraphs. The body paragraphs are where research and sources are integrated and cited to support the argument being made. Direct quotes, paraphrases, and summaries of sources should be properly attributed using in-text citations.
Counterargument
The counterargument paragraph acknowledges and addresses an opposing viewpoint to the main argument presented in the thesis statement. This demonstrates the writer’s awareness there may be good faith counterarguments or reasonable alternatives to consider. The paragraph refutes the counterargument by providing evidence that supports the thesis position. Alternatively, the writer may qualify or limit the scope of the thesis argument if warranted based on consideration of the counterargument position. Including a counterargument strengthens the credibility of the overall paper.
Conclusion
The conclusion should not simply restate the introduction or present new information, but rather synthesize the information presented in the body paragraphs and reinforce how it supports the thesis. Effective conclusions wrap up the presentation of evidence and draw connections between the major points discussed. They may also discuss broader implications and importance of the topic or leave the reader with a final thought regarding the thesis. The conclusion should be 2-3 sentences.
References
The references, works cited, or bibliography section is where full citations for all sources used or discussed in the paper are listed alphabetically by author’s last name. The in-text citations used refer readers to this section for full publication details on each source. Formatting for references follows the citation style guide specified whether it be MLA, APA, Chicago, etc. Sources should be properly attributed so as to avoid plagiarism.
General Formatting
In addition to organizing content into these main sections, the Purdue OWL recommends following standard APA or MLA formatting for research papers. This includes guidelines for font style and size, line spacing, margins, page numbering, and other formatting features. Formatting creates consistency and enhances readability. Examples include using 12pt Times New Roman font, double spacing throughout, one inch margins all around, and last name/page number headers for long papers. Additional pages may include an abstract or cover page as needed.
Using the Purdue OWL as a guide allows students to focus on developing well-researched, clearly organized arguments in their papers. Adhering to standard format ensures that key elements like an introduction, conclusion, references section, and coherent body paragraphs are easily discernible for readers. While individual researchers may modify the basic format structure based on discipline or instructor preferences, using the Purdue OWL as a starting point provides a common framework for students to efficiently structure papers and integrate research in a consistent manner. The basic organization allows ideas to logically flow while specific components like a thesis, in-text citations and references maintain academic integrity.