When writing a research paper, it is important to maintain consistent verb tense throughout the document. Verb tense consistency ensures the paper flows smoothly from one section to the next and presents information in a clear, cohesive manner. This article will provide an in-depth sample of a research paper using consistent verb tense to guide the reader through findings and conclusions.
Choosing the Appropriate Verb Tense
The verb tense used in a research paper depends on the subject matter and purpose of the study. Papers that describe a series of events over time, such as a historical article or experiment results, generally use the past tense (“discovered,” “occurred,” “was”). For discussion of theories, literature reviews or analyses, the present tense (“states,” “argues,” “demonstrates”) is commonly used. The future tense (“will explore,” “may influence”) can be applied when proposing future research. Regardless of which tense is selected, it must be maintained consistently throughout to avoid confusing the reader.
For this sample research paper, the past tense will be used to recount a study that has already been completed. Maintaining past tense verbs allows the paper to clearly describe methods, results and implications of the work in a coherent, logical progression.
Abstract
The abstract presents the purpose and main findings of the study in a concise yet comprehensive manner. It serves as a preview of what the full paper will cover and the conclusions that were drawn. For this sample paper, the abstract utilizes past tense verbs to frame the study as something that has already occurred.
For example: “This study examined the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance. Thirty college students participated in an experiment where they completed a series of tests after a full night of sleep and again after being awake for 24 hours. Results showed that participants had significantly lower scores on memory, attention and problem-solving tasks when sleep deprived. This research demonstrated the cognitive impairments caused by lack of sleep.”
Introduction
The introduction provides background on the topic being investigated and states the purpose and significance of the research. It presents information to establish context for the reader before delving into specific methods and findings. As with the abstract, past tense verbs are used since the literature being reviewed and motivation for the study has already been established.
Some example past tense verbs that could be applied:
“Previous research has found…”
“Studies have shown…”
“It was hypothesized…”
“The current study aimed to…”
Methods
The methods section explains how the study was performed in a clear, step-by-step manner so others could potentially replicate the procedures. Passive voice (e.g. “Participants were recruited”) and past tense (“Tests were administered”) are generally applied here since the actions have already taken place in the past. Example past tense phrases include:
“Data was collected between January and March 2020.”
“Participants completed a survey that asked about demographics and lifestyle habits.”
“Cognitive tasks were programmed using E-Prime software and presented on laptops.”
Results
In the results section, findings from analysis of the collected data are presented in a clear, objective manner without speculation. Past tense verbs are again used to report what were the actual outcomes of statistical tests and measurements. Examples include:
“Reaction times significantly increased as time awake extended.”
“Scores on the memory test declined on average by 15% from the initial to final session.”
“No significant differences were found between gender or age groups.”
Discussion
The discussion section interprets results, compares them to prior literature, addresses limitations, and considers implications. Here a mix of past and present tense verbs work well since conclusions are drawn based on past results but also present implications. Examples:
Past tense:
“Results supported the hypothesis that sleep deprivation impairs attention.”
Present tense:
“These findings suggest more effort is needed to promote awareness of sleep’s importance for academics.”
“The current study demonstrates the application of an innovative method but more research is still warranted.”
Conclusion
Wrapping up the key points of the paper, the conclusion restates the purpose and significance of the study then sums up what was found. Similar to the abstract, consistency in using past tense helps maintain a cohesive flow. Some examples:
“The goal of this research was to investigate the impacts of stimulus type on memory recall.”
“The results showed that participants recalled images more accurately than words when tested after a delay.”
Maintaining past tense verb usage throughout the entirety of a research paper helps chronicle methods, relay results and draw conclusions in a structured, logical manner for readers. Consistent tense creates flow and ensures the content is presented as a completed study rather than an ongoing process. Following these guidelines will enable researchers to clearly convey their work through written communication.