A research paper is an important assignment that students encounter as early as middle school and continuing throughout college. Writing a research paper can feel daunting without proper guidance and format. Students who are new to writing research papers need a simple sample to reference as they develop their own paper. Understanding the basic sections and structure can help demystify the process. Here is an outline of a simple research paper sample in PDF format that students can use as a template for their own papers:
Title Page (not included in word count)
The title page should include the title of the paper, the student’s name, the course name, the instructor’s name, and the date. Keeping the title page information brief and to the point allows students to focus on the content of the paper.
Introduction (400-500 words)
The introduction should start with an interesting opening statement that catches the reader’s attention. It should then provide some necessary context and background before stating the purpose and central argument or thesis of the paper. The thesis statement is critical, as it conveys the main point and central focus of the paper. For a simple research paper, students should aim for a clear and concise thesis statement at the end of the introduction.
Body Paragraph 1 (400-500 words)
The first body paragraph flows directly from the thesis statement. It should focus on supporting point number one as stated in the thesis. This will include a topic sentence that relates directly back to the thesis statement and one key idea from the introduction. The paragraph then provides analysis and evidences such as facts, statistics, quotes, and examples to support the point. Students should aim to fully develop the point with details while also linking it back to how it supports the overall thesis.
Body Paragraph 2 (400-500 words)
Similar to the first body paragraph, the second focuses on supporting point number two as stated in the thesis statement. It begins with a topic sentence and then provides evidence through facts, statistics, quotes, paraphrases, and examples. Students analyze the evidence and explain how it substantiates the sub-point currently being discussed.
Body Paragraph 3 (400-500 words)
This final body paragraph covers point number three in the thesis statement in the same manner as the previous two paragraphs. It comes full circle by linking back to the thesis statement and providing closure on supporting the overall argument of the paper.
Conclusion (200-300 words)
The conclusion should not introduce any new information but rather summarize the main points covered in the body paragraphs that substantiate the thesis. It leaves the reader with a final wrap-up and takeaway regarding how the thesis was proven.
References Page
A references page is included after the conclusion. In MLA format, this page is titled “Works Cited” and lists all sources cited within the paper alphabetically by author’s last name. In APA format, it is titled “References” and sources are also listed alphabetically. The page numbers continue from the last page of the conclusion for a seamless flow between sections.
Benefits of a Simple Research Paper Sample Format
Providing students with a basic research paper sample helps establish structure and organization for their own writing. It demonstrates how to break down key sections and use paragraphs to develop supporting points. Students gain understanding of formatting expectations like title page information, in-text citations, and references pages. Having a template assists with time management by showing approximate word counts for each section. Further, focusing on a clear three-point thesis statement in the introduction equips students to stay focused on only the most important relevant support.
While a simplistic design, this sample covers necessary building blocks. Students learn to draft an engaging introduction, outline a clear argument in the thesis, effectively incorporate and assess research in the body paragraphs, and close with a thorough conclusion. Additionally, they gain an overall sense of flow and cohesion in linking each section together under a unified thesis. With practice following a basic research paper sample, students reinforce proper structure and learn to develop their own original papers meeting assignment requirements.
Providing students access to a simple research paper sample PDF serves as an excellent starting point. With its clear organization and formatting, students can reference the template as needed when writing their first papers. Understanding fundamental research paper sections and design from an example equips students to then apply structure to their own original work meeting an instructor’s expectations. Following a basic sample provides necessary scaffolding for developing stronger academic writing skills over time.