Research papers can be challenging to write. It requires a lot of time and effort when writing a research report. Here are 10 tips to help you write a good research report.
Professors love to see research papers that include a lot of different references. Depending on your university, your reference list and citations requirements will vary. Some universities prefer Harvard referencing, whilst some use Oxford referencing, and some universities have their own style of referencing. Make sure you check with your professors which referencing rules you should follow so that you don’t get marked down on your research paper.
A good research paper has a compelling opening. It captivates your professor’s attention immediately. The opening paragraph can be the most important because it is the first impression the professor will have of your writing ability. Some professors make a prediction on what your grade will be from only reading your opening paragraph.
Similar to a strong opening, your conclusion needs to be good because it is the last impression you will be making. Your conclusion should summarise everything you have said in your research paper and it should not include any new points.
At a young age we are taught that we should always check our spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPAG), when writing essays. When writing a research report you should try to use an extensive vocabulary, but don’t use words that you don’t know the meaning of because you might misuse the word. If you are aiming for a high grade on your research paper, you will need to use sophisticated language.
A good research paper always has a lot of evidence to back up the points you make. All your points should have at least one form of evidence to add credibility to what you are saying. You should only use evidence that links with your points.
A research report should include a lot of facts to support what you are discussing. Try not to include any opinions unless your professor has expressed that this is a part of the mark scheme. Using opinions can make your research report appear less credible.
Try to explore concepts and theories about what you are researching in great depth. Adding detail about different theories makes your research report appear more unbiased and it shows that you have put a lot of effort into your work.
Courses tend to have reading lists that your professors recommend for you to read, to help you with your course. When you use books and sources that are not on the list it demonstrates that you have put a lot of effort and work into your research paper. This could help to boost your grade.
Try to use the same source throughout your research paper. Using various sources makes your research paper appear better. Instead of only using internet sources, use books and journals.
It is evident to a professor when you have not read through your work. A lot of typos in your research paper will bring your grade down, so ensure you have checked your work thoroughly.
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