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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

717 Good Research Paper Topics

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Some examples of common research paper styles include:

• Argumentative Research Papers
• Persuasive Research Papers
• Education Research Papers
• Analytical Research Papers
• Informative Research Papers

Your research essay topic may also need to be related to the specific class you are taking. For example, an economics class may require a business research paper, while a class on human behavior may call for a psychology research paper.

The requirements for your paper will vary depending on whether you are in high school, college, or a postgraduate student. In high school, you may be able to choose an easy topic and cite five or six sources you found on Google or Yahoo!, but college term papers require more in-depth research from reliable sources, such as scholarly books and peer-reviewed journals.

Do you need some help with brainstorming for topics? Some common research paper topics include abortion, birth control, child abuse, gun control, history, climate change, social media, AI, global warming, health, science, and technology. 

But we have many more!

On this page, we have hundreds of good research paper topics across a wide range of subject fields. Each of these topics could be used “as is” to write your paper, or as a starting point to develop your own topic ideas.

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How to Choose Your Research Paper Topic

The first step to developing an interesting research paper is choosing a good topic. Finding a topic can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. Finding the Right Research Paper Topic

If you are in a class that allows you to choose your own term paper topic, there are some important areas to consider before you begin your project:

Your Level of Interest: Research papers are time-consuming; you will be spending countless hours researching the topic and related topics, developing several primary and secondary sources, and putting everything together into a paper that is coherent and accomplishes your objectives. If you do not choose a topic you are passionate about, the process will be far more tedious, and the finished product may suffer as a result.

Your Level of Experience: Being interested in a topic is great, but it is even more helpful if you already know something about it. If you can find a topic that you already have some personal and/or professional experience with, it will vastly reduce the amount of research needed and make the whole process much easier.

Available Information on the Topic: Be sure to choose a topic that is not only interesting but also one that has numerous sources available from which to compile your research. A researchable topic with several potential sources gives you access to the level of information you need to become an authority on the subject.

Your Audience: An interesting topic to you may not necessarily be interesting to your professor or whoever is grading your research paper. Before you begin, consider the level of interest of the person(s) who will be reading it. If you are writing a persuasive or argumentative essay, also consider their point of view on the subject matter.

As you begin researching your topic, you may want to revise your thesis statement based on new information you have learned. This is perfectly fine, just have fun and pursue the truth, wherever it leads. If you find that you are not having fun during the research phase, you may want to reconsider the topic you have chosen.

The process of writing the research paper is going to be very time consuming so it’s important to select a topic that is going to sustain your interest for the duration of the project. It is good to select a topic that is relevant to your life since you are going to spend a long time researching and writing about it. Perhaps you are considering starting your own business or pursuing a career in politics. Look through the suggested research paper topics and find one in a category that you can relate to easily. Finding a topic that you have some personal interest in will help make the arduous task a lot easier, and the project will have better results because of your vested interest.

Our List of Research Topics and Issues

Affirmative action, health, pharmacy, medical treatments, interpersonal communication, marketing and advertising, barack obama, discrimination, bill clinton, hilary clinton, computer crimes and security, cosmetic surgery, controversial, criminal justice, donald trump, easy/simple, environment, family violence, foreign policy, gambling and lotteries, the lgbtq community, generational conflict, gun control, hate crimes, immigration, middle east, maternity/paternity leave, natural disasters, police work, population explosion, pornography, prisons and prisoners, prostitution, ronald reagan, student loan debt, teen issues, women, mothers, what, why, and how, relationships.

We compiled an exhaustive list of topics that would make excellent research papers. The topics are specifically organized to help you find one that will work for your project. Broad topics are headed, and then below them are narrowed topics, all to help you find an area to focus on. The way we have organized the topics for research papers can save you lots of time getting prepared to write your research paper.

We have topics that fit into categories that cover such areas as education, environmental sciences, communication and languages, current events, politics, business, criminal justice, art, psychology, economics to name just a few. Simply get started by choosing the category that interests you and peruse through the topics listed in that category and you’ll be well on your way to constructing an excellent research paper.

Be sure to check other topics ideas: persuasive speech topics , argumentative speech topics , policy speech topics . We also have some sample outlines and essay templates .

• What limits are responsible?
• What limits are realistic?
• How to protect abortion doctors, pregnant women, and the protection of abortion clinics vs. the right to protest
• Partial birth abortion
• Scientific evidence vs. definition of viability
• Stem cell research
• Unborn victims of violence
• Relative equality has been achieved vs. serious inequities continue
• Can racial balance in business, education, and the military be achieved without policies that promote Affirmative Action
• Reverse discrimination
• NOW, National Organization for Women
• No government support vs. fairness to parents who pay twice for education
• Separation of church and state vs. religion’s contribution to the public good
• Placement by age vs. placement by academic ability
• Mainstreaming students with disabilities vs. special classrooms for their special needs
• Required standardized tests for advancement vs. course requirements only
• National standardized tests vs. local control of education
• Discrimination in education
• Multicultural/bilingual education vs. traditional basics
• Teacher competency tests vs. degree requirements only
• Teacher’s needs/demands vs. teaching as a service profession
• Policing schools
• School’s responsibility vs. parental responsibility for school violence
• Drug and alcohol abuse, pregnancy, suicide
• Zero tolerance toward violence vs. toughness with flexibility
• Permit corporal punishment
• Exams often do little more than measure a person’s ability to take exams. Should exams be outlawed in favor of another form of assessment?
• Should teens in the U.S. adopt the British custom of taking a “gap year” between high school and college?
• In some European schools, fewer than 10% of students get “As”. Is there grade inflation in the U.S.? Why so many “As” for Americans?
• Education and funding
• Grade inflation
• No Child Left Behind Act: Is it working?
• Home schooling
• Standardized tests
• Are children smarter (or more socialized) because of the Internet?
• Should the federal government be allowed to regulate information on the internet?
• How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
• How does a search engine work?
• What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
• What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana?
• How does tobacco use affect the human body?
• Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
• What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
• What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
• Should thin people have to pay Medicare and other health costs for the health problems of obese people? Should obese people have higher premiums?
• Low carbohydrate vs. low fat diets
• Benefits of weight training vs. aerobics
• How much weekly exercise is needed to achieve lasting health benefits
• Health websites give too much information
• Psychological disorders, such as cutting and self-harm, eating disorders, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, ADHD, ADD, Asperger Syndrome
• Are we taking it too far by blaming fast food restaurants for obesity? When is it individual responsibility and when is it appropriate to place blame?
• Should companies allow employees to exercise on work time?
• Steroids, Antibiotics, Sprays; Are food manufacturers killing us?
• Alternative medicine
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Causes of eating disorders, society’s portrayal of women
• Eating disorders statistics
• Down’s syndrome
• Birth control
• Dietary supplements
• Exercise and fitness
• Heart disease
• In vitro fertilization
• Attention deficit disorder
• Investigate the history and authenticity of ADHD and ADD.
• Organic foods
• Prescription drugs
• Vegetarianism
• Learning disabilities
• Schizophrenia
• Coma recovery: techniques, successes, new strategies.
• What are the primary types of cancer, and in what ways are they related?
• Investigate the success ratio of holistic and non-medical cancer treatments.
• Is Alzheimer’s inevitable? Examine theories regarding its prevention.
• What forms of physical degeneracy are seen as linked to aging?
• Investigate the connections between emotional stability and physical well-being, and provide evidence as to how the two may be related.
• Investigate differences in rates of injury recovery and overcoming illness based on cultural parameters.
• Examine the modern history of viral epidemics, researching what is known about the emergence of deadly viruses.
• Examine how congenital heart disease may be treated, and how it differs from other forms of heart disease.
• Is occasional depression a natural state to an extent, and is society too eager to treat this as a disorder?
• Investigate Sociopathy, determine biological and psychological roots, typical patterns, and potentials of treatment.
• How are compulsive behaviors determined as such? Explore examples of anal retention and expulsion, OCD, etc., as offering accepted criteria.
• Research and analyze the nature of codependency as both a normal state of relations and as an unhealthy extreme.
• Investigate the history and practice of electroshock, analyzing how and why this extreme treatment came to be widely used.
• Hoarding: symptoms and treatments, causes, types of hoarding
• Limits on extraordinary, costly treatments vs. doing everything possible
• Nutritional/alternative therapy vs. mainstream medical treatment insurance coverage for alternative treatment?
• Government grants for alternative treatment research?
• Health superiority of alternative treatments?
• Assisted suicide vs. preservation of life
• Governmental insurance requirements
• Should there be a national database to track controlled substances (i.e., OXYCODONE) or should it be a state issue?
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children?
• Decline of communication due to technology
• Online social networks and their influence
• Impact of texting and cell phones
• How do men and women communicate differently using body language, and why does it matter (in dating, the workplace, and social circles)?
• Limitations of the media
• Marketing to children
• Sexual innuendos in marketing
• Global marketing trends
• Should certain kinds of ads be banned in the interest of health/morality/annoyance – alcohol, cigarettes, prescription meds, etc…?
• Children’s programming and advertising
• Most controversial political ads
• Media response and public outcry to political ads
• Campaign funds and their relation to political advertising
• Domestic policy
• Separation of church and state
• Judge nominations and make up of supreme court
• Congressional opposition to presidential nominees/filibusters
• Affirmative action
• Erosion of civil liberties vs. protection against terrorism
• Patriot Act One and Two
• Most developed nations have universal health coverage. Why doesn’t the U.S., the wealthiest nation, have it?
• Tax cut as economic stimulation
• Needs of the states vs. needs of the individuals
• Budget deficits and deficit spending
• Rich vs. poor
• Protection of victims vs. freedom of speech/rights of the accused
• How to improve race relations
• Women still earn only 75 cents for every $1 a man earns. Explain why.
• Discrimination in the workplace: analyzing issues for today’s corporations.
• Gender discrimination
• Interracial marriage
• Should government impose restrictions on what kinds of foods can be served in school cafeterias?
• Pros and cons of school uniforms.
• Do children learn better in boys-only and girls-only schools?
• Charter schools
• Prayer in schools
• Rights of the individual vs. community safety (or campus safety)
• Funding for research
• U.S. obligation to third world countries
• Manufacturing of generic drugs vs. U.S. pharmaceutical companies
• How contagious diseases “jump” from animal hosts to human
• What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
• Right to privacy of a child with AIDS vs. safety of other children
• Limits for campus safety vs. personal freedom
• Implications on violence and crime
• Issues with binge drinking
• Should the U.S. lower the drinking age to 18?
• Leniency because of condition vs. community safety
• Revoking drivers license vs. being able to attend classes and work
• Age discrimination of violators
• Animal rights vs. medical research
• Should it be illegal to use animals for sports and entertainment?
• Humane treatment of animals vs. factory farms
• Animal welfare in slaughter houses
• Animal protection vs. business, employment interests
• School prestige vs. academic standards
• Should shoe companies be able to give away free shoes and equipment to high school athletes?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Doping in sports
• What are the effects on children whose parents push them in sports?
• Steroids: Should they be legalized?
• Title IX: Has it helped women’s sports? Has it harmed men’s sports?
• Social effects of team sports
• Needed in public school library/curriculum?
• Needed in entertainment industry?
• Needed on the Internet?
• Should parents censor textbooks and other literature for children in schools?
• Parental filters on the Internet. Does censorship actually increase curiosity and use of pornography?
• How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
• How has United States censorship changed over the decades?
• Democratic kingmaker, influence on political succession
• Impact of global initiative
• Influence on fundraising
• Influence as Secretary of State
• Foreign policies
• Influence on women
• ACT or SAT score requirements
• Promotional techniques, such as 1st time scholarships
• 4 year vs. 2 year colleges
• College admission policies
• College tuition planning
• Distance education
• Diploma mills
• Online porn vs. freedom of speech
• Stalking, invasion of privacy vs. reasonable access
• Hacking crimes–workable solutions?
• What are the latest ways to steal identity and money?
• From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
• How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
• Cyber security
• Securing Internet commerce: is it possible in today’s arms’ race of hackers and evolving technology?
• Is downloading of media (music, videos, software) infringing on the rights of media producers and causing economic hardships on media creators?
• Should media producers prosecute students and individuals that they suspect of downloading copyrighted materials?
• Programs such as SPOTIFY and PANDORA
• Copyright Law
• Age limitations on surgery
• Addiction to surgery
• Demand for beauty by society
• The dangers of breast implants for teenagers
• The cost of cosmetic surgery
• Plastic surgery
• Weight loss surgery
• Are surgeons “scissor happy,” and are surgeries widely unnecessarily
• Negative texting, instant messaging, email
• Is cyber-bullying as bad as face-to-face?
• Kinds of punishment for cyber-bullying
• Media response
• Should the state or federal government put laws into place to prevent bullying?
• Is homosexuality a choice, or are people born gay?
• Evolution vs. Creationism.
• Should “under God” remain in the Pledge of Allegiance?
• Is healthcare a right or a privilege?
• Fossil fuels vs. alternative energy.
• Transgender bathroom policies.
• Capitalism vs. socialism.
• Should parents be allowed to spank their children?
• Should sanctuary cities lose their federal funding?
• The pros and cons of gun control.
• Should the U.S. continue drone strikes in foreign countries?
• Was the U.S. justified in going to war with Iraq?
• How to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
• The pros and cons of animal testing.
• Do pro athletes have the right to sit during the national anthem?
• Incarceration rates in the U.S.
• Technology and the criminal justice system.
• Police brutality and minorities.
• Should the police wear body cameras?
• In what circumstances should the death penalty be allowed?
• Should we have stiffer penalties for drunk driving?
• Should those who text while driving be put in jail?
• White-collar crime and punishment.
• Criminalizing protests and activism.
• The rise of wrongful convictions.
• Mutual consent vs. exploitation
• Campuses with “no touch” policy
• Drugs associated to Date Rape
• Violence and Rape
• Government support vs. parental financing
• Benefits vs. harmful effects
• Trump’s unconventional presidential campaign.
• The psychology of Donald Trump.
• Who is behind Trump’s political rise?
• Donald Trump and evangelical voters.
• Donald Trump the businessman.
• Trump’s war on the press (aka “fake news”).
• The Trump Organization and conflicts of interest.
• The border wall and illegal immigration policy.
• Global warming and climate change policy.
• Trump-Russia collusion.
• The rapid rise of “The Resistance.”
• Trump’s legislative agenda; e.g., health care, tax policy, deregulation, etc.
• Trump’s “America First” trade and foreign policy.
• The case for (or against) the Trump presidency.
• Punishment vs. treatment
• Family reactions
• Social acceptance
• Community safety vs. legalization
• United States military involvement in Colombian drug trade?
• Drug legalization
• Abstinence Program: Do they work?
• Should the federal government legalize the use of marijuana?
• What is the true key to happiness?
• What is the cause of America’s obesity crisis?
• Why sleep is necessary.
• Are plastic bottles really bad for you?
• How to encourage people to recycle more.
• How 3D printers benefit everyone.
• How do GPS systems on smartphones work?
• How have oil spills impacted the environment?
• Verbal vs. nonverbal communication.
• The accuracy of lie detector tests.
• How Bill Gates and Steve Jobs changed the world.
• The pros and cons of hitchhiking.
• The PC vs. the Mac.
• What causes tornadoes?
• Pollution, air, and water
• Endangered species
• What are the risks of climate change and global warming?
• Rain forests
• Alternative energy
• Alternative fuel/hybrid vehicles
• Conservation
• Deforestation
• Greenhouse effect
• Marine pollution
• How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
• Sustainability of buildings
• Recycling programs
• Cost of “green” programs
• Wind turbines
• Landfill issues
• Renewable fuels
• Radioactive waste disposal
• Soil pollution
• Wildlife conservation: what efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife?
• Excessive burden on industries?
• Drilling for oil in Alaska’s ANWR (Arctic National Wildlife Refuge)
• Gasoline consumption vs. SUV’s popularity
• Wildlife protection vs. rights of developers
• Clean air and water standards–weakened vs. strengthened
• What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
• Should the use of coal be subjected to stricter environmental regulations than other fuels?
• Is global warming a hoax? Is it being exaggerated?
• How much is too much noise? What, if anything, should we do to curb it?
• Protecting victims vs. rights of the accused
• Women who kill abusive husbands vs. punishment for murder
• Marital rape?
• How to protect children vs. respect for parental rights
• Children who kill abusive parents
• Child abuse–workable solutions?
• Child abuse
• Domestic abuse
• Organic farming vs. mainline use of chemical sprays
• How to best protect the environment; conservation
• Family vs. corporate farms
• Food production costs
• Interventionism?
• Third world debt and World Bank/International Monetary Fund
• Military support vs. economic development of third world countries
• Human rights violations
• European Union in competition with the U.S.
• Unilateralism
• Relevance of the United Nations
• Neocon role in foreign policy
• Christian right influence on foreign policy
• Pentagon vs. State Department
• Nation building as a policy
• Arms control
• Obama’s National Strategy for Counterterrorism
• Control of al Qaeda
• Drawdown of U.S. Armed Forces in the Middle East
• Cats vs. dogs: which makes the better pet?
• My pet can live forever: why I love animal clones.
• According to my social media profile, my life is perfect.
• Football vs. baseball: which sport is America’s favorite pastime?
• Starbucks vs. Caribou: whose coffee is better?
• What does your dog really think of you?
• Why millennials deserve lower pay.
• What makes people end up with so many mismatched socks?
• How to become a research paper master.
• How reading Tuesdays with Morrie can make you wiser.
• Easy way to earn revenues vs. social damage
• Individual freedom vs. social damage
• Do lotteries actually benefit education or is it a scam?
• Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
• Should there be a constitutional amendment that allows gays and lesbians to legally marry?
• Adoption rights?
• Need special rights for protection?
• College campus response
• Gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender
• Gay parenting
• Elderly to share in the tax burden vs. government support of elderly
• Future of social security
• Job discrimination
• Child rearing
• Employment issues
• Generational differences
• Community and police safety vs. unrestricted right to bear arms
• NRA (National Rifle Association)
• 2nd Amendment
• Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
• Community safety vs. freedom of Speech
• Punishment inequities
• Persecution of alternative lifestyles
• Church Arson: Hate crime?
• Prevention of hazing
• Greek organizations and rituals of hazing
• Statistics of death or injury due to Hazing
• High Schools and Hazing
• What happened during the Salem witch trials?
• How did trains and railroads change life in America?
• What may have occurred during the Roswell UFO incident of 1947?
• What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
• How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt? What did she accomplish during her reign?
• What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur?
• What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
• How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
• How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
• What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke?
• How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
• How did the Freedom Riders change society?
• What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors?
• How did Joan of Arc change history?
• What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
• How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
• What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
• Why did Marin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
• How did the Roman Empire fall?
• How did the black plague affect Europe?
• How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
• How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam?
• Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula?
• Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison?
• What was the role of African Americans during the Revolutionary War?
• What was Britain’s view of India during British rule?
• What were the factors in the China-Tibet conflict?
• Research and analyze the emergence of the Catholic Church as a political force following the collapse of the Roman Empire.
• Investigate Dr. Eileen Powers’ claim that the Roman Empire was lost primarily due to an inability to perceive itself as subject to the change inevitable to all governments, or her “force of nature” theory.
• Explore and discuss the actual cooperation occurring through the centuries of Barbarian conquest of Rome.
• Examine the differences and similarities between Western and Eastern concepts and practices of kingship.
• Investigate and explain the trajectory of ALEXANDER THE GREAT’s empire, with minimal emphasis on personal leadership.
• To what extent did commerce first link Eastern and Western cultures, and how did this influence early international relations?
• Research and analyze how Japan moved from a feudalistic to a modern state, and how geographic isolation played a role in the process.
• Analyze the process and effects of Romanization on the Celtic people of ancient England: benefits, conflicts, influences.
• Overview of British dominance of Ireland, Wales, and Scotland! How was this justified in each case, and what motivated the attempts over centuries of rebellion and failure?
• Investigate the known consequences of Guttenberg’s printing press within the first 30 years of its invention, and only in regard to the interaction between European nations.
• Identify and analyze the point at which the Reformation became fused with European politics and nationalist agendas.
• To what extent did Henry VIII promote the Reformation, despite his vigorous persecution of heretics in England?
• Trace and discuss the uses of papal power as a military and political device in the 14th and 15th centuries.
• Research the city/state of Florence from the 13th to the 16th centuries, discussing how and why it evolved as so fiercely republican.
• Compare and contrast the Russian Czarism of Peter, Elizabeth, and Catherine with the monarchies of England and France in the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Investigate the enormous significance of Catholic Orthodoxy as the dominant faith in Russia, and its meaning and influence in an empire populated by a minimal aristocracy and predominant serfdom.
• To what extent did Philip II’s religious convictions shape European policy and conflict in the 16th century?
• Trace the path leading to the convocation of the Estates in France in the late 18th century, leading to the Revolution. Assess political and social errors responsible.
• What eventually ended serfdom in Russia, and why were numerous attempts to end it by the Czars in power consistently unsuccessful?
• Research and report on how England was transformed in the 19th century by the industrial revolution and the advent of the railroad.
• Compare and contrast the consequences of the industrial revolutions in England and America in terms of urbanization.
• What were the circumstances leading to World War I, and how might the war have been averted?
• Assess the Cold War of the 20th century in an historical context: can any parallels be made between this conflict and other ongoing tensions between major powers in earlier centuries?
• Analyze Roosevelt’s decisions in implementing the New Deal, beginning with the closing of the banks. Suggest alternative strategies, or reinforce the rationale of the actions.
• What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire?
• What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing?
• Food programs
• Welfare reform
• Governmental supplementation
• Homeless: urban restrictions vs. needs of the destitute
• Workable solutions?
• Realistic limits vs. openness toward people in need
• English as official language vs. respect for diversity
• Should illegal immigrants be made legal citizens?
• Access to public school and public programs for Illegal Aliens
• Policing borders–workable solutions?
• Employment and/or taxation for Illegal Aliens
• International trade
• Democratization
• “Shock and awe”
• U.S. occupation vs. liberation
• Iraqi run vs. U.S. puppet state
• Oil and Gas prices-Control of resources
• Effective self-government
• War on Terrorism
• Is America winning or losing the War? What is the measurement of success? Have the benefits outweighed the costs?
• Parental leave for both parents
• FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act)
• Bonding time
• Preemptive strike policy
• Precision weapons
• Intelligence reliability
• Afghanistan – a success or stalemate
• Should the U.S. have mandatory military conscriptions? For whom?
• Governmental support
• Preparedness
• School emergency plans
• Community warning systems
• Damage costs
• U.S. presidential elections should be decided by the popular vote, rather than the Electoral College.
• The minimum wage should be increased to provide a “livable” wage for working families.
• There should be stiffer penalties for those who commit animal cruelty.
• School vouchers increase competition and create better quality schools.
• The corporate tax rate should be lowered to create more jobs.
• Social Security should be privatized.
• Human torture should be banned in all circumstances.
• Affirmative action is still needed to ensure racial and gender equality.
• The U.S. dollar should go back on the gold standard.
• Euthanasia and assisted suicide should be outlawed.
• Police brutality vs. dangers that police face
• Racially motivated brutality?
• Politician’s right to privacy vs. the public’s right to know
• Amount of money going into presidential campaigns
• Views on abortion, gay marriage, and other controversial topics
• Political debates throughout history
• Third-party candidates at presidential debates
• Rights of religious citizens vs. freedom from imposition (e.g. prayer in schools)
• Religious motivation for political involvement vs. cultural pluralism
• Christian Right’s influence on foreign policy
• How serious? Causes? Workable solutions?
• Funding abortion as a form of birth control in third world countries?
• What would happen globally if the demand for natural resources is greater than the supply?
• Limitation of social deterioration vs. freedom of speech
• Definition of Pornography
• Child Pornography
• Building prisons vs. alternative sentencing
• Adjusted sentencing for lesser crimes
• Community service
• Diversion Programs for inmates
• How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
• Prostitution laws in the US and abroad
• Benefits and drawbacks to legalizing prostitution
• Psychological effect on prostitutes and former prostitutes
• Sex slavery, buying and selling
• Should the government be allowed to wire tap without permission?
• What limitations, if any, should be applied to the paparazzi?
• What medical information should be confidential? Who, if anybody, should have access to medical records?
• Does the public have a right to know about a public figure’s private life?
• Privacy rights
• Do harsher punishments mean fewer convictions?
• Date rape: consent vs. exploitation
• Drugs-Rohypnol, GHB, KETAMINE
• Legalization of Date Rape Drugs
• Recently, a 17-year-old boy was sentenced to 10 years in prison for having consensual oral sex with a 15-year-old girl. Are statutory rape laws patronizing to girls and discriminatory to boys?
• Acquaintance rape
• Is there one true religion?
• Freedom of religion
• Offer distinct reasons why the Bible should be studied as literature, removed from religious significance.
• From Hollywood to the White House: the political rise of Ronald Reagan.
• The Great Communicator: how Reagan captured the hearts of Americans.
• 1981 assassination attempt: bullet wound leaves Reagan inches away from death.
• Reagan appoints the first female Supreme Court justice.
• The PATCO breakup and decline of the labor unions.
• Tax cuts and “Reaganomics.”
• The “Iran-Contra” scandal.
• Reagan, Gorbachev, and the end of the Cold War.
• The final act: Reagan’s Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and long goodbye.
• How has airport security intensified since September 11th, 2001?
• Identity theft
• Homeland Security: Are we safer since the creation of this department?
• Should the government use invasive pat-downs and body scans to ensure passenger safety or are there better methods?
• Is arming Pilots a good idea?
• What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
• Student loan scams
• How to avoid student loan debt
• Managing student loan debt
• Driverless cars and the future of transportation.
• Breaking the glass ceiling: the impact of the women’s rights movement.
• How seniors contribute to societal well-being.
• How disabled individuals are viewed by society.
• The modern-day civil rights movement.
• Has technology made us more detached from society?
• The role of religion in society.
• In today’s society, are we better off or worse off than previous generations?
• Popular music and its impact on the culture.
• Class and geographical segregation.
• The differences between life in the city, suburbs, and/or rural areas.
• Should parents be able to create designer babies?
• Should microchips be implanted inside humans for better tracking and security?
• Will smart watches eventually replace cell phones?
• The pros and cons of being a global citizen.
• Progressive vs. flat tax
• Excessive taxes vs. worthwhile programs
• Is text messaging contributing to teen illiteracy?
• How eating disorders impact teens.
• Tablets vs. textbooks.
• Do standardized tests improve teen education?
• Are violent video games contributing to juvenile delinquency?
• Is English literature relevant for today’s teens?
• Should the HPV vaccine be required for teen girls?
• Do teachers inflate grades so students can pass?
• Should advertisers be allowed to target teens?
• How to encourage teens to stop smoking.
• The causes and effects of teen alcohol and drug abuse.
• How to prevent teen pregnancy.
• Osama Bin Laden
• World Trade Center and Pentagon bombings
• September 11, 2001
• War on terrorism
• Afghanistan
• Bioterrorism
• Al Qaida: Has U.S. policy actually spread terrorism rather than contained it? Will it get better or worse? Why and how?
• Can terrorism ever be justified?
• What kind of person becomes a suicide bomber?
• What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden?
• Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
• How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
• Cell Phones: How have they changed us socially?
• Does the Information Age mean we are losing important historical information?
• Where did hip-hop music originate?
• A day in the life of a Buddhist monk.
• How does the brain store and retrieve memories?
• What life is like inside an ant colony.
• The case for and against the existence of UFOs.
• Can virtual reality adequately substitute for actual reality?
• Are dreams hidden messages or just hot air?
• Why do people collect the most ridiculous things?
• When is it time to get out of an abusive relationship?
• The art of pretending to care.
• Public attitudes toward veterans
• Health issues caused by service time
• Organizations for veterans
• Governmental support for veterans
• What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
• Iraq War Vets: Are they being cheated on medical benefits?
• Is there a glass ceiling?
• Obstacles to women running for political office?
• Should women be priests, pastors, ministers, and rabbis?
• What differences, if any, are there in children who are raised by stay-at-home moms and working moms? Does society today still discriminate against working mothers who wish to have flexible work schedules?
• Should stay-at-home moms get a salary from the government?
• Why do we sleep?
• How do GPS systems work?
• Who was the first person to reach the North Pole?
• Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz?
• What was life like for a gladiator?
• Are there any effective means of repelling insects?
• How is bulletproof clothing made?
• How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
• What is life like inside of a beehive?
• Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
• What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
• What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk?
• How did gunpowder change warfare?
• How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
• What do historians know about ninjas?
• Are humans still evolving?
• What is the curse of the pharaohs?
• Why was Socrates executed?
• How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
• How are black holes formed?
• How do submarines work?
• Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
• How does a hybrid car save energy?
• What ingredients can be found in a hotdog?
• How does a shark hunt?
• How does the human brain store and retrieve memories?
• How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
• What causes tornados?
• How does night vision work?
• What causes desert mirages, and how do they affect wanderers?
• What are sinkholes, and how are they formed?
• What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs?
• Should we reform laws to make it harder to get a divorce?
• Divorce rates
• Family relationships
• Family values
• Race relations
• Marriage and Divorce
• A view of home life and its effect on child development
• How 4 generations in the workplace can work together.
• Building positive employee relationships
• Modern work environments
• Business leadership
• Workforce regulations
• Small business and taxation
• Corporate law
• Issues in modern Human Resources: Are today’s corporations patronizing employees or being more responsible for them?
• Cultural conflict in globalization: Strategies for successfully establishing a presence in a foreign culture
• Corporate abuse: How can executives so successfully manipulate corporations criminally?
• Identifying stakeholders in non-public companies: is the corporate responsibility the same as for public offerings?
• Devise a new model of leadership for business today, incorporating elements of existing leadership models and theories.
• Examine the actual impact of social media as a business promotion instrument.
• Devise a scenario in which traditionally unethical business practices may be justified.
• Should newspaper reporters be required to reveal their sources?
• Do the media (both print and broadcast) report fairly? Do they ever cross the line between reporting the news and creating the news?
• Does news coverage favor whites?
• What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
• How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy?
• Media conglomerates/ownership
• Minorities in mass media
• Portrayal of women
• Reality television
• Television violence
• Media portrayals
• Sensationalized media
• Examine the issues of responsibility in pharmaceutical companies’ promotion of drugs in the media.
• Forensic science technology
• What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers?
• What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier?
• What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
• What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy?
• Nuclear energy
• Clean energy resources
• Wind energy: Is wind energy really that inexpensive? Is it effective? Is it practical?
• What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power?
• Investigate Freud’s contributions to psychology as they exist today: what value remains?
• Are there gender foundations to psychology and behavior that are removed from cultural considerations? To what extent does gender actually dictate thought process?
• To what extent is sexual orientation dictated by culture, and is there an orientation not subject to social and cultural influences?
• Investigate the psychological process in group dynamics with regard to the emergence of leaders and the compliance of others.
• Compare and contrast Jung, Freud, and Adler: explore distinctions and commonalities.
• What is “normal,” and to what extent is psychology reliant on culture to define this?
• Research and assess the effectiveness of radical psychotherapies and unconventional treatments.
• Research the concept of human will as both a component of individual psychology and a process or element removed from it.
• To what extent is self-image influenced by culture in regard to eating disorders? Are external factors entirely to blame?
• How do centuries-old beliefs of madness and dementia relate to modern conceptions of mental illness?
• Is psychology itself inevitably a non-science in that virtually any theory may be substantiated, or is there a foundation of science to the subject to which all theorists must conform?
• Examine Euripides and gender psychology: what do the Trojan Women and Medea reveal?
• Using three characters, explore Chaucer’s insight into human behavior in The Canterbury Tales.
• Identify the true relationship between Dante and Virgil in The Divine Comedy, emphasizing Dante’s reliance on the poet.
• Research and discuss the English fascination for euphemism and ornate narratives in the 16th century, beginning with John Lyly.
• Examine any existing controversies regarding Shakespearean authorship, citing arguments on both sides.
• Analyze similarities and differences between Marlowe and Shakespeare in regard to Tamburlaine and Titus Andronicus.
• Defend or support Bloom’s assertion of Shakespeare as the “inventor of the human being.”
• To what degree are Shakespeare’s plays influenced by, or reflective, of the Elizabethan era? Identify specific cultural and national events linked to at least 3 plays.
• Analyze the unusual construction of A Winter’s Tale in regard to transition from comedy to drama. Is this valid? Does the transition benefit or harm the play?
• Support the belief that Shakespeare is representing himself as Prospero through evidence, or similarly refute the belief.
• Why was extreme violence so popular in English Reformation drama? Cite Marlowe, Kyd, Webster, and Shakespeare.
• Analyze the metaphysical in Donne’s poetry: is it spiritual, existential, or both?
• What is Shelley seeking to say in Frankenstein? Support your answer with passages from the novel.
• Compare and contrast Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina with Flaubert’s Madame Bovary, noting the characters of the heroines.
• It is argued that Dickens failed when he turned to serious, romantic narrative in his novels. Using Copperfield, Great Expectations, and Dombey and Son, defend or refute this claim.
• Assess Dickens’ stance as a moralist in Bleak House and Hard Times: to what extent does he seek reform, and to what does he comment on the human condition?
• Was the Harry Potter phenomenon warranted by quality of storytelling or more a matter of public receptivity at the time combined with media exposure?

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21 thoughts on “717 Good Research Paper Topics”

How has music evolved? How has music effected history? Music of the past vs music of the present. How has the music industry effected the music’s quality?

Do you think abortion is legal? Why they do abortion?

Why are people instinctively afraid of animals that are not mammals?

Should abortion be legalized? Should domestic abuse and child abuse victims be granted clemency for killing their abuser?

Jewish holocaust and its contribution to European History, specifically Germany

What is the most popular college in the United States?

The Black Knight: Space Waste or Alien Satellite? The Moon Landing: Real or Hollywood Hoax? Have We Become Too Politically Correct? Paranormal Research: Real? Fake? Should it be offered in college? Who really was Jack the Ripper? Can a zombie apocalypse truly occur? Who is the best or worst president of the USA? The Men in Black: real or hoax?

Why Marching Band is a sport.

Marching band is not a sport

how did aids start?

Topic : Alternative medicine Research question : Does the alternative medicine is safe and standardized Hypothesis : analyse the quality controle of alternative medicine formulations

Does our nostalgic music/childhood songs affect our present lifestyle, and in what ways?

reverse discriminations is still discrimination so there’s no such thing as that. like reverse racism isn’t a thing because that is still racism

Men on birth control and not women.

You forget the topic Islamophobia 😉

You should add a music section. Is Muzio Clementi overshadowed by Mozart? The Toccata and Fugue in D- really wasn’t written by Bach The use of the “Dies Irae” in cinema Why is modern music so repetitive and simple compared to classical music?

I want to do a research project on Education

I want to research but not get a perfect topic help me give me a best topic about current affairs

Topic: History. Are the Crusades oversimplified? where they justified? If so, how? Topic: Current affairs. Is the term “conspiracy theory” used to discredit any non-mainstream, controversial opinions. Topic: Gun control. Does limiting magazine capacity for firearms have any effect on gun crime? Are high-capacity magazines ever necessary for self-defense? Topic: Economics. Are minimum wage laws necessary to guarantee “decent”, or do the laws of supply and demand automatically ensure that?

Are women funny?

I would like to research about current businesses related issues but I don’t know how to make an appropriate topics please help me out

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Home » Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

A research paper is a detailed academic document that presents the results of a study or investigation. It involves critical analysis, evidence-based arguments, and a thorough exploration of a specific topic. Writing a research paper requires following a structured format to ensure clarity, coherence, and academic rigor. This article explains the structure of a research paper, provides examples, and offers a practical writing guide.

Research Paper

A research paper is a formal document that reports on original research or synthesizes existing knowledge on a specific topic. It aims to explore a research question, present findings, and contribute to the broader field of study.

For example, a research paper in environmental science may investigate the effects of urbanization on local biodiversity, presenting data and interpretations supported by credible sources.

Importance of Research Papers

• Knowledge Contribution: Adds to the academic or professional understanding of a subject.
• Skill Development: Enhances critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.
• Evidence-Based Arguments: Encourages the use of reliable sources to support claims.
• Professional Recognition: Serves as a medium for sharing findings with peers and stakeholders.

Structure of a Research Paper

1. title page.

The title page includes the paper’s title, author’s name(s), affiliation(s), and submission date.

• Title: “The Impact of Remote Work on Employee Productivity During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
• Author: Jane Doe
• Affiliation: XYZ University

2. Abstract

A concise summary of the research, typically 150–300 words, covering the purpose, methods, results, and conclusions.

• Example: “This study examines the effects of remote work on employee productivity. Data collected from surveys and interviews revealed that productivity increased for 65% of respondents, primarily due to flexible schedules and reduced commuting times.”

3. Introduction

The introduction sets the context for the research, explains its significance, and presents the research question or hypothesis.

• Background information.
• Problem statement.
• Objectives and research questions.
• Example: “With the rapid shift to remote work during the pandemic, understanding its impact on productivity has become crucial. This study aims to explore the benefits and challenges of remote work in various industries.”

4. Literature Review

The literature review summarizes and critiques existing research, identifying gaps that the current study addresses.

• Overview of relevant studies.
• Theoretical frameworks.
• Research gaps.
• Example: “Previous studies highlight improved flexibility in remote work but lack comprehensive insights into its impact on team collaboration and long-term productivity.”

5. Methodology

This section explains how the research was conducted, ensuring transparency and replicability.

• Research design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
• Data collection methods (surveys, interviews, experiments).
• Data analysis techniques.
• Ethical considerations.
• Example: “A mixed-methods approach was adopted, using online surveys to collect quantitative data from 200 employees and semi-structured interviews with 20 managers to gather qualitative insights.”

The results section presents the findings of the research in an objective manner, often using tables, graphs, or charts.

• Example: “Survey results indicated that 70% of employees reported higher job satisfaction, while 40% experienced challenges with communication.”

7. Discussion

This section interprets the results, relates them to the research questions, and compares them with findings from previous studies.

• Analysis and interpretation.
• Implications of the findings.
• Limitations of the study.
• Example: “The findings suggest that while remote work enhances individual productivity, it poses challenges for team-based tasks, highlighting the need for improved communication tools.”

8. Conclusion

The conclusion summarizes the key findings, emphasizes their significance, and suggests future research directions.

• Example: “This study demonstrates that remote work can enhance productivity, but organizations must address communication barriers to maximize its benefits. Future research should focus on sector-specific impacts of remote work.”

9. References

A list of all the sources cited in the paper, formatted according to the required style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

• Creswell, J. W. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Sage Publications.

10. Appendices

Supplementary materials, such as raw data, survey questionnaires, or additional analyses, are included here.

Examples of Research Papers

1. education.

Title: “The Effectiveness of Interactive Learning Tools in Enhancing Student Engagement”

• Abstract: Summarizes findings that interactive tools like Kahoot and Quizlet improved engagement by 45% in middle school classrooms.
• Methods: Quantitative surveys with 300 students and qualitative interviews with 15 teachers.

2. Healthcare

Title: “Telemedicine in Rural Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges”

• Abstract: Highlights how telemedicine improved access to healthcare for 80% of surveyed rural residents, despite connectivity issues.
• Methods: Mixed methods involving patient surveys and interviews with healthcare providers.

3. Business

Title: “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Customer Experience”

• Abstract: Discusses how AI tools like chatbots reduced response times by 30%, improving customer satisfaction in the e-commerce sector.
• Methods: Case studies of three leading e-commerce companies and customer feedback analysis.

Writing Guide for a Research Paper

Step 1: choose a topic.

Select a topic that aligns with your interests, is relevant to your field, and has sufficient scope for research.

Step 2: Conduct Preliminary Research

Review existing literature to understand the context and identify research gaps.

Step 3: Develop a Thesis Statement

Formulate a clear and concise statement summarizing the main argument or purpose of your research.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Organize your ideas and structure your paper into sections, ensuring a logical flow.

Step 5: Write the First Draft

Focus on content rather than perfection. Start with the sections you find easiest to write.

Step 6: Edit and Revise

Review for clarity, coherence, grammar, and adherence to formatting guidelines. Seek feedback from peers or mentors.

Step 7: Format and Finalize

Ensure your paper complies with the required citation style and formatting rules.

Tips for Writing an Effective Research Paper

• Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and lengthy explanations; focus on delivering clear arguments.
• Use Credible Sources: Rely on peer-reviewed articles, books, and authoritative data.
• Follow a Logical Structure: Maintain a coherent flow from introduction to conclusion.
• Use Visual Aids: Include tables, charts, and graphs to summarize data effectively.
• Cite Sources Properly: Avoid plagiarism by adhering to proper citation standards.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Lack of Focus: A vague or overly broad topic can weaken the paper’s impact.
• Poor Organization: A disorganized structure makes the paper hard to follow.
• Inadequate Analysis: Merely presenting data without interpreting its significance undermines the paper’s value.
• Ignoring Guidelines: Failing to meet formatting or citation requirements can detract from professionalism.

A research paper is a critical academic tool that requires careful planning, organization, and execution. By following a clear structure that includes essential components like the introduction, methodology, results, and discussion, researchers can effectively communicate their findings. Understanding the elements and employing best practices ensures a well-crafted and impactful research paper that contributes meaningfully to the field.

• Babbie, E. (2020). The Practice of Social Research . Cengage Learning.
• Bryman, A. (2016). Social Research Methods . Oxford University Press.
• Booth, W. C., Colomb, G. G., & Williams, J. M. (2016). The Craft of Research . University of Chicago Press.
• APA (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Information Literacy Instruction

• Exercises to Build Research Skills
• Formulate a research topic
• Find Information
• Evaluate Information
• Use Information
• Chicago/Turabian
• Citation Tools

Exercises Overview

Library instruction exercises.

The exercises below are designed for students learning to do research. They can be done in class or assigned as homework. They are in Word format so instructors who wish to use them can easily edit or adapt them. When appropriate, they contain an answer key, so instructors should look at the full handout and remove the answer key before sharing with students.

If you would like a librarian to come to your class to lead these exercises or if you would like an exercise customized for your subject area, contact your Library Liaison!

• Formulate a topic
• Find information
• Evaluate information
• Incorporate information
• Cite information
• Writing assignment formats
• Triangulating your research This exercise guides students with a broad topic to identify search terms and narrow their topic, arriving at a research question.
• Formulating a Research Question from a Broad Topic Students often begin their research (and writing) with a very broad topic. This means they waste a lot of time looking for resources that they will never use. Before they begin to research, it is ideal to have a focused question. This 10 minute assignment teaches them how to turn a very broad topic into a focused research question.
• Identifying and Refining a Research Topic Using Concept Maps This exercise is designed to help students think of words and concepts and see how they are related. They create a concept map of their topic, which may help them see ways to narrow their topic and arrive at a research question.
• Identifying and Refining a Research Topic Using Journalistic Questions Journalistic questions are a set of questions you can use to define your topic more clearly. This exercise will help student ask questions about their topic. Having specific questions to answer makes researching the topic easier when you get to that stage.
• Defining Search Terms Students will often try one or two search terms when using a database and assume there’s no information on their topic if it doesn’t work the first time. This exercise gets them thinking about synonyms and related words. This 15 minute exercise may seem simple, but I can almost guarantee that the next time they sit down at a database they will try multiple searches before giving up.
• Identifying Keywords In this exercise, students will practice identifying keywords that might be used to research their topic. The exercise has three parts. First, they will identify the keywords from sample research questions. Then they will brainstorm synonyms for those keywords, demonstrating the need to search using more than just one keyword. Finally, they will complete the exercise for their own research question.
• Information Source Comparison This activity helps students explore the strengths and weakness of Google, Google Scholar, Academic Search Complete and topic specific databases as information sources.
• Understanding Boolean Operators: AND, OR, NOT In order to apply your keywords to an effective search, you must be able to employ Boolean logic. Those operators are AND OR & NOT. The object of this exercise is to practice your use of those operators by looking at an everyday experience : Ordering food from a fast food restaurant.
• Creating Keyword Searches Using Boolean Operators In this exercise, students will practice selecting search terms and combining them using boolean operators in order to create an effective search.
• Popular, Trade or Peer Reviewed? Great hands-on exercise to teach students about the differences among the 3 types of publications. Students can read the differences in the provided example, but real learning takes place when they have to sift through the actual publications and write down differences. Can be tailored to use any three sources appropriate for your discipline.
• Analyze 4 types of sources This assignment does two things: 1) it makes students find 4 different types of sources rather than just search the Web; 2) it teaches students how to evaluate ALL information and compare and contrast different types of sources.
• Pin the News Source on the Fake News Continuum This activity asks students to research a variety of news sources and place them on a continuum to define their reliability.
• Evaluating Sources Process Cards This is a group activity in which students are given cards with a variety of sources on them. They evaluate the sources based on criteria such as "authority," "ease of creation," "time to creation" etc.
• Evaluating sources writing assignment Requires the student to answer a series of questions about a source they have found. These questions are also a good basis for writing the annotation for an annotated bibliography exercise.
• Article Analysis - upper level This exercise requires students to evaluate a scholarly article for not only its relevance to their research topic but also for its potential to help them find more sources via citation mining and keyword generation.
• Evaluating Web Resources Students choose one of three websites to evaluate. After evaluating the website they must make a judgment on whether it is good or bad for academic research and explain their decision. This assignment can be tailored to use websites related to your subject area. Just ask!

Introductory level - avoid plagiarism by properly using quotes, paraphrases and summaries.

• Evaluating quotes and paraphrases (100/200 level) Students are given a sample citation and 7 easy uses. They judge if the use is appropriate or plagiarism.
• Evaluating quotes, summaries and paraphrases Students are given a sample text and 4 summaries. They judge if the summary is legitimate or plagiarism.
• Quotes, Summaries and Paraphrases from the Purdue Owl This PDF from the Purdue Owl explains what each of these are, how to use them and concludes with a hands on exercise that requires students to summarize and paraphrase several sample original texts.
• Write your own quote, summary, paraphrase Given a single sample text, students are asked to write their own quote, summary, paraphrase for the instructor's evaluation. Can be tailored for any class.

Introductory level - how to integrate quotes, paraphrases and summaries

• Integrating quotes Given a single sample paragraph, students are asked to identify several key methods quotes are integrated into the paragraph.
• Analyzing how to integrate quotes and summaries This exercise has students analyze how and why scholarly authors have integrated quotes and summaries in order to help them learn smooth methods to use quotes and summaries in their own research.
• Analyzing supporting evidence An exercise that asks students to analyze how and why evidence is used in an existing scholarly article.

Introductory level - learning how and why to use sources

• Un-research Project This exercise helps students focus on why they choose sources to support their research.
• Is your paper well supported with evidence A quick, easy and visual exercise to help students determine if their paper arguments are well supported with evidence.

Upper level - synthesizing information

• Updating a literature review This exercise is appropriate to introduce the concept of a literature review and how to synthesize information in one.
• Mini-literature review assignment An introduction to literature reviews. Scaffolded instruction for how to approach your first literature review.
• Synthesis Matrix A beginner's matrix to help students begin thinking about synthesizing their sources.
• Advanced Synthesis Matrix A source synthesis matrix for advanced level writing assignments.

Create a list of sources with improper citations. Have the students attempt to locate the sources.  This should demonstrate to students how citations are used to track down sources and how frustrating it can be for their teachers and fellow researchers when they don’t provide adequate citations. Examples to use here could include books with multiple editions or books with very generic titles.

Breaking citations down: Develop a list of citations. Break these citations down (components: author, date, publisher, title, etc). Type or write them down on larger pieces of construction paper, cardboard, etc. You can utilize a variety of colors, shapes, sizes. Have students work as groups to assemble the parts (you can use pin boards, a wall and tape, magnetic boards, etc). This can easily be turned into a competitive game.

Selecting an Effective Writing Assignment Format

In addition to the standard essay, report or full research paper formats, several other formats exist that might give students a different slant on the course material or allow them to use slightly different writing skills. Here are some suggestions:

Journals. In-class journal entries can spark discussions and reveal gaps in students’ understanding of the material. Having students write an in-class entry summarizing the material covered that day can aid the learning process and also reveal concepts that require more elaboration. Out-of-class entries involve short summaries or analyses of texts, or are a testing ground for ideas for student papers and reports.

Letters. Students can define and defend a position on an issue in a letter written to someone in authority. They can also explain a concept or a process to someone in need of that particular information. They can write a letter to a friend explaining their concerns about an upcoming paper assignment or explaining their ideas for an upcoming paper assignment. If you wish to add a creative element to the writing assignment, you might have students adopt the persona of an important person discussed in your course (e.g., an historical figure) and write a letter explaining his/her actions, process, or theory to an interested person (e.g., “pretend that you are John Wilkes Booth and write a letter to the Congress justifying your assassination of Abraham Lincoln,” or “pretend you are Henry VIII writing to Thomas More explaining your break from the Catholic Church”).

Editorials . Students can define and defend a position on a controversial issue in the format of an editorial for the campus or local newspaper or for a national journal.

Cases . Students might create a case study particular to the course’s subject matter.

Position Papers . These projects ask students to research a topic from a variety of viewpoints, and then use that research to support their own perspective. Students can define and defend a position, perhaps as a preliminary step in the creation of a formal research paper or essay.

Imitation of a Text . Students can create a new document “in the style of” a particular writer (e.g., “Create a government document the way Woody Allen might write it” or “Write your own ‘Modest Proposal’ about a modern issue”).

Instruction Manuals . Students write a step-by-step explanation of a process.

Dialogues . Students create a dialogue between two major figures studied in which they not only reveal those people’s theories or thoughts but also explore areas of possible disagreement (e.g., “Write a dialogue between Claude Monet and Jackson Pollock about the nature and uses of art”).

Collaborative projects . Students work together to create such works as reports, questions, and critiques.

Summary papers These assignments ask students to summarize a key concept from the course, or a reading or set of readings.

Compare/contrast papers Students are asked to compare/contrast theoretical positions from key scholars, reading, methods, or procedures for completing a task, etc.

Reading responses Students are asked to respond to specific questions about course readings. These can take place in reading journals that you occasionally collect, or reading responses on a discussion forum (on Moodle or elsewhere).

Position response papers Students are provided with a position that they must then defend or refute using course concepts and outside research.

Disciplinary problem papers These projects ask students to make an argument for the best solution to a disciplinary problem.

Data analysis papers Students are provided with raw data (or asked to collect raw data themselves) that they must then analyze using a particular methodology from the course.

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• Last Updated: Nov 15, 2023 2:28 PM
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How to Write a Research Paper as a High School Student

By Carly Taylor

Senior at Stanford University

6 minute read

Read our guide to learn why you should write a research paper and how to do so, from choosing the right topic to outlining and structuring your argument.

What is a research paper?

A research paper poses an answer to a specific question and defends that answer using academic sources, data, and critical reasoning. Writing a research paper is an excellent way to hone your focus during a research project , synthesize what you’re learning, and explain why your work matters to a broader audience of scholars in your field.

The types of sources and evidence you’ll see used in a research paper can vary widely based on its field of study. A history research paper might examine primary sources like journals and newspaper articles to draw conclusions about the culture of a specific time and place, whereas a biology research paper might analyze data from different published experiments and use textbook explanations of cellular pathways to identify a potential marker for breast cancer.

However, researchers across disciplines must identify and analyze credible sources, formulate a specific research question, generate a clear thesis statement, and organize their ideas in a cohesive manner to support their argument. Read on to learn how this process works and how to get started writing your own research paper, integrating skills like critical thinking and advanced academic writing.

How do I choose my topic?

Tap into your passions.

A research paper is your chance to explore what genuinely interests you and combine ideas in novel ways. So don’t choose a subject that simply sounds impressive or blindly follow what someone else wants you to do – choose something you’re really passionate about! You should be able to enjoy reading for hours and hours about your topic and feel enthusiastic about synthesizing and sharing what you learn.

We've created these helpful writing resources to inspire you to think about your own passion project . Polygence also offers a passion exploration experience where you can dive deep into three potential areas of study with expert mentors from those fields.

Ask a difficult question

In the traditional classroom, top students are expected to always know the answers to the questions the teacher asks. But a research paper is YOUR chance to pose a big question that no one has answered yet and figure out how to make a contribution to answering that question. So don’t be afraid if you have no idea how to answer your question at the start of the research process — this will help you maintain a motivational sense of discovery as you dive deeper into your research. If you need inspiration, explore our database of research project ideas and easy research topics for high school students.

Be as specific as possible

It’s essential to be reasonable about what you can accomplish in one paper and narrow your focus down to an issue you can thoroughly address. For example, if you’re interested in the effects of invasive species on ecosystems, it’s best to focus on one invasive species and one ecosystem, such as iguanas in South Florida , or one survival mechanism, such as supercolonies in invasive ant species . If you can, get hands on with your project.

You should approach your paper with the mindset of becoming an expert in this topic. Narrowing your focus will help you achieve this goal without getting lost in the weeds and overwhelming yourself.

Would you like to write your own research paper?

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How do I prepare to write a research paper?

Conduct preliminary research.

Before you dive into writing your research paper, conduct a literature review to see what’s already known about your topic. This can help you find your niche within the existing body of research and formulate your question. For example, Polygence student Jasmita found that researchers had studied the effects of background music on student test performance, but they had not taken into account the effect of a student’s familiarity with the music being played, so she decided to pose this new question in her research paper.

Pro tip: It’s a good idea to skim articles in order to decide whether they’re relevant enough to your research interest before committing to reading them in full. This can help you spend as much time as possible with the sources you’ll actually cite in your paper.

Skimming articles will help you gain a broad-strokes view of the different pockets of existing knowledge in your field and identify the most potentially useful sources. Reading articles in full will allow you to accumulate specific evidence related to your research question and begin to formulate an answer to it.

Draft a thesis statement

Your thesis statement is your succinctly-stated answer to the question you’re posing, which you’ll make your case for in the body of the paper. For example, if you’re studying the effect of K-pop on eating disorders and body image in teenagers of different races, your thesis may be that Asian teenagers who are exposed to K-pop videos experience more negative effects on their body image than Caucasian teenagers.

Pro Writing Tip: It’s okay to refine your thesis as you continue to learn more throughout your research and writing process! A preliminary thesis will help you come up with a structure for presenting your argument, but you should absolutely change your thesis if new information you uncover changes your perspective or adds nuance to it.

Create an outline

A research paper outline is a tool for sketching out the structure of your paper by organizing your points broadly into subheadings and more finely into individual paragraphs. Try putting your thesis at the top of your outline, then brainstorm all the points you need to convey in order to support your thesis.

Pro Tip: Your outline is just a jumping-off point – it will evolve as you gain greater clarity on your argument through your writing and continued research. Sometimes, it takes several iterations of outlining, then writing, then re-outlining, and then rewriting in order to find the best structure for your paper.

What are some key tips when writing?

Introduction.

A research paper introduction should move the reader from your broad area of interest into your specific area of focus for the paper. It generally takes the form of one to two paragraphs that build up your thesis statement and give the reader an idea of the broad argumentative structure of your paper. After reading your introduction, your reader should know what claim you’re going to present and what kinds of evidence you’ll analyze to support it.

Topic sentences

Writing crystal clear topic sentences is a crucial aspect of a successful research paper. A topic sentence is like the thesis statement of a particular paragraph – it should clearly state the point that the paragraph will make. Writing focused topic sentences will help you remain focused while writing your paragraphs and will ensure that the reader can clearly grasp the function of each paragraph in the paper’s overall structure.

Transitions

Sophisticated research papers move beyond tacking on simple transitional phrases such as “Secondly” or “Moreover” to the start of each new paragraph. Instead, each paragraph flows naturally into the next one, with the connection between each idea made very clear. Try using specifically crafted transitional phrases rather than stock phrases to move from one point to the next which will make your paper as cohesive as possible.

In her research paper on Pakistani youth in the U.S. , Polygence student Iba used the following specifically crafted transition to move between two paragraphs: “Although the struggles of digital ethnography limited some data collection, there are also many advantages of digital data collection.” This sentence provides the logical link between the discussion of digital ethnography's limitations from the prior paragraph and the upcoming discussion of this technique’s advantages in this paragraph.

What is a research paper conclusion?

Your conclusion can have several functions:

To drive home your thesis and summarize your argument

To emphasize the broader significance of your findings and answer the “so what” question

To point out some questions raised by your thesis and/or opportunities for further research

Your conclusion can take on all three of these tasks or just one, depending on what you feel your paper is still lacking up to this point.

How do I cite my sources?

Last but not least, crediting your sources is extremely important. There are many different citation formats, such as MLA, APA, and Chicago style. Research online or consult an expert to make sure you know which citation style is standard in your field of interest.

You have several options for keeping track of your bibliography:

Use a notebook to record the relevant information from each of your sources: title, author, date of publication, journal name, page numbers, etc.

Create a folder on your computer where you can store your electronic sources

Use an online bibliography creator such as Zotero, Easybib, or Noodletools to track sources and generate citations

Under our Projects tab, you can read research papers by Polygence students. You can also explore other opportunities for high school research and writing contests .

If you’re interested in finding an expert mentor to guide you through the process of writing your own independent research paper, consider applying to be a Polygence scholar today!

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Purdue Online Writing Lab College of Liberal Arts

Choosing a Topic

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The first step of any research paper is for the student to understand the assignment. If this is not done, the student will often travel down many dead-end roads, wasting a great deal of time along the way. Do not hesitate to approach the instructor with questions if there is any confusion. A clear understanding of the assignment will allow you to focus on other aspects of the process, such as choosing a topic and identifying your audience.

A student will often encounter one of two situations when it comes to choosing a topic for a research paper. The first situation occurs when the instructor provides a list of topics from which the student may choose. These topics have been deemed worthy by the instructor; therefore, the student should be confident in the topic he chooses from the list. Many first-time researchers appreciate such an arrangement by the instructor because it eliminates the stress of having to decide upon a topic on their own.

However, the student may also find the topics that have been provided to be limiting; moreover, it is not uncommon for the student to have a topic in mind that does not fit with any of those provided. If this is the case, it is always beneficial to approach the instructor with one's ideas. Be respectful, and ask the instructor if the topic you have in mind would be a possible research option for the assignment. Remember, as a first-time researcher, your knowledge of the process is quite limited; the instructor is experienced, and may have very precise reasons for choosing the topics she has offered to the class. Trust that she has the best interests of the class in mind. If she likes the topic, great! If not, do not take it personally and choose the topic from the list that seems most interesting to you.

The second situation occurs when the instructor simply hands out an assignment sheet that covers the logistics of the research paper, but leaves the choice of topic up to the student. Typically, assignments in which students are given the opportunity to choose the topic require the topic to be relevant to some aspect of the course; so, keep this in mind as you begin a course in which you know there will be a research paper near the end. That way, you can be on the lookout for a topic that may interest you. Do not be anxious on account of a perceived lack of authority or knowledge about the topic chosen. Instead, realize that it takes practice to become an experienced researcher in any field.

For a discussion of Evaluating Sources, see Evaluating Sources of Information .

Methods for choosing a topic

Thinking early leads to starting early. If the student begins thinking about possible topics when the assignment is given, she has already begun the arduous, yet rewarding, task of planning and organization. Once she has made the assignment a priority in her mind, she may begin to have ideas throughout the day. Brainstorming is often a successful way for students to get some of these ideas down on paper. Seeing one's ideas in writing is often an impetus for the writing process. Though brainstorming is particularly effective when a topic has been chosen, it can also benefit the student who is unable to narrow a topic. It consists of a timed writing session during which the student jots down—often in list or bulleted form—any ideas that come to his mind. At the end of the timed period, the student will peruse his list for patterns of consistency. If it appears that something seems to be standing out in his mind more than others, it may be wise to pursue this as a topic possibility.

It is important for the student to keep in mind that an initial topic that you come up with may not be the exact topic about which you end up writing. Research topics are often fluid, and dictated more by the student's ongoing research than by the original chosen topic. Such fluidity is common in research, and should be embraced as one of its many characteristics.

The Purdue OWL also offers a number of other resources on choosing and developing a topic:

• Understanding Writing Assignments
• Starting the Writing Process
• Invention Slide Presentation

Tips on Writing a Good Research Paper

By Dr. Robert Gordon, CPC   |  05/16/2023

Writing an academic research paper can often feel overwhelming, especially for new college students. Academic writing often requires in depth research using credible sources, formal sentence structure, a works cited section, and sometimes a literature review and other academic requirements.

What are the best ways for students to approach writing academic research papers?

While writing a paper can be a time-consuming process, selecting a good thesis statement and employing the right research strategies may help students efficiently gather information, maximize their time, and produce a high-quality research paper.

Based on my experience, here are several tips to help with writing a high-quality research paper.

Understand the Assignment

The first step, before you conduct any research, is to review the assignment to make sure you thoroughly understand the requirements. If you have any questions about the assignment, contact your professor immediately for clarification. You do not want to start down the path of researching and writing only to discover you're headed in the wrong direction.

Next, identify the important components of the assignment. This task includes elements like paper length (number of pages or word count) and formatting requirements (font style and size, spacing, and margin dimensions).

Also, make sure you fully understand how to properly cite sources (don't lose points for mistakes in citation formatting!). Lastly, make sure you know the deadline date and the correct process for submitting your paper.

Armed with all this information, start planning how you're going to tackle this assignment. Time management is often a challenge for students, especially those who are just starting on their academic journey or for students who are trying to balance work and family life.

Use a calendar to estimate how long you're going to need to complete each of the steps (some steps may take a few hours) and be sure to build in some wiggle room in case something comes up that interferes with your plans. Giving yourself these mini-deadlines can help you make sure you're on schedule towards completing a high-quality research paper by the deadline.

Develop a Clear Research Question

The second task that you must complete before writing is to develop a clear research paper topic. Before starting your research, have a precisely defined idea of what topic you want to investigate.

Having a clear direction for your paper helps you focus your efforts and ensures you are gathering relevant information. It is best to write down your research topic as a question, such as:

• “Is renewable energy important to the future of the environment?”
• “What are some effective strategies for entrepreneurs?”
• “What are important skills for people in a management role?”

Writing down your research question and reviewing it will help you with the next step, which is to develop a thesis statement. You may have multiple research questions, which can also be incorporated into your thesis statement.

Mold Your Research Question into a Strong Thesis Statement

The third task to do when you write a research paper is to translate your research question into a thesis statement.

A thesis statement is a topic sentence that presents the main point or argument of an essay or research paper. It is typically located at the end of the introduction paragraph and provides a clear, concise summary of your paper's main idea.

A strong thesis statement that summarizes your central idea guides the entire paper and helps your reader understand the purpose and direction of your research paper. Using a research question (or questions) as a starting point will help you develop a strong thesis statement, such as:

·       "The use of renewable energy sources is necessary to combat climate change and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels."

·       "The building of a strong team dedicated to the vision of the entrepreneur is essential for success."

·       "Leadership is an important skill for anyone in a management role."

Use Peer-Reviewed, Academic Sources

Fourth, find and use peer-reviewed secondary sources as you conduct research and find answers to your questions. Unless you are going to do original research for a master's or doctoral thesis, most academic papers use secondary sources from other researchers. Secondary sources are interpretations and analyses of primary research sources, such as books, articles, and documentaries.

Make sure to document all of the sources that you use in a research paper. Keeping track of these sources will make your research easier. Collecting and tracking your sources during the research phase can also help when you're putting together bibliographical information for citing sources.

Academic papers require students to ensure their research sources are properly cited, typically in a reference section or bibliography page at the end of the paper. The citation format depends on the university's required citation style (such as American Psychology Association [APA], Modern Language Association [MLA], Chicago and so on).

In addition, many writing software programs have a references section that can maintain and organize your references and make citations easier. These programs can seamlessly change from one format to another without the need for you to re-enter your references to help ensure sources are properly cited.

Efficiently Use Databases And Search Engines

Fifth, utilize databases and search engines to conduct your research. Academic databases – such as ProQuest, located in the Richard G. Trefry Library at the University – can help you find relevant published articles and other documents for your paper.

For your preliminary research, the University also has many research tools, such as Research@APUS, that can serve as useful guides. Remember that there are videos and documents in the library to help you become better at conducting your own research, so regardless of which learning style you have, resources in the library can help you find what you need.

You can also use a search engine such as Google Scholar to supplement your research. Google Scholar is very helpful if you are researching a newer topic. This type of search engine might bring up fewer academic materials, but they are still research-based.

Remember to be specific in what you are looking for when you use a search engine or an academic database. Ideally, you should use academic databases whenever possible because those sources will likely be more credible and research-based.

Students should only use non-academic sites (like Wikipedia) for research during the beginning phases. For instance, these sites could be useful when you’re seeking background information or wanting to understand the big picture about a broad topic. These sites are not scholarly (although they sometimes include academic resources in their citations) so they cannot be used in your research paper when citing your sources.

Keep Search Terms Specific and Narrow

Sixth, make sure to use specific, narrow search terms when you are searching for publications to use in your paper. Also, you can narrow your search results by using words such as “and” and “or” between two different words or put quotation marks around a search term. This way, a search engine or database is more likely to provide an exact match to the information you’re seeking for your paper.

Narrowing your search terms helps you find the most relevant articles for your paper, rather than sifting through many articles because you used broad search terms that yielded too many results.

For example, if you do a search for management, you will likely get a ton of articles. However, if you search “business,” “management” and “best practices” but not “project management,” that will yield a much smaller number of articles that will be more focused on your paper’s main topic.

Use an Outline or Mind Map to Organize Your Information

The seventh task before starting the writing process is to organize the information that you have decided to use. Once you have gathered your paper’s information, organize it in a way that makes sense to you.

You may want to use an outline, a mind map or another tool to help you structure your paper. I also copy down key points or quotes that I want to use and keep track of where they came from, so that it is easy to use them when I’m writing a paper.

Writing Your Research Paper

At this stage, you've selected a particular topic, formed your thesis statements, conducted preliminary research from reliable sources, created a research paper outline. Now, it's time to start writing and create a first draft.

Following your research paper outline, use your topic sentence as a guide for body paragraphs. The writing process can differ, based on your own preferences. Some students group information together in specific sections – like a jigsaw puzzle – before they start the writing process.

Other researchers prefer to just start writing to get their own ideas on paper, and then go back to each section to add in relevant research and sources. The more research papers you write, the more comfortable you'll get with the writing process and the style of writing a scholarly academic research paper.

Editing, Reviewing, and Rewriting Your Research Paper

After you've completed a first draft, it's time to edit. Keep in mind that your first draft may need many revisions. Editing, reviewing, and rewriting are significant steps in writing a research paper, so be sure to give yourself enough time before the final draft is due.

When editing and reviewing your research paper, look for both broad, big picture issues as well as small details.

For example, make sure your main points are clear, there's a logical flow to the paper, and you've presented information in an interesting way. Also, make sure your sentences form strong body paragraphs (paragraphs aren't too long or too short). You want to make sure the reader (your professor!) has a clear understanding of the topic and that your paper comprehensively answers your research questions.

Also, make sure you're reviewing the details of your research paper. Check that your paper uses proper grammar and spelling, so that you don’t lose points for grammatical errors or spelling mistakes. In addition, be sure to use your own words (and do not plagiarize from your sources!).

Lastly, review the requirements from the assignment sheet to make sure you've included all the necessary components. This work may include a literature review, page numbers, and the correct format for citations. Also, make sure that you're not using unnecessary words to try to increase the word count to meet the requirements of your research paper.

Writing a Research Paper Is Challenging, But a Strong Writing Process Can Help

Writing an academic research paper is always a challenge. But by following these tips on writing a research paper, you can typically produce your paper efficiently and effectively without wasting time on irrelevant information and sources. As a result, your final paper should be well organized to help present information in a logical sequence that conveys the in depth research and hard work you put into writing this research paper.

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