Text 1.3 Architecture of an Academic Study

The paper below is only one example of how an academic research paper can look. Each discipline will have its own way to format research papers. The one below is an example of an academic research paper in American Psychological Association (APA) format.

Title Page

Table of Contents

Abstract

Title Page

Table of Contents

Abstract

Body

References

Table

Headings

References

Table

Title Page

Includes researcher's name(s) and title of research.

Table of Contents

All major sections of the paper listed.

Abstract

The abstract tells the reader what the study is about, the methods used in the study, and the results. This may include keywords in the research paper.

Introduction (Body)

The Introduction includes a brief review of existing literature/research, which then motivates the aim and objective of the present study.

Methods (Body)

Researchers describe the methods used. This can include the data used, how it was collected, and how it was analyzed.

Results (Body)

The results section describes what the researchers found according to their analysis methods. This is usually presented in the form of tables, graphs, and photographs.

Discussion (Body)

Here is where the researchers discuss the weaknesses in their study (limitations, or this part may be separate) and how the results may be reinterpreted. This is also where researchers discuss the results related to other studies.

Limitations (Body)

Possible objections to accepting the study's findings at face value and /or generalizing the study's findings to other participants and items.

Future Scope (Body)

Where other researchers should go from here.

References

References used during the course of the study.

Table

Information shown in table form.

References

Journalist's Resource. (2014, August 7). Academic research and studies: How they work and why journalists should care. Retrieved February 15, 2022, from https://journalistsresource.org/home/introduction-studies-academic-research-journalists/

Nasiruddin, Munira. (2020). Re: What are the major parts of a research paper? . Retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/post/What_are_the_major_parts_of_a_research_paper/5f6743fa5df6f53fe75307eb/citation/download.