Research Paper Overview: Part 1

Introduction (# of pages – 1) 

• What is the focus of your research paper?
• What are the main issues related to your research topic?
• What is your thesis statement? 

Statement of the Problem (# of pages – 1/2)

• Based on the literature what are the main problem(s) related to your research?
• What are the main problem(s) you plan to address in your research?

Background and Need (# of pages – 1)

• Provide a historical view or background on your topic based on the literature.
• Based on the literature provide evidence of why the research is needed.

Purpose of the Project (# of pages – 1/3) 

• What is the purpose of your project?
• What will your research seek to find? (related to your thesis statement)

Theory (# of pages – 1)

• What does the literature propose as a theoretical framework?
• What theoretical framework or theory do you plan to use for your research based on the research literature?

Research Question (# of pages – 1 line)

• State your Research Question

Definitions (# of pages – ½ to 1)

• Define the terms used throughout your paper that are specific to your research topic, theory and literature.  Your definitions should be based on your literature review.  Cite literature.
• Conclude with a transitional statement reiterating your plans for the paper and that transition into your Literature Review or Part 2 of your Research Paper.