An abstract is the first section of a research paper outline template that the audience reads. Typically, it is one paragraph, which concisely summarises the reasons for the research, procedure, results, and implications. In this case, the abstract mentions all the critical information included in the research paper outline template. Also, it ensures that the readers have a clear idea of the content of the research. Hence, the summary developed in the abstract should communicate as a standalone element of a research paper.
Keywords: research
outline, research template, research paper
Introduction in the Outline Template
An introductory section creates the context for the in-depth discussion on a given topic by considering the research paper outline template. Firstly, the author provides the audience with relevant background information on the topic. This broad scope discussion is necessary because it announces the topic and outlines the major principles. Secondly, the critical lines of thought surrounding the specific issue are identified and explained (Pardede, 2018, p. 34). At this point, the researcher strives to layout the foundation of the current study. Lastly, the gaps in existing research are noted, and the objectives, research questions, and hypotheses are stated. Basically, the audience must have a complete picture of the study by the end of the introduction. In turn, the word count varies depending on the overall length of the research paper outline template.
Research Paper and Literature Review
The literature review explains the relationship between the existing research and the proposed study. The researcher must describe the extent to which the theoretical framework on the topic has been carried out (Pardede, 2018, p. 34). Besides the provision of knowledge on the topic, this section minimizes the risk of repetition of studies that have already been done. Moreover, the review in the research paper outline template allows the researcher to scrutinize the flaws of particular methodologies and develop a sound theoretical framework. However, this section is not a presentation of facts and findings. Instead, it contains the synthesis and evaluation of current findings and draws the link between the research questions and previous studies.
Method Section in the Research Paper Outline Template
The “Method” section in the research paper outline template defines the methodology in much detail. For instance, there are five significant aspects of a well-developed methodology: a restatement of the research purpose, type of research design, description of participants and materials, and a step by step procedure (Pardede, 2018, p. 40). In this case, the research methodology should be well detailed to facilitate replication. Also, the methodology is supported by existing literature, which defends decision making, for example, exclusion criteria for a given population.
Results of the Research Papers
This segment of the research paper outline template documents the findings of the analytical procedures described in the “Method” section. Basically, the researcher must ensure that the data is presented in a form, which allows the audience to systematically follow the results and develop their interpretation (Pardede, 2018, p. 40). In turn, there are no explanations for the results in this section. Hence, researchers use visual aids to communicate with the readers, for example, tables.
Discussion and Conclusion
The “Discussion and Conclusion” sections are the most critical aspects of the audience. In particular, the discussion portion evaluates the findings in the context of the research questions while linking them to the outcomes of previous studies (Pardede, 2018, p. 41). Basically, the researcher provides a detailed interpretation of the outcome compared to previous studies if the person knows how to write an outline. Moreover, the conclusion is the final paragraph in this section, which explains the implications and areas for further research. The discussion and conclusion elements are tightly integrated into the research paper outline template. However, instructors or publishers may require this section to be divided into two independent segments of writing a research paper. In turn, people also need to know how to write a research paper.
Reference in the Research Paper Outline Template
Pardede, P. (2018). Research components. Research in English Language Teaching (pp. 28-45). Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330134699_Research_Components