The research paper contains the following:
i) Abstract
Abstract is a brief (150-250 words) comprehensive summary of the research. The word “Abstract” is centered as the first line of type on this page. Type the abstract as a single paragraph in block format (i.e., without paragraph indentation). The abstract contains research topic, objectives, participants, methods, data analysis technique/s and key findings.
Write a list of keywords from your research paper at the end of abstract.
Type Keywords: (italicized) and then list your keywords.
ii) Introduction (1-3 pages)
Introduction is level one heading of research paper. The introduction of the topic will set the stage for explaining the research. It should clearly present the purpose of study and give general overview of main research question and kind of proposed study. Introduction may include following level two headings:
- Objectives of the Study/Research Questions/Hypothesis
- Significance of the Study
- Delimitations of the study (if any)
iii) Literature Review (4-7 pages)
The review of literature should generally begin on a new page. Discuss the literature related to your proposed study. This section is designed to inform readers about past studies that have already been conducted, and provides perspectives on your area of interest. The review should include a brief discussion of any “classical studies” in this area, if appropriate, but the major portion of the content should focus on the past decade of research. It should close with a logical summary of past research and transition to a statement about what should be studied next. After you present what is already known, make your case for your research either answering a new question, getting a new answer to an old question, answering a question about a new population, etc. After you have made your case that your research is going to give new information, you will summarize the major points. Remember that the Introduction discusses the problem. The review of literature should concentrate on solutions (those that exist, those that are still required.
iv) Research Methodology (1-3 pages)
Introduce the general methodology that was used for your study. You should ensure that your research methodology has been designed properly and that all the elements required have been considered.
Research Methodology may include following subheadings
- Research Design
- Population
- Sample and sampling Techniques
- Instrumentation
- Data collection
v) Data Analysis and Interpretation
Mention the data analysis technique and interpret the data accordingly.
vi) Discussion and Conclusion
In this section discuss the findings of data in light of other studies.
vii) Recommendations
Give practical recommendations based on data analysis.
viii) References
Follow APA 6th Edition for referencing style.
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