How To Write A Research Paper

Research Paper Example

Nova A.

Research Paper Example - Examples for Different Formats

Published on: Jun 12, 2021

Last updated on: Feb 6, 2024

research paper examples

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Writing a research paper is the most challenging task in a student's academic life. researchers face similar writing process hardships, whether the research paper is to be written for graduate or masters.

A research paper is a writing type in which a detailed analysis, interpretation, and evaluation are made on the topic. It requires not only time but also effort and skills to be drafted correctly.

If you are working on your research paper for the first time, here is a collection of examples that you will need to understand the paper’s format and how its different parts are drafted. Continue reading the article to get free research paper examples.

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Research Paper Example for Different Formats

A research paper typically consists of several key parts, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and annotated bibliography .

When writing a research paper (whether quantitative research or qualitative research ), it is essential to know which format to use to structure your content. Depending on the requirements of the institution, there are mainly four format styles in which a writer drafts a research paper:

Let’s look into each format in detail to understand the fundamental differences and similarities.

Research Paper Example APA

If your instructor asks you to provide a research paper in an APA format, go through the example given below and understand the basic structure. Make sure to follow the format throughout the paper.

APA Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Example MLA

Another widespread research paper format is MLA. A few institutes require this format style as well for your research paper. Look at the example provided of this format style to learn the basics.

MLA Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Example Chicago

Unlike MLA and APA styles, Chicago is not very common. Very few institutions require this formatting style research paper, but it is essential to learn it. Look at the example given below to understand the formatting of the content and citations in the research paper.

Chicago Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Example Harvard

Learn how a research paper through Harvard formatting style is written through this example. Carefully examine how the cover page and other pages are structured.

Harvard Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Examples for Different Research Paper Parts

A research paper is based on different parts. Each part plays a significant role in the overall success of the paper. So each chapter of the paper must be drafted correctly according to a format and structure.

Below are examples of how different sections of the research paper are drafted.

Research Proposal Example

A research proposal is a plan that describes what you will investigate, its significance, and how you will conduct the study.

Research Proposal Sample (PDF)

Abstract Research Paper Example

An abstract is an executive summary of the research paper that includes the purpose of the research, the design of the study, and significant research findings.

It is a small section that is based on a few paragraphs. Following is an example of the abstract to help you draft yours professionally.

Abstract Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Literature Review Research Paper Example

A literature review in a research paper is a comprehensive summary of the previous research on your topic. It studies sources like books, articles, journals, and papers on the relevant research problem to form the basis of the new research.

Writing this section of the research paper perfectly is as important as any part of it.

Literature Review in Research Sample (PDF)

Methods Section of Research Paper Example

The method section comes after the introduction of the research paper that presents the process of collecting data. Basically, in this section, a researcher presents the details of how your research was conducted.

Methods Section in Research Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Conclusion Example

The conclusion is the last part of your research paper that sums up the writer’s discussion for the audience and leaves an impression. This is how it should be drafted:

Research Paper Conclusion Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Examples for Different Fields

The research papers are not limited to a particular field. They can be written for any discipline or subject that needs a detailed study.

In the following section, various research paper examples are given to show how they are drafted for different subjects.

Science Research Paper Example

Are you a science student that has to conduct research? Here is an example for you to draft a compelling research paper for the field of science.

Science Research Paper Sample (PDF)

History Research Paper Example

Conducting research and drafting a paper is not only bound to science subjects. Other subjects like history and arts require a research paper to be written as well. Observe how research papers related to history are drafted.

History Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Psychology Research Paper Example

If you are a psychology student, look into the example provided in the research paper to help you draft yours professionally.

Psychology Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Example for Different Levels

Writing a research paper is based on a list of elements. If the writer is not aware of the basic elements, the process of writing the paper will become daunting. Start writing your research paper taking the following steps:

  • Choose a topic
  • Form a strong thesis statement
  • Conduct research
  • Develop a research paper outline

Once you have a plan in your hand, the actual writing procedure will become a piece of cake for you.

No matter which level you are writing a research paper for, it has to be well structured and written to guarantee you better grades.

If you are a college or a high school student, the examples in the following section will be of great help.

Research Paper Outline (PDF)

Research Paper Example for College

Pay attention to the research paper example provided below. If you are a college student, this sample will help you understand how a winning paper is written.

College Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Research Paper Example for High School

Expert writers of CollegeEssay.org have provided an excellent example of a research paper for high school students. If you are struggling to draft an exceptional paper, go through the example provided.

High School Research Paper Sample (PDF)

Examples are essential when it comes to academic assignments. If you are a student and aim to achieve good grades in your assignments, it is suggested to get help from  CollegeEssay.org .

We are the best writing company that delivers essay help for students by providing free samples and writing assistance.

Professional writers have your back, whether you are looking for guidance in writing a lab report, college essay, or research paper.

Simply hire a writer by placing your order at the most reasonable price. You can also take advantage of our essay writer to enhance your writing skills.

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Research Paper Examples

Academic Writing Service

Research paper examples are of great value for students who want to complete their assignments timely and efficiently. If you are a student in the university, your first stop in the quest for research paper examples will be the campus library where you can get to view the research sample papers of lecturers and other professionals in diverse fields plus those of fellow students who preceded you in the campus. Many college departments maintain libraries of previous student work, including large research papers, which current students can examine.

Embark on a journey of academic excellence with iResearchNet, your premier destination for research paper examples that illuminate the path to scholarly success. In the realm of academia, where the pursuit of knowledge is both a challenge and a privilege, the significance of having access to high-quality research paper examples cannot be overstated. These exemplars are not merely papers; they are beacons of insight, guiding students and scholars through the complex maze of academic writing and research methodologies.

At iResearchNet, we understand that the foundation of academic achievement lies in the quality of resources at one’s disposal. This is why we are dedicated to offering a comprehensive collection of research paper examples across a multitude of disciplines. Each example stands as a testament to rigorous research, clear writing, and the deep understanding necessary to advance in one’s academic and professional journey.

Access to superior research paper examples equips learners with the tools to develop their own ideas, arguments, and hypotheses, fostering a cycle of learning and discovery that transcends traditional boundaries. It is with this vision that iResearchNet commits to empowering students and researchers, providing them with the resources to not only meet but exceed the highest standards of academic excellence. Join us on this journey, and let iResearchNet be your guide to unlocking the full potential of your academic endeavors.

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Importance of Research Paper Examples

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A Sample Research Paper on Child Abuse

A research paper represents the pinnacle of academic investigation, a scholarly manuscript that encapsulates a detailed study, analysis, or argument based on extensive independent research. It is an embodiment of the researcher’s ability to synthesize a wealth of information, draw insightful conclusions, and contribute novel perspectives to the existing body of knowledge within a specific field. At its core, a research paper strives to push the boundaries of what is known, challenging existing theories and proposing new insights that could potentially reshape the understanding of a particular subject area.

The objective of writing a research paper is manifold, serving both educational and intellectual pursuits. Primarily, it aims to educate the author, providing a rigorous framework through which they engage deeply with a topic, hone their research and analytical skills, and learn the art of academic writing. Beyond personal growth, the research paper serves the broader academic community by contributing to the collective pool of knowledge, offering fresh perspectives, and stimulating further research. It is a medium through which scholars communicate ideas, findings, and theories, thereby fostering an ongoing dialogue that propels the advancement of science, humanities, and other fields of study.

Research papers can be categorized into various types, each with distinct objectives and methodologies. The most common types include:

  • Analytical Research Paper: This type focuses on analyzing different viewpoints represented in the scholarly literature or data. The author critically evaluates and interprets the information, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
  • Argumentative or Persuasive Research Paper: Here, the author adopts a stance on a contentious issue and argues in favor of their position. The objective is to persuade the reader through evidence and logic that the author’s viewpoint is valid or preferable.
  • Experimental Research Paper: Often used in the sciences, this type documents the process, results, and implications of an experiment conducted by the author. It provides a detailed account of the methodology, data collected, analysis performed, and conclusions drawn.
  • Survey Research Paper: This involves collecting data from a set of respondents about their opinions, behaviors, or characteristics. The paper analyzes this data to draw conclusions about the population from which the sample was drawn.
  • Comparative Research Paper: This type involves comparing and contrasting different theories, policies, or phenomena. The aim is to highlight similarities and differences, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of the subjects under review.
  • Cause and Effect Research Paper: It explores the reasons behind specific actions, events, or conditions and the consequences that follow. The goal is to establish a causal relationship between variables.
  • Review Research Paper: This paper synthesizes existing research on a particular topic, offering a comprehensive analysis of the literature to identify trends, gaps, and consensus in the field.

Understanding the nuances and objectives of these various types of research papers is crucial for scholars and students alike, as it guides their approach to conducting and writing up their research. Each type demands a unique set of skills and perspectives, pushing the author to think critically and creatively about their subject matter. As the academic landscape continues to evolve, the research paper remains a fundamental tool for disseminating knowledge, encouraging innovation, and fostering a culture of inquiry and exploration.

Browse Sample Research Papers

iResearchNet prides itself on offering a wide array of research paper examples across various disciplines, meticulously curated to support students, educators, and researchers in their academic endeavors. Each example embodies the hallmarks of scholarly excellence—rigorous research, analytical depth, and clear, precise writing. Below, we explore the diverse range of research paper examples available through iResearchNet, designed to inspire and guide users in their quest for academic achievement.

Anthropology Research Paper Examples

Our anthropology research paper examples delve into the study of humanity, exploring cultural, social, biological, and linguistic variations among human populations. These papers offer insights into human behavior, traditions, and evolution, providing a comprehensive overview of anthropological research methods and theories.

  • Archaeology Research Paper
  • Forensic Anthropology Research Paper
  • Linguistics Research Paper
  • Medical Anthropology Research Paper
  • Social Problems Research Paper

Art Research Paper Examples

The art research paper examples feature analyses of artistic expressions across different cultures and historical periods. These papers cover a variety of topics, including art history, criticism, and theory, as well as the examination of specific artworks or movements.

  • Performing Arts Research Paper
  • Music Research Paper
  • Architecture Research Paper
  • Theater Research Paper
  • Visual Arts Research Paper

Cancer Research Paper Examples

Our cancer research paper examples focus on the latest findings in the field of oncology, discussing the biological mechanisms of cancer, advancements in diagnostic techniques, and innovative treatment strategies. These papers aim to contribute to the ongoing battle against cancer by sharing cutting-edge research.

  • Breast Cancer Research Paper
  • Leukemia Research Paper
  • Lung Cancer Research Paper
  • Ovarian Cancer Research Paper
  • Prostate Cancer Research Paper

Communication Research Paper Examples

These examples explore the complexities of human communication, covering topics such as media studies, interpersonal communication, and public relations. The papers examine how communication processes affect individuals, societies, and cultures.

  • Advertising Research Paper
  • Journalism Research Paper
  • Media Research Paper
  • Public Relations Research Paper
  • Public Speaking Research Paper

Crime Research Paper Examples

The crime research paper examples provided by iResearchNet investigate various aspects of criminal behavior and the factors contributing to crime. These papers cover a range of topics, from theoretical analyses of criminality to empirical studies on crime prevention strategies.

  • Computer Crime Research Paper
  • Domestic Violence Research Paper
  • Hate Crimes Research Paper
  • Organized Crime Research Paper
  • White-Collar Crime Research Paper

Criminal Justice Research Paper Examples

Our criminal justice research paper examples delve into the functioning of the criminal justice system, exploring issues related to law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections. These papers critically examine policies, practices, and reforms within the criminal justice system.

  • Capital Punishment Research Paper
  • Community Policing Research Paper
  • Corporal Punishment Research Paper
  • Criminal Investigation Research Paper
  • Criminal Justice System Research Paper
  • Plea Bargaining Research Paper
  • Restorative Justice Research Paper

Criminal Law Research Paper Examples

These examples focus on the legal aspects of criminal behavior, discussing laws, regulations, and case law that govern criminal proceedings. The papers provide an in-depth analysis of criminal law principles, legal defenses, and the implications of legal decisions.

  • Actus Reus Research Paper
  • Gun Control Research Paper
  • Insanity Defense Research Paper
  • International Criminal Law Research Paper
  • Self-Defense Research Paper

Criminology Research Paper Examples

iResearchNet’s criminology research paper examples study the causes, prevention, and societal impacts of crime. These papers employ various theoretical frameworks to analyze crime trends and propose effective crime reduction strategies.

  • Cultural Criminology Research Paper
  • Education and Crime Research Paper
  • Marxist Criminology Research Paper
  • School Crime Research Paper
  • Urban Crime Research Paper

Culture Research Paper Examples

The culture research paper examples examine the beliefs, practices, and artifacts that define different societies. These papers explore how culture shapes identities, influences behaviors, and impacts social interactions.

  • Advertising and Culture Research Paper
  • Material Culture Research Paper
  • Popular Culture Research Paper
  • Cross-Cultural Studies Research Paper
  • Culture Change Research Paper

Economics Research Paper Examples

Our economics research paper examples offer insights into the functioning of economies at both the micro and macro levels. Topics include economic theory, policy analysis, and the examination of economic indicators and trends.

  • Budget Research Paper
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis Research Paper
  • Fiscal Policy Research Paper
  • Labor Market Research Paper

Education Research Paper Examples

These examples address a wide range of issues in education, from teaching methods and curriculum design to educational policy and reform. The papers aim to enhance understanding and improve outcomes in educational settings.

  • Early Childhood Education Research Paper
  • Information Processing Research Paper
  • Multicultural Education Research Paper
  • Special Education Research Paper
  • Standardized Tests Research Paper

Health Research Paper Examples

The health research paper examples focus on public health issues, healthcare systems, and medical interventions. These papers contribute to the discourse on health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare management.

  • AIDS Research Paper
  • Alcoholism Research Paper
  • Disease Research Paper
  • Health Economics Research Paper
  • Health Insurance Research Paper
  • Nursing Research Paper

History Research Paper Examples

Our history research paper examples cover significant events, figures, and periods, offering critical analyses of historical narratives and their impact on present-day society.

  • Adolf Hitler Research Paper
  • American Revolution Research Paper
  • Ancient Greece Research Paper
  • Apartheid Research Paper
  • Christopher Columbus Research Paper
  • Climate Change Research Paper
  • Cold War Research Paper
  • Columbian Exchange Research Paper
  • Deforestation Research Paper
  • Diseases Research Paper
  • Earthquakes Research Paper
  • Egypt Research Paper

Leadership Research Paper Examples

These examples explore the theories and practices of effective leadership, examining the qualities, behaviors, and strategies that distinguish successful leaders in various contexts.

  • Implicit Leadership Theories Research Paper
  • Judicial Leadership Research Paper
  • Leadership Styles Research Paper
  • Police Leadership Research Paper
  • Political Leadership Research Paper
  • Remote Leadership Research Paper

Mental Health Research Paper Examples

The mental health research paper examples provided by iResearchNet discuss psychological disorders, therapeutic interventions, and mental health advocacy. These papers aim to raise awareness and improve mental health care practices.

  • ADHD Research Paper
  • Anxiety Research Paper
  • Autism Research Paper
  • Depression Research Paper
  • Eating Disorders Research Paper
  • PTSD Research Paper
  • Schizophrenia Research Paper
  • Stress Research Paper

Political Science Research Paper Examples

Our political science research paper examples analyze political systems, behaviors, and ideologies. Topics include governance, policy analysis, and the study of political movements and institutions.

  • American Government Research Paper
  • Civil War Research Paper
  • Communism Research Paper
  • Democracy Research Paper
  • Game Theory Research Paper
  • Human Rights Research Paper
  • International Relations Research Paper
  • Terrorism Research Paper

Psychology Research Paper Examples

These examples delve into the study of the mind and behavior, covering a broad range of topics in clinical, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology.

  • Artificial Intelligence Research Paper
  • Assessment Psychology Research Paper
  • Biological Psychology Research Paper
  • Clinical Psychology Research Paper
  • Cognitive Psychology Research Paper
  • Developmental Psychology Research Paper
  • Discrimination Research Paper
  • Educational Psychology Research Paper
  • Environmental Psychology Research Paper
  • Experimental Psychology Research Paper
  • Intelligence Research Paper
  • Learning Disabilities Research Paper
  • Personality Psychology Research Paper
  • Psychiatry Research Paper
  • Psychotherapy Research Paper
  • Social Cognition Research Paper
  • Social Psychology Research Paper

Sociology Research Paper Examples

The sociology research paper examples examine societal structures, relationships, and processes. These papers provide insights into social phenomena, inequality, and change.

  • Family Research Paper
  • Demography Research Paper
  • Group Dynamics Research Paper
  • Quality of Life Research Paper
  • Social Change Research Paper
  • Social Movements Research Paper
  • Social Networks Research Paper

Technology Research Paper Examples

Our technology research paper examples address the impact of technological advancements on society, exploring issues related to digital communication, cybersecurity, and innovation.

  • Computer Forensics Research Paper
  • Genetic Engineering Research Paper
  • History of Technology Research Paper
  • Internet Research Paper
  • Nanotechnology Research Paper

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Other Research Paper Examples

  • Abortion Research Paper
  • Adoption Research Paper
  • Animal Testing Research Paper
  • Bullying Research Paper
  • Diversity Research Paper
  • Divorce Research Paper
  • Drugs Research Paper
  • Environmental Issues Research Paper
  • Ethics Research Paper
  • Evolution Research Paper
  • Feminism Research Paper
  • Food Research Paper
  • Gender Research Paper
  • Globalization Research Paper
  • Juvenile Justice Research Paper
  • Law Research Paper
  • Management Research Paper
  • Philosophy Research Paper
  • Public Health Research Paper
  • Religion Research Paper
  • Science Research Paper
  • Social Sciences Research Paper
  • Statistics Research Paper
  • Other Sample Research Papers

Each category of research paper examples provided by iResearchNet serves as a valuable resource for students and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of a specific field. By offering a comprehensive collection of well-researched and thoughtfully written papers, iResearchNet aims to support academic growth and encourage scholarly inquiry across diverse disciplines.

Sample Research Papers: To Read or Not to Read?

When you get an assignment to write a research paper, the first question you ask yourself is ‘Should I look for research paper examples?’ Maybe, I can deal with this task on my own without any help. Is it that difficult?

Thousands of students turn to our service every day for help. It does not mean that they cannot do their assignments on their own. They can, but the reason is different. Writing a research paper demands so much time and energy that asking for assistance seems to be a perfect solution. As the matter of fact, it is a perfect solution, especially, when you need to work to pay for your studying as well.

Firstly, if you search for research paper examples before you start writing, you can save your time significantly. You look at the example and you understand the gist of your assignment within several minutes. Secondly, when you examine some sample paper, you get to know all the requirements. You analyze the structure, the language, and the formatting details. Finally, reading examples helps students to overcome writer’s block, as other people’s ideas can motivate you to discover your own ideas.

The significance of research paper examples in the academic journey of students cannot be overstated. These examples serve not only as a blueprint for structuring and formatting academic papers but also as a beacon guiding students through the complex landscape of academic writing standards. iResearchNet recognizes the pivotal role that high-quality research paper examples play in fostering academic success and intellectual growth among students.

Blueprint for Academic Success

Research paper examples provided by iResearchNet are meticulously crafted to demonstrate the essential elements of effective academic writing. These examples offer clear insights into how to organize a paper, from the introductory paragraph, through the development of arguments and analysis, to the concluding remarks. They showcase the appropriate use of headings, subheadings, and the integration of tables, figures, and appendices, which collectively contribute to a well-organized and coherent piece of scholarly work. By studying these examples, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and formatting required in academic papers, which is crucial for meeting the rigorous standards of academic institutions.

Sparking Ideas and Providing Evidence

Beyond serving as a structural guide, research paper examples act as a source of inspiration for students embarking on their research projects. These examples illuminate a wide array of topics, methodologies, and analytical frameworks, thereby sparking ideas for students’ own research inquiries. They demonstrate how to effectively engage with existing literature, frame research questions, and develop a compelling thesis statement. Moreover, by presenting evidence and arguments in a logical and persuasive manner, these examples illustrate the art of substantiating claims with solid research, encouraging students to adopt a similar level of rigor and depth in their work.

Enhancing Research Skills

Engagement with high-quality research paper examples is instrumental in improving research skills among students. These examples expose students to various research methodologies, from qualitative case studies to quantitative analyses, enabling them to appreciate the breadth of research approaches applicable to their fields of study. By analyzing these examples, students learn how to critically evaluate sources, differentiate between primary and secondary data, and apply ethical considerations in research. Furthermore, these papers serve as a model for effectively citing sources, thereby teaching students the importance of academic integrity and the avoidance of plagiarism.

Research Paper Examples

In essence, research paper examples are a fundamental resource that can significantly enhance the academic writing and research capabilities of students. iResearchNet’s commitment to providing access to a diverse collection of exemplary papers reflects its dedication to supporting academic excellence. Through these examples, students are equipped with the tools necessary to navigate the challenges of academic writing, foster innovative thinking, and contribute meaningfully to the scholarly community. By leveraging these resources, students can elevate their academic pursuits, ensuring their research is not only rigorous but also impactful.

Custom Research Paper Writing Services

In the academic journey, the ability to craft a compelling and meticulously researched paper is invaluable. Recognizing the challenges and pressures that students face, iResearchNet has developed a suite of research paper writing services designed to alleviate the burden of academic writing and research. Our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of students across all academic disciplines, ensuring that every research paper not only meets but exceeds the rigorous standards of scholarly excellence. Below, we detail the multifaceted aspects of our research paper writing services, illustrating how iResearchNet stands as a beacon of support in the academic landscape.

At iResearchNet, we understand the pivotal role that research papers play in the academic and professional development of students. With this understanding at our core, we offer comprehensive writing services that cater to the intricate process of research paper creation. Our services are designed to guide students through every stage of the writing process, from initial research to final submission, ensuring clarity, coherence, and scholarly rigor.

The Need for Research Paper Writing Services

Navigating the complexities of academic writing and research can be a daunting task for many students. The challenges of identifying credible sources, synthesizing information, adhering to academic standards, and articulating arguments cohesively are significant. Furthermore, the pressures of tight deadlines and the high stakes of academic success can exacerbate the difficulties faced by students. iResearchNet’s research paper writing services are crafted to address these challenges head-on, providing expert assistance that empowers students to achieve their academic goals with confidence.

Why Choose iResearchNet

Selecting the right partner for research paper writing is a pivotal decision for students and researchers aiming for academic excellence. iResearchNet stands out as the premier choice for several compelling reasons, each designed to meet the diverse needs of our clientele and ensure their success.

  • Expert Writers : At iResearchNet, we pride ourselves on our team of expert writers who are not only masters in their respective fields but also possess a profound understanding of academic writing standards. With advanced degrees and extensive experience, our writers bring depth, insight, and precision to each paper, ensuring that your work is informed by the latest research and methodologies.
  • Top Quality : Quality is the cornerstone of our services. We adhere to rigorous quality control processes to ensure that every paper we deliver meets the highest standards of academic excellence. Our commitment to quality means thorough research, impeccable writing, and meticulous proofreading, resulting in work that not only meets but exceeds expectations.
  • Customized Solutions : Understanding that each research project has its unique challenges and requirements, iResearchNet offers customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re grappling with a complex research topic, a tight deadline, or specific formatting guidelines, our team is equipped to provide personalized support that aligns with your objectives.
  • Affordable Prices : We believe that access to high-quality research paper writing services should not be prohibitive. iResearchNet offers competitive pricing structures designed to provide value without compromising on quality. Our transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden costs or surprises.
  • Timely Delivery : Meeting deadlines is critical in academic writing, and at iResearchNet, we take this seriously. Our efficient processes and dedicated team ensure that your paper is delivered on time, every time, allowing you to meet your academic deadlines with confidence.
  • 24/7 Support : Our commitment to your success is reflected in our round-the-clock support. Whether you have a question about your order, need to communicate with your writer, or require assistance with any aspect of our service, our friendly and knowledgeable support team is available 24/7 to assist you.
  • Money-Back Guarantee : Your satisfaction is our top priority. iResearchNet offers a money-back guarantee, ensuring that if for any reason you are not satisfied with the work delivered, you are entitled to a refund. This policy underscores our confidence in the quality of our services and our dedication to your success.

Choosing iResearchNet for your research paper writing needs means partnering with a trusted provider committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Our unparalleled blend of expert writers, top-quality work, customized solutions, affordability, timely delivery, 24/7 support, and a money-back guarantee makes us the ideal choice for students and researchers seeking to elevate their academic performance.

How It Works: iResearchNet’s Streamlined Process

Navigating the process of obtaining a top-notch research paper has never been more straightforward, thanks to iResearchNet’s streamlined approach. Our user-friendly system ensures that from the moment you decide to place your order to the final receipt of your custom-written paper, every step is seamless, transparent, and tailored to your needs. Here’s how our comprehensive process works:

  • Place Your Order : Begin your journey to academic success by visiting our website and filling out the order form. Here, you’ll provide details about your research paper, including the topic, academic level, number of pages, formatting style, and any specific instructions or requirements. This initial step is crucial for us to understand your needs fully and match you with the most suitable writer.
  • Make Payment : Once your order details are confirmed, you’ll proceed to the payment section. Our platform offers a variety of secure payment options, ensuring that your transaction is safe and hassle-free. Our transparent pricing policy means you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for upfront, with no hidden fees.
  • Choose Your Writer : After payment, you’ll have the opportunity to choose a writer from our team of experts. Our writers are categorized based on their fields of expertise, academic qualifications, and customer feedback ratings. This step empowers you to select the writer who best matches your research paper’s requirements, ensuring a personalized and targeted approach to your project.
  • Receive Your Work : Our writer will commence work on your research paper, adhering to the specified guidelines and timelines. Throughout this process, you’ll have the ability to communicate directly with your writer, allowing for updates, revisions, and clarifications to ensure the final product meets your expectations. Once completed, your research paper will undergo a thorough quality check before being delivered to you via your chosen method.
  • Free Revisions : Your satisfaction is our priority. Upon receiving your research paper, you’ll have the opportunity to review the work and request any necessary revisions. iResearchNet offers free revisions within a specified period, ensuring that your final paper perfectly aligns with your academic requirements and expectations.

Our process is designed to provide you with a stress-free experience and a research paper that reflects your academic goals. From placing your order to enjoying the success of a well-written paper, iResearchNet is here to support you every step of the way.

Our Extras: Enhancing Your iResearchNet Experience

At iResearchNet, we are committed to offering more than just standard research paper writing services. We understand the importance of providing a comprehensive and personalized experience for each of our clients. That’s why we offer a range of additional services designed to enhance your experience and ensure your academic success. Here are the exclusive extras you can benefit from:

  • VIP Service : Elevate your iResearchNet experience with our VIP service, offering you priority treatment from the moment you place your order. This service ensures your projects are given first priority, with immediate attention from our team, and direct access to our top-tier writers and editors. VIP clients also benefit from our highest level of customer support, available to address any inquiries or needs with utmost urgency and personalized care.
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A research paper is an academic piece of writing, so you need to follow all the requirements and standards. Otherwise, it will be impossible to get the high results. To make it easier for you, we have analyzed the structure and peculiarities of a sample research paper on the topic ‘Child Abuse’.

The paper includes 7300+ words, a detailed outline, citations are in APA formatting style, and bibliography with 28 sources.

To write any paper you need to write a great outline. This is the key to a perfect paper. When you organize your paper, it is easier for you to present the ideas logically, without jumping from one thought to another.

In the outline, you need to name all the parts of your paper. That is to say, an introduction, main body, conclusion, bibliography, some papers require abstract and proposal as well.

A good outline will serve as a guide through your paper making it easier for the reader to follow your ideas.

I. Introduction

Ii. estimates of child abuse: methodological limitations, iii. child abuse and neglect: the legalities, iv. corporal punishment versus child abuse, v. child abuse victims: the patterns, vi. child abuse perpetrators: the patterns, vii. explanations for child abuse, viii. consequences of child abuse and neglect, ix. determining abuse: how to tell whether a child is abused or neglected, x. determining abuse: interviewing children, xi. how can society help abused children and abusive families, introduction.

An introduction should include a thesis statement and the main points that you will discuss in the paper.

A thesis statement is one sentence in which you need to show your point of view. You will then develop this point of view through the whole piece of work:

‘The impact of child abuse affects more than one’s childhood, as the psychological and physical injuries often extend well into adulthood.’

Child abuse is a very real and prominent social problem today. The impact of child abuse affects more than one’s childhood, as the psychological and physical injuries often extend well into adulthood. Most children are defenseless against abuse, are dependent on their caretakers, and are unable to protect themselves from these acts.

Childhood serves as the basis for growth, development, and socialization. Throughout adolescence, children are taught how to become productive and positive, functioning members of society. Much of the socializing of children, particularly in their very earliest years, comes at the hands of family members. Unfortunately, the messages conveyed to and the actions against children by their families are not always the positive building blocks for which one would hope.

In 2008, the Children’s Defense Fund reported that each day in America, 2,421 children are confirmed as abused or neglected, 4 children are killed by abuse or neglect, and 78 babies die before their first birthday. These daily estimates translate into tremendous national figures. In 2006, caseworkers substantiated an estimated 905,000 reports of child abuse or neglect. Of these, 64% suffered neglect, 16% were physically abused, 9% were sexually abused, 7% were emotionally or psychologically maltreated, and 2% were medically neglected. In addition, 15% of the victims experienced “other” types of maltreatment such as abandonment, threats of harm to the child, and congenital drug addiction (National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, 2006). Obviously, this problem is a substantial one.

In the main body, you dwell upon the topic of your paper. You provide your ideas and support them with evidence. The evidence include all the data and material you have found, analyzed and systematized. You can support your point of view with different statistical data, with surveys, and the results of different experiments. Your task is to show that your idea is right, and make the reader interested in the topic.

In this example, a writer analyzes the issue of child abuse: different statistical data, controversies regarding the topic, examples of the problem and the consequences.

Several issues arise when considering the amount of child abuse that occurs annually in the United States. Child abuse is very hard to estimate because much (or most) of it is not reported. Children who are abused are unlikely to report their victimization because they may not know any better, they still love their abusers and do not want to see them taken away (or do not themselves want to be taken away from their abusers), they have been threatened into not reporting, or they do not know to whom they should report their victimizations. Still further, children may report their abuse only to find the person to whom they report does not believe them or take any action on their behalf. Continuing to muddy the waters, child abuse can be disguised as legitimate injury, particularly because young children are often somewhat uncoordinated and are still learning to accomplish physical tasks, may not know their physical limitations, and are often legitimately injured during regular play. In the end, children rarely report child abuse; most often it is an adult who makes a report based on suspicion (e.g., teacher, counselor, doctor, etc.).

Even when child abuse is reported, social service agents and investigators may not follow up or substantiate reports for a variety of reasons. Parents can pretend, lie, or cover up injuries or stories of how injuries occurred when social service agents come to investigate. Further, there is not always agreement about what should be counted as abuse by service providers and researchers. In addition, social service agencies/agents have huge caseloads and may only be able to deal with the most serious forms of child abuse, leaving the more “minor” forms of abuse unsupervised and unmanaged (and uncounted in the statistical totals).

While most laws about child abuse and neglect fall at the state levels, federal legislation provides a foundation for states by identifying a minimum set of acts and behaviors that define child abuse and neglect. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), which stems from the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003, defines child abuse and neglect as, at minimum, “(1) any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse, or exploitation; or (2) an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk or serious harm.”

Using these minimum standards, each state is responsible for providing its own definition of maltreatment within civil and criminal statutes. When defining types of child abuse, many states incorporate similar elements and definitions into their legal statutes. For example, neglect is often defined as failure to provide for a child’s basic needs. Neglect can encompass physical elements (e.g., failure to provide necessary food or shelter, or lack of appropriate supervision), medical elements (e.g., failure to provide necessary medical or mental health treatment), educational elements (e.g., failure to educate a child or attend to special educational needs), and emotional elements (e.g., inattention to a child’s emotional needs, failure to provide psychological care, or permitting the child to use alcohol or other drugs). Failure to meet needs does not always mean a child is neglected, as situations such as poverty, cultural values, and community standards can influence the application of legal statutes. In addition, several states distinguish between failure to provide based on financial inability and failure to provide for no apparent financial reason.

Statutes on physical abuse typically include elements of physical injury (ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or death) as a result of punching, beating, kicking, biting, shaking, throwing, stabbing, choking, hitting (with a hand, stick, strap, or other object), burning, or otherwise harming a child. Such injury is considered abuse regardless of the intention of the caretaker. In addition, many state statutes include allowing or encouraging another person to physically harm a child (such as noted above) as another form of physical abuse in and of itself. Sexual abuse usually includes activities by a parent or caretaker such as fondling a child’s genitals, penetration, incest, rape, sodomy, indecent exposure, and exploitation through prostitution or the production of pornographic materials.

Finally, emotional or psychological abuse typically is defined as a pattern of behavior that impairs a child’s emotional development or sense of self-worth. This may include constant criticism, threats, or rejection, as well as withholding love, support, or guidance. Emotional abuse is often the most difficult to prove and, therefore, child protective services may not be able to intervene without evidence of harm to the child. Some states suggest that harm may be evidenced by an observable or substantial change in behavior, emotional response, or cognition, or by anxiety, depression, withdrawal, or aggressive behavior. At a practical level, emotional abuse is almost always present when other types of abuse are identified.

Some states include an element of substance abuse in their statutes on child abuse. Circumstances that can be considered substance abuse include (a) the manufacture of a controlled substance in the presence of a child or on the premises occupied by a child (Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Virginia); (b) allowing a child to be present where the chemicals or equipment for the manufacture of controlled substances are used (Arizona, New Mexico); (c) selling, distributing, or giving drugs or alcohol to a child (Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, and Texas); (d) use of a controlled substance by a caregiver that impairs the caregiver’s ability to adequately care for the child (Kentucky, New York, Rhode Island, and Texas); and (e) exposure of the child to drug paraphernalia (North Dakota), the criminal sale or distribution of drugs (Montana, Virginia), or drug-related activity (District of Columbia).

One of the most difficult issues with which the U.S. legal system must contend is that of allowing parents the right to use corporal punishment when disciplining a child, while not letting them cross over the line into the realm of child abuse. Some parents may abuse their children under the guise of discipline, and many instances of child abuse arise from angry parents who go too far when disciplining their children with physical punishment. Generally, state statutes use terms such as “reasonable discipline of a minor,” “causes only temporary, short-term pain,” and may cause “the potential for bruising” but not “permanent damage, disability, disfigurement or injury” to the child as ways of indicating the types of discipline behaviors that are legal. However, corporal punishment that is “excessive,” “malicious,” “endangers the bodily safety of,” or is “an intentional infliction of injury” is not allowed under most state statutes (e.g., state of Florida child abuse statute).

Most research finds that the use of physical punishment (most often spanking) is not an effective method of discipline. The literature on this issue tends to find that spanking stops misbehavior, but no more effectively than other firm measures. Further, it seems to hinder rather than improve general compliance/obedience (particularly when the child is not in the presence of the punisher). Researchers have also explained why physical punishment is not any more effective at gaining child compliance than nonviolent forms of discipline. Some of the problems that arise when parents use spanking or other forms of physical punishment include the fact that spanking does not teach what children should do, nor does it provide them with alternative behavior options should the circumstance arise again. Spanking also undermines reasoning, explanation, or other forms of parental instruction because children cannot learn, reason, or problem solve well while experiencing threat, pain, fear, or anger. Further, the use of physical punishment is inconsistent with nonviolent principles, or parental modeling. In addition, the use of spanking chips away at the bonds of affection between parents and children, and tends to induce resentment and fear. Finally, it hinders the development of empathy and compassion in children, and they do not learn to take responsibility for their own behavior (Pitzer, 1997).

One of the biggest problems with the use of corporal punishment is that it can escalate into much more severe forms of violence. Usually, parents spank because they are angry (and somewhat out of control) and they can’t think of other ways to discipline. When parents are acting as a result of emotional triggers, the notion of discipline is lost while punishment and pain become the foci.

In 2006, of the children who were found to be victims of child abuse, nearly 75% of them were first-time victims (or had not come to the attention of authorities prior). A slight majority of child abuse victims were girls—51.5%, compared to 48% of abuse victims being boys. The younger the child, the more at risk he or she is for child abuse and neglect victimization. Specifically, the rate for infants (birth to 1 year old) was approximately 24 per 1,000 children of the same age group. The victimization rate for children 1–3 years old was 14 per 1,000 children of the same age group. The abuse rate for children aged 4– 7 years old declined further to 13 per 1,000 children of the same age group. African American, American Indian, and Alaska Native children, as well as children of multiple races, had the highest rates of victimization. White and Latino children had lower rates, and Asian children had the lowest rates of child abuse and neglect victimization. Regarding living arrangements, nearly 27% of victims were living with a single mother, 20% were living with married parents, while 22% were living with both parents but the marital status was unknown. (This reporting element had nearly 40% missing data, however.) Regarding disability, nearly 8% of child abuse victims had some degree of mental retardation, emotional disturbance, visual or hearing impairment, learning disability, physical disability, behavioral problems, or other medical problems. Unfortunately, data indicate that for many victims, the efforts of the child protection services system were not successful in preventing subsequent victimization. Children who had been prior victims of maltreatment were 96% more likely to experience another occurrence than those who were not prior victims. Further, child victims who were reported to have a disability were 52% more likely to experience recurrence than children without a disability. Finally, the oldest victims (16–21 years of age) were the least likely to experience a recurrence, and were 51% less likely to be victimized again than were infants (younger than age 1) (National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, 2006).

Child fatalities are the most tragic consequence of maltreatment. Yet, each year, children die from abuse and neglect. In 2006, an estimated 1,530 children in the United States died due to abuse or neglect. The overall rate of child fatalities was 2 deaths per 100,000 children. More than 40% of child fatalities were attributed to neglect, but physical abuse also was a major contributor. Approximately 78% of the children who died due to child abuse and neglect were younger than 4 years old, and infant boys (younger than 1) had the highest rate of fatalities at 18.5 deaths per 100,000 boys of the same age in the national population. Infant girls had a rate of 14.7 deaths per 100,000 girls of the same age (National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, 2006).

One question to be addressed regarding child fatalities is why infants have such a high rate of death when compared to toddlers and adolescents. Children under 1 year old pose an immense amount of responsibility for their caretakers: they are completely dependent and need constant attention. Children this age are needy, impulsive, and not amenable to verbal control or effective communication. This can easily overwhelm vulnerable parents. Another difficulty associated with infants is that they are physically weak and small. Injuries to infants can be fatal, while similar injuries to older children might not be. The most common cause of death in children less than 1 year is cerebral trauma (often the result of shaken-baby syndrome). Exasperated parents can deliver shakes or blows without realizing how little it takes to cause irreparable or fatal damage to an infant. Research informs us that two of the most common triggers for fatal child abuse are crying that will not cease and toileting accidents. Both of these circumstances are common in infants and toddlers whose only means of communication often is crying, and who are limited in mobility and cannot use the toilet. Finally, very young children cannot assist in injury diagnoses. Children who have been injured due to abuse or neglect often cannot communicate to medical professionals about where it hurts, how it hurts, and so forth. Also, nonfatal injuries can turn fatal in the absence of care by neglectful parents or parents who do not want medical professionals to possibly identify an injury as being the result of abuse.

Estimates reveal that nearly 80% of perpetrators of child abuse were parents of the victim. Other relatives accounted for nearly 7%, and unmarried partners of parents made up 4% of perpetrators. Of those perpetrators that were parents, over 90% were biological parents, 4% were stepparents, and 0.7% were adoptive parents. Of this group, approximately 58% of perpetrators were women and 42% were men. Women perpetrators are typically younger than men. The average age for women abusers was 31 years old, while for men the average was 34 years old. Forty percent of women who abused were younger than 30 years of age, compared with 33% of men being under 30. The racial distribution of perpetrators is similar to that of victims. Fifty-four percent were white, 21% were African American, and 20% were Hispanic/Latino (National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, 2006).

There are many factors that are associated with child abuse. Some of the more common/well-accepted explanations are individual pathology, parent–child interaction, past abuse in the family (or social learning), situational factors, and cultural support for physical punishment along with a lack of cultural support for helping parents here in the United States.

The first explanation centers on the individual pathology of a parent or caretaker who is abusive. This theory focuses on the idea that people who abuse their children have something wrong with their individual personality or biological makeup. Such psychological pathologies may include having anger control problems; being depressed or having post-partum depression; having a low tolerance for frustration (e.g., children can be extremely frustrating: they don’t always listen; they constantly push the line of how far they can go; and once the line has been established, they are constantly treading on it to make sure it hasn’t moved. They are dependent and self-centered, so caretakers have very little privacy or time to themselves); being rigid (e.g., having no tolerance for differences—for example, what if your son wanted to play with dolls? A rigid father would not let him, laugh at him for wanting to, punish him when he does, etc.); having deficits in empathy (parents who cannot put themselves in the shoes of their children cannot fully understand what their children need emotionally); or being disorganized, inefficient, and ineffectual. (Parents who are unable to manage their own lives are unlikely to be successful at managing the lives of their children, and since many children want and need limits, these parents are unable to set them or adhere to them.)

Biological pathologies that may increase the likelihood of someone becoming a child abuser include having substance abuse or dependence problems, or having persistent or reoccurring physical health problems (especially health problems that can be extremely painful and can cause a person to become more self-absorbed, both qualities that can give rise to a lack of patience, lower frustration tolerance, and increased stress).

The second explanation for child abuse centers on the interaction between the parent and the child, noting that certain types of parents are more likely to abuse, and certain types of children are more likely to be abused, and when these less-skilled parents are coupled with these more difficult children, child abuse is the most likely to occur. Discussion here focuses on what makes a parent less skilled, and what makes a child more difficult. Characteristics of unskilled parents are likely to include such traits as only pointing out what children do wrong and never giving any encouragement for good behavior, and failing to be sensitive to the emotional needs of children. Less skilled parents tend to have unrealistic expectations of children. They may engage in role reversal— where the parents make the child take care of them—and view the parent’s happiness and well-being as the responsibility of the child. Some parents view the parental role as extremely stressful and experience little enjoyment from being a parent. Finally, less-skilled parents tend to have more negative perceptions regarding their child(ren). For example, perhaps the child has a different shade of skin than they expected and this may disappoint or anger them, they may feel the child is being manipulative (long before children have this capability), or they may view the child as the scapegoat for all the parents’ or family’s problems. Theoretically, parents with these characteristics would be more likely to abuse their children, but if they are coupled with having a difficult child, they would be especially likely to be abusive. So, what makes a child more difficult? Certainly, through no fault of their own, children may have characteristics that are associated with child care that is more demanding and difficult than in the “normal” or “average” situation. Such characteristics can include having physical and mental disabilities (autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], hyperactivity, etc.); the child may be colicky, frequently sick, be particularly needy, or cry more often. In addition, some babies are simply unhappier than other babies for reasons that cannot be known. Further, infants are difficult even in the best of circumstances. They are unable to communicate effectively, and they are completely dependent on their caretakers for everything, including eating, diaper changing, moving around, entertainment, and emotional bonding. Again, these types of children, being more difficult, are more likely to be victims of child abuse.

Nonetheless, each of these types of parents and children alone cannot explain the abuse of children, but it is the interaction between them that becomes the key. Unskilled parents may produce children that are happy and not as needy, and even though they are unskilled, they do not abuse because the child takes less effort. At the same time, children who are more difficult may have parents who are skilled and are able to handle and manage the extra effort these children take with aplomb. However, risks for child abuse increase when unskilled parents must contend with difficult children.

Social learning or past abuse in the family is a third common explanation for child abuse. Here, the theory concentrates not only on what children learn when they see or experience violence in their homes, but additionally on what they do not learn as a result of these experiences. Social learning theory in the context of family violence stresses that if children are abused or see abuse (toward siblings or a parent), those interactions and violent family members become the representations and role models for their future familial interactions. In this way, what children learn is just as important as what they do not learn. Children who witness or experience violence may learn that this is the way parents deal with children, or that violence is an acceptable method of child rearing and discipline. They may think when they become parents that “violence worked on me when I was a child, and I turned out fine.” They may learn unhealthy relationship interaction patterns; children may witness the negative interactions of parents and they may learn the maladaptive or violent methods of expressing anger, reacting to stress, or coping with conflict.

What is equally as important, though, is that they are unlikely to learn more acceptable and nonviolent ways of rearing children, interacting with family members, and working out conflict. Here it may happen that an adult who was abused as a child would like to be nonviolent toward his or her own children, but when the chips are down and the child is misbehaving, this abused-child-turned-adult does not have a repertoire of nonviolent strategies to try. This parent is more likely to fall back on what he or she knows as methods of discipline.

Something important to note here is that not all abused children grow up to become abusive adults. Children who break the cycle were often able to establish and maintain one healthy emotional relationship with someone during their childhoods (or period of young adulthood). For instance, they may have received emotional support from a nonabusing parent, or they received social support and had a positive relationship with another adult during their childhood (e.g., teacher, coach, minister, neighbor, etc.). Abused children who participate in therapy during some period of their lives can often break the cycle of violence. In addition, adults who were abused but are able to form an emotionally supportive and satisfying relationship with a mate can make the transition to being nonviolent in their family interactions.

Moving on to a fourth familiar explanation for child abuse, there are some common situational factors that influence families and parents and increase the risks for child abuse. Typically, these are factors that increase family stress or social isolation. Specifically, such factors may include receiving public assistance or having low socioeconomic status (a combination of low income and low education). Other factors include having family members who are unemployed, underemployed (working in a job that requires lower qualifications than an individual possesses), or employed only part time. These financial difficulties cause great stress for families in meeting the needs of the individual members. Other stress-inducing familial characteristics are single-parent households and larger family size. Finally, social isolation can be devastating for families and family members. Having friends to talk to, who can be relied upon, and with whom kids can be dropped off occasionally is tremendously important for personal growth and satisfaction in life. In addition, social isolation and stress can cause individuals to be quick to lose their tempers, as well as cause people to be less rational in their decision making and to make mountains out of mole hills. These situations can lead families to be at greater risk for child abuse.

Finally, cultural views and supports (or lack thereof) can lead to greater amounts of child abuse in a society such as the United States. One such cultural view is that of societal support for physical punishment. This is problematic because there are similarities between the way criminals are dealt with and the way errant children are handled. The use of capital punishment is advocated for seriously violent criminals, and people are quick to use such idioms as “spare the rod and spoil the child” when it comes to the discipline or punishment of children. In fact, it was not until quite recently that parenting books began to encourage parents to use other strategies than spanking or other forms of corporal punishment in the discipline of their children. Only recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics has come out and recommended that parents do not spank or use other forms of violence on their children because of the deleterious effects such methods have on youngsters and their bonds with their parents. Nevertheless, regardless of recommendations, the culture of corporal punishment persists.

Another cultural view in the United States that can give rise to greater incidents of child abuse is the belief that after getting married, couples of course should want and have children. Culturally, Americans consider that children are a blessing, raising kids is the most wonderful thing a person can do, and everyone should have children. Along with this notion is the idea that motherhood is always wonderful; it is the most fulfilling thing a woman can do; and the bond between a mother and her child is strong, glorious, and automatic—all women love being mothers. Thus, culturally (and theoretically), society nearly insists that married couples have children and that they will love having children. But, after children are born, there is not much support for couples who have trouble adjusting to parenthood, or who do not absolutely love their new roles as parents. People look askance at parents who need help, and cannot believe parents who say anything negative about parenthood. As such, theoretically, society has set up a situation where couples are strongly encouraged to have kids, are told they will love kids, but then society turns a blind or disdainful eye when these same parents need emotional, financial, or other forms of help or support. It is these types of cultural viewpoints that increase the risks for child abuse in society.

The consequences of child abuse are tremendous and long lasting. Research has shown that the traumatic experience of childhood abuse is life changing. These costs may surface during adolescence, or they may not become evident until abused children have grown up and become abusing parents or abused spouses. Early identification and treatment is important to minimize these potential long-term effects. Whenever children say they have been abused, it is imperative that they be taken seriously and their abuse be reported. Suspicions of child abuse must be reported as well. If there is a possibility that a child is or has been abused, an investigation must be conducted.

Children who have been abused may exhibit traits such as the inability to love or have faith in others. This often translates into adults who are unable to establish lasting and stable personal relationships. These individuals have trouble with physical closeness and touching as well as emotional intimacy and trust. Further, these qualities tend to cause a fear of entering into new relationships, as well as the sabotaging of any current ones.

Psychologically, children who have been abused tend to have poor self-images or are passive, withdrawn, or clingy. They may be angry individuals who are filled with rage, anxiety, and a variety of fears. They are often aggressive, disruptive, and depressed. Many abused children have flashbacks and nightmares about the abuse they have experienced, and this may cause sleep problems as well as drug and alcohol problems. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and antisocial personality disorder are both typical among maltreated children. Research has also shown that most abused children fail to reach “successful psychosocial functioning,” and are thus not resilient and do not resume a “normal life” after the abuse has ended.

Socially (and likely because of these psychological injuries), abused children have trouble in school, will have difficulty getting and remaining employed, and may commit a variety of illegal or socially inappropriate behaviors. Many studies have shown that victims of child abuse are likely to participate in high-risk behaviors such as alcohol or drug abuse, the use of tobacco, and high-risk sexual behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex, large numbers of sexual partners). Later in life, abused children are more likely to have been arrested and homeless. They are also less able to defend themselves in conflict situations and guard themselves against repeated victimizations.

Medically, abused children likely will experience health problems due to the high frequency of physical injuries they receive. In addition, abused children experience a great deal of emotional turmoil and stress, which can also have a significant impact on their physical condition. These health problems are likely to continue occurring into adulthood. Some of these longer-lasting health problems include headaches; eating problems; problems with toileting; and chronic pain in the back, stomach, chest, and genital areas. Some researchers have noted that abused children may experience neurological impairment and problems with intellectual functioning, while others have found a correlation between abuse and heart, lung, and liver disease, as well as cancer (Thomas, 2004).

Victims of sexual abuse show an alarming number of disturbances as adults. Some dislike and avoid sex, or experience sexual problems or disorders, while other victims appear to enjoy sexual activities that are self-defeating or maladaptive—normally called “dysfunctional sexual behavior”—and have many sexual partners.

Abused children also experience a wide variety of developmental delays. Many do not reach physical, cognitive, or emotional developmental milestones at the typical time, and some never accomplish what they are supposed to during childhood socialization. In the next section, these developmental delays are discussed as a means of identifying children who may be abused.

There are two primary ways of identifying children who are abused: spotting and evaluating physical injuries, and detecting and appraising developmental delays. Distinguishing physical injuries due to abuse can be difficult, particularly among younger children who are likely to get hurt or receive injuries while they are playing and learning to become ambulatory. Nonetheless, there are several types of wounds that children are unlikely to give themselves during their normal course of play and exploration. These less likely injuries may signal instances of child abuse.

While it is true that children are likely to get bruises, particularly when they are learning to walk or crawl, bruises on infants are not normal. Also, the back of the legs, upper arms, or on the chest, neck, head, or genitals are also locations where bruises are unlikely to occur during normal childhood activity. Further, bruises with clean patterns, like hand prints, buckle prints, or hangers (to name a few), are good examples of the types of bruises children do not give themselves.

Another area of physical injury where the source of the injury can be difficult to detect is fractures. Again, children fall out of trees, or crash their bikes, and can break limbs. These can be normal parts of growing up. However, fractures in infants less than 12 months old are particularly suspect, as infants are unlikely to be able to accomplish the types of movement necessary to actually break a leg or an arm. Further, multiple fractures, particularly more than one on a bone, should be examined more closely. Spiral or torsion fractures (when the bone is broken by twisting) are suspect because when children break their bones due to play injuries, the fractures are usually some other type (e.g., linear, oblique, compacted). In addition, when parents don’t know about the fracture(s) or how it occurred, abuse should be considered, because when children get these types of injuries, they need comfort and attention.

Head and internal injuries are also those that may signal abuse. Serious blows to the head cause internal head injuries, and this is very different from the injuries that result from bumping into things. Abused children are also likely to experience internal injuries like those to the abdomen, liver, kidney, and bladder. They may suffer a ruptured spleen, or intestinal perforation. These types of damages rarely happen by accident.

Burns are another type of physical injury that can happen by accident or by abuse. Nevertheless, there are ways to tell these types of burn injuries apart. The types of burns that should be examined and investigated are those where the burns are in particular locations. Burns to the bottom of the feet, genitals, abdomen, or other inaccessible spots should be closely considered. Burns of the whole hand or those to the buttocks are also unlikely to happen as a result of an accident.

Turning to the detection and appraisal of developmental delays, one can more readily assess possible abuse by considering what children of various ages should be able to accomplish, than by noting when children are delayed and how many milestones on which they are behind schedule. Importantly, a few delays in reaching milestones can be expected, since children develop individually and not always according to the norm. Nonetheless, when children are abused, their development is likely to be delayed in numerous areas and across many milestones.

As children develop and grow, they should be able to crawl, walk, run, talk, control going to the bathroom, write, set priorities, plan ahead, trust others, make friends, develop a good self-image, differentiate between feeling and behavior, and get their needs met in appropriate ways. As such, when children do not accomplish these feats, their circumstances should be examined.

Infants who are abused or neglected typically develop what is termed failure to thrive syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by slow, inadequate growth, or not “filling out” physically. They have a pale, colorless complexion and dull eyes. They are not likely to spend much time looking around, and nothing catches their eyes. They may show other signs of lack of nutrition such as cuts, bruises that do not heal in a timely way, and discolored fingernails. They are also not trusting and may not cry much, as they are not expecting to have their needs met. Older infants may not have developed any language skills, or these developments are quite slow. This includes both verbal and nonverbal means of communication.

Toddlers who are abused often become hypervigilant about their environments and others’ moods. They are more outwardly focused than a typical toddler (who is quite self-centered) and may be unable to separate themselves as individuals, or consider themselves as distinct beings. In this way, abused toddlers cannot focus on tasks at hand because they are too concerned about others’ reactions. They don’t play with toys, have no interest in exploration, and seem unable to enjoy life. They are likely to accept losses with little reaction, and may have age-inappropriate knowledge of sex and sexual relations. Finally, toddlers, whether they are abused or not, begin to mirror their parents’ behaviors. Thus, toddlers who are abused may mimic the abuse when they are playing with dolls or “playing house.”

Developmental delays can also be detected among abused young adolescents. Some signs include the failure to learn cause and effect, since their parents are so inconsistent. They have no energy for learning and have not developed beyond one- or two-word commands. They probably cannot follow complicated directions (such as two to three tasks per instruction), and they are unlikely to be able to think for themselves. Typically, they have learned that failure is totally unacceptable, but they are more concerned with the teacher’s mood than with learning and listening to instruction. Finally, they are apt to have been inadequately toilet trained and thus may be unable to control their bladders.

Older adolescents, because they are likely to have been abused for a longer period of time, continue to get further and further behind in their developmental achievements. Abused children this age become family nurturers. They take care of their parents and cater to their parents’ needs, rather than the other way around. In addition, they probably take care of any younger siblings and do the household chores. Because of these default responsibilities, they usually do not participate in school activities; they frequently miss days at school; and they have few, if any, friends. Because they have become so hypervigilant and have increasingly delayed development, they lose interest in and become disillusioned with education. They develop low self-esteem and little confidence, but seem old for their years. Children this age who are abused are still likely to be unable to control their bladders and may have frequent toileting accidents.

Other developmental delays can occur and be observed in abused and neglected children of any age. For example, malnutrition and withdrawal can be noticed in infants through teenagers. Maltreated children frequently have persistent or untreated illnesses, and these can become permanent disabilities if medical conditions go untreated for a long enough time. Another example can be the consequences of neurological damage. Beyond being a medical issue, this type of damage can cause problems with social behavior and impulse control, which, again, can be discerned in various ages of children.

Once child abuse is suspected, law enforcement officers, child protection workers, or various other practitioners may need to interview the child about the abuse or neglect he or she may have suffered. Interviewing children can be extremely difficult because children at various stages of development can remember only certain parts or aspects of the events in their lives. Also, interviewers must be careful that they do not put ideas or answers into the heads of the children they are interviewing. There are several general recommendations when interviewing children about the abuse they may have experienced. First, interviewers must acknowledge that even when children are abused, they likely still love their parents. They do not want to be taken away from their parents, nor do they want to see their parents get into trouble. Interviewers must not blame the parents or be judgmental about them or the child’s family. Beyond that, interviews should take place in a safe, neutral location. Interviewers can use dolls and role-play to help children express the types of abuse of which they may be victims.

Finally, interviewers must ask age-appropriate questions. For example, 3-year-olds can probably only answer questions about what happened and who was involved. Four- to five-year-olds can also discuss where the incidents occurred. Along with what, who, and where, 6- to 8-year-olds can talk about the element of time, or when the abuse occurred. Nine- to 10-year-olds are able to add commentary about the number of times the abuse occurred. Finally, 11-year-olds and older children can additionally inform interviewers about the circumstances of abusive instances.

A conclusion is not a summary of what a writer has already mentioned. On the contrary, it is the last point made. Taking every detail of the investigation, the researcher makes the concluding point. In this part of a paper, you need to put a full stop in your research. You need to persuade the reader in your opinion.

Never add any new information in the conclusion. You can present solutions to the problem and you dwell upon the results, but only if this information has been already mentioned in the main body.

Child advocates recommend a variety of strategies to aid families and children experiencing abuse. These recommendations tend to focus on societal efforts as well as more individual efforts. One common strategy advocated is the use of public service announcements that encourage individuals to report any suspected child abuse. Currently, many mandatory reporters (those required by law to report abuse such as teachers, doctors, and social service agency employees) and members of communities feel that child abuse should not be reported unless there is substantial evidence that abuse is indeed occurring. Child advocates stress that this notion should be changed, and that people should report child abuse even if it is only suspected. Public service announcements should stress that if people report suspected child abuse, the worst that can happen is that they might be wrong, but in the grander scheme of things that is really not so bad.

Child advocates also stress that greater interagency cooperation is needed. This cooperation should be evident between women’s shelters, child protection agencies, programs for at-risk children, medical agencies, and law enforcement officers. These agencies typically do not share information, and if they did, more instances of child abuse would come to the attention of various authorities and could be investigated and managed. Along these lines, child protection agencies and programs should receive more funding. When budgets are cut, social services are often the first things to go or to get less financial support. Child advocates insist that with more resources, child protection agencies could hire more workers, handle more cases, conduct more investigations, and follow up with more children and families.

Continuing, more educational efforts must be initiated about issues such as punishment and discipline styles and strategies; having greater respect for children; as well as informing the community about what child abuse is, and how to recognize it. In addition, Americans must alter the cultural orientation about child bearing and child rearing. Couples who wish to remain child-free must be allowed to do so without disdain. And, it must be acknowledged that raising children is very difficult, is not always gloriously wonderful, and that parents who seek help should be lauded and not criticized. These kinds of efforts can help more children to be raised in nonviolent, emotionally satisfying families, and thus become better adults.

Bibliography

When you write a paper, make sure you are aware of all the formatting requirements. Incorrect formatting can lower your mark, so do not underestimate the importance of this part.

Organizing your bibliography is quite a tedious and time-consuming task. Still, you need to do it flawlessly. For this reason, analyze all the standards you need to meet or ask professionals to help you with it. All the comas, colons, brackets etc. matter. They truly do.

Bibliography:

  • American Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.aap.org/
  • Bancroft, L., & Silverman, J. G. (2002). The batterer as parent. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
  • Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, 42 U.S.C.A. § 5106g (1998).
  • Childhelp: Child Abuse Statistics: https://www.childhelp.org/child-abuse-statistics/
  • Children’s Defense Fund: https://www.childrensdefense.org/
  • Child Stats.gov: https://www.childstats.gov/
  • Child Welfare League of America: https://www.cwla.org/
  • Crosson-Tower, C. (2008). Understanding child abuse and neglect (7th ed.). Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
  • DeBecker, G. (1999). Protecting the gift: Keeping children and teenagers safe (and parents sane). New York: Bantam Dell.
  • Family Research Laboratory at the University of New Hampshire: https://cola.unh.edu/family-research-laboratory
  • Guterman, N. B. (2001). Stopping child maltreatment before it starts: Emerging horizons in early home visitation services. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
  • Herman, J. L. (2000). Father-daughter incest. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
  • Medline Plus, Child Abuse: https://medlineplus.gov/childabuse.html
  • Myers, J. E. B. (Ed.). (1994). The backlash: Child protection under fire. Newbury Park, CA: Sage.
  • National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: https://www.missingkids.org/home
  • National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System. (2006). Child maltreatment 2006: Reports from the states to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.
  • New York University Silver School of Social Work: https://socialwork.nyu.edu/
  • Pitzer, R. L. (1997). Corporal punishment in the discipline of children in the home: Research update for practitioners. Paper presented at the National Council on Family Relations Annual Conference, Washington, DC.
  • RAND, Child Abuse and Neglect: https://www.rand.org/topics/child-abuse-and-neglect.html
  • Richards, C. E. (2001). The loss of innocents: Child killers and their victims. Wilmington, DE: Scholarly Resources.
  • Straus, M. A. (2001). Beating the devil out of them: Corporal punishment in American families and its effects on children. Edison, NJ: Transaction.
  • Thomas, P. M. (2004). Protection, dissociation, and internal roles: Modeling and treating the effects of child abuse. Review of General Psychology, 7(15).
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/

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Research Paper Guide

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Research Paper Examples - Free Sample Papers for Different Formats!

Research Paper Example

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How to Write a Research Methodology for a Research Paper

Crafting a comprehensive research paper can be daunting. Understanding diverse citation styles and various subject areas presents a challenge for many.

Without clear examples, students often feel lost and overwhelmed, unsure of how to start or which style fits their subject.

Explore our collection of expertly written research paper examples. We’ve covered various citation styles and a diverse range of subjects.

So, read on!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Research Paper Example for Different Formats
  • 2. Examples for Different Research Paper Parts
  • 3. Research Paper Examples for Different Fields
  • 4. Research Paper Example Outline

Research Paper Example for Different Formats

Following a specific formatting style is essential while writing a research paper . Knowing the conventions and guidelines for each format can help you in creating a perfect paper. Here we have gathered examples of research paper for most commonly applied citation styles :

Social Media and Social Media Marketing: A Literature Review

APA Research Paper Example

APA (American Psychological Association) style is commonly used in social sciences, psychology, and education. This format is recognized for its clear and concise writing, emphasis on proper citations, and orderly presentation of ideas.

Here are some research paper examples in APA style:

Research Paper Example APA 7th Edition

Research Paper Example MLA

MLA (Modern Language Association) style is frequently employed in humanities disciplines, including literature, languages, and cultural studies. An MLA research paper might explore literature analysis, linguistic studies, or historical research within the humanities. 

Here is an example:

Found Voices: Carl Sagan

Research Paper Example Chicago

Chicago style is utilized in various fields like history, arts, and social sciences. Research papers in Chicago style could delve into historical events, artistic analyses, or social science inquiries. 

Here is a research paper formatted in Chicago style:

Chicago Research Paper Sample

Research Paper Example Harvard

Harvard style is widely used in business, management, and some social sciences. Research papers in Harvard style might address business strategies, case studies, or social policies.

View this sample Harvard style paper here:

Harvard Research Paper Sample

Examples for Different Research Paper Parts

A research paper has different parts. Each part is important for the overall success of the paper. Chapters in a research paper must be written correctly, using a certain format and structure.

The following are examples of how different sections of the research paper can be written.

Research Proposal

The research proposal acts as a detailed plan or roadmap for your study, outlining the focus of your research and its significance. It's essential as it not only guides your research but also persuades others about the value of your study.

Example of Research Proposal

An abstract serves as a concise overview of your entire research paper. It provides a quick insight into the main elements of your study. It summarizes your research's purpose, methods, findings, and conclusions in a brief format.

Research Paper Example Abstract

Literature Review 

A literature review summarizes the existing research on your study's topic, showcasing what has already been explored. This section adds credibility to your own research by analyzing and summarizing prior studies related to your topic.

Literature Review Research Paper Example

Methodology

The methodology section functions as a detailed explanation of how you conducted your research. This part covers the tools, techniques, and steps used to collect and analyze data for your study.

Methods Section of Research Paper Example

How to Write the Methods Section of a Research Paper

The conclusion summarizes your findings, their significance and the impact of your research. This section outlines the key takeaways and the broader implications of your study's results.

Research Paper Conclusion Example

Research Paper Examples for Different Fields

Research papers can be about any subject that needs a detailed study. The following examples show research papers for different subjects.

History Research Paper Sample

Preparing a history research paper involves investigating and presenting information about past events. This may include exploring perspectives, analyzing sources, and constructing a narrative that explains the significance of historical events.

View this history research paper sample:

Many Faces of Generalissimo Fransisco Franco

Sociology Research Paper Sample

In sociology research, statistics and data are harnessed to explore societal issues within a particular region or group. These findings are thoroughly analyzed to gain an understanding of the structure and dynamics present within these communities. 

Here is a sample:

A Descriptive Statistical Analysis within the State of Virginia

Science Fair Research Paper Sample

A science research paper involves explaining a scientific experiment or project. It includes outlining the purpose, procedures, observations, and results of the experiment in a clear, logical manner.

Here are some examples:

Science Fair Paper Format

What Do I Need To Do For The Science Fair?

Psychology Research Paper Sample

Writing a psychology research paper involves studying human behavior and mental processes. This process includes conducting experiments, gathering data, and analyzing results to understand the human mind, emotions, and behavior.

Here is an example psychology paper:

The Effects of Food Deprivation on Concentration and Perseverance

Art History Research Paper Sample

Studying art history includes examining artworks, understanding their historical context, and learning about the artists. This helps analyze and interpret how art has evolved over various periods and regions.

Check out this sample paper analyzing European art and impacts:

European Art History: A Primer

Research Paper Example Outline

Before you plan on writing a well-researched paper, make a rough draft. An outline can be a great help when it comes to organizing vast amounts of research material for your paper.

Here is an outline of a research paper example:


A. Title of the Research Paper
B. Author's Name
C. Institutional Affiliation
D. Course Information
E. Date


A. Purpose of the Study
B. Research Questions/Objectives
C. Methodology
D. Key Findings
E. Conclusion


A. Background Information
B. Statement of the Problem
C. Significance of the Study
D. Research Objectives/Hypothesis
E. Structure of the Paper


A. Overview of Relevant Literature
B. Key Theories or Concepts
C. Discussion of Previous Studies
D. Gaps in the Existing Literature
E. Theoretical Framework


A. Research Design
B. Participants or Sample
C. Data Collection Methods
D. Data Analysis Techniques
E. Limitations


A. Presentation of Findings
B. Data Analysis
C. Tables, Graphs, or Figures (if applicable)
D. Interpretation of Results


A. Summary of Findings
B. Comparison with Literature
C. Implications of the Results
D. Limitations and Future Research
E. Conclusion


A. Summary of the Study
B. Contribution to the Field
C. Recommendations
D. Concluding Remarks


A. Citations in APA/MLA/Chicago style
B. Books, Articles, Journals, and Other Sources Cited

Here is a downloadable sample of a standard research paper outline:

Research Paper Outline

Want to create the perfect outline for your paper? Check out this in-depth guide on creating a research paper outline for a structured paper!

Good Research Paper Examples for Students

Here are some more samples of research paper for students to learn from:

Fiscal Research Center - Action Plan

Qualitative Research Paper Example

Research Paper Example Introduction

How to Write a Research Paper Example

Research Paper Example for High School

Now that you have explored the research paper examples, you can start working on your research project. Hopefully, these examples will help you understand the writing process for a research paper.

If you're facing challenges with your writing requirements, you can hire our essay writing help online.

Our team is experienced in delivering perfectly formatted, 100% original research papers. So, whether you need help with a part of research or an entire paper, our experts are here to deliver.

So, why miss out? Place your ‘ write my research paper ’ request today and get a top-quality research paper!

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How to Write a College Research Paper (With Examples)

  • by Daniel Friedman
  • 9 minute read

How to Write a College Research Paper

Want to know how to write A+ essays from an A+ student? This guide will show you how to write a college research paper perfectly!

Some of the most common assignments you will receive in college are essays. They can be intimidating and time consuming, but they don’t have to be.

I’m going to share with you how I approach essays, from the initial preparation, to how I create an outline which basically writes the essay for me. 

Let’s get started!

Before you write your college research paper, it’s essential that you review the guidelines of your essay.

Create a document with the following basic guidelines of the paper:

  • The number of sources needed
  • Where your sources have to come from

This gives you an easy place to refer back to without reading the whole page of guidelines everytime. 

I recommend using the same document to write your outline so you have everything in one place at all times.

Related Post: 10 College Dorm Essentials Every Guys Needs

Research question example.

Writing out your research question (if necessary) or topic up front is really helpful as well. Do a bit of googling on several topics that match your prompt.

For example, if the prompt is to pick a historical event between 1950-1970 which impacted the United States in a negative way and explain the history of the event, how it impacted the US when it occurred, and the effects of the event, you’ll want to begin by looking up historical events between 1950 and 1970 which were impactful for the United States. 

From there, choose events which have a lot of research essays, news articles, and papers written about them.

This just makes it a lot easier to find research to back up your essay claims compared to picking a niche topic with only 2 papers written about them.

This will also allow you to create a more original essay because there’s more research to choose from than merely 2 academic essays. 

How to Research for a College Paper

To write a college research paper, it boils to down to one main thing… the research.

Often professors will give you guidelines as to where your research must come from. Remember to pay attention to these guidelines and use the databases your professor suggests.

Use databases provided by your university library’s website that match the genre you’re writing about. If it’s a history paper, be sure to use a historical database. Same for political science, english, or any other subject. 

Research Example

With the example we’ve been working with, let’s say we chose the Cuban Missile Crisis as our event. I would then type the Cuban Missile Crisis into my database and see what academic papers come up.

There will be LOTS of options with a topic like the Cuban missile crisis which is good.

It can also be a bit daunting, so it may help to add something a little more specific to your search.

For example, searching “Cuban Missile Crisis long term effects on the United States” may give you a better pool of options for the “effects” portion of your essay. Doing the same for each section will help you find the right research papers for your essay.

You will need to read through several research papers. I say need because this is what will help you write MUCH better papers. By reading through a good few papers, you not only gain a much better understanding of what your topic is about, but it helps you figure out which papers are the best for your topic.

Related Post: How to Get Free Textbooks in College

Start taking notes of the papers. This is super important when you need lots of sources.

When more than 5 sources are needed, reading so many papers without taking notes means you will forget everything you’ve read. You can then refer back to these notes and quotes when writing out your essay, and you’ll easily know which source to use for your point and which source to cite.

Keep in mind, your notes don’t have to be crazy. Getting the general idea with a few key points to recite back to is all you need to sort out the best ideas.

How to Create an Effective Outline

Once you know the instructions, the topic, and which research you’ll be pulling from, the next step is an outline. Each outline differs based on what your professor asks of you, but I will give you several examples of different outlines. 

Always begin an outline by writing out the basic structure of your paper. Most papers will start with an introduction, followed by several sections/paragraphs depending on the length of your paper, and ending with a conclusion.

For longer essays, the best approach is to create sections. Sections will be titled based on the content, and split up into paragraphs within the section.

Sample College Research Paper Outline

If we continue with the aforementioned example prompt, this is how the sections would be split up:

  • Introduction
  • Background/history
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis (a description of the event and how it impacted the United States)
  • Effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis

Your introduction and conclusion should be short. Most professors don’t want a lot of information in those two sections, and prefer instead that you put the bulk of your essay into the main sections.

Your introduction should include the following:

  • Your research question/topic
  • The context of the event (what’s going on in the United States around the time of the event)
  • A brief overview of what your paper talks about.

This includes your thesis!

Your conclusion is merely a summary of what you spoke about in your paper. Do not include new information in your conclusion! Doing so takes away from what the paper was really about and confuses the reader.

In your outline, bullet point these things so you know exactly what to write out in your essay.

Related Post: 10 Time Management Tips for College Students

Creating proper sections.

The most important part of your outline is your sections. This is where you’ll bullet point exactly what you’ll be talking about, and which research/sources you will be pulling from.

Group your sources based on which section they go into. If it’s a good source on the context of your main topic, put it under your background section with your source notes included, and create points based on that research.

This is generally how you should outline your college research paper. By already having your sources, notes from those sources, and creating points based on it, You’ll already have the bulk of your paper mapped out.

Theories and Hypotheses

Some research papers require you to come up with a theory made up of hypotheses. Your hypothesis will be based on your research question if this is the case.

Here’s an example of a research question, and a practical theory created from it: 

Research Question – What are the causes of the use of terrorism by the Palestinians and how has its use affected Arab-Israeli relations?

Hypothesis of causes are: a sense of abandonment from the Arab world, humiliation at the hands of Israelis, and demands falling on deaf ears, all of this caused Palestininans to utilize more drastic measures in order to get their needs heard and acted on.

Hypothesis of how its use affected Arab-Israeli relations: Terrorism created more distrust and fearfulness between Israel and Palestine wherein Israelis didn’t and don’t feel comfortable trusting any group of Palestinians due to the extreme actions of several groups, and utilize harsher retaliation or countermeasures as a result of the Palestinian terrorism, pushing both sides farther from cooperation.

A hypothesis is essentially coming up with what you believe the research will prove, and then supporting or contrasting that hypothesis based on what the research proves.

How to Write a Thesis for a College Research Paper

Getting a clear idea of your sections and what they’re about is how to write a college research paper with an effective thesis.

By doing so, your thesis will include the main points of your sections rather than just the names of your sections, which gives a better overview of what your paper is actually about.

You don’t have to create it at the end though. You might find often that you’ll write a thesis at the start and just correct it as your essay points change while writing. 

Here’s an example of an A+ thesis in an introduction of an essay: 

In the example above, I’ve highlighted the main issue of the poem in blue and the main argument of the poem in red.

Keep in mind, the whole point of a thesis is to explain what your entire paper is going to be discussing/arguing for within 1 or 2 sentences.

As long as you get the issue across along with (more importantly) the main argument of discussion, then your thesis will be formatted perfectly.

Related Post: 10 College Study Hacks Every Student Needs

How to structure a college research paper.

Structuring your paper is fairly simple. Often just asking your professor or TA will give you the best idea of how to structure. But if they don’t give you structure, the best way to go about it is in the way I mentioned before.

Introduction, sections, conclusion. It’s simple and clear cut, and most professors will appreciate that.

Reading through the sources also helps with structure. Often the sequence of events will guide the structure of your paper, so really understanding your topic helps not only with the content of your paper, but with the structure as well. 

How to Cite Properly to Avoid Plagiarism

In my experience most professors won’t ask for a specific format in their essay guidelines. This means you’ll want to use whatever you’re most comfortable with.

MLA format is very common amongst most classes. If you didn’t have a clear format you learned in class, or don’t feel particularly comfortable with any one format, I suggest you use MLA.

A quick google search will give you the basic guidelines of MLA. Use this MLA format tool if you’re confused about how to cite sources properly.

Parenthetical Citations

An important part of citing is including parenthetical citations, AKA citing after a quote or paraphrased section.

It’s crucial that you cite ANY quote you use. This also goes for any section where you paraphrase from a source.

Both of these need parenthetical citations right after the direct quote or paraphrase. 

Related Post: 10 College Hacks Every Freshman Should Know

Works cited.

The last portion of Citing you need to think about is your works cited or bibliography page. This has all your sources in one place, in the format you’re using.

In order to make this I always use EasyBib . EasyBib will cite your sources for you and create a bibliography with very little effort on your part, and it can be in any format you choose.

Your works cited page will go at the end of your essay, after your conclusion, on a separate page. Not including one means you are plagiarizing , so make sure you don’t forget it!

Hopefully these tips help you how to write a college research paper and better college essays overall.

Take it from an A+ student who can help you achieve the same goal in your college classes.

A huge thanks to Nivi at nivishahamphotography.com for helping out Modern Teen with this incredible post!

If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions leave them below. Thanks for reading!

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Daniel Friedman

Hey, I'm Daniel - The owner of Modern Teen! I love sharing everything I've experienced and learned through my teen and college years. I designed this blog to build a community of young adults from all around the world so we can grow together and share our knowledge! Enjoy and Welcome!

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Research Paper Guide

Research Paper Example

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Research Paper Example: Samples to Write a Research Paper

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jun 11, 2019

research paper example

Working on your research paper?

Want to learn the dos and don’ts of writing a research paper? Learn from examples!

We have compiled some examples to help you get started. If you are in need of a research paper example, take a look at these samples and choose one that is best suited for your  research paper writing  needs.

You can also use these as templates to create your own research papers. There are many different samples available here so please feel free to browse around and find the perfect one for yourself.

Stay with us to learn more.

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On this Page

What is a Research Paper?

A research paper is different from a usual kind of essay and assignment. It requires more research and explanation than any other assignment and has a set structure for it. It is a complex type of academic paper. Usually, students studying science write them for their coursework and as a degree requirement.

It is generally simpler than high school term papers and a dissertation that students write in humanities and other academic groups. Research papers are common in the academic world, and students, regardless of the field of study, get them as part of their degree requirements.

The research writing skills are invaluable for everyone and not just for the students only. Young professionals and entrepreneurs benefit a lot from these skills. Writing a research paper properly means that you have to study, observe, and choose a topic. The step-by-step guide for  writing a research paper  will help you find answers to your research questions.

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College Research Paper Example

Examples work great when you are looking to learn something in less time and with more efficiency. Below, we have added some good research paper examples. With them, you could learn about a research paper format and structure.

Moreover, we will also be able to add relevant and credible sources in each section.

APA Style Research Paper

Below is an APA-style sample research paper guide. Each section is explained separately. By going through it, you will know how to format and write each section of your APA research paper successfully.

APA STYLE RESEARCH PAPER

MLA Style Research Paper

This MLA-style research paper explains all the sections and formatting of the paper in detail. This will help you in writing an MLA-style paper successfully.

MLA STYLE RESEARCH PAPER

Subject-Related Research Paper Example

Research papers are not limited to a specific field area. Instead, students need to write research papers for almost every subject. Check out the following research paper examples for several subjects.

Computer Science Research Paper

The research paper is about computer science and how science is a part of it. Scientific research papers are different from what the students do in other disciplines. They are more statistical in nature and often have graphs and visual representations of the data.

COMPUTER SCIENCE RESEARCH PAPER

Chemical Engineering Research Paper

Chemical engineering studies the engineering of different chemicals and how they work together. The following chemical engineering research paper is about the calcium looping cycle for carbon dioxide obtained from different manufacturing processes.

CHEMICAL ENGINEERING RESEARCH PAPER

Nursing Research Paper

The research paper explores the benefits of participating in research. Medical sciences heavily rely on real-life research and results, and therefore, it uses medical professionals as subjects. The paper discusses how the experience contributes to their professional life and helps them work better.

NURSING RESEARCH PAPER

Psychology Research Paper

Psychology is the study of the mind. The paper examines the positive effects of psychology at school. It discusses how it will help in controlling the mental illnesses in adolescents and help in enhancing their health.

PSYCHOLOGY RESEARCH PAPER

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Research Paper Outline Example

A research paper’s outline may consist of different formats and sections based on the research topic. Therefore, you must ask your instructor to go through the research content and guide you.

Before starting to write a research paper, you will need to write and submit a research proposal. A research proposal includes the details of your proposed research, the significance of the research, the impact your research will have on the area of research, and the methodology that you will use. For writing a research proposal , you need to discuss all of these factors.

A research paper follows a set pattern and structure. Just like an essay or any other assignment, it also has some sections that you have to include in it. However, before formatting, make sure that you follow the referencing style that your teacher has provided.

The main research paper outline is given below. Pay attention to the document to get a detailed idea of the writing process.

RESEARCH PAPER OUTLINE EXAMPLE

This outline includes the following sections:

An abstract is usually written after the entire paper. It explains the research question and the expected outcome of the research.

Here, we have added an abstract example to help you see how to write an engaging abstract in no time.

RESEARCH PAPER ABSTRACT EXAMPLE

Introduction

It is the first section of the research. It gives a background of the research, explains the main research topic briefly, and presents the hypothesis.

A strong introduction is essential for a strong research paper because no one will read the paper if the introduction is lousy and weak. Go through the attached example to learn how to write a good research paper example.

RESEARCH PAPER INTRODUCTION EXAMPLE

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement presents the main topic and aim of the research. It is brief and based on a few lines only.

The following downloadable PDF has some great thesis statement examples that are engaging and help to convey the message powerfully.

RESEARCH PAPER THESIS EXAMPLE

This is the meatiest part of the research paper. It includes all the chapters and sections of the research.

The main body of the paper discusses the entire paper in detail. All the main points and arguments of the paper are added in this section. Learn how to add and discuss everything by going through the following downloadable PDF.

EXAMPLE OF DISCUSSION IN RESEARCH PAPER

Literature Review

It is added in the main body section. It includes the study of previous relevant studies and research and discusses their outcome. You will discuss your main topic and draw parallels and contrasts with these existing studies.

EXAMPLE OF A LITERATURE REVIEW IN A RESEARCH PAPER

Research Methodology

Discuss the type of research that you are going to use for the research. Usually, scientific research is based on quantitative research and includes statistical analysis. Theoretical research uses qualitative method and includes studying of theory and other research.

EXAMPLE OF METHODOLOGY IN RESEARCH PAPER

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This is the closing part of your research paper as you will conclude your research here. Mention your thesis statement and main research findings here and close it.

The conclusion does not mean that you have a chance to add some new ideas or points here; it would be a disaster. To know better, go through the following PDF.

RESEARCH PAPER CONCLUSION EXAMPLE

An appendix is an optional section in the research paper. It contains terms and topics that are too detailed to be added to the main text. It also states the topics and page number, which makes it easier to find relevant topics.

APPENDICES EXAMPLE IN RESEARCH PAPER

Now you must have explored different examples of a research paper. You can generate more examples according to your field of study by using our FREE AI powered paper typer .

However, if you are still wondering how to write it perfectly, consult the best write essay for me?  service now.

5StarEssays.com  offers high-quality and affordable research paper writing help. Place your  order  now to get your scientific research paper, or any other type of paper, written by experts.

Nathan D.

Education, Literature

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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  • How to Write a Research Paper - Writing Guide & Examples

research paper example

  • 20+ Thesis Statement Examples for Research Papers

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  • Learn How to Write an Abstract - Steps & Examples

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  • How to Start a Research Paper - 9 Simple Steps

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  • Psychology Research Topics - 170+ Ideas for Your Paper

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  • How to Write a Hypothesis - A Step-by-Step Guide

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  • Writing a Research Proposal - Outline, Format, and Examples

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  • Good History Research Paper Topics For Your Help

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  • How to Cite a Research Paper with the Help of Examples

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  • Research Paper Outline - Basic Format & Sample

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What’s Included: Research Paper Template

If you’re preparing to write an academic research paper, our free research paper template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research papers. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your paper will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The research paper template covers the following core sections:

  • The title page/cover page
  • Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
  • Section 1: Introduction 
  • Section 2: Literature review 
  • Section 3: Methodology
  • Section 4: Findings /results
  • Section 5: Discussion
  • Section 6: Conclusion
  • Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included links to free resources to help you understand how to write each section.

The cleanly formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Research Paper Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The research paper template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of research papers can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research papers, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level research paper?

This template can be used for a research paper at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my research paper be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. We include generic word count ranges for each section within the template, but these are purely indicative. 

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this research paper template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my research paper?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our private coaching services .

Free Webinar: Literature Review 101

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format / APA Sample Papers

APA Sample Papers

Ever wonder how to format your research paper in APA style? If so, you’re in luck! The team at EasyBib.com has put together an example paper to help guide you through your next assignment. (Actually, looking for MLA? Here’s a page on what is MLA format .)

The featured example is a research paper on the uses of biometrics to inform design decisions in the tech industry, authored by our UX Research Intern Peace Iyiewuare. Like most APA style papers, it includes an APA title page , tables, and several references and APA in-text citations to scholarly journals relevant to its topic. References are an important aspect of scientific research papers, and formatting them correctly is critical to getting a good grade.

This paper follows the formatting rules specified in the 6th edition of The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (the APA is not directly associated with this guide) . We’ve left comments and tips throughout the document, so you’ll know the specific rules around how to format titles, spacing, and font, as well as the citations on the APA reference page .

The reference list needs special care, as it demonstrates to the reader that you have accurately portrayed your outside sources and have given credit to the appropriate parties. Be sure to check our full APA citation guide for more information on paper formatting and citing sources in APA style. There is also a guide on  APA footnotes in case that is your preferred form of citation.

Download the APA Visual Guide

When citations are done, don’t forget to finish your paper off with a proofread—EasyBib Plus’s plagiarism and grammar check can help! Got a misspelled adverb ? Missed capitalizing a proper noun ? Struggling with subject-verb agreement ? These are just a few things our checker could help you spot in your paper.

D. Complete Sample APA Paper

We’ve included a full student paper below to give you an idea of what an essay in APA format looks like, complete with a title page, paper, reference list, and index. If you plan to include an APA abstract in your paper, see the Professional Paper for an example.

If you’re looking for an APA format citation generator, we’ve got you covered. Use EasyBib.com! Our APA format machine can help you create every reference for your paper.

Below is an example of a student APA format essay. We also have PDF versions of both a student paper and a professional paper linked below.

See Student Paper                                 See Professional Paper

Using Biometrics to Evaluate Visual Design

Jane Lisa Dekker

Art Department, Northern California Valley State University

UXAD 272: Strategic Web Design

Professor Juan Liu, PhD

January 29, 2020

      A vast amount of research has been conducted regarding the importance of visual design, and its role as a mediator of user’s experience when browsing a site or interacting with an interface. In the literature, visual design is one aspect of website quality. Jones and Kim (2010) define website quality as “the perceived quality of a retail website that involves a [user’s] perceptions of the retailer’s website and comprises consumer reactions towards such attributes as information, entertainment/enjoyment, usability, transaction capabilities, and design aesthetics” (p. 632).  They further examined the impact web quality and retail brand trust has on purchase intentions. Additional research examining e-commerce sites has shown web quality has an impact on both initial and continued purchase intention (Kuan, Bock, & Vathanophas, 2008), as well as consumer satisfaction (Lin, 2007). Moreso, research on the relationship between visual design and perceived usability (Stojmenovic, Pilgrim, & Lindgaard, 2014) has revealed a positive correlation between the two. As users’ ratings of visual quality increase, their ratings of perceived usability follows a similar trend. Although this research spans various domains, the reliance on self-report measures to gauge concepts like visual design and web quality is prevalent throughout much of the literature.

Although some self-report scales are validated within the literature, there are still issues with the use of self-report questionnaires. One is the reliance on the honesty of the participant. This tends to be more of an issue in studies related to questionnaires that measure characteristics of the participant, rather than objective stimuli. More relevant to this study is the issue of introspection and memory. Surveys are often distributed after a task is completed, and its accuracy is dependent on the ability of the participant to remember their experience during the study. Multiple research studies have shown that human memory is far from static. This can

be dangerous if a researcher chooses to solely rely on self-report methods to test a hypothesis. We believe these self-report methods in tandem with biometric methods can help ensure the validity of the questionnaires, and provide information beyond the scope of self-report scales.

Research Questions

      We know from previous research that the quality of websites mediates many aspects of e-commerce, and provides insight as to how consumers view the webpages in general.  However, simply knowing a webpage is perceived as lower quality doesn’t give insight as to what aspects of a page are disliked by a user. Additionally, it’s possible that the user is misremembering aspects of the webpage or being dishonest in their assessment. Using eye tracking metrics, galvanic skin response, and facial expression measures in tandem with a scale aimed at measuring visual design quality has a couple of identifiable benefits. Using both can potentially identify patterns amongst the biometric measures and the questionnaire, which would strengthen the validity of the results. More so, the eye tracking data has the potential to identify patterns amongst websites of lower or higher quality.

If found, these patterns can be used to evaluate particular aspects of a page that are impacting the quality of a webpage. Overall, we are interested in answering two questions:

Research Question 1 : Can attitudinal changes regarding substantial website redesigns be captured using biometric measures?

Research Question 2 : How do biometric measures correlate with self-reported measures of visual appeal?

      Answering these questions has the potential to provide a method of justification for design changes, ranging from minor tweak to complete rebrands. There is not an easy way for companies to quantitatively analyze visual design decisions. A method for doing so would help companies evaluate visual designs before implementation in order to cost-justify them. To this end, we hope to demonstrate that biometric measurements can be used with questionnaires to verify and validate potential design changes a company or organization might want to implement.

      By examining data from test subjects during a brief exposure to several websites, we hoped to explore the relationship between the self-reported evaluation of visual design quality and key biometric measurements of a subject’s emotional valence and arousal. Subjects were exposed to ten pairs of websites before and after a substantial visual design change and asked to evaluate the website based on their initial impressions of the site’s visual design quality using the VisAWI-S scale, as shown in Table 1.  

During this assessment we collected GSR, facial expressions (limited by errors in initial study configuration), pupillary response, and fixation data using iMotions software coupled with a Tobii eye tracker, Shimmer GSR device, and Affdex facial expression analysis toolkit. This data was analyzed, in Table 2, to discover relationships between the independent and dependent variables, as well as relationships between certain dependent variables.  

Jones, C., & Kim, S. (2010). Influences of retail brand trust, off-line patronage, clothing involvement and website quality on online apparel shopping intention: Online apparel shopping intention. International Journal of Consumer Studies , 34 (6), 627–637. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1470-6431.2010.00871.x

Kuan, H.-H., Bock, G.-W., & Vathanophas, V. (2008). Comparing the effects of website quality on customer initial purchase and continued purchase at e-commerce websites. Behaviour & Information Technology , 27 (1), 3–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/01449290600801959

Lin, H.-F. (2007). The impact of website quality dimensions on customer satisfaction in the B2C e-commerce context. Total Quality Management & Business Excellence , 18 (4), 363–378. https://doi.org/10.1080/14783360701231302

Stojmenovic, M., Pilgrim, C., & Lindgaard, G. (2014). Perceived and objective usability and visual appeal in a website domain with a less developed mental model. Proceedings of the 26 th Australian Computer-Human Interaction Conference on Designing Futures: The Future of Design , 316–323. https://doi.org/10.1145/2686612.2686660

Factor Item
Simplicity Everything goes together on the site.
Diversity The layout is pleasantly varied.
Colorfulness The color composition is attractive
Craftsmanship The layout appears professionally designed
Familiarity* I am familiar with this website
Participants were asked about agreement with the item using a 7-point likert scale.
* question is simply to gauge familiarity for the study, and is not part of the Vis-AWI-S instrument

Before After
Website Mean

Difference

Joy Kitchen 3.49 1.30 5.61 0.93 2.12 0.00
Seacom 3.27 1.59 5.35 1.20 2.08 0.00
Food Blog 3.59 1.30 5.59 0.80 2.00 0.00
Credit Union 3.29 1.26 5.18 1.07 1.89 0.00
Travelers 3.61 1.39 5.38 1.24 1.78 0.00
Sporcle 4.23 1.23 2.45 1.12 -1.78 0.00
Eagle 3.93 1.47 5.45 0.82 1.52 0.00
Oberlin 4.00 1.25 5.47 0.84 1.47 0.00
Valve 3.88 1.56 5.10 1.42 1.22 0.00
Hospital 4.47 1.33 5.48 0.85 1.01 0.00
Travel Blog 4.71 1.23 5.69 1.01 0.98 0.00
Space 4.35 1.55 5.29 1.09 0.94 0.00
School 5.04 1.44 5.63 0.80 0.60 0.06
Book Publisher 5.12 1.27 5.63 1.17 0.51 0.10
Sneakers 4.78 1.37 5.20 1.34 0.42 0.14
Stance 5.08 0.88 5.41 0.95 0.33 0.09
City 4.79 1.18 5.12 0.88 0.32 0.07
IEEE 3.95 1.30 4.26 1.40 0.31 0.24
Rise 5.08 1.00 4.89 1.27 -0.18 0.30
Audio Technica 3.94 1.52 4.05 1.37 0.11 0.71
Bloomberg 3.63 1.35 3.52 1.26 -0.11 0.73
Stimuli are ranked by largest to smallest absolute mean difference.

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Block Quotes
  • et al Usage
  • In-text Citations
  • Multiple Authors
  • Paraphrasing
  • Page Numbers
  • Parenthetical Citations
  • Reference Page
  • Sample Paper
  • APA 7 Updates
  • View APA Guide

Citation Examples

  • Book Chapter
  • Journal Article
  • Magazine Article
  • Newspaper Article
  • Website (no author)
  • View all APA Examples

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Sample Essays: Writing with MLA Style

Congratulations to the students whose essays were selected for the 2024 edition of Writing with MLA Style! Essays were selected as examples of excellent student writing that use MLA style for citing sources. Essays have been lightly edited. 

If your institution subscribes to MLA Handbook Plus , you can access annotated versions of the essays selected in 2022 and 2023. 

Writing with MLA Style: 2024 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2024 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The selection committee for high school submissions was composed of Lisa Karakaya, Hunter College High School; and Heather Smith, Dedham Public Schools. The selection committee for postsecondary submissions was composed of Rachel Ihara, Kingsborough Community College, City University of New York; Tarshia L. Stanley, Wagner College; and Joyce MacDonald, University of Kentucky.

High School Essays

Miguel Kumar (Ransom Everglades School)

“McCarthyism at the Movies: The Effects of Hollywood McCarthyism on the American Public”

Catherine Mao (Hunter College High School)

“ Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder, and the Beholder Is a White Man: The 1875 Page Act, Eugenics, and Beauty Standards for Chinese Women versus American Women ”

Undergraduate Essays

Rachelle Dumayas  (California State University, Sacramento)

“Should Deaf Children Get Cochlear Implants?”

Holly Nelson (Johns Hopkins University)

“Creating Space? Representations of Black Characters in Regency Romance”

Chloe Wiitala (University of Minnesota, Duluth)

“ Reanimating Queer Perspectives through Camp: A Study of Frankenstein and Its Parodic Film Adaptations ”

Writing with MLA Style: 2023 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2023 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2023 selection committee was composed of Ellen C. Carillo, University of Connecticut (chair); Rachel Ihara, Kingsborough Community College, City University of New York; and Tarshia L. Stanley, Wagner College.

Caroline Anderson (Pepperdine University)

“ L’Appel du Vide : Making Spaces for Sinful Exploration in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde ”

Hunter Daniels (University of South Carolina, Aiken)

“Biblical Legalism and Cultural Misogyny in The Tragedy of Mariam ”

Aspen English (Southern Utah University)

“Putting the ‘Comm’ in Comics: A Communication-Theory-Informed Reading of Graphic Narratives”

Raul Martin (Lamar University)

“The Book-Object Binary: Access and Sustainability in the Academic Library”

Grace Quasebarth (Salve Regina University)

“Finding a Voice: The Loss of Machismo Criticisms through Translation in Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits ”

Writing with MLA Style: 2022 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2022 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2022 selection committee was composed of Ellen C. Carillo, University of Connecticut; Jessica Edwards, University of Delaware (chair); and Deborah H. Holdstein, Columbia College Chicago.

Kaile Chu (New York University, Shanghai)

“Miles Apart: An Investigation into Dedicated Online Communities’ Impact on Cultural Bias”

Sietse Hagen (University of Groningen)

“The Significance of Fiction in the Debate on Dehumanizing Media Portrayals of Refugees”

Klara Ismail (University of Exeter)

“Queering the Duchess: Exploring the Body of the Female Homosexual in John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi ”

Yasmin Mendoza (Whittier College)

“Banning without Bans”

Niki Nassiri (Stony Brook University)

“Modern-Day US Institutions and Slavery in the Twenty-First Century”

Samantha Wilber (Palm Beach Atlantic University)

“‘Pero, tu no eres facil’: The Poet X as Multicultural Bildungsroman”

Writing with MLA Style: 2019 Edition

The following essays were selected for the 2019 edition of Writing with MLA Style. The 2019 selection committee was composed of Jessica Edwards, University of Delaware; Deborah H. Holdstein, Columbia College Chicago (chair); and Liana Silva, César E. Chavez High School, Houston, Texas.

Catherine Charlton (University of King’s College, Nova Scotia)

“‘Coal Is in My Blood’: Public and Private Representations of Community Identity in Springhill, Nova Scotia”

Alyiah Gonzales (California Polytechnic State University)

“Disrupting White Normativity in Langston Hughes’s ‘I, Too’ and Toni Morrison’s ‘Recitatif’”

Meg Matthias (Miami University, Ohio)

“Prescriptions of (Living) Historical Happiness: Gendered Performance and Racial Comfort in Reenactment”

Jennifer Nguyen  (Chaminade University of Honolulu)

“The Vietnam War, the American War: Literature, Film, and Popular Memory”

Emily Schlepp (Northwest University)

“A Force of Love: A Deconstructionist Reading of Characters in Dickens’s  Great Expectations ”

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  • 10 Research Question Examples to Guide Your Research Project

10 Research Question Examples to Guide your Research Project

Published on October 30, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on October 19, 2023.

The research question is one of the most important parts of your research paper , thesis or dissertation . It’s important to spend some time assessing and refining your question before you get started.

The exact form of your question will depend on a few things, such as the length of your project, the type of research you’re conducting, the topic , and the research problem . However, all research questions should be focused, specific, and relevant to a timely social or scholarly issue.

Once you’ve read our guide on how to write a research question , you can use these examples to craft your own.

Research question Explanation
The first question is not enough. The second question is more , using .
Starting with “why” often means that your question is not enough: there are too many possible answers. By targeting just one aspect of the problem, the second question offers a clear path for research.
The first question is too broad and subjective: there’s no clear criteria for what counts as “better.” The second question is much more . It uses clearly defined terms and narrows its focus to a specific population.
It is generally not for academic research to answer broad normative questions. The second question is more specific, aiming to gain an understanding of possible solutions in order to make informed recommendations.
The first question is too simple: it can be answered with a simple yes or no. The second question is , requiring in-depth investigation and the development of an original argument.
The first question is too broad and not very . The second question identifies an underexplored aspect of the topic that requires investigation of various  to answer.
The first question is not enough: it tries to address two different (the quality of sexual health services and LGBT support services). Even though the two issues are related, it’s not clear how the research will bring them together. The second integrates the two problems into one focused, specific question.
The first question is too simple, asking for a straightforward fact that can be easily found online. The second is a more question that requires and detailed discussion to answer.
? dealt with the theme of racism through casting, staging, and allusion to contemporary events? The first question is not  — it would be very difficult to contribute anything new. The second question takes a specific angle to make an original argument, and has more relevance to current social concerns and debates.
The first question asks for a ready-made solution, and is not . The second question is a clearer comparative question, but note that it may not be practically . For a smaller research project or thesis, it could be narrowed down further to focus on the effectiveness of drunk driving laws in just one or two countries.

Note that the design of your research question can depend on what method you are pursuing. Here are a few options for qualitative, quantitative, and statistical research questions.

Type of research Example question
Qualitative research question
Quantitative research question
Statistical research question

Other interesting articles

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Methodology

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Examples of Student Research

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Unit 5: Summative assessment project part of Analyzing High Resolution Topography with TLS and SfM Unit 5 is the summative assessment for the module. This final exercise takes eight to ten hours. The exercise evaluates students' developed skills in survey design, execution of a geodetic survey, and simple ... Subject: Geoscience:Geology:Sedimentary Geology: Stratigraphy, Depositional environments: Continental, Geoscience:Geology:Sedimentary Geology: Facies and Facies Models, Sedimentary Structures, Geoscience:Geology:Geophysics: Geophysics in other disciplines, Geography: Geospatial, Geoscience:Geology: Historical Geology, Geophysics: Geodesy, Geoscience:Geology:Geomorphology: GIS/Mapping/Field Techniques, Landforms/Processes, Geoscience:Paleontology: Preservation and Taphonomy, Field Techniques , Environmental Science: Natural Hazards, Geoscience:Geology: Environmental Geology, Tectonics, Geomorphology: Landscape Evolution, Tectonic Geomorphology, Geomorphology as applied to other disciplines, Geography: Physical, Geoscience:Geology:Structural Geology: Folds/Faults/Ductile Shear Zones Resource Type: Activities: Course Module, Activities On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process. GETSI Developed This material was developed and reviewed through the GETSI curricular materials development process. Learn more about this review process.

Earthquake Hazards: The next big one? part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities In this activity, students explore of the concept of probability and the distribution of earthquake sizes, and then work to understand how earthquake hazards are described by probabilities. Students then work in ... Subject: Environmental Science:Natural Hazards: Earthquakes Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Classroom Activity On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Introduction to Scientific Journals part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities In this activity, students are introduced to locating and reading peer-reviewed scientific journal articles. It helps ease students into the process of locating, reading, and using journal publications. This ... Subject: Geoscience, Environmental Science Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Classroom Activity On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Geoscience education research project part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities Students complete a scientific research project including asking a question, developing methods, collecting data, analyzing and interpreting data, and communicating results. The research question begins "What ... Subject: Education Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Project On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Florida River Project - individual and group research project part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities The Florida River Project is a semester-long project involving (1) an individual project in which students pose a scientific question and use existing data to test their hypothesis, and (2) a group project in which ... Subject: Geoscience:Hydrology: Surface Water Resource Type: Activities: Activities: Writing Assignment, Activities, Problem Set, Field Activity, Project, Lab Activity On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Library Research Lab: Does the Ozone Hole cause Global Warming? part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities In this lab activity students get to investigate a specific question (Does the Ozone Hole cause Global Warming?) and formalize their investigation as a briefing paper for the President of the United States. This ... Subject: Environmental Science:Global Change and Climate: Ozone depletion Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Lab Activity On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Student-designed Authentic Research Projects in a Non-major Environmental Geology Course part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities Student-designed, data-based authentic research projects can be useful tools for incorporating a dimension of authentic research in non-major science courses. Such an approach has been followed in a geoscience ... Subject: Geoscience:Geology: Environmental Geology Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Project On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Building Content Knowledge in a Student Research Team part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities At the beginning of a course-based research project, each student in a research team is asked to read primary literature related to the team investigation. A mix of provided readings and readings found by the ... Subject: Geoscience Resource Type: Activities: Activities On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Examining Short-Term Tree Growth and Environmental Variables near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities The Smithsonian Institution's Global Tree Banding Project is a citizen science program that contributes to research about tree biomass by tracking how trees respond to climate. Students around the globe are ... Subject: Environmental Science: Ecosystems, Forest Resources Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Classroom Activity On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

Semester Long Martian Research Project part of Undergraduate Research:2014 Workshop:Activities These project materials scaffold students through a semester-long, original research project. This specific project was developed using the online planetary science database JMARS. Weekly assignments guide ... Subject: Geoscience:Lunar and Planetary Science: Mars Resource Type: Activities: Activities, Project On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Collection This activity is part of the On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activities collection. Learn more about this review process.

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221 Research Proposal examples are found

Censorship of Internet Users and Online Protestors in China, Research Proposal Example

Research Questions: How do the censorship policies of the CCP affect the general activities of Chinese citizens on social media? China is well-known for its censorship policies, which extend to [...]

Pages: 6

Words: 1720

Electronic Cigarettes vs Commercial Cigarettes, Research Proposal Example

Abstract The goal to reduce the amount of people addicted to smoking has been a topic of concern.  The commercial market has introduced a new type of nicotine delivery method [...]

Pages: 9

Words: 2600

Examining Student Satisfaction With Wholly Online Learning, Research Proposal Example

Various authors have since come up with significant seminal researches that seek to explore the intrigues inherent in the online education system. Allen and Seaman (2013) analysis, for example, examined [...]

Pages: 5

Words: 1340

The Incidence of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace, Research Proposal Example

Abstract It is imperative for small and large organizations alike to follow a code of ethical practices that dictate proper action regarding interactions both in the workplace and with members [...]

Pages: 10

Words: 2663

To What Extent Should Indigenous Entrepreneurship Be Diversified in Jamaica? Research Proposal Example

Topic To what extent should indigenous entrepreneurship be diversified in Jamaica? Context/Background Many businesses in Jamaica are owned by foreign nationals. This is an economic concern because foreign ownership confers [...]

Pages: 4

Words: 1064

How Innovation Can Help Business and Be a Factor for Growth, Research Proposal Example

This research proposal is based on the innovation of marketing products in business. The science of innovation, which is linked to the knowledge base, is not in general developed by [...]

Pages: 12

Words: 3382

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College Research Paper Outline

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research paper example college students

Writing your research paper should not be as bad as some college students would testify. Of course there are a lot of styles and formats that you need to follow as well as a lot of kinds to use from. However, if you follow the format, it would be easier right? Sure, it is easier said than done, but not to worry. Students in college know that when it comes to certain academic subjects or even reporting about history, it is always best to know what you are doing and how you are going to do it. This means that even the smallest of details are necessary to get it right.

Yes, you may know what I am talking about. Outlining every single detail as much as possible, and this means especially your paper. How are you going to be outlining what you are going to be writing about if you have no idea how to outline your research paper? If you think that you simply have to place your research immediately on paper without so much as knowing the outline, you may as well read on. This article will help you with choosing the right outline for your paper.

10+ College Research Paper Outline Examples

1. college research testing paper outline.

College Research Testing Paper Outline

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2. College Research Paper Working Outline

College Research Paper Working Outline

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3. Editable College Research Paper Outline

Editable College Research Paper Outline

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4. Basic College Research Paper Outline

Basic College Research Paper Outline

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5. College Research Paper Outline Format

College Research Paper Outline Format

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6. College Research Scientific Paper Outline

College Research Scientific Paper Outline

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7. College Research Paper Outline Example

College Research Paper Outline Example

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8. Sample College Research Paper Outline

Sample College Research Paper Outline

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9. Career College Research Paper Outline

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10. College Research Academic Paper Outline

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11. College Research Paper Informal Outline

College Research Paper Informal Outline

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What Is a College Research Paper Outline?

A college research paper outline is a kind of tool used for college students when they plan to write their college paper. This kind of outline focuses mainly on research. The main focus of a research paper outline is to help you construct your thoughts in a more detailed and concise manner. Since writing college research papers can sometimes be a hassle, making an outline to suit the purpose can help you construct in a less hassle manner. In addition to that, a college research paper outline also helps by giving you a clearer view of how you should be writing your research and what and where should the following details be placed .

The outline consists of your introduction. The introduction is basically where you place the name of your research, the purpose of the research and your theories about your research. It does not have to be too long but it should not be too short either. The next one is the body of your research. For the body of your research this is where you are going to be diving in about what your topic is about. Any facts and information you can add as well as the evidence to support your claims. Lastly the concluding statements. For the concluding statements, this is where you are going to be summarizing your research and adding any other words that you want to emphasize on.

How to Write a College Research Outline?

Now that we know the definition of a college research paper outline and the purpose of having one, it’s time we move on to the finer things. As long as you know that the reason is clear, this kind of tool is perfectly useful for students or for anyone who have to be writing a research paper. Moving on, here are your tips to get you to know about a college research paper outline.

1. Place Your Title First

When you write your outline, remember to begin with your title. Your title is placed at the center and at the top of your outline. This is the beginning of the whole outline format. Never forget to write your title or it may not be as complete as it should be.

2. Place Roman Numerals on the Left Side

One thing to notice about outlines is that the subject is always placed in Roman Numerals while your subtopics are placed with letters. This is usually the most common and formal way when writing your outline. However, there may be some types of outlines that may not use roman numerals, rather they use letters. Depending on what your professor may assign you with, but the most common and formal way of writing your outline is to use roman numerals for the topic or subjects and your sub topics would be letters.

3. Move to the Introduction of Your Topic

The introduction of your topic does not mean that it should be in a form of a sentence. Rather it is in simple sentences broken up into a minimum of three and a maximum of five sub topics or sub parts. The introduction part is merely a summary of what you plan to write. Not the entire introduction of your research paper.

4. Add the Body of Your Research Paper on the Second Part

The same format as your introduction. You need not place too much on your body for your research. In fact, it is even better to place key words or context clues to help you remember what to write. Of course the body of your research paper outline should also be about what you plan to write. As your outline is your guide, the road map so that everything won’t be as confusing when you write.

5. Make Your Conclusion Last

The next one has the same format for the rest of your outline. The fact that you need not have to write too much as your outline is basically just the skeletal part of your research paper. Writing too much or a five sentences in a single space would not make any sense. The outline is used to guide not to be the actual part of your research paper.

6. Use APA Format

As this is an academic paper, your research paper should follow the APA format. To know which kind of format to use, you may check 100+ APA format and 100+ MLA format .

Why is an outline important?

An outline is important as it helps you arrange your ideas into a single neat and concise manner. When writing research papers, it is understandable that it can get very difficult or very confusing. Having an outline helps by giving you a clearer picture of how your research is going to be.

What is a college research paper outline?

A tool that helps college students to write their research paper without any hassle. This kind of tool is the skeletal part of their research paper.

Does the outline follow an APA format or an MLA format?

Depending on your research paper, if it falls under academics, you must follow the APA format.

Writing research papers can sometimes be quite the hassle. But not anymore. Presenting the college research paper outline. This outline not only is a useful tool, but it is also helpful for those who are looking for an easier way to rearrange their research reports and to be able to write down their research papers with ease.

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Outstanding Research Paper Topics to Get Your Writing Started

[Post information was updated on April, 2024]

The correct choice of topic for a college research paper directly affects its success, which entails searching for the required literary sources for a comprehensive study of the issue raised in the relevant field of knowledge. Let’s find out how to choose an engaging topic the easy way.

Why is it so important to choose the right topic for your college research paper?

  • The ability to conduct full-fledged research activities in the chosen direction (collecting the required information, reading literary sources, studying articles of foreign scientists, etc.). If the topic is of no interest, work will progress slowly and ineffectively.
  • Creation of full-fledged, constructive relations with the supervisor of the research paper (timely attendance of consultations, effective interaction with a teacher, constructive discussion of the stages of writing done, etc.).
  • A high-quality foundation before writing the research paper corresponding to the student’s specialty.
  • Getting a good grade when defending your research paper, or getting term papers for sale .

Where to start choosing a good topic?

– Timely selection of a supervisor in the topic of a research paper. – Declare your topic (before the list of approved topics appears) or independently choose from the list compiled by your school. – Study the information sources suggested by the supervisor. – After consulting with the supervisor, draw up a rough list of references. – Draw up a schedule for organizing work with notes. – Design a template and approve the calendar plan with the supervisor (a necessary addition to the research paper).

how to choose a good research paper topic

Main topic selection criteria

When choosing a research paper topic, the author is guided by five easy criteria: personal interest, relevance, scientific novelty of the research, presence/absence of controversial positions on the issue under consideration, lack of proof of the theorem’s problematics, and creation of a new methodology.

  • Personal interest. The student has the right to independently choose a topic that corresponds to the school specialty and is interesting for him or her.
  • Relevance of the topic. The modernity, the relevance of the topic, and the significance for modern society are prerequisites when searching for information to create future research.
  • Scientific novelty. The author is not recommended to choose a topic that has not been studied enough – the lack of research and literary sources will negatively affect the disclosure of the issues under consideration.
  • Polemics on the issue. The presence of opposing points of view on the problem under consideration is a good option for creating a research paper.
  • Failure to prove a scientific theorem. When choosing a topic, the author is recommended to use materials previously considered in the scientific industry, unproven ones due to lack of validity, objective argumentation, etc.
  • Consideration/creation of a new methodology . In this case, the author decides whether to consider a previously studied issue, applying to it independently developed new methods in accordance with the formulated research methodology.

Best research paper topics in October 2023

  • The reasons for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its development in 2023.
  • Possible scenarios for ending the war between Russia and Ukraine.
  • War refugees and the possible crisis in Europe.
  • Racial disparities in criminal justice: examining bias, policing, and sentencing.
  • The future of artificial intelligence: ethical concerns, regulation, and societal implications.
  • Global water scarcity: causes, effects, and strategies for sustainable management.
  • Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology: economic implications and regulatory challenges.
  • AI in healthcare: diagnosis, treatment, and ethical considerations in the age of automation.
  • Climate-induced migration: environmental refugees, policy responses, and human rights.
  • Renewable transportation: electric vehicles, sustainable infrastructure, and decarbonization.

Science research paper topics

  • Steps for developing a COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Microbial factories as an answer to the shortage of raw metals.
  • Importance of solar system exploration.
  • The best way to use carbon dioxide.
  • The release of “killer” mosquitoes to fight disease.
  • The usage of microelectronics to help people with chronic ailments.
  • The least harmful fertilizer to the environment.
  • The ethical aspect of stem cell research.
  • The usage of robots to help kill invasive species.
  • Development of technologies to heal people who are paralyzed.

Health research paper topics

  • Epidemiology of headaches of schoolchildren.
  • Influence of broncholytic drugs on the state of vegetative homeostasis in children with bronchial asthma.
  • Modern aspects of psoriasis etiology.
  • Method of multiparametric analysis of heart rate variability in ischemic disease.
  • The influence of combined anesthesia on the synchronization of electrocardiogram and photoplethismogram in minor gynecological surgery.
  • Genetic aspects of early diagnostics of diabetic retinopathy.
  • Diagnostics of the parameters of psychological stability in the context of interaction with sources of obtaining information.
  • The role of ultrasound and other imaging diagnostic methods in detecting inflammatory intestinal diseases in children.
  • Dynamics of prevalence of respiratory allergic diseases in the USA.
  • Health monitoring of children in the USA.

Human research paper topics

  • Physical abilities of a person and their importance in human existence.
  • Types of jogging and their impact on human health.
  • Psychological aspects of optimization of human working movements.
  • Ergonomic requirements for information display facilities.
  • Characteristics of the “human-machine” system.
  • Psychological characteristics of the activities of a high-school teacher.
  • Ways to build self-esteem.
  • The image of a modern positive hero. Who is a strong human?
  • The influence of internal conflict on human behavior.
  • Human behavior in difficult situations.

Management research paper topics

  • Models for the implementation of the organization’s development strategy.
  • Methods for the accumulation and development of the strategic potential of organizations.
  • Methods for assessing the strategic potential of organizations.
  • Diagnostics and assessment of the level of strategic development of the organization.
  • Development of methods for the development and implementation of the organization’s strategy.
  • Research of an integrative approach to the development and implementation of an organization’s strategy.
  • Development of methods and means of strategic management.
  • Strategic planning for the development of an organization based on a systematic approach to the implementation of scientific and technical developments.
  • Methodology for developing a strategic plan for promoting a new product to the market.
  • Models for the formation of strategies and tactics for bringing a new product to the market.

Biology research paper topics

  • Determination of the presence of lactic acid bacteria in fresh and stale milk.
  • Running safety as the foundation for successful training.
  • Are potato chips good or bad for your health?
  • The effect of synthetic and natural antibiotics on living organisms.
  • House dust research.
  • Milk is the elixir of health.
  • Biogas plants.
  • The importance of water for human health.
  • Development of a system for saving tap water in a school environment.
  • Effect of hydrogel on plant growth.

Criminal research paper topics

  • Social conditionality of establishing criminal liability for concealment of a crime.
  • Violence against children: problems of criminal responsibility.
  • Crimes against peace.
  • The document and its functions in the system of criminal protection of public relations.
  • Evaluative concepts: methodological aspects of research and application in criminal law.
  • Grounds for the postponement of the execution of the sentence.
  • Crime: methodological aspects of research and reflection in criminal law.
  • Social conditionality of criminal law protection of adoption.
  • Officials as special subjects of crime.
  • Stages of committing a crime under the criminal law of the USA and England: a comparative legal aspect.

Computer science research paper topics

  • Design and development of an electronic document management system.
  • Development of an automated system for recording the movement of off-budget funds in a budgetary organization.
  • Application of GRID-technologies in simulation modeling.
  • Analysis of maintenance of an average performance of the computing center.
  • Architecture of hardware and software for distributed information processing for intranet technology.
  • The interaction of the main parts of the computer during the execution of a program.
  • Choice of the logical structure of the processor.
  • Protection of information in the global network.
  • Internet in cultural communication.
  • Encoder for entering information from the keyboard.

Nursing research paper topics

  • Breastfeeding.
  • Analysis of the incidence of chickenpox in different age periods.
  • Analysis of road traffic injuries. The role of a paramedic at the prehospital stage.
  • Consulting parents on the issues of immunization of childhood infections.
  • Training of self-control in hypertension.
  • Clinical analysis of pain syndrome in patients with pancreatitis and its dynamics during treatment.
  • Self-care training while having diabetes mellitus.
  • Medical support of the educational process at school.
  • Features of nursing care for patients in a hospital.
  • Educating the population on rational and dietary nutrition.

Accounting research paper topics

  • The concept of accounting for target costs as a direction for the development of modern accounting management.
  • Special accounting objects requiring the use of new calculation methods: business processes, production stages, inventories, life cycle of products, and services.
  • Components of reciprocity and differences in the formulation of accounting subsystems (financial and management) and the problems of overcoming them.
  • Subject areas of financial and management accounting, and the degree of coincidence of the features of their objects within a particular organization.
  • The points of contact of two accounting subsystems: assets, income, costs, business processes, capital, liabilities, production units, and products.
  • Accounting principles of disclosure of reporting indicators.
  • Problems of balance sheet development as the main form of accounting.
  • Innovations in the information content of off-balance sheet items in the annual financial statements.
  • Feasibility and possibilities of disclosing information in the notes to the annual financial statements.
  • Social reporting as a phenomenon in accounting.

Ethics research paper topics

  • Management ethics in law enforcement.
  • Principles of ethical living: nihilism.
  • Professional ethics of a lawyer.
  • Judicial ethics.
  • Ethical norms of speech culture.
  • Basic rules of business ethics.
  • Ethnic ethics of Algeria.
  • Ethical and legal problems of genetics.
  • Ethics of phone business communication.
  • Ethical views of Socrates and Plato.

Political research paper topics

  • Psychological mechanisms of political communication.
  • Psychological and political stability of society.
  • The structure of a campaign to promote a political party or individual politician.
  • The nature of work in politics.
  • Political mimicry.
  • Psychological and political qualities of the leader of a political movement.
  • The psychology of political terrorism.
  • Political deception.
  • Political consciousness, self-awareness, self-knowledge.
  • Political attitudes and stereotypes.

Marketing research paper topics

  • Marketing in the healthcare industry: overcoming characteristic features and following trends.
  • The relationship between cultural indicators and attitudes toward ads.
  • Retro design and nostalgic marketing: influence of nostalgic trends in consumer behavior.
  • The peculiarities of sporting event marketing and promotion of tourist destinations.
  • The impact of religious traditions on tourism marketing and its commodification .
  • Peculiarities of marketing strategies and market analysis in the video game industry.
  • Analysis of characteristics the content should have to help advertisements go viral.
  •  Marketing analysis of the intelligence property market and its peculiarities.
  • Using symbols as a marketing tool in the example of Starbucks.
  • Quantitative research of consumer attitude toward food product advertising.

International business research paper topics

  • How do US corporations like Microsoft cheat with tax and profits?
  • What challenges has Netflix faced during the launch in India? What strategies does Netflix implement in developing markets?
  • What distinctive characteristics does China’s internet have compared to the US?
  • What problems does Uber face? What should be done to avoid them?
  • Why global computing companies like IBM move their centers to India?
  • What is Ethereum and how can it be used in business processes?
  • What is Baidu? Describe what products it does and what perspectives it has.
  • How can MME (Multi-National Enterprises) and global institutions contribute to global sustainability in the fishing industry?
  • What is the financial state of TATA Motors? What are the perspectives?
  • What retail assortment management strategies does Amazon implement?

Find more international business research paper topics .

Economics research paper topics

  • What are the principles of monopoly power? What are functioning and regulation problems of a monopoly?
  • Should the Adani Carmichael mine be supported? Describe the situation and possible solutions.
  • What were the main causes of the Asian currency crisis in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Korea?
  • Describe Sino-Pakistani cooperation and the history of rapprochement of relations between Pakistan and India.
  • What is intelligence-led policing (ILP)? What strengths and weaknesses have been identified with this model of policing?
  • What influence does the federal reserve system have on the US economy?
  • Competitive risk assessment and the estimated target market.
  • Economic issue of importance in food policy. How can food policy prevent world hunger?
  • Discuss the role of the WTO in freeing the world trade during the past 10 years.
  • Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency?

Medical research paper topics

  • How does over-attention relate to obsessive–compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)? What is the exact behavior of over-attention?
  • Does proper nutrition and dieting influence the development of dementia?
  • How can children’s drawings help with the diagnosis of psychological and somatic disorders?
  • How does epidemiological monitoring influence the changing approaches in asthma treatment?
  • How to evaluate risk factors of osteoarthritis and prescribe contemporary therapy?
  • How to handle pain among newborns? How to prevent pain or minimize the level of a newborn’s discomfort?
  • What are characteristics of viral and alcoholic cirrhosis? What differences are in disease management?
  • What treatment is the most effective for blunt chest trauma care in acute nursing?
  • What treatment should be chosen for managing patients with HPV in the reproductive age?
  • What therapy should be chosen for functional disorders of digestion in children?

History research paper topics

  • Why did Italian cities turn to minting gold in the thirteenth century?
  • What was the background and consequences of the Battle of Jerusalem 1917?
  • How did the American Revolution influence women’s rights?
  • What was the significance of chivarlic code and how did it work?
  • What was the most important figure in the history of Christianity?
  • Ancient traditions of the Amazon: territorial and religious aspects.
  • Is it helpful to describe the Agora in Athens as a ‘zone of competitive reciprocity’?
  •  Analyze etymology resources of a word’s history and stories.
  • Discuss conventional theories and causes of the Great War.
  • How did Japan’s food culture transform through the centuries?

IT and technology research paper topics

  • What is net neutrality and where can it lead to?
  • What technological innovations are developed in mechanical engineering?
  • How to protect automotive software of smart cars from cyber attacks?
  • What does “NextGen” mean for business aviation?
  • What are solutions in the current problem of the mobile payment systems in Walmart?
  • How can automation and smart service improve HR services?
  • Describe the Big Data technologies and their opportunities on the market.
  • What strategies are implemented for sharing intellectual property?
  • What are the prospects of online privacy security? Can it be real?
  • What opportunities does a virtual reality business have?

Business research paper topics

  • How to build trust and bid for a price in negotiations?
  • Do bonuses boost the effectiveness of sales?
  • Does gender diversity enhance the financial success of the company?
  • How should competitors of the same industry collaborate and why?
  • Should the companies create the new product or first announce the idea to consumers and analyze their reaction?
  • What are the effects of inaccessibility to a company’s mobile application?
  • How can inviting millennials to management positions help the business?
  • What helps some companies stand out during negative macro shocks?
  • How do consumers conclude that certain goods are worth their prices?
  • Which strategy saved IBM from insolvency?

Find more business topics for research paper .

Art history research paper topics

  • How was the human body represented in the works of the epoch of the Renaissance?
  • What was the function of Egyptian art? Why were people not supposed to see it?
  • What were the specifics of depicting scenes from the life of Christ in medieval Europe?
  • What are common types of mosque architecture?
  • Why was futurism the most politicized movement in the 20th century?
  • What similar characteristics do paintings of the time of the French Revolution and ancient Greek art have and why?
  • How have Impressionists changed the hierarchy of subject matter in art?
  • What significant changes did Andy Warhol bring to the advertising industry through his art?
  • What is the historical significance of “The Death of General Wolfe” – the painting by Benjamin West?
  • How did Francis Bacon and the scientific revolution influence art?

Check out more art history research paper topics .

Psychology research paper topics

  • How should parents identify the gender of children with ambiguous genitalia?
  • What similar traits do prematurely born children have?
  • Do children benefit from growing up in nuclear families?
  • Are crying and maltreatment connected for children?
  • To what extent should law regulate family affairs?
  • Does the person who relates to several groups have many selves?
  • Psychological effects of child molestation that can cause problems in personal relationships.
  • Should parents ban children from playing with toys “out of their gender?”
  • Are there differences in psychological needs of people who cause themselves suicidal and non-suicidal harm?
  • How does same-sex parenting affect children?

Sociology research paper topics

  • Can movies change the value systems of people?
  • How can commercialization of organ transplants affect the amount of people saved due to transplantation?
  •  Do backup cameras set up on a car invade people’s privacy?
  • Can Islamophobia be considered as religious discrimination?
  • Are US driving laws more driver or pedestrian oriented?
  • What sphere negatively influences democratic journalism more significantly – politics or business?
  • How to protect informational safety in the era of social media?
  • Should the government provide homeless children with education?
  • What is the impact of overcrowded prisons on American society?
  • Should Facebook be censored?

Literature research paper topics

  •  How has the role of the dream changed from Alice in Wonderland to Through the Looking-Glass ?
  • Through which characters and how is the theme of alienation from society revealed in Crime and Punishment ?
  • Does Jane Austen criticize women’s views on marriage of her era in Pride and Prejudice ?
  • How is the theme of superiority of youth and beauty depicted in The Picture of Dorian Gray ?
  • Why can’t Claude Frollo be considered a typical antihero in The Hunchback of Notre Dame ?
  • How is the theme of animal instinct depicted in All Quiet on the Western Front ?
  • How does the setting influence the perception of the story in The Great Gatsby ?
  • Which literary works are referred to in Fahrenheit 451 and why?
  • What role does size play in Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels ? What does the size symbolize?
  • What does Mama’s plant symbolyze and how does this symbol develop throughout the novel A Raisin in the Sun ?
  • English literature of the Early Middle Ages.
  • Anna Seghers. The anti-fascist orientation of her works.
  • Ballad as a genre of English poetry.
  • Vertical context in Thomas Mann’s novels.
  • The female image in the novel “Indiana” by Amantine Aurore Dupin.
  • Concept and composition of Ovid’s “Metamorphoses.”
  • Small genres of lyrics.
  • Late Goethe and the problem of romanticism.

Drugs and drug abuse research paper topics

  • Is Marijuana a “gateway” or a “stepping stone” drug?
  • Pathways to the disease and pathophysiological perspectives of heroin addiction.
  • Prevention of substance abuse and addictions through counseling at-risk youth.
  • Alcohol and drug abuse among homeless and runaway adolescents.
  • Treatment research of addiction and substance abuse.
  • Principles of drug abuse treatment for the criminal justice system.
  • Prevention of prescription drug overdose and abuse.
  • Substance abuse rates and treatment within LGTB communities.
  • Side effects of principal doping substances.
  • Pros and cons of drug testing among college students.

Education research paper topics

  • The effect of computers on students’ performance.
  • Aspects and main principles of adolescent psychology.
  • The role of prayer in schools and colleges.
  • Social effects of teenage team sports in public schools.
  • Psychological aspects of bullying in schools in the US.
  • Future of digital learning at educational institutions.
  • Using cognitive psychology in the learning process.
  • Dynamic aspects of teenage friendships and educational attainment.
  • Effects of standardized testing on the learning process.
  • Pros and cons of home schooling compared to attending public schools (look through the whole research paper example ).

Sports research paper topics

  • The ways to reduce fan aggression that is enhanced by media.
  •  Cheerleading should be banned for girls and boys aged under 18 for excessive sexualization of this type of sport.
  • The appropriateness of women coaching men’s teams and vice versa.
  • Sport betting should be prohibited as gambling.
  • The role of sports in overcoming posttraumatic syndrome.
  • The effect of age on the performance of athletes.
  • The influence of athletes’ sexual orientation on their image and reputation.
  • The most cruel kinds of sports that should be prohibited.
  • The reasons why chess should be considered a sport.
  • Factors which influence the difference in female and male salaries in sports.

Picking research paper topics advice

So, you have realized that you are ready to write your research paper. It’s obvious that before you start writing, you should pick the right topic and research paper type . Perhaps you have one or several cool research paper ideas, but are you sure that you will be able to write a good paper?

Before you will be ready to pick one from research topics, you should answer the following questions:

  • Is there an issue that you are really interested in?
  • Have you heard something controversial or curious in articles and mass media about the topic?
  • Do you have enough information to make research?
  • Does the topic meet your further research plans?

In any case, the best assistants when writing research papers are only reputable sources like libraries, open access journals, encyclopedias, reliable news, and academic sources. Various materials that you can find on the internet should help you choose a topic, so don’t skip any chance to get more ideas.

Make the most to find more research paper topics from which you can choose the most suitable for you. To pick the right topic, think twice! Make sure that it will be interesting both for you and your audience. Get benefits of our list to succeed in studies.

And keep mind, you can always pay for research paper to EssayShark and get a high quality paper example.

AI tools

47 thoughts on “ Outstanding Research Paper Topics to Get Your Writing Started ”

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Nice things for graduate students

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Good list of ideas!!! Thnks

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Wow! So simple topics – will cope with them for sur

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I’m hesitating about what political paper topic to choose. You don’t have any in this post. Can you help me with that?

You may be interested in any of these topics: social movements, totalitarianism, civil society, civil wars, ethnic conflicts or electoral systems.

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I have a research paper due Monday and I urgently need a topic! Someone give me some great research topics for environmental problems

Hi, Olivia. Here are some suggestions you can develop in your paper: wind generated energy in Minnesota, Lake Superior ecosystem, Saint Louis River Eurasian ruffe, Lake Superior’s shoreline protection, the impact ofdams on the environment, mining, intensive farming.

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Periodically I go to this site because I want find some fresh research topics for my papers. Now I’m most excited about literature paper topic.

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Amazing topic for my college paper!

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Hey there! Can you give me some good paper topics for education paper? I need to write my paper very soon

Hi! You can choose one of the topics from our post, or ask any of our writers to help you with it – https://essayshark.com/

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I am a student of the 7th grade need cool things to research in science.

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Where to get easy topic ideas for high school? I got sooooooooo little time left.

Hi, Ben. You can grab some here – https://essayshark.com/blog/high-school-research-paper-topics-you-shouldnt-pass-by/

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this post helped me to find a topic for my business paper. Thanks!

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What research paper topics I need to pick for my project in marketing? I’m wondering if it any from the list suitable for seniors?

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What research topics I choose for 10 page paper? I am a senior college student

Hi! You can check out this post https://essayshark.com/blog/research-paper-topics-for-college-students/ to find suitable topics of any difficulty level.

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I’m interested in your marketing research topics, but I’m not sure I can write a paper on any of those your have mentioned

Try to write it yourself, if it won’t work you can always rely on our writers – https://essayshark.com/ .

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need to find interesting research topics for history classes can’t decide what choose. I am in 8th grade btw

You can find them in the 5-th chapter of our article.

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need help choosing my topic for my research paper in my class, american history SOMEONE HELP PLZ

Hello! Thanks for the question. You may be interested in such issues: Gold Rush, mormons, Dred Scott decision, Haymarket Riot, Black Box scandal, Yellow journalism, women’s rights, cotton gin.

' src=

Superb topic ideas for research for students. ‘Social effects of teenage team sports in public schools’ – taken. Thnks

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Having one day to submit my science paper.. don’t even started. HELP ASAP!

Fill in the order form here https://essayshark.com/ , specify all your requirements and your paper will be completed within deadline.

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This list is gorgeous I have used it for speeches and writing when I had no idea with topics to write about.

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Next time I do an uncommon research paper maybe I should do some RESEARCH before I choose a topic just a suggestion) thanks anyway for your topics.

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I’m a high-school student and these paper topics at my fingertips is a blessing!

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Wow!! That is the first site where I find really cool research topics.

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Historical paper topics are great! I am going to use a couple of them in this semester

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Took the topic for my persuasive essay “Should parents ban children from playing with toys “out of their gender? ”Hope it’s enough to write 5 pages on it, isn’t it?

Yes, if you need to write a 5-page essay this research paper topic would be perfect! Good luck with your paper

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Hello Christopher. You can find more business research paper topics here – https://essayshark.com/blog/business-research-paper-topics/ or get help from one of our writers here – https://essayshark.com .

Omg I actually got an assignment that says to pick a topic on your own, but with this examples of research paper topics makes me feel like a kid in a candy store!

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Hi Nick! You should fill in the order form here – https://essayshark.com/ and specify all of your requirements. Good luck!

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Thank you for these research paper topics. Started to write a marketing paper … Maybe I’ll finish it at last.

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Guys, thanks for awesome questions on literature

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Got one for my history class!

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Sofia Barnett

ChatGPT Is Making Universities Rethink Plagiarism

A Ctrl shortcut button and a copy shortcut button on a black background

In late December of his sophomore year, Rutgers University student Kai Cobbs came to a conclusion he never thought possible:  Artificial intelligence might just be dumber than humans. 

After listening to his peers rave about the generative AI tool  ChatGPT , Cobbs decided to toy around with the chatbot while writing an essay on the history of capitalism. Best known for its ability to generate long-form written content in response to user input prompts, Cobbs expected the tool to produce a nuanced and thoughtful response to his specific research directions. Instead, his screen produced a generic, poorly written paper he’d never dare to claim as his own. 

“The quality of writing was appalling. The phrasing was awkward and it lacked complexity,” Cobbs says. “I just logically can’t imagine a student using writing that was generated through ChatGPT for a paper or anything when the content is just plain bad.” 

Not everyone shares Cobbs’ disdain. Ever since OpenAI launched the chatbot in November,  educators have been struggling with how to handle a new wave of student work produced with the help of artificial intelligence. While some public school systems, like New York City’s, have banned the use of ChatGPT on school devices and networks to curb cheating, universities have been reluctant to follow suit. In higher education, the introduction of generative AI has raised thorny questions about the definition of plagiarism and academic integrity on campuses where new digital research tools come into play all the time. 

Make no mistake, the birth of ChatGPT does not mark the emergence of concerns relating to the improper use of the internet in academia. When  Wikipedia launched in 2001 , universities nationwide were  scrambling to decipher their own research philosophies and understandings of honest academic work, expanding policy boundaries to match pace with technological innovation. Now, the stakes are a little more complex, as schools figure out how to treat bot-produced work rather than weird attributional logistics. The world of higher education is playing a familiar game of catch-up, adjusting their rules, expectations, and perceptions as other professions adjust, too. The only difference now is that the internet can think for itself. 

According to ChatGPT, the definition of plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s work or ideas without giving proper credit to the original author. But when the work is generated by some thing rather than some one , this definition is tricky to apply. As Emily Hipchen, a board member of Brown University’s Academic Code Committee, puts it, the use of generative AI by students leads to a critical point of contention. “If [plagiarism] is stealing from a person,” she says, “then I don’t know that we have a person who is being stolen from.”

Hipchen is not alone in her speculation. Alice Dailey, chair of the Academic Integrity Program at Villanova University, is also grappling with the idea of classifying an algorithm as a person, specifically if the algorithm involves text generation.

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Dailey believes that eventually professors and students are going to need to understand that digital tools that generate text, rather than just collect facts, are going to need to fall under the umbrella of things that can be plagiarized from. 

Although Dailey acknowledges that this technological growth incites new concerns in the world of academia, she doesn’t find it to be a realm entirely unexplored. “I think we’ve been in a version of this territory for a while already,” Dailey says. “Students who commit plagiarism often borrow material from a ‘somewhere’—a website, for example, that doesn’t have clear authorial attribution. I suspect the definition of plagiarism will expand to include things that produce.” 

Eventually, Dailey believes, a student who uses text from ChatGPT will be seen as no different than one that copies and pastes chunks of text from Wikipedia without attribution. 

Students’ views on ChatGPT are another issue entirely. There are those, like Cobbs, who can’t imagine putting their name on anything bot-generated, but there are others who see it as just another tool, like spellcheck or even a calculator. For Brown University sophomore Jacob Gelman, ChatGPT exists merely as a convenient research assistant and nothing more.

“Calling the use of ChatGPT to pull reliable sources from the internet ‘cheating’ is absurd. It’s like saying using the internet to conduct research is unethical,” Gelman says. “To me, ChatGPT is the research equivalent of [typing assistant] Grammarly. I use it out of practicality and that’s really all.” Cobbs expressed similar sentiment, comparing the AI bot to “an online encyclopedia.”

But while students like Gelman use the bot to speed up research, others take advantage of the high-capacity prompt input feature to generate completed works for submission. It might seem obvious what qualifies as cheating here, but different schools across the country offer contrasting takes.

According to Carlee Warfield, chair of Bryn Mawr College’s Student Honor Board, the school considers any use of these AI platforms as plagiarism. The tool’s popularization just calls for greater focus in evaluating the intent behind students’ violations. Warfield explains that students who turn in essays entirely produced by AI are categorically different from those who borrow from online tools without knowledge of standard citations. Because the ChatGPT phenomenon is still new, students’ confusion surrounding the ethics is understandable. And it's unclear what policies will remain in place once the dust settles—at any school.

In the midst of fundamental change in both the academic and technological spheres, universities are forced to reconsider their definitions of academic integrity to reasonably reflect the circumstances of society. The only problem is, society shows no stagnance. 

“Villanova’s current academic integrity code will be updated to include language that prohibits the use of these tools to generate text that then students represent as text they generated independently,” Dailey explained. “But I think it’s an evolving thing. And what it can do and what we will then need in order to keep an eye on will also be kind of a moving target.”

In addition to increasingly complex questions about whether ChatGPT is a research tool or a plagiarism engine, there’s also the possibility that it can be  used for learning. In other educational settings, teachers see it as a way to show students the shortcomings of AI. Some instructors are already  modifying how they teach by giving students assignments bots couldn’t complete, like those that require personal details or anecdotes. There’s also the matter of detecting AI use in students’ work, which is a  burgeoning cottage industry all its own. 

Ultimately, Dailey says, schools may need rules that reflect a range of variables.

“My guess is that there will be the development of some broad blanket policies that essentially say, unless you have permission from a professor to use AI tools, using them will be considered a violation of the academic integrity code,” Dailey says. “That then gives faculty broad latitude to use it in their teaching or in their assignments, as long as they are stipulating explicitly that they are allowing it.”

As for ChatGTP, the program agrees. “Advances in fields such as artificial intelligence are expected to drive significant innovation in the coming years,” it says, when asked how schools can combat academic dishonesty. “Schools should constantly review and update their academic honor codes as technology evolves to ensure they are addressing the current ways in which technology is being used in academic settings.”

But, a bot would say that. 

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Streamlining Academic Communication: the Power of Delta College’s Email Platform

This essay about the significance of Delta College’s email platform in enhancing communication within the academic community. It highlights how the platform serves as a centralized hub for official communications, fosters collaboration among students and faculty, and cultivates essential communication skills crucial for success in both academia and the professional world. Additionally, the summary emphasizes how the email platform provides access to a wealth of resources and opportunities, enriching the collegiate experience beyond the confines of the classroom.

How it works

In the fast-paced realm of academia, effective communication serves as the linchpin for success, weaving together the various threads of student life, faculty endeavors, and administrative operations. At the heart of this intricate web lies Delta College’s robust email system—a digital conduit that not only connects individuals but also catalyzes collaboration, fosters engagement, and facilitates the seamless flow of information within the educational ecosystem.

Delta College’s email platform, often underestimated in its significance, stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to modernizing communication channels and enhancing the overall educational experience.

Serving as a centralized repository for official communications, announcements, and updates, the email system ensures that pertinent information reaches its intended recipients promptly and efficiently. From class cancellations to campus-wide initiatives, students, faculty, and staff alike rely on this digital lifeline to stay informed and engaged in the pulse of campus life.

However, beyond its utilitarian function, the Delta College email platform transcends mere convenience to become a catalyst for deeper engagement and collaboration. Through its intuitive interface and user-friendly features, the platform empowers students to connect with peers, initiate discussions, and seek assistance from faculty members—all with the click of a button. Whether clarifying assignment instructions, organizing study groups, or seeking mentorship opportunities, the email system serves as a virtual agora where ideas are exchanged, relationships are forged, and intellectual boundaries are transcended.

Moreover, the Delta College email platform serves as a training ground for essential communication skills that extend far beyond the classroom. As students navigate the nuances of professional etiquette, conciseness, and clarity in their email correspondence, they are honing the very skills that will serve them well in their future careers. From drafting polished job applications to navigating professional networks, the lessons gleaned from email etiquette transcend the boundaries of academia, preparing students for success in the competitive landscape of the modern workforce.

Yet, the transformative power of Delta College’s email platform extends beyond the realm of academic discourse, offering a gateway to a myriad of opportunities and resources that enrich the collegiate experience. Through targeted email newsletters and announcements, students gain access to a wealth of extracurricular activities, internship opportunities, and career development resources. Whether exploring leadership roles in student organizations, securing internships with local businesses, or accessing scholarship opportunities to fund their education, the email platform serves as a springboard for personal and professional growth.

In conclusion, Delta College’s email platform stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to fostering communication, collaboration, and engagement within the academic community. By harnessing the power of digital technology to streamline information dissemination, facilitate collaboration, and empower individuals, the email platform transcends its functional role to become a cornerstone of the educational experience. As students, faculty, and staff continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the Delta College email platform remains a beacon of connectivity, opportunity, and empowerment, enriching the collegiate journey for all who traverse its digital pathways.

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Streamlining Academic Communication: The Power of Delta College's Email Platform . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/streamlining-academic-communication-the-power-of-delta-colleges-email-platform/ [Accessed: 18-Jun-2024]

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Call for High School Projects

Machine learning for social impact .

The Thirty-Eighth Annual Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2024) is an interdisciplinary conference that brings together researchers in machine learning, neuroscience, statistics, optimization, computer vision, natural language processing, life sciences, natural sciences, social sciences, and other adjacent fields. 

This year, we invite high school students to submit research papers on the topic of machine learning for social impact.  A subset of finalists will be selected to present their projects virtually and will have their work spotlighted on the NeurIPS homepage.  In addition, the leading authors of up to five winning projects will be invited to attend an award ceremony at NeurIPS 2024 in Vancouver.  

Each submission must describe independent work wholly performed by the high school student authors.  We expect each submission to highlight either demonstrated positive social impact or the potential for positive social impact using machine learning. Application areas may include but are not limited to the following:

  • Agriculture
  • Climate change
  • Homelessness
  • Food security
  • Mental health
  • Water quality

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  • Published: 06 June 2024

Heterogeneous peer effects of college roommates on academic performance

  • Yi Cao   ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0003-4811-8788 1 , 2 ,
  • Tao Zhou   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-0561-2316 1 , 2 &
  • Jian Gao   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6659-5770 3 , 4 , 5 , 6  

Nature Communications volume  15 , Article number:  4785 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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  • Complex networks
  • Interdisciplinary studies
  • Statistical physics

Understanding how student peers influence learning outcomes is crucial for effective education management in complex social systems. The complexities of peer selection and evolving peer relationships, however, pose challenges for identifying peer effects using static observational data. Here we use both null-model and regression approaches to examine peer effects using longitudinal data from 5,272 undergraduates, where roommate assignments are plausibly random upon enrollment and roommate relationships persist until graduation. Specifically, we construct a roommate null model by randomly shuffling students among dorm rooms and introduce an assimilation metric to quantify similarities in roommate academic performance. We find significantly larger assimilation in actual data than in the roommate null model, suggesting roommate peer effects, whereby roommates have more similar performance than expected by chance alone. Moreover, assimilation exhibits an overall increasing trend over time, suggesting that peer effects become stronger the longer roommates live together. Our regression analysis further reveals the moderating role of peer heterogeneity. In particular, when roommates perform similarly, the positive relationship between a student’s future performance and their roommates’ average prior performance is more pronounced, and their ordinal rank in the dorm room has an independent effect. Our findings contribute to understanding the role of college roommates in influencing student academic performance.

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Introduction.

Peer effects, or peer influence 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , have long been studied in the literature on social contagions 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 and education 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 . Understanding the influence of student peers on social behavior and learning outcomes is crucial for effective education management 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , as it can inform policy decisions on how to improve learning environments inside and outside the classroom 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 . Student peers can have both positive and negative effects, depending on their characteristics and behaviors 29 , 30 . For example, when surrounded by high-achieving peers, students may be motivated to improve their academic performance 31 , 32 . Meanwhile, some well-known examples of human behaviors adopted through social influence, such as smoking 33 , 34 , substance abuse 35 , 36 , and alcohol use 37 , 38 , 39 , are often associated with negative student performance. Moreover, student peers may have indirect and lasting effects, for instance, on political ideology 40 , persistence in STEM majors 41 , 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 , occupational preferences 46 , labor market outcomes 47 , 48 , 49 , and earnings 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 . A thorough understanding of peer effects on learning outcomes can inform education management strategies, such as implementing behavioral interventions to mitigate the negative influence of disruptive peers 54 , 55 . Yet, using traditional methods and observational data to study peer effects causally is a challenge.

Dynamic educational and social environments make it difficult to separate peer influence from peer selection due to reverse causality, confounding factors, and complex mechanisms 1 , 2 , 3 , 56 . In particular, similarities in academic performance among student peers may be due to homophily (i.e., the selection of peers based on academic performance similarity) rather than the influence of peers 57 , 58 , 59 . Unlike open and evolving educational environments such as classrooms 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , dormitories in universities provide a close-knit living environment for students to interact and potentially learn from each other 60 , 61 . While dorm rooms may not be the primary learning place like classrooms and libraries, they offer a highly interpersonal and spillover environment for a small group of stable student peers. In contrast to Western universities, in which freshman students usually have the flexibility to choose dormitories and suite-mates according to their lifestyle and personal preferences, most Chinese universities randomly assign students to dorm rooms 61 , 62 , 63 . There, a typical 4-person dorm room contains four beds and some public areas, providing a more interactive environment than a Western dorm suite containing four separate bedrooms (Supplementary Fig.  1 ).

Research on student peer effects, on the one hand, has primarily relied on static observational data of campus behaviors and performance metrics 11 , 64 . This reliance stems from various factors, such as the high cost and impracticality of conducting large-scale field experiments in learning environments, the dynamic nature of peer relationships 65 , and the scarcity of longitudinal data on student learning outcomes 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 . The close-knit dormitory environment of Chinese universities, however, provides a unique opportunity to observe a stable group of student peers and track their academic performance over time 61 , 63 . On the other hand, while regression models are widely employed in studying peer effects within the social sciences, methodologies from other disciplines may help expand the functional form in which peer effects can be estimated 64 . Particularly, null models are well suited for studying nontrivial features of complex systems by providing an unbiased random structure of other features 71 , 72 , 73 . Null-model approaches have been applied to test causal effects in complex social systems 74 , 75 , 76 . For instance, in the social network literature, randomizations are used to study the impact of network interventions on social relationships 77 . Utilizing a null model to test whether roommates exhibit similar performance could offer a promising approach to identifying peer effects and quantifying their magnitude, facilitating comparisons across diverse datasets.

One advantage of regression models is their capability to address the issue of inverse causality by utilizing longitudinal data and controlling for confounding factors 68 , 78 . For example, a student’s future performance may be influenced not only by the average prior performance of roommates but also by their own prior performance. Additionally, the composition of roommates may have independent effects 79 . Yet, it remains relatively less explored whether the heterogeneity in performance among roommates provides a ladder for the student to catch up with high-achieving roommates or hamper their motivation due to the inconsistent signal from roommates or the negative impact of disruptive roommates 29 , 30 . Moreover, dorm rooms provide an interactive yet local environment where a student’s ordinal rank in the dorm room, conditional on academic performance, may independently affect learning outcomes 80 , 81 . Therefore, a more comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to roommate peer effects may help inform education policy and student management strategies, such as designing interventions for dormitories that effectively leverage the influence of high-achieving peers in improving student performance.

In this study, we quantify roommate peer effects using both null models and regression approaches to analyze a longitudinal dataset of student accommodation and academic performance. Sourced from a public research-intensive university in China, our data covers 5,272 undergraduate students residing in 4-person dorm rooms following the random assignment of roommates (see “Methods”). The initialization is plausibly random since the roommate assignment takes into account neither students’ academic performance before college admission nor their personal preferences, and there is no significant reassignment later (see Supplementary Information Section  1.2 for details). Here, we demonstrate the presence of roommate peer effects by showing that roommates with similar performance are more likely to be observed in the actual data than expected by chance alone. We then measure the size of roommate peer effects by developing an assimilation metric of academic performance and contrasting its value in the actual data with that in the roommate null model that we construct by randomly shuffling students among dorm rooms while retaining their controlled characteristics. Further, we use regression models to examine factors influencing roommate peer effects and explore the role of peer heterogeneity in moderating the effects.

Tier combinations within a dorm room

We start by studying the roommate composition of a typical 4-person dorm room in terms of their academic performance. For comparisons across student cohorts (i.e., those who were admitted by the university in the same year), majors, and semesters, we transform each student’s grade point average (GPA) in a semester into the GPA percentile R among students in the same cohort and major, where \(R\)  = 0 and \(R\)  = 1 correspond to the lowest and highest academic performance, respectively. We then divide students into equal-sized tiers based on their GPA percentiles, where those with better performance are in larger tiers. For instance, under the 4-tier classification, students with \(R\)  = 0.3 (i.e., GPA is above 30% of students) and \(R\)  = 0.9 (i.e., GPA is above 90% of students) are in Tier 2 and Tier 4, respectively. Accordingly, each dorm room has a tier combination without particular order. For example, 3444 (i.e., one student is in Tier 3, and the other three are in Tier 4) is identical to 4344 and 4434. Here we use the one in ascending order of tier numbers to delegate all identical ones. Under the 2-tier classification, there are five unique tier combinations (1111, 1112, 1122, 1222, and 2222). The numbers are 15 and 35 under 3-tier and 4-tier classifications, respectively (Fig.  1a ; see Supplementary Information Section  2.1 for details).

figure 1

a The relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) of each combination under the 2-tier, 3-tier, and 4-tier classification of GPA, respectively. The x-axis shows all unique combinations in ascending order of tier numbers under a tier classification, and the y-axis shows the relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) that compares the actual frequency of a combination with its theoretical value. The horizontal dashed line marks 0. Positive and negative \({\mathbb{E}}\) is marked by ‘+‘ and ‘-‘, respectively. b Combinations in ascending order of the relative difference \(D\) , which measures the average pairwise difference between tier numbers of a combination. The staggered shade marks a group of combinations with the same \(D\) . c The negative relationship between the relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) and the relative difference \(D\) based on the actual data. Data points show the \({\mathbb{E}}\) for each combination, and the hollow circle shows the mean \({\mathbb{E}}\) for each group with the same \(D\) .

Given a tier for classification, the probability \({P}_{a}\) of observing a combination in the actual data can be calculated by the fraction of dorm rooms with the combination. The actual probabilities \({P}_{a}\) of observing different combinations (i.e., the frequency of observations), however, shouldn’t be directly compared. This is because their theoretical probabilities \({P}_{t}\) are not always the same even when the tier numbers of roommates are independent of each other, i.e., there is no roommate peer effect (see Supplementary Table  1 and Supplementary Information Section  2.1 ). To give a simple example: under the 2-tier classification, the theoretical probability \({P}_{t}\) of combination 1112 is \({C}_{4}^{1}{\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)}^{3}\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)=\frac{1}{4}\) , which is four times as big as that of combination 1111, namely, \({\left(\frac{1}{2}\right)}^{4}=\frac{1}{16}\) . This leads to the difficulty of assessing, by the value of \({P}_{a}\) , whether a combination is over-represented or under-represented in the actual data. To address this challenge, we calculate the relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) for a combination by comparing the actual probability with its theoretical probability:

where \({P}_{a}\) and \({P}_{t}\) are the actual and theoretical probability of the same combination, respectively. A positive (negative) value of \({\mathbb{E}}\) suggests that the combination is more (less) likely to be observed in data than expected by chance alone (see Supplementary Information Section  2.2 ).

We analyze the student accommodation and academic performance data under 2-tier, 3-tier, and 4-tier classifications and calculate the relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) for each combination (Fig.  1a ). We find that \({\mathbb{E}}\) of different combinations vary substantially and \({\mathbb{E}}\) of some combinations deviates significantly from 0 according to the results of statistical tests (see “Methods” and Supplementary Information Section  3.2 for details). For example, under the 2-tier classification, \({\mathbb{E}}\) of combinations 1111 and 2222 is significantly above 0 and \({\mathbb{E}}\) of combinations 1112 and 1122 are significantly below 0 ( P value < 0.001; see Supplementary Table  2 for the statistical testing results for each combination). More notably, we find that combinations with the same or nearby tier numbers (e.g., 1111 and 1112) tend to have larger \({\mathbb{E}}\) and those with distant tier numbers (e.g., 1122) have smaller \({\mathbb{E}}\) , prompting us to study the relationship between a combination’s tier heterogeneity and its \({\mathbb{E}}\) . Specifically, we first calculate the relative difference \(D\) in the tier numbers for each combination:

where \({l}_{u}\) and \({l}_{v}\) is the tier number of roommates \(u\) and \(v\) , respectively. A smaller \(D\) indicates that roommates have closer tier numbers and thus a smaller difference in their academic performance. We then group combinations with the same \(D\) and arrange them in ascending order of \(D\) . We find that combinations with positive and negative \({\mathbb{E}}\) are overall separated (Fig.  1b ), where those with a smaller \(D\) tend to have positive \({\mathbb{E}}\) (i.e., over-represented in the actual data) and those with a larger \(D\) tend to have negative \({\mathbb{E}}\) (i.e., underrepresented in the actual data). Inspired by this observation, we calculate the mean value of \({\mathbb{E}}\) for each group with the same \(D\) , finding a negative relationship between \(D\) and \({\mathbb{E}}\) (Fig.  1c ). These results demonstrate that roommates tend to have more similar academic performance than random chance, suggesting the presence of roommate peer effects.

Assimilation of roommate academic performance

We generalize the tier combination analysis to the most granular tier for classification by directly dealing with the GPA percentile \(R\in\) [0, 1] (hereafter GPA for short). Specifically, similar to calculating the relative difference \(D\) in the tier combination for each dorm room, we develop an assimilation metric \(A\) to quantify the extent to which the GPAs of roommates differ from each other. Formally, the assimilation metric \(A\) for a 4-person dorm room is calculated by

where \({R}_{u}\) and \({R}_{v}\) are the GPAs of roommates \(u\) and \(v\) , respectively. The assimilation \(A\) of a dorm room is between 0 and 1, with a larger value indicating that roommates have more similar academic performance. If there is no roommate peer effect, each roommate’s GPA should be independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.), and the theoretical assimilation \(A\) of all dorm rooms has a mean value of 0.5 (see Supplementary Information Section  4.1 for detailed explanations).

Inspired by permutation tests, often referred to as the “quadratic assignment procedure” in social network studies 74 , 75 , we perform a statistical hypothesis test to check whether the assimilation of dorm rooms in the actual data deviates significantly from its theoretical value. Specifically, we proxy theoretical assimilation via null-model assimilation that is calculated based on a roommate null model and compare it with actual assimilation. An appropriate null model of a complex system satisfies a collection of constraints and offers a baseline to examine whether displayed features of interest are truly nontrivial 71 , 72 , 73 . We start with the actual roommate configuration and randomly shuffle students between dorm rooms while preserving their compositions of cohort, gender, and major. By repeating this process, we construct a plausible roommate null model that consists of 1000 independent implementations (see Supplementary Information Section  3.1 for details). We find that the mean of actual assimilation (0.549) of all dorm rooms is 10.7% larger than that of null-model assimilation (0.496; Fig.  2a ). A Student’s t -test confirms that the two assimilation distributions have significantly different means ( P value < 0.001; see Supplementary Information Section  4.2 for details). These results suggest that roommate assimilation in academic performance is greater than expected by chance alone, demonstrating significant roommate peer effects.

figure 2

a The density distribution p ( A ) of assimilation \(A\) for all dorm rooms. Larger assimilation means roommates have more similar academic performance. The upper half (in blue) shows the actual assimilation and the lower half (in gray) shows the null-model assimilation. Vertical dashed lines mark the statistically different means of the two assimilation distributions based on a Student’s t -test ( *** P value < 0.001). The mean actual assimilation is 10.7% larger than the mean null-model assimilation, which is close to its theoretical value 0.5. The plot is based on the data from all five semesters. b The overall increasing trend in the actual assimilation from semester 1 to semester 5. The y-axis shows the percentage difference between the mean actual assimilation and the mean null-model assimilation. Error bars represent standard errors clustered for 100 times of independent implementations.

The extent to which the mean of actual assimilation is larger than that of null-model assimilation indicates the magnitude of roommate peer effects, allowing us to examine temporal trends over the five semesters. First, we find that roommate peer effects remain significant when measured using data from each semester (see Supplementary Information Section  4.1 for details). Second, we hypothesize that before the first semester (i.e., the first day of college), roommate peer effects should be 0 due to the plausible random assignment of roommates, where the actual assimilation should be close to the null-model assimilation. As roommates live together longer and establish stronger interactions with each other, the actual assimilation of roommate academic performance would become larger, and the magnitude of roommate peer effects would become bigger. To test this hypothesis, for each semester, we calculate the percentage difference in the means of the actual assimilation and the null-model assimilation that is a proxy of roommate peer effects before the first semester (see Supplementary Information Section  4.1 for details). We find that the percentage difference exhibits an overall increasing trend over time (Fig.  2b ), which supports the hypothesis that, as roommates live together longer, the magnitude of roommate peer effects on academic performance becomes larger. These results are robust when we use an alternative way to estimate the magnitude of roommate peer effects, where we calculate the share of dorm rooms with larger-than-null-model assimilation (see Supplementary Information Section  4.3 for details). Moreover, our further analysis shows that female and male students have similar assimilation, suggesting no significant gender differences (see Supplementary Information Section  4.4 for details).

The effects of heterogeneous peers

The increasing assimilation of roommates in their academic performance raises a question about how a student’s future performance is impacted by their roommates’ prior performance, especially when there is substantial peer heterogeneity in performance, e.g., there are both high-achieving and underachieving roommates. To answer this question, we employ regression models to perform a Granger causality type of statistical analysis. Specifically, we first examine the relationship between a student’s post-GPA (GPA_Post; e.g., their own GPA in the second semester) and the average prior GPA of their roommates (RM_Avg; e.g., their roommate’s average GPA in the first semester) by calculating pairwise correlations for all consecutive semesters and dorm rooms. We find that dorm rooms tend to occupy the diagonal of the “GPA_Post – RM_Avg” plane (Fig.  3a ), suggesting that a student’s post-GPA is positively associated with the average prior GPA of their roommates. We then use an ordinary least squares (OLS) model to study the relationship between GPA_Post and RM_Avg (see “Methods” for the empirical specification) and summarize the regression results in Table  1 . We find that without controlling for the effects of other factors (see column (1) of Table  1 ), the average prior GPA of roommates has a significantly positive effect on a student’s post-GPA (regression coefficient b  = 0.365; P value < 0.001; Fig.  3b ).

figure 3

a The two-dimensional histogram shows the distributions of dorm rooms on the “GPA_Post – RM_Avg” plane. The y-axis shows the student’s post-GPA (GPA_Post), and the x-axis shows the average prior GPA of roommates (RM_Avg). It shows a positive correlation between GPA_Post and RM_Avg (Pearson’s \(r\)  = 0.244; P value < 0.001). b The regression plot for the relationship between GPA_Post and RM_Avg (center line) with the 95% confidence intervals (error bands), where the model includes no controls. c The plot for the relationship between GPA_Post and RM_Avg, where the model includes controls and fixed effects (see Table  1 for details). The “Low” and “High” on the x-axis represent 1 standard deviation (SD) below and above the mean (“Mid”) of RM_Avg, respectively. The horizontal dashed line marks the regression constant. d The plot for the moderating effects of peer heterogeneity. The relationship between GPA_Post and RM_Avg is moderated by the differences in roommate prior GPAs (RM_Diff). The “Low” and “High” in the legend represent 1 SD below and above the mean (“Mid”) of RM_Diff, respectively. The horizontal dashed line marks the regression constant.

Other factors may independently affect a student’s post-GPA and confound its association with the average prior GPA of their roommates. Therefore, we add controls and fixed effects into the OLS model (see “Methods”). The regression results shown in Table  1 convey several findings. First, a student’s prior GPA has the strongest effect on their post-GPA ( \(b\)  = 0.801, which is 16 times as large as \(b\)  = 0.050 for roommate average prior GPA; see columns (2) of Table  1 ), suggesting a significant path dependence on academic achievement. Second, the positive effect of roommate average prior GPA on a student’s post-GPA remains significant with controlling the student’s prior GPA, gender, cohort, major, and semester ( P value < 0.01; see column (2) of Table  1 and Fig.  3c ). Notably, female students perform better than male students on average (see Supplementary Information Section  4.4 for details). Third, the differences in roommate prior GPAs (RM_Diff) have no significant effect ( P value > 0.1; see columns (3) and (4) of Table  1 ), but it significantly moderates the relationship between roommate average prior GPA and post-GPA (see column (5) of Table  1 and Fig.  3d ) such that their positive relationship is more pronounced (slope b  = 0.055; 95% CI = [0.040, 0.070]) when RM_Diff is high (i.e., 1 SD above its mean) and less pronounced (slope b  = 0.028; 95% CI = [ \(-\) 0.001, 0.057]) when RM_Diff is low (i.e., 1 SD below its mean; see Supplementary Information Section  5.1 for detailed results of a simple slope test). The result also shows that high post-GPA is associated with large differences in the roommate’s prior GPA when the roommate’s average prior GPA is low (see the red line on the lower left of Fig.  3d ).

While the regression results suggest that roommate peer effects are significant, it is worth noting that the effect size appears to be modest. Specifically, a 100-point increase in roommate average prior GPA is associated with a 5-point increase in post-GPA ( \(b\)  = 0.050; see column (4) of Table  1 ). The effect is about 6% as large as the effect of a 100-point increase in prior GPA ( \(b\)  = 0.801), and it is about 10% of the average post-GPA. The magnitude is at a similar scale as reported by prior studies for various environments (e.g., dormitories and classrooms) and cultures (e.g., Western universities; see Supplementary Information Section  5.1 for details). To demonstrate its significance, we perform a falsification test by running the same OLS regression on the roommate null model, finding that the reported results are nontrivial (see Supplementary Information Section  5.3 for details). Together, these regression results suggest that a student’s performance is impacted not only by the average performance of roommates but also by their heterogeneity in academic performance.

The effects of in-dorm ordinal rank

Dorm rooms provide a highly interpersonal yet local environment, where competitive dynamics between roommates may affect their academic performance. Conditional on absolute academic performance, the ordinal rank of a student in their dorm room could have an independent effect on future achievement 80 , 81 . For instance, when a student’s ordinal rank is consistently low across all semesters, even if their absolute performance is high (e.g., the student has a GPA \(R\)  = 0.9 and their roommates all have \(R\)  > 0.9), they may still feel discouraged and less motivated, leading to fewer interactions with others and a potential decline in performance (see Supplementary Information Section  5.2 for explanations). This motivates us to study how a student’s in-dorm ordinal rank (OR_InDorm, with 1 being the highest and 4 being the lowest according to their prior performance; i.e., the number of better-achieving roommates including themself) affects their post-GPA. Specifically, we employ an OLS model that not only controls the student’s prior GPA, their roommate’s average prior GPA, and differences in prior GPAs, gender, and semester but also includes the fixed effects of cohort and major (see “Methods” for the empirical specification). We find that ordinal rank has a significantly positive effect on post-GPA ( P value < 0.05; see columns (1) and (2) of Table  2 and Fig.  4a ), suggesting that the number of better-achieving roommates in the dorm room predicts a student’s better academic performance in the future.

figure 4

a The plot for the relationship between a student’s GPA in the current semester (GPA_Post) and their ordinal rank according to GPA in the previous semester (OR_InDorm), where a larger rank value corresponds to a lower GPA. The OLS regression model includes controls and fixed effects (see Table  2 for details). The “Low” and “High” on the x-axis represent 1 standard deviation (SD) below and above the mean (“Mid”) of OR_InDorm, respectively. The horizontal dashed line marks the regression constant. b The plot for the moderating effects of peer heterogeneity. The relationship between GPA_Post and OR_InDorm is moderated by the differences in roommate GPAs in the previous semester (RM_Diff). The “Low” and “High” in the legend represent 1 SD below and above the mean (“Mid”) of RM_Diff, respectively. The horizontal dashed line marks the regression constant.

Through regression, we further examine whether the positive relationship between ordinal rank and post-GPA is moderated by other factors. We find that neither the interaction term of ordinal rank and own prior GPA nor the interaction term of ordinal rank and average roommate’s prior GPA is significant ( P value > 0.1; see columns (3) and (4) of Table  2 ). Yet, the interaction term of ordinal rank and differences in roommate prior GPA (RM_Diff) is significantly negative ( P value < 0.05; see columns (5) of Table  2 ). Specifically, the effect of ordinal rank on post-GPA is more pronounced (slope b  = 0.007; 95% CI = [0.002, 0.012]) when RM_Diff is low (Fig.  4b ), while the effect is not significant (slope b  =  \(-\) 0.000; 95% CI = [ \(-\) 0.007, 0.007]) when RM_Diff is high (see Supplementary Information Section  5.2 for detailed results of a simple slope test). The result also shows that high post-GPA is associated with large differences in roommate prior GPA when ordinal rank is low (see the red line on the lower left of Fig.  4b ). Although the effect size is modest, our falsification test on the roommate null model demonstrates that the results are nontrivial and significant (see Supplementary Information Section  5.3 for details). Taken together, these results suggest that roommate peer effects tend to disproportionately benefit underachieving students with homogeneous roommates (i.e., those who have similar performance) and high-achieving students with heterogeneous peers (i.e., those who have widely varied performance).

We quantified roommate peer effects on academic performance by applying both null-model and regression approaches to analyze a longitudinal dataset of student accommodation and academic performance, where roommate assignments are plausibly random upon enrollment and roommate relationships persist until graduation. We found evidence showing that roommates have a direct influence on a student’s performance, with some heterogeneity in the variation among the roommates and the baseline achievement of the student. Specifically, by constructing a roommate null model and calculating an assimilation metric, we showed that roommates have more similar performance than expected by chance alone. Moreover, the average assimilation of roommate academic performance exhibits an overall increasing trend over time, suggesting that peer effects become stronger as roommates live together longer, get more familiar with each other, and establish stronger interactions that facilitate knowledge spillovers 61 , 65 , 82 . More specifically, the increase in assimilation is more pronounced in the third semester (Fig.  2b and Supplementary Fig.  8 ), which is consistent with previous literature showing that peer effects are strong and persistent when friendships last over a year 79 , 83 , and it appears to be disrupted in the fifth semester, which may be because senior students have a higher chance of taking different elective courses and have more outside activities that might decrease the interactions between roommates 84 .

Our regression analysis further unpacks roommate peer effects, especially along the dimension of peer heterogeneity. We found that a student’s future performance is not only strongly predicted by their prior performance, suggesting a significant path dependence in academic development 85 , 86 , 87 , but also impacted by their roommates’ prior performance. Also, the positive relationship between a student’s future performance and the average prior performance of roommates is moderated by peer heterogeneity such that it is more pronounced when roommates are similar. In particular, when living with roommates who have, on average low prior performance, a student benefits more if roommates are more different, suggesting the positive role of peer heterogeneity 88 , 89 , 90 . Moreover, ordinal rank in the dorm room has an independent effect since the number of better-achieving roommates is positively associated with future performance. Yet, peer heterogeneity moderates this relationship such that it is significant only when roommates are more similar. The magnitudes of peer effects assessed using regression may appear modest, but they are significant and in line with the literature. Together, these results paint a rich picture of roommate peer effects and suggest that the effective strategy for improving a student’s performance may depend on their position in a high-dimensional space of ordinal rank, peer average performance, and peer heterogeneity.

While our work helps better understand roommate peer effects, the results should be interpreted in light of the limitations of the data and analysis. First, the longitudinal data were limited to two cohorts of Chinese undergraduates in one university. The extent to which these findings can be generalized to other student populations, universities, and countries should be further investigated where relevant data on student accommodation and academic outcomes are available. Second, the roommate assignments were plausibly random according to the administrative procedures. While providing some supporting evidence for this assumption (see Supplementary Information Section  1.2 for details), we lacked comprehensive data on student demographics, personal information, and pre-college academic performance to examine it directly. Third, the analysis relies on GPA percentiles normalized for each cohort and major, which allows for fair comparisons between disciplines but, at the same time, may lose more information in the data. A better normalization that preserves the distribution of GPAs, for example, would be an improvement. Fourth, factors outside of the dormitory environment may mediate the assimilation of roommates’ academic performance, such as orderliness, classroom interactions, social networks, behavior patterns, and common external factors 16 , 17 , 65 . Unraveling the mechanisms underlying roommate peer effects (e.g., peer pressure and student identity 91 ) was beyond the reach of this study but is desirable as future work.

In summary, we demonstrate the peer effect of college roommates and assess its magnitude by employing basic statistical methods to analyze new longitudinal data from a quasi-experiment. The university dorm room environment is ideal for identifying a group of frequently interacting and stable student peers whose learning outcomes can be easily tracked over time. The null model we use, which is essentially permutation tests 75 , 76 , does not assume linear relationships between variables and is flexible enough to be applied to study peer effects in other complex social systems. Also, effect sizes assessed by the null model can facilitate comparisons between different datasets. Moreover, the regression model allows us to address concerns about inverse causality and better understand peer effects. Particularly, the regression findings have potential policy implications for education and dormitory management. For example, by adjusting the composition of roommates, such as reducing peer heterogeneity for students with, on average, high-achieving roommates, dorm rooms may be engineered, to some extent, to enhance the positive influence of roommates in improving students’ academic performance. Furthermore, our findings suggest the benefits of exposure to student role models and learning from peers in everyday life in addition to teachers in classrooms only.

Chinese universities provide on-campus dormitories for almost all undergraduates, allowing us to observe a large-scale longitudinal sample of student roommates and relate it to their academic performance. From a public university in China, we collected the accommodation and academic performance data of 5,272 undergraduates, who lived in identical 4-person dorm rooms in the same or nearby dorm building on campus. Different from a dorm suite that contains four separate bedrooms, a 4-person dorm room is a single bedroom with four beds, where each student occupies one bed and shares public areas with roommates (see Supplementary Fig.  1 for an example layout). Per the university’s student accommodation management regulations, newly admitted students were assigned to dorm rooms under the condition that those in the same administrative unit, major, or school live together as much as possible and there is no gender mix in dorm rooms or buildings. The process neither allowed students to choose roommates or rooms nor took into account their academic performance before admission, socioeconomic backgrounds, or personal preferences. Students were informed of their accommodation only when they moved in before the first semester. As a quasi-experiment, the administrative procedure resulted in a plausibly, if not perfect, random assignment of roommates concerning their prior academic performance and personal information. Moreover, there was no significant individual selection later in the semesters. Once assigned together, roommates lived together until their graduation. Moving out or changing roommates was very rare on a few occasions (see Supplementary Information Section  1.2 for more details).

The dataset covers two cohorts of Chinese undergraduates who were admitted by the university in 2011 and 2012, respectively. For each student, we solicited information about their cohort, gender, major, and dorm room, based on which we determined roommate relationships. As a measure of academic performance, we collected the GPA data of these students for the first five successive semesters up to 2014 and further normalized it for each semester to a GPA percentile for students in the same cohort and major (see Supplementary Information Section  1.2 for details). The stable roommate relationship and the longitudinal academic performance data allowed us to study how a student is affected by roommates over time. All students were anonymized in the data collection and analysis process, and the dataset contains no identifiable information. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (IRB No. 1061420210802005).

Statistical hypothesis test

Given a tier of classification for students’ GPA, following permutation tests 74 , 75 , 76 , we perform a statistical test to examine whether the relative ratio \({\mathbb{E}}\) of each combination (e.g., 1111) in the actual data deviates significantly from its theoretical value 0. Specifically, we generate a roommate null model by implementing the random shuffling process and calculate the null-model relative ratio for each combination: \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}=\left({P}_{n}-{P}_{t}\right)/{P}_{t}\) , where \({P}_{n}\) and \({P}_{t}\) is the null-model and theoretical frequency of the combination, respectively. By null-model construction, \({P}_{n}\) should approach \({P}_{t}\) , and thus \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) should be close to 0. For each combination, we compare the actual \({\mathbb{E}}\) with its null-model \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) . If \({\mathbb{E}}\) is significantly above 0, the probability of observing \({\mathbb{E}}\le \widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) in the actual data should be sufficiently small, e.g., less than 0.001. Accordingly, our null hypothesis (H0) is \({\mathbb{E}}\le \widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) , and the alternative hypothesis (H1) is \({\mathbb{E}} \, > \, \widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) . To empirically test H0, we generate 1000 roommate null models (where each null model is an independent implementation of the random shuffling process) and calculate \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) under 2-tier, 3-tier, and 4-tier classifications, respectively. We find that \({\mathbb{E}}\) of some combinations is larger than \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) for all 1000 roommate null models, allowing us to reject H0 and support H1 (i.e., \({\mathbb{E}}\) is significantly larger than 0 with a P value < 0.001 in the one-sided statistical test; the combination is over-represented in the actual data). Similarly, we test whether \({\mathbb{E}}\) of a combination is significantly below 0. Under the 2-tier classification, for example, combinations with significantly positive \({\mathbb{E}}\) include 1111 and 2222 ( P value < 0.001) and those with significantly negative \({\mathbb{E}}\) include 1112 and 1122 ( P value < 0.001) as well as 1222 ( P value < 0.05; see Supplementary Table  2 for the statistical testing results for each combination under these tier classifications). Overall, we find that significantly positive combinations have the same or nearby tier numbers and significantly negative ones have distant tier numbers.

To perform a single statistical test for all combinations together given a tier of classification, we calculate the total relative ratio \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\) and \(\sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) by summing up the absolute \({\mathbb{E}}\) and \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) of each combination, respectively. As \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) is close to 0, \(\sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) should also be close to 0. If we assume \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\le \sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) , it is naturally that \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\) is close to 0, yielding \({\mathbb{E}}\) to be close to 0. There, \({\mathbb{E}}\) and \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) wouldn’t have a significant difference because they are both close to 0. Thereby, to say \({\mathbb{E}}\) is significantly different from \(\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\) , the probability of observing \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\le \sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) should be sufficiently small, e.g., less than 0.001. Accordingly, our null hypothesis (H0) is \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\le \sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) , and the alternative hypothesis (H1) is \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right| > \sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) . We find that, under 2-tier, 3-tier, and 4-tier classifications, \(\sum \left|{\mathbb{E}}\right|\) is always larger than \(\sum \left|\widetilde{{\mathbb{E}}}\right|\) for all 1000 roommate null models, allowing us to reject H0 and support H1 with a P value < 0.001 (i.e., the overall \({\mathbb{E}}\) of all combinations is different from 0). Taken together, our hypothesis testing results suggest that \({\mathbb{E}}\) of some combinations in the actual data deviate significantly from 0, where those with nearby tier numbers are more likely to be observed and those with distant tier numbers are less likely to be observed than random chance, suggesting significant roommate peer effects (see Supplementary Information Section  3.2 for details).

Regression model

We employ an ordinary least squares (OLS) model to study the relationship between a student’s future performance (GPA_Post) and the average prior performance of their roommate (RM_Avg) and how this relationship is moderated by the differences in roommate prior performance (RM_Diff). The OLS model includes several controls on student demographics and prior performance. Specifically, the empirical specification is given by

where \({\epsilon }_{i}\) is the error term for student i , and the semester index s ranges from 1 to 4. The dependent variable \({G}_{i}^{s+1}\) is the student’s GPA in semester s  + 1 (GPA_Post), and the independent variable of interest \({G}_{i}^{s}\) is the student’s GPA in semester s (GPA_Prior). The variable \({{RA}}_{i}^{s}\) is the roommate average GPA in semester s (RM_Avg), \({{RD}}_{i}^{s}\) is the differences in roommate GPAs in semester s (RM_Diff), and \({{RA}}_{i}^{s}\times {{RD}}_{i}^{s}\) is their interaction term. The variable \({D}^{{Ge}}\) is a gender dummy, which is coded as 1 and 0 for females and males, respectively. The variables \({D}^{{Ma}}\) , \({D}^{{Co}}\) , and \({D}^{{Se}}\) are major, cohort, and semester dummies, respectively (see Supplementary Table  3 for details).

Moreover, we employ an OLS model to study the relationship between a student’s in-dorm ordinal rank (OR_InDorm) according to prior performance and their future performance after controlling their prior performance, the average and differences in roommate prior performance, their gender, major, cohort, and semester. Meanwhile, we examine how this relationship is moderated by other factors, including peer heterogeneity. Specifically, the empirical specification is given by

where \({{OR}}_{i}^{s}\) is the OR_InDorm of student \(i\) in semester \(s\) (ranging from 1 to 4) and \({\epsilon }_{i}\) is the error term. The interaction terms are \({{OR}}_{i}^{s}\times {G}_{i}^{s}\) between OR_InDorm and GPA_Prior, \({{OR}}_{i}^{s}\times {{RA}}_{i}^{s}\) between OR_InDorm and RM_Avg, and \({{OR}}_{i}^{s}\times {{RD}}_{i}^{s}\) between OR_InDorm and RM_Diff for student \(i\) in semester \(s\) . All other controls are the same as above (see Supplementary Information Section  5 for details on these variables and Supplementary Table  3 for summary statistics).

Reporting summary

Further information on research design is available in the  Nature Portfolio Reporting Summary linked to this article.

Data availability

All data necessary to replicate the statistical analyses and main figures are available in Supplementary Information and have been deposited in the open-access repository Figshare ( https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.25286017 ) 92 . The raw data of anonymized student accommodation and academic performance are protected by a data use agreement. Those who are interested in the raw data may contact the corresponding authors for access after obtaining Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval.

Code availability

All code necessary to replicate the statistical analyses and main figures has been deposited in the open-access repository Figshare ( https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.25286017 ) 92 .

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank Min Nie, Shimin Cai, Defu Lian, Zhihai Rong, Huaxiu Yao, Yifan Wu, Lili Miao, and Linyan Zhang for their valuable discussions. This work was partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China Grant Nos. 42361144718 and 11975071 (T.Z.) and the Ministry of Education of Humanities and Social Science Project Grant No. 21JZD055 (T.Z.).

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T.Z. and J.G. designed research; T.Z. collected data; Y.C. and J.G. performed research; Y.C., T.Z., and J.G. analyzed data; J.G. wrote the paper; Y.C. and T.Z. revised the paper.

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Cao, Y., Zhou, T. & Gao, J. Heterogeneous peer effects of college roommates on academic performance. Nat Commun 15 , 4785 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-49228-7

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