What is a Research Paper?

       A research paper is a documented essay which requires careful planning, searching, studying, and writing.  The length of a research paper depends on the nature of the project.  Some personal research projects that you might develop into papers will be rather brief (two to five pages), but most academic research papers will be at least five pages in length.  Quite often a research paper is called a term paper because a term (a quarter or semester) is the length of time given for its completion.  Instructors often establish a minimum number of pages for term papers, usually eight to ten pages.

       The research paper is simply a piece of writing which presents the results of careful investigation into a topic.  The type of writing will depend on the approach you wish to take.  It may be informative, persuasive, argumentative or whatever will fit the topic best.  This will be a decision to make as you formulate ideas and begin research.

       The paper represents your ability to select, evaluate, analyze the facts and to create a new angle of vision based on research.  There must be something of the creator of the paper in the paper so that it becomes truly his/hers.  Unlike a report where you collect, organize and compile information, in a research paper you’re no longer simply an observer.  You become an authority on your topic by borrowing, comparing, rejecting, or agreeing with your sources; and explaining your own thinking as you go.

         Refer to your Writing and Grammar text p. 245 for more information.