A formal research paper is a document that presents the results of a systematic investigation on a specific topic. It is typically written by scholars and researchers in order to share their findings with the academic community, and it is an essential part of the scientific process.
The structure of a formal research paper usually follows a standard format, which includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
The introduction provides an overview of the research topic and presents the research question or hypothesis being tested. It also sets the stage for the rest of the paper by providing background information and contextualizing the research within the broader field of study.
The literature review is a critical component of a formal research paper, as it summarizes and synthesizes previous research on the topic. It helps to establish the current state of knowledge and identify gaps in the existing research, which the current study aims to address.
The methodology section outlines the research design, sample size and selection, data collection methods, and data analysis procedures used in the study. This section is important for establishing the validity and reliability of the research findings.
The results section presents the findings of the study, typically in the form of tables, graphs, and other visual aids. It is important to present the results in a clear and concise manner, without any interpretation or speculation.
The discussion section is where the authors interpret the results of the study and discuss their implications. This is where the authors can draw connections between the results and the research question or hypothesis, and discuss any limitations or implications of the study.
Finally, the conclusion summarizes the main findings of the study and discusses their significance within the broader context of the field. It may also include suggestions for future research.
Overall, a formal research paper is a comprehensive and detailed document that presents the results of a systematic investigation on a specific topic. It is an important part of the scientific process, as it helps to advance knowledge and understanding in a particular field of study.