The Body Paragraphs of an Argumentative Research Paper
Wednesday, February 10, 2010 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Some students misunderstand the purpose of an argumentative research paper. They mistake that the word ‘argumentative’ only means that you should argue your theory. But if you reconsider it, you will realize that all research papers require you to argue your point. The specialty of an argumentative assignment is that everything starting from the topic to the style of writing would be of argumentative nature. The introduction gives you only just enough space for introducing the topic. And the conclusion, an equally short paragraph lets you do nothing more than conclude the research paper. On the other hand, the body paragraphs, which occupy most of the space in your sheets, would be where you will do all the explanation and justification required to prove your theory.
While preparing the first body paragraph of your argumentative research paper, link it to the introduction. You can link it either to the thesis statement or any of the other relevant points mentioned in the introduction. This will also help you open up your discussion. In the first paragraph you can either explain your theory or straight away get to the bottom of the topic being discussed. Slowly develop your argument. The best way to convince someone about your argument is to cover all the aspects one by one and slowly progress towards the conclusion.
Since the theory is of argumentative nature, you will need to present many pieces of strong evidence which covers all the aspects of the theory. So, first organize the points, ideally using the outline. Most points in an argument will need elaborate description and discussion. Hence dedicate one paragraph each for the points you have collected. This will make it look neat and avoid any possible confusion to the reader.
Once you have decided what content should go into each one of body paragraphs of your argumentative research paper, the next task is to arrange them perfectly. While at it, remember that smooth transition between paragraphs is absolutely important for the reader to be able to follow your argument. And for the purpose of transiting smoothly, you should arrange the points in such a way that the discussion on one point leads to the one discussed in the next paragraph. If there are individual points which cannot be linked so, use one of the generalized aspects to link it together. Isolating points will not add to the appeal of a research paper.
Discuss all the points you have collected, in the body paragraphs. Do not leave out anything as the conclusion will not be able to accommodate the discussion of a fresh point. Be legible in the discussion of the points in the body paragraphs. Do not ask the reader to “go back and refer to the point mentioned in the first body paragraph”. Instead mention it briefly again. But do not elaborate as it will sound repetitive.
An argumentative research paper is not about arguing on just about anything but it is about arguing on an arguable point. And the focus must be on the main purpose of the assignment, which is to argue to prove an argumentative theory. And only by skillfully framed body paragraphs, will you be able to accomplish the task of proving your argument effectively.
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Understanding the Basic Aspects of an Argumentative Research Paper
Friday, February 5, 2010 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Writing a research paper is all about studying a topic in great detail in order to bring some new aspect of the topic to light. There are many types of research papers and each has its own unique objective. Argumentative research papers are one of the most common types of research paper assignments for the simple reason that they emphasize on the basic objective of all research papers – proving the point. But there is the difference that the method of proving the point is that of an argumentative nature.
Unlike analytical or opinion research papers, for an argumentative essay or research paper, you need a thesis which can be debated. Most types of writing assignments need a thesis as its focal point. But the nature of the theses varies with each assignment. In an argumentative research paper, the thesis would declare the perspective the writer has on the topic or a new aspect about the topic which is arguable. There is a simple theory that an argument cannot be termed so if it has no counter argument. This aspect leads to one of the most important facts about an argumentative theory – it should not be an obvious or unquestionable aspect. For example, you cannot argue that ‘earth is round in shape’. It is a known fact which is proved beyond any doubts. Nobody is going to argue against it. Hence it is a fact and not an argument.
A strong arguable thesis will only make a good base. What you build on that base is what determines the efficacy of your submission. Arguing is quite easy and fun while done verbally. Most people boast of being capable of arguing their point. But it will be foolish to judge your argumentative writing skills based on your ability to argue verbally. An argumentative research paper requires you not only to present a thesis but also to argue for it. While arguing a theory, you will need evidence to support your argument. Without strong and substantial evidence your theory will not materialize into an argument. This ascertains the importance of extensive research while dealing with an argumentative assignment.
A good and interesting topic can take quite a lot of load off your research paper writing process. Study the guidelines carefully and choose a topic accordingly. But while choosing your stance on the topic, make sure that you are not going for the obvious. It always helps to pick a topic which you are familiar with. But if you are someone who enjoys the trouble of studying a topic that is new to you, there is no harm in choosing one as long as you know how and where to start your research process. If you are choosing a topic that is not so familiar, make sure that the deadline is not very tight.
Argumentative research papers not only showcase your knowledge of the topic but also prove your confidence level. Your writing skills will also get assessed by the efficiency with which you present your argument. Handling a research paper assignment will be easier if you know what a good and impressive research paper look like. Take a look at our research paper samples to find out how to present your theory effectively.
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How to Cite your Sources in MLA format
Sunday, January 31, 2010 in Source Citation by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Citing the sources is a vital part of the research paper writing exercise. This serves the purpose of giving due credit to the sources who have assisted you and contributed to your research. The MLA style of documentation offers very simple methods for citing your sources. An MLA style manual should be used for reference while writing a research paper in this style.
The MLA style of documentation offers various methods of citing the sources including in-text citations or parenthetical references, footnotes or end notes and the separate section of ‘works cited’ listings. The method of citation to be used for your assignment should be determined after studying the guidelines of the assignment. Each of these methods has a different format. It may not be easy to memorize each of these clauses. There is also the fact that the manual keeps getting updated once in a while. Even though no major changes would be made in the style, it is always ideal to refer to an updated manual while handling an MLA style research paper assignment.
The in-text citations or parenthetical references in MLA style are made by mentioning the surname of the author of the book and the page number next to the cited information, in brackets. If you do not know the page number of if it is an article which is being cited, you just need to give the name of the author in the parenthetical reference. The complete bibliographical data would be given in the works cited page. In-text citations are only meant to make it possible for the reader to link the information given in the ‘works cited’ page, to the respective citation.
The use of footnotes and endnotes is not mandatory in the MLA style of documentation. However, if the assignment guidelines ask you to include footnotes or endnotes, MLA has a format for that as well. Footnotes and endnotes should not both be included in the same assignment. It should either be footnotes or endnotes. The format for a footnote would be that of “name of the author, the title of the book (the place of publication: name of publisher, year of publishing) page number.” The number which links the footnote to the citation would appear as a superscript at the end of the citation after the period.
MLA style does not require you to cite the sources in a separate page unless your research paper ends at the bottom of a sheet. You can add the references as a continuation of the research paper document, with the heading of ‘Works Cited’. The information given in the ‘works cited’ page should be arranged in the alphabetical order with reference to the surname of the author. The details to be cited depend on the type of the source used. A complete list of citing various types of sources would be available in the style manual. Please not that the author’s name is to be reversed in the works cited page but not so in the footnotes.
If you are not confident about citing the sources as per MLA style guidelines, you can opt to take help from professional academic writers for the purpose. You may also choose to get a custom research paper done according to the specifications given in your assignment guidelines.
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APA Style Research Paper Title Page Format
Friday, January 29, 2010 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Each part of a research paper assignment is to be formatted according to the guidelines of the style used for the assignment. You should also consider the specific alterations mentioned in the guidelines of your assignment before formatting the research paper. The research paper title page, being the first page of the completed document, will give your audience or readers information about the writer and the title of the assignment. APA style has a very unique way of formatting the title page.
Most of the information given on the title page of a research paper is the same for all styles. But the presentation pattern changes with each style. And that exactly is what you should be careful about. The wrong kind of presentation on a title page will create a very negative impression about your submission. Everything from the details given to the spacing and the alignment will count. Hence each of them should be arranged carefully.
Unlike MLA style, APA style requires a separate title page which would be attached as the first page of the main document. The details to be provided on the title page include the title of the research paper, the name of the writer, the course title, the professor’s name and the date of submission. But the most unique aspect of an APA style research paper title page is the use of a ‘running head’. This is the most informative portion of the title of your research paper which would appear on all pages next to the page number. Note that the running head would only be a part of the main title.
The running head appears on the top right hand side of the title page, with the page number printed right next to it. This should be aligned to the right. A few spaces below, towards the center of the page, you will key in the complete title of the research paper. Towards the bottom of the page you should add the name of the author of the document, the name of the course, the instructors name and the date of submission. Other than the running head, all the other information should be aligned centrally.
Even though these are the basic rules regarding the presentation of an APA style research paper title page, if there are any specific instructions given in the assignment guidelines regarding the title page, it would rule over the style guidelines. Hence it is important for you to study the guidelines of your research paper assignment well enough before preparing the title page.
The title page is the simplest one of all the documents which come together to make a research paper. There is nothing that could go wrong with a research paper title page. Hence no excuses will be encouraged if you fail to put together a perfect title page for your assignment. If you are finding the alignment and spacing too confusing and wish to avail some help with preparing the title page, our academic writers will be able to assist you.
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What all to Consider while Choosing a Research Paper Title
Tuesday, January 26, 2010 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Every part of a research paper is expected to be prepared carefully. That includes the research paper title. In fact the title of your research paper plays an important role in generating interest in your audience. Even though it is one of the shortest parts of the assignment, it is very powerful and important. There are very few rules on how a title should look. But there are certain aspects which evidently makes the title look interesting.
The title is the most prominent part of any book or document. Interesting titles always draw attention. When your research paper is one of the many submissions, there should be something interesting about it to get your professor’s attention. A good title can create a positive impression about the content and make the audience feel that the coming discussion would be interesting. If the title is vague and irrelevant, it can create a negative impression about your document and shut the minds of your readers to the content. Hence, a research paper title is as important as the rest of the research paper.
A title serves the purpose of giving the reader an indication of the content of the document. When it comes to research papers, it is supposed to indicate the topic and theory which is projected in the paper. But do not be mistaken that the thesis statement or the thesis itself can take the place of a title. The title should not look anything like your thesis. But it should clearly connect to the matter discussed. Your audience should not have to wonder what the title has got to do with the content matter of the research paper.
A title is not a complete sentence. It is a phrase, preferably short; which consists of around five to eight words. There are also long titles but it is more suitable for books and articles than an academic document. You can give a long sub-title if you wish but your title is best when kept to a maximum of 5 words, unless your assignment guidelines have specifically asked for a long title. While picking words for your research paper title, look for powerful words which will be informative enough about the content matter of your research paper.
Avoid irrelevant and unnecessary words in your title. For example, the most commonly used expression “a detailed study of…” is unnecessary in a research paper title. A research can be nothing but a detailed study. Whether the title includes the word or not, the reader would know that it is a detailed study of the topic. Hence avoid it. Try not to make your title interrogative. Make sure of the fact that the contents of your research paper matches with your title. The best way to accomplish this is to choose the title after you have completed your research paper. That will enable you to find one that brings out the essence of your assignment.
An incomplete sentence or a phrase which makes complete sense of the content is a good research paper title. An interesting title is an easy way to capture the attention of the audience. Do not keep the job of choosing the title for the last minute. A hastily chosen title is, more than often, vague and unimpressive.
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The Different Types of Research Paper Abstracts
Sunday, January 24, 2010 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
While writing a research paper, you will be asked to present an abstract before the original or as the first page of your completed research paper document. It is necessary to know the various purposes of the abstract and the different methods of writing it, in order to be able to prepare a good one. Not all research paper abstracts get accepted. There are many which get rejected due to the wrong kind of presentation.
There are basically two types of abstracts – descriptive abstracts and informative abstracts. Before starting to write your research paper abstract, check the assignment guidelines to ascertain whether there are any instructions regarding the type of abstract to be presented. It is mandatory to follow the instructions given in the guidelines. If you have not been asked to follow any rules regarding research paper abstracts, you can choose the type of abstract which suits your project. The two types of abstracts differ in everything starting from its aim to its content and looks. Learning the main aspects regarding these two types of abstracts will be of use throughout your educational period.
A descriptive abstract, even though the word ‘description’ gives the idea of a long and elaborate article, is the shorter of the two types of abstracts. This type of abstract will give only a very vague idea of the content of the research paper. It will discuss the topic in general but there is no obligation to explain any of the specific aspects of the project. Hence, you will find that a descriptive abstract is not very commonly used in research paper assignments. But if there is an instruction in your research paper guidelines, asking you to make do with a descriptive abstract, you should most certainly prepare one.
Another feature of a descriptive abstract is its length. It is expected to be just around 100 words. That explains why it is incapable of containing any details of the assignment. There is very less space for anything to be discussed at all. The short document becomes favorable when you prefer not to reveal much in the research paper abstract. But if you want your reader to be aware of the contents before reading through the entire research paper, the length limitations of a descriptive abstract becomes tough to deal with. Hence, unless you have been asked to present a descriptive abstract, it is better not to choose it for an academic research paper assignment.
Informative abstracts, on the other hand, have a bigger word limit and contain all the relevant points of the research paper document. This type of abstracts gives the readers a very good and clear idea of the contents. Such abstracts are preferred for the fact that the reader will be able to determine the suitability of the content by reading the abstract alone. It will avoid wastage of the reader’s time as research papers are rather lengthy documents.
If you are not sure of the type of research paper abstract that will suit you, it is better to take advice from your teacher than make a mistake about it. If you need any further assistance with preparing your abstract, you may consult our academic writers also.
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Options of Topics for Mythology Research Paper
Tuesday, December 29, 2009 in Research Paper Writing Guide by EssayCapital | No Comments |
Mythology is one of the most fascinating subjects to study. It is also extremely interesting to do research on mythological topics. There is a huge variety of topics available for research under the subject of mythology. But finding the most appropriate topic for your mythology research paper assignment could be a challenging task.
The suitability of a topic for a research paper can be determined only by the guidelines for that particular project. It is even more so when it comes to the subject of mythology because it is a topic which can be dealt with from various angles. But there are some which you can consider as per the instructions of your research paper assignment.
The mythological beliefs are typical to each nation. But if you take a closer look, you will find that, within a single country, there are different versions of the same myths. It will be very interesting to choose a country and compare the various mythological beliefs and the contrasting versions which exist in the various regions. You can present a theory on which one, you think, is the most believable version.
You can also choose to study one particular myth in a particular country or region and trace it back to its roots, arguing about the reliability of the known facts and present your own freshly discovered aspects of the myth. Comparing a particular mythological aspect and its variations in different mythologies would also prove to be a very fascinating topic for your mythology research paper. For example, various mythologies state various theories on life after death. You can present your view of which one is most realistic with enough evidence to support your theory.
You can also choose a legendary character and study the peculiar aspects and nature of the character. Another good angle to mythological research would be to evaluate the level to which humans are influenced by mythological beliefs. If you study certain societies closely, you will see that most of their verbal usages and physical behavior have evolved out of their mythological beliefs. You can try to link a particular society and its ways to that of their myths.
There are a lot of folklores dedicated to mythological beliefs. In fact, most of the folklores can be traced back to myths. You can choose to tally the folklores and the acknowledged mythological facts of a particular society. You can also use a different perspective and consider studying any one of it in detail from an analytical view point.
Another very interesting topic would be to connect historical or geographical aspects to that of mythological facts. It has been a favourite topic for many who are studying history and geography to find out the truth of the myths which are linked to the established facts regarding their subjects.
The main challenge of writing a mythological research paper is the difficulty in finding evidence. Hence the availability of sources should be considered while looking around for a topic. If you need assistance with any part of your research paper assignment, you may try our academic writing services.
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