A term paper is a long piece of writing that explores a specific topic in detail and backs up the discussion with strong arguments and evidence. 

Papers are generally found in college assignments and the form of research, but it does not rule out the possibility that a company may need a paper as well.

When writing a paper, you need to know the structure and steps to make it complete. For more information on what is a paper and how to write one, see the following paper writing guidelines.

What Is a Paper?

A paper is a written work that presents a topic supported by valid arguments, often including data and research findings. In some cases, papers can also review previous research.

To create a paper, you need to organize ideas logically and understandably. Papers are generally 6-10 pages long and contain a strong argument or point of view, whereas term papers specifically discuss research findings.

Writing a paper requires not just research but also critical thinking, proper structure, and source evaluation. You need to include data from various sources to support your arguments on a given topic.

The main differences between journals and papers are in their format and scope. Journals are book-like collections of scientific articles, whereas papers are individual articles that can be part of journals. 

Journals usually have their websites and a more complex format, including detailed research methodology, compared to papers.

Characteristics of Paper Writing

To better understand paper writing, see the following characteristics of a paper. 

1.  Short Discussion

The first characteristic is that the discussion is quite short since the paper mainly discusses only one topic.

2.  Non-rigid writing style

Second, the writing style of the paper is not as rigid as other academic work. Paper writing has a more flexible style, so writers can express their ideas freely.

3.  Not Rule-Bound

Third, it isn't restricted by strict rules of organization. This allows writers to express their thoughts and opinions on a topic with greater flexibility.

Paper Structure

To know how to write a paper, you need to know the correct structure of it to make your writing coherent and organized. The structure of a paper is as follows.

1.  Title

This section usually includes the title of the paper and the author's name. Additional details like department and year can be included.

To create a good title, make sure it includes the research topic and is short, concise, and clear.

2.  Abstract

After the title, you can write the abstract, which is a summary of the paper’s content, usually no longer than one page or about 300 words.

3.  Introduction

In writing a paper, you will start the discussion in the introduction just like any other paper.

You need to provide an overview of the topic and why you are researching it. However, please keep in mind that the ideas in this chapter still need supporting theory.

Typically, the introduction includes background, problem formulation, research objectives, and research benefits.

4.  Discussion

The discussion section includes the research results and analysis of the results. Here you will use relevant theories to support the argument and findings.

5.  Conclusion

This section includes research conclusions and suggestions for future research that will address other gaps in your research.

6.  Bibliography

The bibliography lists the references used to write the paper. Typically, references come from journals, official documents, books, and others.

Types of Paper Writing

Besides knowing how to structure a paper, you also need to know the types used before starting to write it.

Here are the types of paper writing that you need to know:

1.  Analytical Paper

Analytical paper involves analysis of information obtained from different sources. In an analytical paper, your focus is on the results, methodology, or conclusions of other studies. 

Then, you can summarize the research with an analysis of the findings and make suggestions for further research.

2.  Argumentative Paper

An argumentative paper discusses two issues at the same time to determine a position on one of the issues. The arguments presented in favor of the issue must be valid and strong. 

Therefore, you must include supporting data and theories so readers can find concrete reasons to side with the issue.

3.  Comparative and Contrast Paper

Comparative and contrast paper is usually used in literary or social analysis, where you compare two different literary works or social theories.

For instance, you can compare systems of government, philosophical frameworks, authors of literary works, and so on.

4.  Definition Paper

Definition papers do not have the author's opinion, but only a description of information and facts that support a topic. 

Therefore, this paper only contains a collection of facts and not the author's argument.

5.  Cause-and-Effect Paper

This paper contains the cause and effect of something. In general, cause-and-effect paper is used in education and business.

Cause-and-effect papers usually explore the cause and effect of an action or condition. However, even if it is only an estimate, the content of the paper should still be logical.

Conclusion

At last, that is all the discussion about how to write a paper and other information you need to know. If your company is doing research and needs writing services, you can trust Article Writing Services by cmlabs.

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