1. Selecting a Research Topic

  • Choose a topic that aligns with your field of study.
  • Ensure it is specific, relevant, and researchable.
  • Avoid topics that are too broad or too narrow.
  • Example: Instead of “Climate Change Effects”, refine it to “Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Yield in Southeast Asia”.

2. Conducting a Literature Review

  • Review existing research to understand current findings and gaps.
  • Use credible sources like Google Scholar, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and ResearchGate.
  • Organize sources using reference management tools like Zotero, Mendeley, or EndNote.

3. Structuring Your Research Paper

A. Title Page

  • A concise, descriptive title that reflects your study.
  • Author(s) name, affiliation, and contact details.

B. Abstract (150–250 words)

  • A summary of:
    • The research problem
    • Objectives
    • Methodology
    • Key findings
    • Conclusion

C. Introduction

  • Define the research problem and its significance.
  • State the research objectives and questions.
  • Provide background information and a brief literature review.
  • Clearly state the hypothesis (if applicable).

D. Literature Review

  • Summarize relevant past research.
  • Identify gaps in existing literature.
  • Justify how your study contributes to the field.

E. Research Methodology

  • Research Design (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods).
  • Data Collection Methods (experiments, surveys, interviews, etc.).
  • Sampling Techniques (random sampling, case study, etc.).
  • Data Analysis Methods (statistical analysis, thematic analysis, etc.).
  • Ethical Considerations (informed consent, confidentiality).

F. Results and Discussion

  • Present key findings using tables, graphs, or charts.
  • Analyze results in relation to the research question.
  • Compare findings with previous studies.
  • Discuss limitations and unexpected outcomes.

G. Conclusion and Recommendations

  • Summarize major findings.
  • Address research implications.
  • Suggest future research directions.

H. References

  • Use proper citation styles (APA, MLA, IEEE, Harvard, etc.).
  • Ensure all in-text citations are included in the reference list.

I. Appendices (if needed)

  • Include raw data, survey questionnaires, or supplementary materials.

4. Writing and Formatting Tips

  • Use formal, academic language.
  • Maintain clarity and logical flow between sections.
  • Avoid plagiarism—properly cite all sources.
  • Proofread and edit before submission.
  • Follow journal/institution guidelines for formatting.