Most Common Types of Research Papers
The major and most practical types of research papers are:
- Experimental paper
- Analytical paper
- Argumentative or persuasive paper
- Cause and effect paper
- Definition paper
- Survey paper
- Report paper
- Compare and contrast papers
- Interpretative paper
- Case study
All the above types can be composed using different research paper formats such as APA, MLA, and Chicago.
Let’s break down each research paper type one by one. With every paper type, we will mention the field of study they’re most used in, along with sample research paper topics.
Experimental Research Paper
An experimental research paper is designed to investigate and analyze a specific phenomenon. Its primary purpose is to explore cause-and-effect relationships and come up with conclusions based on empirical evidence. Researchers conduct experiments to test hypotheses and gather data, contributing valuable insights to their respective fields.
Experimental papers find their application in fields such as:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Physics
Sample Experimental Research Paper Topics
- The impact of caffeine on plant growth
- Analyzing the psychological effects of color on mood
- Investigating the relationship between temperature and electrical conductivity in metals.
Analytical Research Papers
Analytical research papers focus on examining a topic in detail and presenting an analysis of its various components. In such papers, you collect relevant data from a variety of sources and analyze it. These papers often break down complex ideas or issues into smaller parts to understand them better.
Unlike descriptive papers that simply summarize information, in analytical papers, you
- Analyze data
- Theories
- Concepts to uncover insights and draw conclusions
Sample Analytical Research Topics
- Analyzing the impact of social media on interpersonal communication skills.
- Exploring the economic factors influencing consumer purchasing behavior.
- Examining the effectiveness of different teaching methods in improving student performance.
Argumentative or Persuasive Research Papers
A persuasive or argumentative paper presents a clear stance on a specific issue and supports it with well-reasoned arguments. The purpose is to persuade readers to adopt the author's viewpoint by providing strong evidence and logical reasoning. Unlike other research papers, an argumentative paper encourages debate and critical thinking.
Argumentative papers are commonly used in fields such as:
- Social sciences
- Humanities
- Education
- Science and technology
- Law and criminal justice
Sample Argumentative Research Topics
- Should the government enforce stricter gun control laws to curb gun-related violence?
- Is technology fostering greater social disconnection among individuals?
- Should access to college education be universally free for all students?
If you want more ideas for your argumentative paper, visit our argumentative research paper topics blog to get inspired!
Cause and Effect Research Paper
A cause and effect research paper investigates the relationships between events, actions, or phenomena, aiming to identify the causes that lead to specific effects or outcomes. The purpose of this type of paper is to explore the underlying mechanisms behind certain occurrences and to demonstrate how one factor influences another.
In a cause and effect paper, you:
- Identify the primary cause(s) and effect(s) under study
- Provide a clear explanation of the causal relationship being examined
- Analyze the factors contributing to the observed effects
Sample Cause and Effect Research Paper Topics
- The causes and effects of global warming on biodiversity.
- Examining the relationship between parental involvement and student academic performance.
- Investigating the effects of social media usage on mental health and interpersonal relationship
Definition Paper
Definition research papers provide clear and factual explanations of a topic without the author's personal opinions. They define concepts straightforwardly without analyzing them. By gathering information from different sources, they help readers understand the topic better and serve as a basis for further discussion and analysis.
Common areas where definition papers are utilized include:
- Science and Mathematics
- Technology and Computer Science
- History and Politics
- Healthcare and Medicine
- Engineering
Sample Definition Research Paper Topics
- The definition and implications of artificial intelligence in contemporary society.
- Exploring the concept of identity and its fluidity in the digital age.
- Defining the term “social justice” and its role in promoting equitable societies.
Survey Research Paper
In survey research papers, you collect and analyze data from a sample population through surveys or research questions. This type of paper includes gathering information about attitudes, opinions, behaviors, or characteristics of a particular group of people.
The collected data needs analysis, and the paper should always present the findings. Surveys also help identify gaps in existing research.
Here are the survey types that are commonly practiced:
- Cross-sectional Surveys
- Longitudinal Surveys
- Qualitative Surveys
- Quantitative Surveys
Sample Topics for a Survey Research Paper
- Marketing research to understand consumer preferences and behaviors
- Social science research to study public opinion, attitudes, and trends
- Health research to assess risk factors, health behaviors, and healthcare utilization
- Education research to evaluate teaching effectiveness, student satisfaction, and learning outcomes
Report Paper
Report research papers present detailed information, analysis, and findings on a specific topic, issue, or project. They focus on providing a comprehensive overview of a subject matter rather than advancing a particular argument or hypothesis.
These papers are commonly used in academic, professional, and organizational settings to communicate research findings and summarize investigations.
Report papers find their applications in:
- Academic Research
- Business and Management
- Government and Policy
- Healthcare and Science
Sample Report Research Paper Ideas
- Market Analysis Report
- Environmental Impact Assessment Report
- Financial Performance Report
- Community Health Needs Assessment Report
- Policy Analysis Report
Compare and Contrast Papers
A compare and contrast research paper discusses similarities and differences between two or more subjects, concepts, theories, or phenomena. This type of paper aims to highlight the relationships and contrasts between the chosen subjects critically. They address inquiries such as “Why?” and “What?” which indicate causes and effects.
Compare and contrast research papers are often used in fields such as:
- Literature and Literary Analysis
- History and Political Science
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Languages and Linguistics
Sample Topics for Compare and Contrast Research Papers
- Contrasting Eastern and Western approaches to medicine.
- Analyzing similarities and differences between capitalism and socialism.
- Comparing the themes of love and betrayal in Shakespearean tragedies.
Interpretative Research Paper
An interpretative paper relies on specific case studies, established theories, and reliable data to support arguments. Such research papers take a deep look into meanings and implications and offer valuable insights into complex topics through subjective analysis.
Interpretative research finds application in various fields, notably:
- Law Studies
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
Sample Interpretative Research Paper Topics
- Examining the application of precedent in landmark Supreme Court cases
- Interpreting the sociopolitical implications of affirmative action policies
- Analyzing the role of judicial interpretation in shaping environmental regulations
Case Study
In research papers, a case study looks closely at a particular subject, event, or phenomenon in real life. It gives detailed insights into the complexities of the case. Other than that, they are great for providing researchers with insights for future research. Case studies use various sources like interviews, observations, documents, and records.
Case studies are used in the following research types:
- Exploratory Research
- Explanatory Research
- Descriptive Research
- Comparative Research
Sample Case Study Topics
- A case study of a successful marketing campaign by a multinational corporation
- An analysis of a community-based health intervention program in rural areas
- A case study of organizational change management practices in a large corporation
- Exploring the implementation of renewable energy initiatives in developing countries: A case study approach
Here is a PDF containing examples of different types of research documents:
In summary, understanding the different types of research papers is essential for successful academic and professional writing. Each type serves a unique purpose and requires specific approaches to research and analysis.
Whether you're working on an experimental paper, analytical paper, argumentative paper, or any other type, knowing the differences helps you choose the right approach for your topic.
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