Structure your Paper

Structure your Paper

Title
Your paper title should be specific, concise, and descriptive. Avoid using unnecessary words such as “new” or “novel”. Include keywords that will help a reader find your paper.

Abstract
Provide a concise summary of the research conducted. Include the conclusions reached and the potential implications of those conclusions. Your abstract should also:

  • Consist of a single paragraph up to 250 words, with correct grammar and unambiguous terminology.
  • Be self-contained. No abbreviations, footnotes, references, or mathematical equations.
  • Highlight what is unique in your work.
  • Include 3-5 keywords or phrases that describe the research to help readers find your paper.

Funding Footnote
If the research reported in your paper was supported by a funding source, include the funder’s name and grant information in a footnote on the first page of the paper.

Introduction
Help the reader understand why your research is important and what it is contributing to the field:

  • Start by giving the reader a brief overview of the current state of research in your subject area.
  • Progress to more detailed information on the specific topic of your research.
  • End with a description of the exact question or hypothesis that your paper will address.

Also state your motivation for doing your research and what it will contribute to the field.

Methods
Formulate your research question. It should include:

  • A detailed description of the question.
  • The methods you used to address the question.
  • The definitions of any relevant terminology.
  • Any equations that contributed to your work.

The methods section should be described in enough detail for someone to replicate your work.

Results and Discussion
Show the results that you achieved in your work and offer an interpretation of those results. Acknowledge any limitations of your work and avoid exaggerating the importance of the results.

Conclusion
Summarize your key findings. Include important conclusions that can be drawn and further implications for the field. Discuss benefits or shortcomings of your work and suggest future areas for research.

Acknowledgments
You can recognize individuals who provided assistance with your work but who do not meet the definition of authorship. The acknowledgments section is optional.

References
Provide citation information for all the previous publications referred to in your paper. Cite only those references that directly support your work.