research essay vs research paper

Essay vs Research Paper: Key Disparities

Table of contents

• 1.1 What Is an Essay?
• 1.2 What Is a Research Paper?
• 2.1 Purpose and Objective
• 2.2 Structure and Organization
• 2.3 Length and Depth
• 2.4 Sources and Evidence
• 2.5 Voice and Style
• 2.6 Audience and Presentation
• 3 Essay vs Research Paper: 10 Points of Difference
• 4 What Is the Difference Between Research Paper and Different Types of Papers
• 5 Let’s Sum Up

Every student needs to write some academic papers for the university. However, even young people with experience can't determine the difference between an essay and a research paper. Although these two areas of academic writing have many similarities, the requirements are still significantly different.

• In this article, you will get a clear definition of an essay and research paper.
• We will outline the key differences between these two types of academic writing.
• You will learn more about the organization, structure, essay and research paper requirements.
• Finally, you will be able to tell the difference between a research paper and an essay.

To get to the heart of the matter of these two academic assignments, we should start by getting an essay vs research paper definition.

Definition and Overview

What is an essay.

An essay is a short piece of work, the purpose of which is to present individual thoughts regarding a chosen topic. Often, essays do not pretend to be scientific but require a defined structure. The basic requirements for an essay suggest writing a five-paragraph piece that contains an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

What makes your essay unique is your creativity and the novelty of your ideas. To easily structure your thoughts and present them clearly to the reader, you should devote time to drafting an essay . Before you start writing your essay, brainstorm the freshest ideas. Thus, even though all your classmates will use the same five-paragraph structure as you, your ideas will impress the teacher. Experiment with meaning, not form.

What Is a Research Paper?

The difference between an essay and a research paper revolves around the academic approaches. Research work is the depth of study of a selected scientific topic, which should bring scientific novelty by drawing conclusions based on existing research and experiments conducted. For students, it’s not enough to state the facts or express their point of view regarding the topic. Your task is to comprehensively study the subject of research, familiarize yourself with existing opinions, and outline the direction of the upcoming study.

Your teacher will expect you to demonstrate analytical skills, the ability to select reliable sources, and a broad theoretical base on your research topic. Research papers require creativity, erudition, and orientation in the topic.

Key Differences Between Essay and Research Paper

The central difference is the goal of these academic assignments. The essay aims to express an individual point of view and find a creative, fresh approach to an existing topic. A good research paper seeks to introduce scientific novelty by examining existing data and conducting new experiments to analyze the information obtained.

Purpose and Objective

The first and main difference between an essay and a research paper is the purpose of writing . An essay as an academic task has the goal of developing students' creative thinking. It also teaches us a structured presentation of thoughts regarding a certain topic. The student is required to have a non-standard approach, fresh thoughts, and reasoned conclusions on the given topic.

The purpose of the research work is to study a scientific topic in detail. This academic assignment is aimed at assessing the student’s analytical abilities and competence to determine cause-and-effect relationships, filter sources, and formulate logical conclusions. Such work requires theoretical knowledge, preliminary study of existing scientific works, and the ability to formulate goals and research methods.

Moreover, a student is supposed to show the capacity to draw comprehensive conclusions based on available data and information obtained during independent research. This task may seem complicated to students, so they opt for resorting to the help of PapersOwl writing service to save time.

Structure and Organization

To start with, the basic structure of any college essay involves a text consisting of five paragraphs, divided into three main factions: introduction, body part, and conclusion. When students lack time to compose a nicely structured academic essay, they can always pay to write a research paper and have their tasks done by a professional. The introduction presents the topic, sets the main direction for further text, and also works as a bait to motivate the reader to study further work. The introduction is followed by three body paragraphs. Each of the three body paragraphs presents a separate idea.

The last paragraph of any essay is a conclusion. In this paragraph, the college or university student must resume the arguments and ideas presented in the text, summarizing them into the main message of the essay. Often, the idea that you present in your conclusions will be most memorable to the reader.

Consequently, let’s overview the structure of a research paper. Compared to the structure of an essay, the organization of a research paper is much more ornate. This type of work requires a title page and abstract that go before the main body of text. On the title page, the student describes his topic of work, as well as gives contact details. An abstract is a short description of the main ideas and research methods of your work. The research work itself consists of an introduction, background, main part, and conclusions. Also, at the very end, they often add acknowledgments and a list of references, which must be formatted following the required international format.

Length and Depth

The length and depth of analysis between these two academic assignments also differ significantly. As for the essay, it is often a short prose piece whose length does not exceed 1000 words. You are faced with the task of fitting a large array of ideas into a small amount of text. The essay format itself rarely requires rigorous and thorough research of the topic, but you should work on creativity and the presence of a message in your essay. Most academic papers fall in the 300 to 600-word range.

On the other hand, a research paper is a scientific project that includes many theoretical aspects that require analysis and clarification. Thus, the volume is significantly bigger. Basic research paper lengths range from 4,000 to 6,000 words. In this case, you will no doubt have to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the selected sources, formulate a research vector, and spend time conducting your experiments, or ask PapersOwl to do a research paper for you . A research paper is a scientific project that includes many theoretical aspects that require analysis and clarification.

Sources and Evidence

The presence of theoretical sources and references is not a mandatory requirement for an essay. You can state your own thoughts on a given topic without resorting to the help of existing sources. Present your ideas on the topic, giving arguments that seem logical to you. If you do decide to base your paper on existing works, you must be sure to indicate where the information was taken from. And yet, the teacher needs to see your own thoughts rather than a dry listing of existing ideas.

Unlike an essay, a quality research paper must include primary and secondary sources, as well as a specific citation format. Surely, you are not the first person to study this scientific topic. In order not to repeat existing thoughts, you need to conduct a search to form a reliable basis for your study. If you skip this step, you risk basing your paper on misleading scientific findings.

Voice and Style

The very specificity of the essay as an academic paper is the subjective presentation of information. A large percentage of your essay should consist of your perspective and vision of the chosen topic. For this reason, essays often use a less formal and more subjective tone. However, you can still use a large amount of colloquial vocabulary, completely disregarding the norms of formal style. Students often have trouble figuring out the right style for their university assignments. In such cases, a reasonable solution is to seek help from a specialist. When you buy custom-written essays from PapersOwl, you’ll always get a perfectly balanced academic paper.

On the other hand, a research paper is a serious scientific work. The student must maintain a formal tone while complying with all structural requirements. Also, in investigative work, there is little room for subjectivity and a personal approach since an objective style is required. At the same time, do not oversaturate your research work with formalism and standard clichés.

Audience and Presentation

The essay format can be used both in the educational process and in an independent literary style. Therefore, the audience for such a written assignment can be wide and varied. When you’re writing an essay, make sure it’s understandable in academia and for a wide audience.

Research work, on the contrary, is aimed at a range of professionals in the chosen field. Written in scientific language, the goal of this work is to attract the attention of scientists and students of certain majors. Your scientific work should be rich in theory and related terms.

Essay vs Research Paper: 10 Points of Difference

As you may have noticed, research papers and essays have many differences, both global and specific. These two types of academic assignments differ in the purpose of writing, have different structures and formats, and are aimed at testing different skills. And yet, every day, students face difficulties in understanding the basic requirements, which leads to incorrect execution of the task. To summarize the main differences, let's look at the table below.

What Is the Difference Between Research Paper and Different Types of Papers

There are many types of papers, each focusing on different topics, serving different purposes, and requiring a specific structure. Those are different types of essays that share a common ground but differ in the way they present information and arguments.

Analytical paper. The purpose of such an essay is an in-depth analysis of the chosen topic, studying different approaches and points of view, and formulating one’s own conclusions based on the information studied and scientific evidence.

Argumentative paper. This type of essay takes as a basis an ambiguous topic; the author must take a certain position and provide a number of arguments.

Informative paper. It has an informative purpose — a presentation of information to the reader, preceded by careful analysis and selection of data.

Persuasive paper . The purpose of this paper is to present convincing arguments, using chosen writing techniques, confirming the author’s position regarding the selected scientific topic.

To get a high grade, you need to understand the requirements of academic requirements. No matter how informatively rich your work is, if it does not meet the requirements, it cannot be highly appreciated. Each type of academic assignment has its own clearly defined, unique format. It’s necessary to know the difference between a research paper vs argumentative essay so as not to get confused while completing a college assignment. So before you start writing an assignment, make sure you understand the type of academic writing required of you.

Let’s Sum Up

Research papers and essays are aimed at testing various skills of the student, following different structures, and having several requirements. An essay is a more creative writing task, which involves showing originality and expressing a personal opinion on a certain topic. At the same time, a research paper is a type of scientific writing that adheres to a strict structure and uses a formal tone. Understanding the main differences will make your writing process easier, saving you time researching the requirements. Remember that knowing the essence of the assignment is a key factor in writing a decent paper.

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Essay vs Research Paper: Understanding the Differences

by  Antony W

June 26, 2024

This is the most comprehensive guide on essay vs research paper . 

We’ll look at the differences and similarities between the two papers so that you can approach either assignment with clarity and certainty.

To begin with, essays and research paper examine your research, writing and analytical skills. They also require adherence to strict formatting and the inclusion of citation and bibliography.

What’s an Essay?

An essay is a written academic assignment that requires you to look into an issue and then provide your personal opinion while using credible sources and verifiable evidence to support your work.

In addition to knowing the different types of essays , you need to have excellent research and writing skills to earn full marks.

The length of an essay varies from topic to topic, with the shorter one being 500 words and longer ones can go up to 4,000 words. 

Shorter essays don’t require extended research and you can therefore write them in one sitting.

Longer essays, on the other hand, demand in-depth research and attention to details. They can be quite time consuming to write and edit, which part of the reasons why students seek for writing help. 

What Essays Do Students Write in School? 

The following are some of the most common essays that you’ll write in high school, college, or university.

1. Descriptive Essays

If asked to write a descriptive essay, focus on explaining the characteristics of a subject or issue.

Descriptive essays require some literary devices ,  such as similes and metaphors, to read well and communicate your message.

2. Comparison Essays

In a compare and contrast essay ,  you have to explain the differences and similarities between two subject. You can organize your writing based either on individual points or on the subjects.

3. Analytical Essays

Analytical essays don’t just appear in academic journals, newspapers, and magazines. They’re also common in academic settings.

In analytical essay writing ,  your work is to provide a substantive analysis of the topic without being biased.

3. Reflective Essays

In reflective essay writing ,  students have to examine experiences and explore the changes, challenges, developments, and growth that those experiences bring.

The standard format for a reflective essay is the same for all, but the format may change a little depending on the audience.

4. Argumentative Essays 

In argumentative essay writing ,  you have to take a stance on an issue and use objective evidence to support your position.

5. Academic Essays 

Written at college and university levels, academic essay cover content in your coursework to gauge your writing skills and intelligence’s level.

These essays tend to be longer with the word count ranging between 3,000 and 5,000 words.

What’s a Research Paper?

A research paper   is an academic assignment that requires students to express their views on a subject using supportive sources such as books and journal articles.

They’re longer than typical essays and therefore take more time to research, write, and proofread.

In the case where you have more demanding assignments and a research paper waiting for you to complete, you can take advantage of our research paper writing service to get the project done in time.

Types of Research Papers

The following are the common types of research papers that you’ll write in college or university:

1. Analytical Research Paper

With this type of research paper, you choose a topic, collect information from credible sources, and use the data to draw your conclusion on the subject.

Maintain a neutral position when writing an analytical research paper.

2. Argumentative Research Paper

In argumentative research paper, you look into two controversial issues in the same document.

While you’ll look into both sides of the argument, you’ll have to take a side and use information from different reliable sources to persuade reader to take your side.

3. Experimental Research

Experimental research papers are practical in form. Your instructor expects you to describe procedures you used in your experiment, accompanied by in-depth data analysis and a written report.

4. Survey Research Paper

With survey research papers, you have to collect information from as many respondents as you can find. Then, you have to analyze the information and write a final report.

Essay vs Research Paper: What are the Differences?

In this section, we’ll look at the differences between essays and research papers to give you more insight.

Differences in Writing

Since the primary objective of a research paper is to present a deeper knowledge of the subject, you have to do extensive research from different sources. 

You also have to do a deep data analysis before writing so you can make a concrete conclusion. 

Moreover, you have to be very conversant with the primary sources   on the subject to write a good research paper.  

With an essay, your goal is to show your teacher that you have good research and writing skills and can articulate your ideas in a way that shows your understanding of the given topic.

As such, essays won’t require deep research. In essay writing,   you don’t necessarily have to be familiar with the main sources on a given subject although it’s important to.

Differences in Outline and Length

An essay has three parts: an introduction, the main body, and a conclusion. The body section has at least 3 paragraphs , but there can be more depending on the subject, research, and the number of ideas you’d like to present.

A research paper has more sections. Your work needs to feature a title page, an abstract (summary of the research), the main body (divided into sections such as methodology and results), a conclusion, references, acknowledgements, and references.

An essay can be as short as one page, especially if it’s on a topic that doesn’t require extensive research. In some cases, you may have to make your essay longer .  So check the prompt to know how long your instructor expects you to make the essay.

On the other hand, a research paper is longer than a typical essay’s length and can span up to 8 pages or more.

Differences in Presentation

In essay writing,   students present their personal views on a given issue or subject and use reliable academic sources to support their opinions.

In research paper writing, you have to present other scientists and researchers’ point of views of a subject and also add your opinion as a writer. Therefore, you must not only logically organize your ideas but also formulate them academically.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

Difference Between Research Paper and Essay

October 23, 2023

Description: Comparison of research papers vs. essays, along with the explanation of the differences and similarities between the two types of academic papers. A short guide to understanding essay writing and research writing with definitions of the terms “essay” and “research paper”.

How Does Research Paper Differ From Essay?

Students often have to deal with two different types of academic writing assignments: an essay and a research paper. Writing essays and research papers can be difficult and confusing due to the many similarities they have. To avoid confusion when writing either of these, it’s important to learn their differences. Understanding the differences between an essay and a research paper is also a great way to improve your academic writing skills. This article aims to help you understand the key differences between essay and research paper writing assignments when you come across them. We’ll study their features, look for relevant academic terminology, and learn what differentiates them. To get to the bottom of the difference between these two academic assignments, we should first define essay vs research paper.

What is an Essay?

An essay is a short piece of writing that aims to express personal views on a particular topic. It should have at least three pieces of evidence to back up the argument. Essays are typically shorter in length and less complex than research writing. At the same time, essay writing has its own specifics, so using expert proofreading services is a good idea if you aren’t confident in your skills. It’s likely that you’ll write your first essay and research paper when in high school or college. Then arises the question, “Who will write my paper for me ?” A good essay should always have a creative component, so having good writing skills is a must. Essays often aren’t as scientific as research papers, yet they nevertheless need a clear structure. The basic essay writing guidelines recommend following a five-paragraph structure with an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

What is a Research Paper?

A research paper is the in-depth study of a chosen scientific topic that aims to generate new scientific findings based on previous studies and experiments. It isn’t enough for students to just state the facts or give their opinion on this topic. Your professor will evaluate your ability to think critically, choose trustworthy sources, and have a solid theoretical grounding in the topic of your research. Writing a research paper takes originality, knowledge, and subject matter expertise. Compared to traditional essay writing, research work has a different objective and structure. Research papers use data from primary sources like books on the topic, academic papers, interviews, web sources, and journals. The basic research writing guidelines recommend following this pattern: introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusions/recommendations. Research papers may also include acknowledgments, a brief biography of the author for some Master’s or Ph.D. works, references, endnotes, footnotes, and so on.

Key Differences Between Essay and Research Paper

The biggest difference between a research paper and an essay is that a research paper must have a strict methodology and set of study objectives. A research paper should outline a problem and the approaches that can be used to solve it effectively. Meanwhile, an essay can present a personal opinion without any references. Now let us go over other key differences between an essay and a research paper. The following comparison table outlines the key differences between essays and research papers:

Similarities Differences Between Essay and Research Paper

It makes sense that you could find it challenging to tell the difference between an essay and a research paper since there’re so many similarities between the two types of academic papers. That’s why it’s important to learn about the similarities of the two as well.

• Research: Basic research is still necessary in both. Even though you don’t need to do in-depth study for an essay, you still need to at least fact-check your information. However, for a research paper, you’ll need to cite more sources to demonstrate that you’re doing more than simply skimming the topic.
• Structure: The research paper has multiple paragraphs, much like an essay. Although the structure is a little different, the material presented in each paragraph should be in an easy-to-follow format to save the reader’s time from having to wade through irrelevant data and concepts. There should be an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion in both types of papers. When you want to conduct research, there’re some differences, but there’re also a few similarities because you need to present the topic properly.
• Thesis statement: Both types of papers should have a thesis statement that presents an opinion, an argument, or a hypothesis. Even though it isn’t always required for an essay, adding a thesis statement will make your essay sound even more scientific.
• Format and Style: Your professor might recommend a specific format for your paper depending on the topic matter and the class itself. The liberal arts and humanities normally utilize the MLA and Chicago/Turabian formats, while the social sciences typically use the APA format. Both research papers and essays must follow specific formatting guidelines for headers, footers, in-text citations, reference pages, and other elements. These forms guarantee consistency and point readers to the relevant sources.

Research papers and essays are two different types of writing. We can draw the conclusion that the key differences between essays and research papers are those relating to purpose, structure, and format. Even though these two types of papers have many things in common, essays and research papers are written for different purposes. The requirements for a research paper are stricter because it must follow the right structure, format, and methodology. However, an essay is more forgiving because it has a descriptive narrative that allows the author to express their own opinions. Please be advised that the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this blog are solely that of the author or his/her sources and do not necessarily reflect those of English Forward. This includes, but is not limited to, third-party content contained on or accessible through the English Forward websites and web pages or sites displayed as search results or contained within a directory of links on the English Forward network.

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Essay vs Research Paper: Understanding the Key Differences and Similarities

In academic writing, distinguishing between an essay and a research paper is crucial for students and scholars. While both serve as means of expressing ideas and presenting arguments, they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart. This essay aims to elucidate the disparities and commonalities between essays and research papers, shedding light on their respective purposes, structures, and methodologies.

What is an Essay?

An essay is a concise piece of writing that presents the author’s perspective on a particular topic or issue. Its primary purpose is to inform, persuade, or entertain the reader, depending on the type of essay. Common types of essays include:

Argumentative Essay :  

This type of essay presents a central argument or claim supported by evidence and reasoning. For instance, an essay advocating for stricter gun control laws would present arguments supported by statistics, expert opinions, and logical reasoning.

Descriptive Essay :  

Descriptive essays aim to vividly depict a person, place, object, or event through sensory details and vivid language. For example, a descriptive essay about a childhood memory might evoke nostalgia through sensory descriptions.

Narrative Essay :  

Narrative essays recount personal experiences or tell a story, often with a central theme or moral. These essays engage readers through storytelling techniques and may include dialogue, characters, and a plot.

Expository Essay :  

Expository essays provide a balanced topic analysis, presenting facts, statistics, and examples without personal bias. They aim to educate the reader on a subject, such as explaining the process of photosynthesis or discussing the impact of climate change.

What is a Research Paper?

A research paper is a comprehensive and systematic exploration of a specific topic supported by scholarly sources and original research findings. Unlike essays, research papers require in-depth investigation, analysis, and interpretation of data. The process of writing a research paper typically involves:

Researching:

Conducting extensive research to gather relevant information from credible sources, including books, scholarly articles, and reputable websites.

Critically evaluate and synthesise the collected data to develop a coherent argument or thesis statement.

Presenting Findings:

Organizing the research paper into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.

Common types of research papers include:

Analytical Research Paper:

Analytical research papers examine a topic by breaking it down into its constituent parts and analyzing them to gain a deeper understanding. These papers may involve comparing and contrasting different perspectives or theories.

Argumentative Research Paper:

Argumentative research papers present a thesis statement or claim and provide supporting evidence. They aim to persuade readers to adopt a particular viewpoint on an issue or topic.

Experimental Research Paper:

Experimental research papers report the findings of original scientific experiments or studies. They follow a structured format, including an abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion.

Key Differences Between an Essay and a Research Paper: Essay vs Research Paper

Similarities Between an Essay and a Research Paper:

• Clear Thesis:  Both require a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the central argument or purpose of the paper.
• Organized Structure:  Both should follow a logical structure with well-defined sections to guide the reader through the argument or research process.
• Proper Citations:  Both necessitate adequate citation of sources to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism.

How to Write an Essay:

• Choose a Topic:  Select a topic that interests you and is suitable for the type of essay you intend to write (e.g., argumentative, descriptive).
• Research:  Gather relevant information and evidence to support your thesis statement.
• Outline:  Create a clear outline that organizes your ideas and arguments logically.
• Write the Introduction:  Begin with an engaging introduction that provides background information and presents your thesis statement.
• Develop Body Paragraphs:  Each body paragraph should focus on a single point or argument supported by evidence and analysis.
• Craft the Conclusion:  Summarize your main points and restate your thesis, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

How to Write a Research Paper:

• Select a Topic:  Choose a research topic that is specific, relevant, and feasible for investigation.
• Conduct Research:  Gather scholarly sources and conduct thorough research to gather data and information relevant to your topic.
• Formulate a Thesis:  Develop a concise thesis statement outlining the central argument or research question.
• Create an Outline:  Organize your research paper into sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• Write the Introduction:  Introduce the topic, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
• Present Findings:  Methodically present your research findings, including analysis and interpretation of data.
• Discuss Results:  Analyze your findings and discuss their implications, limitations, and potential future research directions.
• Conclude:  Summarize the key findings, restate the thesis, and suggest avenues for further exploration.

Research paper examples:

Discovering examples of research papers can be a game-changer in understanding the structure, formatting, and content expected in academic writing. Here are a few places where you can find research paper examples:

Academic Journals: 

Many academic journals publish research papers on various topics within their respective fields. Online databases like JSTOR, PubMed, and Google Scholar allow you to search for and access multiple research papers.

University Libraries: 

University libraries often have collections of research papers, theses, and dissertations written by students and faculty members. You can visit your university library or check their online databases for access to research paper examples.

Online Repositories: 

Some universities and research institutions maintain online repositories that archive research papers and publications. These repositories may be accessible to the public or limited to institution members.

Writing Centers: 

Many university writing centres provide resources and examples of academic writing, including research papers. You can visit your university’s writing centre or check their website for guides and examples of research papers.

Professional Organizations: 

Professional organizations in various fields often publish research papers and articles related to their areas of expertise. Visiting the websites of these organizations can provide access to research paper examples and other valuable resources.

When searching for research paper examples, pay attention to the quality of the papers, relevance to your topic, and adherence to academic standards. Analyzing examples can help you identify common elements of research papers, such as the structure, citation style, and language used, which you can incorporate into your writing. You can also consider the   research paper writing services to let them check  research paper writing format s.

Essay Examples:

Finding examples of essays can provide valuable insights into different writing styles, structures, and approaches to various topics. Here are some places where you can find essay examples:

Essay Writing Websites: 

A plethora of websites are dedicated to providing essay examples across a wide range of topics and genres. Websites like EssayPro, UK Essays, and Essay Samples offer access to various essays, including argumentative, descriptive, narrative, and expository.

Academic Databases: 

Online academic databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar contain many scholarly articles and essays written by academics and researchers. These databases cover various subjects and disciplines, making them valuable resources for finding essay examples.

University Writing Centers: 

Many university writing centres provide resources and examples of essays to help students improve their writing skills. You can visit your university’s writing centre or check their website for access to essay examples and writing guides.

Literary Magazines and Journals: 

Literary magazines and journals publish essays on various topics, including personal essays, literary analysis, and critical essays. Publications like The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and Harper’s Magazine feature essays by renowned writers and thinkers.

Essay Anthologies: 

Anthologies compile essays by multiple authors on a specific theme or topic. These collections often showcase a diverse range of writing styles and perspectives. You can find essay anthologies in bookstores, libraries, and online retailers.

When exploring essay examples, pay attention to the authors’ structure, language, and argumentation strategies. Analyzing examples can help you identify effective writing techniques and develop your writing skills. Additionally, consider the context in which the essays were written and how they engage with their audience and purpose. Understanding your audience and the purpose of your writing is crucial for producing impactful academic work.

Conclusion:

Grasping the nuances between essays and research papers is a key to academic triumph. While essays are about succinctly expressing ideas and arguments, research papers demand thorough investigation and analysis. By adhering to the provided guidelines and comprehending the similarities and differences between these two forms of writing, students and scholars can elevate their writing skills and make significant contributions to their respective fields of study. Whether crafting an essay or a research paper, remember to uphold clarity, coherence, and proper citation practices to effectively communicate your ideas and findings. For expert guidance on perfecting your academic writing, visit  My Essay Writer .

While essays and research papers share the goal of communicating ideas and arguments, they differ in their scope, depth of analysis, and methodology. Understanding the distinctions between these two forms of academic writing is essential for students to engage with scholarly discourse and produce high-quality work effectively.

A: An essay is a concise piece of writing that presents the author’s perspective on a specific topic or issue. At the same time, a research paper is a comprehensive exploration of a topic supported by scholarly sources and original research findings. Essays are often shorter and may incorporate personal opinions, while research papers require extensive research and follow a structured format.

A: The choice between writing an essay and a research paper depends on your assignment’s requirements and the depth of analysis required. Essays are suitable for presenting opinions or exploring topics briefly, while research papers are ideal for conducting in-depth investigations and contributing new insights to scholarly discourse.

A: Common types of essays include argumentative, descriptive, narrative, and expository essays. Depending on the nature of the investigation, research papers can be analytical, argumentative, experimental, or based on other research methodologies.

A: To write an effective essay, start by choosing a topic that interests you and conducting research to gather relevant information and evidence. Develop a clear thesis statement, create an outline to organize your ideas, and craft well-structured body paragraphs supported by evidence. Conclude by summarizing your main points and reinforcing your thesis.

A: Writing a research paper involves several steps, including selecting a research topic, conducting thorough research, formulating a thesis statement, creating an outline, writing the introduction, presenting research findings, discussing results, and concluding. It also requires proper citation of sources and adherence to a specific citation style.

A: Examples of research papers can be found in academic journals, online databases, and university libraries. Many universities also provide access to research paper repositories or archives where students can explore published papers related to their field of study.

A: While essay writing services may offer convenience and assistance with writing assignments, exercising caution and ensuring that the service is reputable and adheres to academic integrity standards is essential. Such services should not replace your efforts in learning and improving your writing skills.

A: The format for writing a research paper typically includes sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. It’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution and adhere to a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) for citing sources.

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Home » Essay Vs Research Paper

Essay Vs Research Paper

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An essay and a research paper are two different types of academic writing assignments that students are often required to complete during their academic careers.

An Essay is a piece of academic writing that typically presents the author’s personal opinion or interpretation on a particular topic. It is a relatively short piece of writing that may be persuasive, descriptive, or informative in nature. Essays may be assigned to students as homework, in-class assignments, or as part of an exam.

Research Paper

A Research Paper , on the other hand, is a type of academic writing that involves conducting research on a particular topic, analyzing and interpreting the findings, and presenting the results in a written format. Research papers are usually longer and more complex than essays, and require a more extensive analysis of the topic. Research papers are often assigned to students as part of a course, such as a research methods course or a capstone project.

Difference Between Essay and Research Paper

Here’s a comparison table that highlights the differences between essays and research papers:

Also see Research Methods

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Essay vs. Research Paper

What's the difference.

An essay and a research paper are both academic writing assignments that require students to explore a specific topic and present their findings in a structured manner. However, there are some key differences between the two. An essay is typically shorter in length and focuses on presenting the writer's perspective or argument on a particular subject. It often includes personal opinions and experiences, and the writer's voice is more prominent. On the other hand, a research paper is more extensive and involves in-depth research and analysis of various sources. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic and often requires the use of citations and references to support the writer's claims. Additionally, a research paper is usually more formal and objective in tone compared to an essay.

Further Detail

Introduction.

When it comes to academic writing, two common forms of assignments that students often encounter are essays and research papers. While both serve as means of evaluating a student's understanding of a particular topic, they differ in several aspects. This article aims to explore and compare the attributes of essays and research papers, shedding light on their unique characteristics and purposes.

Structure and Organization

One of the primary distinctions between essays and research papers lies in their structure and organization. Essays typically follow a more flexible and fluid structure, allowing the writer to present their ideas in a creative and engaging manner. They often consist of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In contrast, research papers adhere to a more rigid structure, often requiring specific sections such as an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. The structure of a research paper is designed to provide a comprehensive and systematic analysis of a particular topic.

Purpose and Focus

Essays and research papers also differ in terms of their purpose and focus. Essays are generally shorter in length and aim to present a concise argument or viewpoint on a specific topic. They often require critical thinking and analysis, allowing the writer to express their own opinions and interpretations. On the other hand, research papers are more extensive and focus on investigating a particular research question or problem. They require in-depth research, data collection, and analysis to provide evidence-based conclusions. Research papers aim to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on a given subject.

Research Requirements

As the name suggests, research papers heavily rely on extensive research to support their claims and arguments. They require the writer to gather information from various sources such as scholarly articles, books, and reputable websites. Research papers often involve conducting experiments, surveys, or interviews to collect primary data. On the other hand, while essays may also require some research, they typically rely more on the writer's existing knowledge and understanding of the topic. Essays often prioritize critical thinking and analysis of the available information rather than extensive research.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing style and tone of essays and research papers can also differ significantly. Essays often allow for a more personal and subjective writing style, enabling the writer to express their thoughts and emotions. The tone of an essay can vary depending on the topic and purpose, ranging from formal and academic to more conversational and informal. In contrast, research papers require a more objective and formal writing style. They should be written in the third person and avoid personal opinions or biases. The tone of a research paper is typically neutral and focused on presenting factual information and analysis.

Citation and Referencing

Both essays and research papers require proper citation and referencing of sources used. However, the extent and complexity of citation may differ between the two. Essays often require the use of in-text citations and a reference list or bibliography at the end of the document. The citation style may vary depending on the academic discipline or the instructor's requirements. Research papers, on the other hand, typically follow a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, and require more detailed and comprehensive referencing. They often include in-text citations, footnotes or endnotes, and a detailed bibliography or works cited page.

Evaluation and Assessment

Essays and research papers are evaluated and assessed based on different criteria. Essays are often graded on the writer's ability to present a coherent argument, critical thinking skills, and the clarity of their writing. The focus is on the writer's ability to convey their ideas effectively. Research papers, on the other hand, are evaluated based on the depth of research, the quality of data analysis, and the validity of the conclusions drawn. The assessment of research papers often considers the writer's ability to contribute to the existing knowledge on the topic and their understanding of research methodologies.

In conclusion, while essays and research papers share the common goal of evaluating a student's understanding of a particular topic, they differ in various aspects. Essays offer more flexibility in structure and allow for personal opinions and interpretations, while research papers adhere to a more rigid structure and require extensive research and analysis. The purpose, focus, writing style, citation requirements, and evaluation criteria also set them apart. Understanding these differences can help students approach each assignment appropriately and effectively meet the expectations of their instructors.

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Learn about the Difference Between Research Paper and Essay

Updated 13 Jun 2024

The purpose of this guide is to help you understand the difference between essay and research paper writing tasks as you encounter them. We shall study the features, see relevant academic definitions, and analyze the key elements that help set them apart. Learning about the differences and similarities, we shall identify the elements required for an essay or research paper. If you require academic writing help and the finest customer service, then the best writing service is a great option for you.

What is an Essay?

When you are a high school learner or a college student, the chances are high that you will encounter both essay writing and conducting your first research paper. That's when you start to think about who can write my college essay . The majority of essays that students encounter often have a creative element to them and require the presence of good writing skills. It's a reason why these are often seen as an easier task since research papers require a synthesis of available information and, as the title implies, researching.

Starting with the small essays that you encounter in school to persuasive college writing to help your readers choose a certain point, an essay can be defined as a piece of academic writing where the writer's opinion is presented with the use of at least three pieces of evidence to support these thoughts. They are not as complex as research writing and are usually only up to five paragraphs in length.

Speaking of the key research paper vs essay elements that help to set an essay apart from other types of writing, these are the rules to remember:

• An essay is usually a piece of writing that is up to 1,000 words or shorter. 
• Writing an essay usually relates to a particular subject or so-called 'essay prompt'. 
• In certain cases, essays are written as a response to a proposition or a question set by the college professor. 
• Essays are not complex in terms of headings and sub-headings, which are typical for research papers. 
• Essays, however, do require the use of quotes and references for anything that is not your personal opinion. 
• The use of a subjective tone is often met for this type of writing. 
• The purpose is to analyze and criticize the given topic. 
• The use of photographs and multimedia elements is not that frequent in essay writing.

In most cases, an essay’s structure will contain an introduction with a thesis statement, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion part where an author has a right to write one’s thoughts down as a reflection, analysis, or a part of the creative writing task. Unlike a typical research paper where a methodology and samples data must be used, essays do not require these elements. At the same time, writing such a type of paper has its own specifics, and using essay editing services can be your advantage.

What is a Research Paper?

Although it is technically an essay, it has a different purpose and structure when compared to classic essay writing. It's necessary to include information and synthesis based on specific data by turning to external sources that may include books on the topic, scientific articles, interviews, web sources, and first-hand surveys. Exploring the difference between research paper and essay, remember that the main purpose here is to bring a selection of the different academic views on a subject by turning to facts and concepts as you also interpret information to create an accessible, readable framework.

The research paper should always contain the following elements that are not typical for general essay writing:

• Every research paper contains a methodology, which can be either qualitative or quantitative. In certain cases, it can be a mixture of both, depending on your subject. 
• There is a conceptual framework with the implementation of a school of thought, theoretical, or model-based writing. 
• An introduction part will implement at least one research question. 
• A literature review must be included to explain what kind of information you have used. 
• Your methods and objectives must be set clear. 
• It's necessary to include the results of your findings by talking about what aspects have been achieved and what has proved helpful for your take on things. 
• The conclusion part also contains the author's discussion of the outcomes and a list of possible recommendations. 
• Unlike an essay, research papers talk about limitations that have been encountered during the process of writing and researching. 
• Research papers set the problem and provide certain solutions or assumptions that may be helpful as you address a particular issue or an event. 
• The presence of good sources is essential for a successful outcome of any academic research.

In addition, research papers also use references, endnotes and footnotes, appendices for those large chunks of information, acknowledgments, and the author's short biography paragraph for some Master's or Ph.D. works. As a rule, such research papers are quite lengthy and can take up to fifty pages or even more. Since almost every research paper these days is composed independently, it usually sounds challenging for college students when it only requires a different approach and more time to get things done right. 

The Key Differences Between Essay and Research Paper

Let’s sum up the key aspects as we explore the difference between essay and paper meant for research. The table below compares things and points out the major differences that will help you understand the purpose of each academic paper type:

- What is the most important difference between a research paper and a simple essay?

Comparing research paper vs essay, the most important difference is the use of a strict methodology and research objectives that no research paper can get through without. An essay can be a personal reflection with no sources per se, yet every research paper should explain a problem and set the methods that help to address and, possibly, solve it efficiently. 

Exploring the Similarities

It's only natural to find it hard to differentiate an essay and a research paper, especially if you plan to do some research in either case. So why things are so challenging then? The truth is that both research papers and essays will require the following with a subsequent study of the given grading rubric and will have at least three points that must not be altered in any way. These are:

• Organizational structure . Both types of papers will have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion part. While there are certain differences when you are planning to conduct research, there are certain similarities as you have to introduce your subject correctly.
• The presence of a strong thesis statement that poses an opinion, an argument, or an assumption . This part will always remain relevant as your task is to provide a thesis that will be supported by the facts, real-life events, or statistical data. While it may not be obligatory for an essay, the inclusion of this part will help your essay paper sound even more confident.
• At least basic research is still required! This is where things can easily get confusing, yet the major point is the use of external information. While you may get by with an essay by just checking things, starting with a research paper, you must provide more sources to show that you are researching, not just touching upon the subject in a superficial way!

The other essay vs paper research similarities that you will find helpful include the use of a clear and concise formatting system where your grammar skills must be used to deliver the information. Turning to references and summary in the conclusion is another point that makes research paper writing similar to most essay types that are encountered these days. For example, as you learn how to write an autobiography essay , you may not use any external sources or references, which instantly sets it apart. Still, you may have to use additional statistical data or references, which can make it challenging while still remaining a type of an essay, not a research paper!

If you are still confused about the difference between essay and research paper tasks, the general rule is to look into the structure of the homework paper that you have to complete. When you see the words like “ Literature review ”, “ Methodology ” and “ Samples ” in the structural part of your grading rubric and the length goes beyond 1,500 words, it’s most likely a research paper you are dealing with! 

Get Your Academic Writing Under Control

As you are striving for the best grades, the most important is to choose your essay or research paper title correctly as it will help you to narrow things down and keep focused on your subject or research problem. Those students that take their time to explore and check things twice always win as they are able to keep their writing structured throughout by wasting no minute of their precious time! Remember to take notes, write down the list of helpful sources, and always check your grading rubric twice to ensure that you address every important point as you write! 

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Essay vs. Research Paper: What’s the difference?

Is there actually a difference between a research paper and an essay? For some people, these two terms have so many similarities that they use them interchangeably. However, there are quite a few major differences that must be clarified. Let’s compare the key purpose of research papers and essays, their structure, and writing style.

The definition of essay and research paper

An essay is a creative but short composition on a variety of given topics. Its main purpose is to reveal the proposed topic by bringing a number of arguments written in the form of abstracts supported by personal experience and all sorts of examples.

A research paper is a report on the topic chosen by the author or a description of the content of any article, book, or other scientific work. That is, it’s an author’s research that reveals the essence of a given topic, gives different opinions on the researched issue or problem, reflects on it, and represents the author’s findings and ways to solve the problem.

The key purpose

A research paper is based on an analysis of certain literature sources that the writer used when studying the topic. It consists of the facts indicated in the source. While working on it, the writer cannot make up his or her own facts or distort information from the source with his or her own opinion. The key word in this type of work is “information,” and it can’t be taken from personal experience. It’s collected from all kinds of sources: encyclopedic and educational literature, the Internet, magazines, and so on.

Writing an essay, the author strives to show her or his own attitude towards the problem, argue his/her position, and make the reader believe that this position is right. In this case, there are no restrictions for the writer. After all, the main purpose of the author is to express the attitude to the topic and his or her opinion, not being afraid that someone will doubt it.

Differences in writing style

The essay’s arbitrary composition allows the author to use different techniques to enhance the impact on the reader’s perception, like inversions, antithesis, irony, and other kinds of allegory. Its writing style encourages the author to use assumptions, rhetorical questions, and phraseological units. They add stylistic expressiveness to the text.

The research paper, on the other hand, must have a more restricted structure, with academic style of writing prevailing. The author must follow the formal tone of his or her work, carefully choosing each word to suit the topic. It’s the formal nature of the work that puts certain restrictions on using the same units of speech that are considered acceptable when writing an essay. Instead of convincing the reader, the author needs to answer all the questions raised in the paper.

Structural features

The research paper should meet certain stylistic and structural standards. Its obligatory components include an introduction, main part, methodology, findings, and conclusion. The introductory part contains a reference to the sources used in a paper indicating the name of the authors and the date and place of publication. It’s also here that the writer describes the relevance of the topic. Then the writer specifies ways of structuring the work and explains research methods. In the main part, the author sets out the essence of the problem. In the last two parts, the writer lists the results of the analysis and the options for their application.

The structure of the essay consists of an introduction with explanation of the topic’s relevance, the main part of the work, and the conclusion. Due to the content and form, it has many similarities with a composition, but the author faces a more complicated task: he or she must encourage the reader to reflect on the topic using persuasiveness and writing skills and evoke an emotional response.

These differences should be enough for you to understand why an essay and a research paper are not the same things. Still can’t write a single page? Save your precious time for something that really matters – buying research paper and let our creative team handle it for you!

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Writing a research paper can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are new to academic writing. However, with the right approach and understanding of the process, you can craft a well-structured and insightful paper that will stand out. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps and provide tips on how to write a research paper like a pro. From understanding the research paper format to knowing how to start a research paper, we've got you covered.

Understanding the Research Paper Format

Before diving into the writing process, it's crucial to understand what the standard research paper format entails. Academic research papers generally follow a specific structure, which includes the following sections:

Title Page : This includes the title of your paper, your name, and your institutional affiliation. Abstract : A brief summary of your research, usually around 150-250 words, highlighting the key points. Introduction : This section introduces the topic, presents the research question, and outlines the purpose of the study. Literature Review : A review of existing research relevant to your topic, identifying gaps your research aims to fill . Methodology : A detailed description of the methods used to conduct your research. Results : Presentation of the data and findings of your study. Discussion : Interpretation of the results, discussing their implications and how they fit into the broader context. Conclusion: A summary of the findings, their significance, and suggestions for future research. References : A list of all the sources cited in your paper, formatted according to a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Understanding this format is the first step if you want to write an impactful research paper. Each section serves a specific purpose and helps guide the reader through your research process.

How to Start a Research Paper

Knowing how to start a research paper is often the most challenging part of the writing process. A good way to start a research report is by clearly defining your research question or thesis statement. This will serve as the foundation of your paper and guide your research and writing. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Choose a Topic

Select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. Make sure it is specific enough to be manageable but broad enough to find sufficient research materials.

2. Conduct Preliminary Research

Before you start writing, conduct preliminary research to understand the existing literature and identify gaps that your paper can address. This will help you refine your research question and thesis statement.

3. Develop a Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement should clearly state the main argument or point of your paper. It should be specific and concise, providing a clear direction for your research.

4. Create an Outline

An outline helps organise your thoughts and ensures that your paper follows a logical structure. It should include the main sections of your paper and the key points you want to address in each section.

5. Write the Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your research paper. Start with a hook to grab the reader's attention, provide some background information on the topic, and end with your thesis statement. A strong introduction will engage the reader and provide a clear roadmap for the rest of the paper.

Conducting Thorough Research

Once you have a clear understanding of your topic and a well-defined thesis statement, it's time to conduct thorough research. Here are some tips for effective research:

Use Credible Sources

Ensure that you use credible sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Peer-reviewed articles are particularly valuable as they have been evaluated by experts in the field.

Take Detailed Notes

As you research, take detailed notes and organise them by theme or section. This will make it easier to reference and cite sources later on.

Keep Track of Your Sources

Maintain a record of all the sources you consult, including full citation information. This will save you time when creating your reference list and help avoid plagiarism.

Writing the First Draft

With your research complete, it's time to start writing the first draft of your paper. Here are some tips to guide you through this process:

Follow Your Outline

Stick to the outline you created earlier. This will help ensure that your paper has a logical flow and covers all the key points you want to address.

Write Clearly and Concisely

Use clear and concise language to communicate your ideas. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences that might confuse the reader.

Stay Focused

Each section of your paper should stay focused on its specific purpose. For example, the literature review should summarise and analyse existing research, while the methodology section should detail your research methods.

Use Evidence to Support Your Arguments

Back up your arguments with evidence from your research. Use direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summarising to integrate sources into your paper, and always provide proper citations.

Revising and Editing

Once you have completed your first draft, take a break before revising and editing your paper. This will give you a fresh perspective and help you identify areas for improvement. Here are some steps to follow during the revision process:

Review for Clarity and Coherence

Ensure that your paper is clear and coherent. Each section should flow logically into the next, and your arguments should be well-supported and easy to follow.

Check for Consistency

Make sure that your paper is consistent in terms of style, tone, and formatting. Ensure that all citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required style guide.

Proofread for Grammar and Spelling

Carefully proofread your paper for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Consider using a grammar-checking tool or asking a peer to review your paper for additional feedback.

Seek Feedback

If possible, seek feedback from your peers, professors, or mentors. They can provide valuable insights and help you identify any weaknesses in your paper.

Finalising Your Research Paper

After revising and editing your paper, you are ready to finalise it. Here are some final steps to ensure your paper is polished and ready for submission:

Format Your Paper

Ensure that your paper is formatted according to the required guidelines. This includes the title page, headings, margins, font size, and spacing.

Prepare the References

Double-check your reference list to ensure that all sources are correctly cited and formatted. Verify that every in-text citation has a corresponding entry in the reference list.

Create a Final Proofread

Give your paper a final proofread to catch any remaining errors. Reading your paper aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.

Submit Your Paper

Once you are confident that your paper is polished and complete, submit it according to the submission guidelines provided by your instructor or publisher.

Writing a research paper like a pro requires careful planning, thorough research, and meticulous revision. By understanding the research paper format and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can produce a high-quality academic research paper that effectively communicates your findings. Knowing how to start a research paper is crucial, and a good way to start a research report is by clearly defining your research question and thesis statement.

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How to Write a Research Paper | A Beginner's Guide

A research paper is a piece of academic writing that provides analysis, interpretation, and argument based on in-depth independent research.

Research papers are similar to academic essays , but they are usually longer and more detailed assignments, designed to assess not only your writing skills but also your skills in scholarly research. Writing a research paper requires you to demonstrate a strong knowledge of your topic, engage with a variety of sources, and make an original contribution to the debate.

This step-by-step guide takes you through the entire writing process, from understanding your assignment to proofreading your final draft.

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Table of contents

Understand the assignment, choose a research paper topic, conduct preliminary research, develop a thesis statement, create a research paper outline, write a first draft of the research paper, write the introduction, write a compelling body of text, write the conclusion, the second draft, the revision process, research paper checklist, free lecture slides.

Completing a research paper successfully means accomplishing the specific tasks set out for you. Before you start, make sure you thoroughly understanding the assignment task sheet:

• Read it carefully, looking for anything confusing you might need to clarify with your professor.
• Identify the assignment goal, deadline, length specifications, formatting, and submission method.
• Make a bulleted list of the key points, then go back and cross completed items off as you’re writing.

Carefully consider your timeframe and word limit: be realistic, and plan enough time to research, write, and edit.

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There are many ways to generate an idea for a research paper, from brainstorming with pen and paper to talking it through with a fellow student or professor.

You can try free writing, which involves taking a broad topic and writing continuously for two or three minutes to identify absolutely anything relevant that could be interesting.

You can also gain inspiration from other research. The discussion or recommendations sections of research papers often include ideas for other specific topics that require further examination.

Once you have a broad subject area, narrow it down to choose a topic that interests you, m eets the criteria of your assignment, and i s possible to research. Aim for ideas that are both original and specific:

• A paper following the chronology of World War II would not be original or specific enough.
• A paper on the experience of Danish citizens living close to the German border during World War II would be specific and could be original enough.

Note any discussions that seem important to the topic, and try to find an issue that you can focus your paper around. Use a variety of sources , including journals, books, and reliable websites, to ensure you do not miss anything glaring.

Do not only verify the ideas you have in mind, but look for sources that contradict your point of view.

• Is there anything people seem to overlook in the sources you research?
• Are there any heated debates you can address?
• Do you have a unique take on your topic?
• Have there been some recent developments that build on the extant research?

In this stage, you might find it helpful to formulate some research questions to help guide you. To write research questions, try to finish the following sentence: “I want to know how/what/why…”

A thesis statement is a statement of your central argument — it establishes the purpose and position of your paper. If you started with a research question, the thesis statement should answer it. It should also show what evidence and reasoning you’ll use to support that answer.

The thesis statement should be concise, contentious, and coherent. That means it should briefly summarize your argument in a sentence or two, make a claim that requires further evidence or analysis, and make a coherent point that relates to every part of the paper.

You will probably revise and refine the thesis statement as you do more research, but it can serve as a guide throughout the writing process. Every paragraph should aim to support and develop this central claim.

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A research paper outline is essentially a list of the key topics, arguments, and evidence you want to include, divided into sections with headings so that you know roughly what the paper will look like before you start writing.

A structure outline can help make the writing process much more efficient, so it’s worth dedicating some time to create one.

Your first draft won’t be perfect — you can polish later on. Your priorities at this stage are as follows:

• Maintaining forward momentum — write now, perfect later.
• Paying attention to clear organization and logical ordering of paragraphs and sentences, which will help when you come to the second draft.
• Expressing your ideas as clearly as possible, so you know what you were trying to say when you come back to the text.

You do not need to start by writing the introduction. Begin where it feels most natural for you — some prefer to finish the most difficult sections first, while others choose to start with the easiest part. If you created an outline, use it as a map while you work.

Do not delete large sections of text. If you begin to dislike something you have written or find it doesn’t quite fit, move it to a different document, but don’t lose it completely — you never know if it might come in useful later.

Paragraph structure

Paragraphs are the basic building blocks of research papers. Each one should focus on a single claim or idea that helps to establish the overall argument or purpose of the paper.

Example paragraph

George Orwell’s 1946 essay “Politics and the English Language” has had an enduring impact on thought about the relationship between politics and language. This impact is particularly obvious in light of the various critical review articles that have recently referenced the essay. For example, consider Mark Falcoff’s 2009 article in The National Review Online, “The Perversion of Language; or, Orwell Revisited,” in which he analyzes several common words (“activist,” “civil-rights leader,” “diversity,” and more). Falcoff’s close analysis of the ambiguity built into political language intentionally mirrors Orwell’s own point-by-point analysis of the political language of his day. Even 63 years after its publication, Orwell’s essay is emulated by contemporary thinkers.

Citing sources

It’s also important to keep track of citations at this stage to avoid accidental plagiarism . Each time you use a source, make sure to take note of where the information came from.

You can use our free citation generators to automatically create citations and save your reference list as you go.

APA Citation Generator MLA Citation Generator

The research paper introduction should address three questions: What, why, and how? After finishing the introduction, the reader should know what the paper is about, why it is worth reading, and how you’ll build your arguments.

What? Be specific about the topic of the paper, introduce the background, and define key terms or concepts.

Why? This is the most important, but also the most difficult, part of the introduction. Try to provide brief answers to the following questions: What new material or insight are you offering? What important issues does your essay help define or answer?

How? To let the reader know what to expect from the rest of the paper, the introduction should include a “map” of what will be discussed, briefly presenting the key elements of the paper in chronological order.

The major struggle faced by most writers is how to organize the information presented in the paper, which is one reason an outline is so useful. However, remember that the outline is only a guide and, when writing, you can be flexible with the order in which the information and arguments are presented.

One way to stay on track is to use your thesis statement and topic sentences . Check:

• topic sentences against the thesis statement;
• topic sentences against each other, for similarities and logical ordering;
• and each sentence against the topic sentence of that paragraph.

Be aware of paragraphs that seem to cover the same things. If two paragraphs discuss something similar, they must approach that topic in different ways. Aim to create smooth transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and sections.

The research paper conclusion is designed to help your reader out of the paper’s argument, giving them a sense of finality.

Trace the course of the paper, emphasizing how it all comes together to prove your thesis statement. Give the paper a sense of finality by making sure the reader understands how you’ve settled the issues raised in the introduction.

You might also discuss the more general consequences of the argument, outline what the paper offers to future students of the topic, and suggest any questions the paper’s argument raises but cannot or does not try to answer.

You should not :

• Offer new arguments or essential information
• Take up any more space than necessary
• Begin with stock phrases that signal you are ending the paper (e.g. “In conclusion”)

There are four main considerations when it comes to the second draft.

• Check how your vision of the paper lines up with the first draft and, more importantly, that your paper still answers the assignment.
• Identify any assumptions that might require (more substantial) justification, keeping your reader’s perspective foremost in mind. Remove these points if you cannot substantiate them further.
• Be open to rearranging your ideas. Check whether any sections feel out of place and whether your ideas could be better organized.
• If you find that old ideas do not fit as well as you anticipated, you should cut them out or condense them. You might also find that new and well-suited ideas occurred to you during the writing of the first draft — now is the time to make them part of the paper.

The goal during the revision and proofreading process is to ensure you have completed all the necessary tasks and that the paper is as well-articulated as possible. You can speed up the proofreading process by using the AI proofreader .

Global concerns

• Confirm that your paper completes every task specified in your assignment sheet.
• Check for logical organization and flow of paragraphs.
• Check paragraphs against the introduction and thesis statement.

Fine-grained details

Check the content of each paragraph, making sure that:

• each sentence helps support the topic sentence.
• no unnecessary or irrelevant information is present.
• all technical terms your audience might not know are identified.

Next, think about sentence structure , grammatical errors, and formatting . Check that you have correctly used transition words and phrases to show the connections between your ideas. Look for typos, cut unnecessary words, and check for consistency in aspects such as heading formatting and spellings .

Finally, you need to make sure your paper is correctly formatted according to the rules of the citation style you are using. For example, you might need to include an MLA heading  or create an APA title page .

Scribbr’s professional editors can help with the revision process with our award-winning proofreading services.

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Checklist: Research paper

I have followed all instructions in the assignment sheet.

My introduction presents my topic in an engaging way and provides necessary background information.

My introduction presents a clear, focused research problem and/or thesis statement .

My paper is logically organized using paragraphs and (if relevant) section headings .

Each paragraph is clearly focused on one central idea, expressed in a clear topic sentence .

Each paragraph is relevant to my research problem or thesis statement.

I have used appropriate transitions  to clarify the connections between sections, paragraphs, and sentences.

My conclusion provides a concise answer to the research question or emphasizes how the thesis has been supported.

My conclusion shows how my research has contributed to knowledge or understanding of my topic.

My conclusion does not present any new points or information essential to my argument.

I have provided an in-text citation every time I refer to ideas or information from a source.

I have included a reference list at the end of my paper, consistently formatted according to a specific citation style .

I have thoroughly revised my paper and addressed any feedback from my professor or supervisor.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (page numbers, headers, spacing, etc.).

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Writing a Research Paper

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The Research Paper

There will come a time in most students' careers when they are assigned a research paper. Such an assignment often creates a great deal of unneeded anxiety in the student, which may result in procrastination and a feeling of confusion and inadequacy. This anxiety frequently stems from the fact that many students are unfamiliar and inexperienced with this genre of writing. Never fear—inexperience and unfamiliarity are situations you can change through practice! Writing a research paper is an essential aspect of academics and should not be avoided on account of one's anxiety. In fact, the process of writing a research paper can be one of the more rewarding experiences one may encounter in academics. What is more, many students will continue to do research throughout their careers, which is one of the reasons this topic is so important.

Becoming an experienced researcher and writer in any field or discipline takes a great deal of practice. There are few individuals for whom this process comes naturally. Remember, even the most seasoned academic veterans have had to learn how to write a research paper at some point in their career. Therefore, with diligence, organization, practice, a willingness to learn (and to make mistakes!), and, perhaps most important of all, patience, students will find that they can achieve great things through their research and writing.

The pages in this section cover the following topic areas related to the process of writing a research paper:

• Genre - This section will provide an overview for understanding the difference between an analytical and argumentative research paper.
• Choosing a Topic - This section will guide the student through the process of choosing topics, whether the topic be one that is assigned or one that the student chooses themselves.
• Identifying an Audience - This section will help the student understand the often times confusing topic of audience by offering some basic guidelines for the process.
• Where Do I Begin - This section concludes the handout by offering several links to resources at Purdue, and also provides an overview of the final stages of writing a research paper.

Major Difference Between Essay and Research Paper

Team Desklib

Published: 2023-02-01

Essay and research papers are different forms of articles that have varying styles and formats. A research paper includes a thorough search of information, facts, and evidence to support the statement of the research paper. However, an essay is a piece of writing that is often written from a personal or limited point of view. Understanding the differences between an essay and a research paper will help one to enhance their writing skills. It will also be useful to write effect essay and research paper as one can easily manage the essay vs research paper encounter.

In this blog post, we will provide you with the major differences between an essay and a research paper .

• Point of view
• Need for research
• Writer’s liberty
• Structuring rule
• Methodology

These differences will aid you to differentiate clearly between an essay and a research paper.

• Length :  Length is one of the most important elements of a piece of writing. One of the key differences between an essay and vs research paper is the length. This is because the length of a research paper is usually long as it includes several chapters. However, in an essay, the length can be altered and is usually shorter than in a research paper. The length makes a research paper more time-consuming as it is multi-page writing. An essay can be finished within less time due to its short length. We suggest that writing a research paper would require a long length so keep adequate time in hand.
• Point of view:   The point of view of an article is extremely important as it determines the purpose of the writing. In the discussion of essay vs research paper, we can say that the point of view is different in both these writing. In an essay, the students can showcase their personal opinion through the article which needs to be backed by supporting sources. However, in a research paper, the point of view of people on a given topic is analyzed. Generally, a scientist or an organization’s perspective on a topic is considered for writing a research paper. The opinion of people that might be related to the research topic area is also included in writing the research paper.
• Need for research :  We know that an essay vs research paper has several differences among which, the requirement for research is significant. The need for conducting in-depth research is essential to writing a research paper. Types of research papers may need several kinds of research based on the nature of the research topic. While for an essay in-depth research is not mandatory. This is because in an essay individuals can opine their thoughts which may not require in-depth research. A majority portion of an essay comes from a personal viewpoint which is what makes it different from a research paper. In a research paper, a proper investigation of the research issue is required.
• Aim :  The aim of an essay vs a research paper is different due to the varying nature of the two writing styles. An essay aims to understand the writing skills and capabilities of the writer. Individuals can practice their writing capabilities by writing an essay as one enjoys the liberty of exploring personal ideas to write an essay. On the other hand, a research paper aims to analyze a matter with depth and evidence. Types of essays can differ in their approach to writing style but their aim remains focused on determining the writer's writing skills. A research paper focuses on findings that shed light on the research issue. We can state that the aim is entirely different between essay and research paper which clearly defines its differences.
• Knowledge :  Knowledge is important to write any piece article. However, the necessity to know about a topic is a key difference between an essay and vs research paper. This is because writing a research paper requires the individual to gain adequate knowledge and understanding regarding the topic. It is essential to have a proper understanding of the research matter to be able to analyze the findings efficiently. In an essay, the individual does not need to have in-depth knowledge about the essay topic. For instance, one may not be entirely familiar with the topic of the essay which is not an issue to write an essay. In the case of a research paper, individuals need to gather relevant knowledge about the topic. We suggest it is better to have basic information regarding the topic for any writing style, for an essay the need is not mandatory.
• Writer’s liberty :  Types of research papers show that in research the writer needs to abstain from sharing a personal opinion, whereas, n an essay, one has the liberty to share their personal opinion. Essay vs research paper reflects on the writer’s liberty which is significantly different in both write-ups. Essays can expose the personal preference and view of the writer as that freedom is given to the individual. Although, in the case of writing a research paper strictly staying in line with facts and evidence is advisory. We suggest that during writing a research paper keeping personal views away is highly useful as it would help individuals to make sure that the research paper is efficient.
• Structuring rule :  We understand that structuring is an important part of a writing piece. In the context of essay vs research, paper structuring becomes a major differentiating point. An essay allows an individual to play around with the structure of the essay. Usually, an introduction, main body, and conclusion are broad sections of an essay. Students have the freedom to experiment with the structure depending on the topic and its nature. A non-negotiable structure must be maintained in a research paper. This is due to the strict structuring rule of a research paper that needs to be abided by the writer. A proper introduction, chapters, and conclusion need to be given in a research paper.
• Types :  Several types of essays are present such as narrative, descriptive, comparative, academic, philosophical, and argumentative. In all these types of essays, the writer requires to write descriptive typewriting. An essay needs to maintain a narration that has a balanced tone throughout the writing. Types of research papers include argumentative and analytical writing. A research paper involves an analytical approach to writing research. The narration is different in an essay vs research paper which needs to be well maintained by the writer. We know that an essay provides with liberty to be flexible with the structure which is why the narration can be descriptive. However, in a research paper, the content has to be concise and to the point, as it is entirely evidence-based. It is essential to make the writing narrative clear right from the beginning to help the reader easily identify whether it is an essay or a research paper.
• Format :   The formatting is one of the major differences between essay vs research paper writing. The format of an essay has broader divisions into the introduction, main body, and conclusion. Although, the main body usually needs to have 3 paragraphs which can increase based on the total word count of the essay. While in a research paper, several divisions are mandatory. An introduction, body, and conclusion are also included in the research paper. However, an abstract, acknowledgment, references, and title page are important parts of a research paper. The formatting of a research paper has more divisions than an essay. The writer must maintain the formatting styles properly for an essay as well as a research paper. This is because the format reflects the article type.
• Methodology :  A methodology is a process that describes the methods and steps used to complete a research. We can say that in an essay vs a research paper, a methodology is a mandatory part of a research paper, unlike an essay. Writing a research paper needs to include a particular chapter on methodology in which the steps discussed in detail that has been used to collect data. In an essay, no such requirement is present as a methodology pattern is not maintained in an essay. An essay has a narrative pattern that does not include methodology. A specific methodology needs to be mentioned in a research paper which is not required in an essay as one specific methodology is not used.

Examples of Research Paper;

• Research Paper on Shampoo Assignment
• Research Paper on Chinese Government Censor SNS (social networking site)
• Research Paper on SAP S/4HANA Finance (pdf)
• The Process of Writing an English Research Paper
• Indian food Research Papers
• SCM Globe Research Paper

Examples of Reflective Essay; 

• Reflective Essay On Health Education To Delay Type 2 Diabetes Complication In Adults
• NURSING 3004 - Reflective Essay On Mental Health- Nursing
• Essay on Mental Health and Mental Illness
• Essay on Importance of Mental Health
• Reflective Essay - Paramedic Emergency Clinical Placement
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Essay
• ALHLT 3933 - Healthcare Issue - Case study
• Essay on “The Old Gun” by Mo Yan
• Essay on Business Ethics and Social Responsibility
• NURS1018 - Obesity in Australia - Essay

To conclude…

Essay and research papers are two different types of writing. We can conclude that the major differences between essays and research papers include the factors related to aim, structure, and format. The aim and purpose of an essay are entirely different from a research paper. An essay provides certain liberties of sharing the personal opinion and thoughts of the writer in the article. In a research paper, we know that the writer's personal opinion cannot be expressed. A research paper is stricter as it maintains a proper structure, formatting style, and methodology. While an essay is more lenient as it has a descriptive narrative in which individuals can explore their perspectives.

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Writing a Research Paper

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Although research paper assignments may vary widely, there are essentially two basic types of research papers. These are argumentative and analytical .

Argumentative

In an argumentative research paper, a student both states the topic they will be exploring and immediately establishes the position they will argue regarding that topic in a thesis statement . This type of paper hopes to persuade its reader to adopt the view presented.

 Example : a paper that argues the merits of early exposure to reading for children would be an argumentative essay.

An analytical research paper states the topic that the writer will be exploring, usually in the form of a question, initially taking a neutral stance. The body of the paper will present multifaceted information and, ultimately, the writer will state their conclusion, based on the information that has unfolded throughout the course of the essay. This type of paper hopes to offer a well-supported critical analysis without necessarily persuading the reader to any particular way of thinking.

Example : a paper that explores the use of metaphor in one of Shakespeare's sonnets would be an example of an analytical essay.

*Please note that this LibGuide will primarily be concerning itself with argumentative or rhetorical research papers.

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Difference Between an Essay & a Paper

Jennifer brozak.

Whether you’re in middle school, high school or toiling away at college, paper writing is a fundamental facet of schooling. While essays and other forms of creative writing are common in English classes, you’ll also need to understand how to write informative pieces, such as research or term papers. By understanding the difference between the various types of writing styles, you’ll be able to draft compelling prose that is appropriate for any given assignment.

Explore this article

• What Is an Essay?
• What Is a Research Paper?
• What Is the Difference Between a Research Paper and Term Paper?
• Avoid Getting a Free Essay Writer

1 What Is an Essay?

One of the most common forms of writing is the essay. Starting in your later elementary school years and into middle school, you’ll likely be exposed to the five-paragraph essay, which is a fundamental starting point for creating longer-length writing assignments as you move upward through the higher grades. While they’re typically shorter pieces of writing (often under 1,000 words), they allow teachers to evaluate students on different writing, reading and analysis skills, including the art of persuasion and exposition.

Essays can take on many forms: They can be narrative, or tell a story; expository, or require investigation and evidential support; descriptive, in which a student is required to describe, creatively, a person, place or object; and finally, persuasive, in which a student is asked to argue a specific position on a particular topic.

As a whole, paper essay writing typically allows for more creativity than more formal writing styles, such as research papers.

2 What Is a Research Paper?

The phrase “research paper” can conjure anxiety in even the most adequate student writers. However, this need not be the case. In fact, it’s helpful to think of a research paper as an inflated essay. The structure will basically be the same, but you’ll need a thesis statement (which is not required in some forms of essay writing), significant research and evidence to support your ideas. You’ll also be required to include several credible sources in your paper, which will be listed on a reference page. And consider this: If you choose a subject you’re interested in researching, writing an informative paper can actually be quite a rewarding experience.

3 What Is the Difference Between a Research Paper and Term Paper?

Teachers, especially college professors, sometimes refer to longer research papers as “term papers,” which are similar in their structure and format. They’re expanded essays that will require evidence and credible sources to support your ideas. The difference lies in the subject matter. Research papers may allow you to cover a topic outside of the general subject matter (such as writing a persuasive research paper about global warming in an English class), while term papers will focus solely on the subject matter discussed in the course. High-quality research and term paper examples can be found on numerous sites, such as the Purdue University Online Writing Lab.

4 Avoid Getting a Free Essay Writer

A note of caution about submitting any writing assignment: While the Internet abounds with sources to help you in your quest to write the perfect paper, avoid using “essay generators” or hiring a free essay writer or buying papers from a database. Even if you’re procrastinating and panicking about finishing your assignment, it’s always better to turn in your own work. Not only do many teachers utilize online plagiarism checkers, but they also learn to recognize a student’s specific writing style over the course of an academic year. While it’s perfectly fine to use a term paper example as a guideline, it’s always better to submit your own paper or essay with minor errors than to attempt to pass off someone else’s writing as your own.

• 1 SUNY Empire State College: Research Writing: Elements and Steps
• 2 Enago Academy: How to Avoid Plagiarism in Research Papers (Part1 )

About the Author

Jennifer Brozak earned her state teaching certificate in Secondary English and Communications from St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa., and her bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Pittsburgh. A former high school English teacher, Jennifer enjoys writing articles about parenting and education and has contributed to Reader's Digest, Mamapedia, Shmoop and more.

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Already have an account login, essay vs research paper, expert’s take on essay vs research paper.

Essay vs. research paper is a quite debatable topic. Although both of them are completely different from each other but possess some similarities as well. This causes the students to get confused between both of them. It can create chaos in a student's mind; they may start pondering upon questions like what is an essay paper? Or what is research essay? To be clear, let's first see the similarities and differences between essay writing and research paper?

Similarities between essay and research paper

Despite being one of their own kinds they still share some common attributes. Research papers and essays both are required at different academic levels in the form of assignments. Typically, both of them follow a quite similar structural form. However, a research paper focuses more on answering a research question, while essays often debate on a particular topic. General similarities are as follows;

• Talking about structure, essays and research papers both possess almost a similar kind of basic structure. Both of them begin with an introduction and they include body paragraphs and a conclusion.
• Essay and research papers both require some kind of research before writing.

Differences between essay and research paper

There are many differences between essay and research paper , both of them are unique in their own sense. Essay vs. research paper what is the difference? Let’s have a look one by one;

• The major difference in research paper and essay is the length. Research papers are usually longer in length, while essays are shorter and include 4 to 5 paragraphs in general.
• Research paper is included in the multi-page writing. While essays are more precise.
• The research papers generally describe the analysis of a point, while essays provide the answers to different questions.
• Research papers depend more on the knowledge of other researchers for proving the point while essays mainly depend on the personal experiences and thinking of the writer.
• Research papers are included in primary literature while essays are taken as secondary literature.
• The research paper writer starts his work from scratch. But in essays the writer picks up a topic and gets data from the work done by others.
• The research paper is based on analysis and conduction of research. On the other hand, essays are based on general overview.
• The research paper includes more steps than an essay.
• The word count of both of them has a huge difference.

Having this said, let’s have a broader look at similarities and differences between essays and research papers.

Moving with sequence, let's begin with essays. An essay is generally considered as the composition of ideas in the form of paragraphs on a particular topic. On initial levels of education students are mostly asked to write small essays. This is the starting point of preparing a student to write the long length essays later as they move to the higher classes.  

These essays let the teachers judge the students on various levels. Moreover, they exhibit the student’s writing, analyzing and reading skills.

Main parts of essay

Generally essays include three major parts that are as follows;

Introduction

The introduction is the first and most important part of the essay. As it is said that, ‘first impression is the last impression’. So, the readers get an idea of the quality of the essay by reading the first few lines. It should be captivating enough to grab the reader’s attention. Apart from being attractive it should also demonstrate the main idea of the essay.

It is the part where the actual information about the topic is written. It can be more than one paragraph according to the topic. Write all the necessary information in the body in extensive form. Demonstrate the knowledge of the topic effectively.

The last and another important part is conclusion. Conclude your essay being neutral and make sure you don’t write any sweeping statement about the topic. Be careful about the selection of words because it will leave an imprint on the reader’s mind. 

Types of essays

Essays can be of different types and styles depending upon the goals of the writer. There are four basic types of essays that are as follows;

• Narrative essays: This type is more like storytelling. The writer may explain a real-life story or experience. Story telling may sound simple and easy to attempt but in reality it is time taking and challenging. The writer has to think and write about real life events. Moreover, it has to be engaging and the writer should try to make the storyline as vivid as possible.
• Descriptive essays: These essays paint a picture in readers mind by describing the subject in detail. The writer has an ocean of choices in this type. The subject could be a person, place, object, or even a memory of a special event. In a descriptive essay the writer strives to communicate an in-depth meaning. Highly evocative descriptive essays can be helpful to intrigue the reader’s sentiments.
• Expository essays: These are informative type essays that express a balanced scrutiny of a topic. The writer explains the topic by using facts, statistics, and examples. They encompass a broad range of variations, for example comparison and contrast, cause and effect and the “how to” or the process essay. Because they are based on facts and not fiction, the writers don’t reveal their sentiments.
• Persuasive essays: This type of essay convinces the readers to receive the writer’s perspective. The writer has to create the essay by using facts and logic. Moreover, the essay must include examples, expert opinion, and sound reasoning. The writer should demonstrate all sides of the argument, but the representation should be clear.

In addition, essays can be formal or informal depending upon the context and purpose of writing. Formal essays are more for serious purpose, include dignity, are organized and usually have specific length. While informal essays consist of more personal elements and can be rambling sometimes because they do not follow any specific stylometry.  

Research paper

Unlike essays, a research paper is a more extended form of writing. It is a written and published form of work that describes the original outcome of a research and showcases the findings of the researcher. It should focus on the main idea supported by information provided by you.

For writing a research paper the key factor is the “Research” people have to conduct a proper research only then they can write a research paper. It cannot include random paragraphs hence it has to be more specified.

Embrace paraphrasing and summarizing that should include facts and ideas. Use different and suitable words and sentence structures to present your idea and leave out the unnecessary details. Add relatable quotations, when you quote even a short phrase. Make sure to copy the exact words and enclose them in quotation marks.  

Don’t forget to cite the author’s name and provide proper reference. The purpose of the citation is to give credit to the original writer. It is a rule as well as it makes your work more strong and authenticates that the information has taken from reliable sources.

Steps to write a research paper

As writing a research paper is a lengthy task that’s why it is better to write it step by step so that you don’t miss any information. You can follow the steps mentioned below to organize your paper;

Select a title

Do research, narrow the research.

Choose a suitable title for your research paper according to your area of research. The title must represent the idea of the research and should be precise. You can get help from your instructor to select the title.

Conduct a proper and original research on your selected topic. Read books and other research papers on the same topic as well to get guidance. Books will give you a broad perspective and recent articles will provide you the updated information.

When you choose the main topic which you want to research it will contain extensive information and will be diversified. Narrow your research by selecting one specific question about the diverse main topic to make your research brief.

Plan  

Plan your research components before writing. Make an outline to create the final product in a logical and organized order.

Write  

Write your research paper in small parts to write every part efficiently. Don’t write it all at once to avoid mistakes.  

Once you are done writing the draft revise it again and again to improve and organize the data. Get a revision from someone else to take others' perspective. Edit it if you find any flaw or error.

Documentation is very important in research writing . It means to mention the citations that you write in paragraphs in the form of references. Make a heading of references and write all the references in elaborated form in the form of a list at the end. Use one documentation style for all the references.

Read the final paper carefully and check the errors and mistakes. Rectify them and make sure your paper follows the proper format. Use software's to check plagiarism and other errors. Then recheck it to make sure it is free from flaws.

Structure of a research paper

Research papers have a basic structural form regardless of the topic. The structural components of a research paper are as follows;

Methodology/Experiment

Results and discussion.

• Conclusion’

Acknowledgement

Supporting information.

Compose a title that describes what the research is about precisely. The title fulfills three parameters, it should be simple, attractive and accurate.

The abstract is the short demonstration of the detailed research. The first few sentences should reflect what the study is about. It should be simple and include major findings so that the reader can easily understand the idea. Keep it short, effective, creative and most important full of curiosity for the reader.

Give a general background of the topic in the starting couple of sentences. Address previous works done on that topic and introduce the issues in the present work.

This is the section where you will write the major work that you have done. You can divide this section into different sub headings like, materials & methods, measurements, characterization and data analysis.

Results and discussion can be divided into two different sections or they can be combined. Describe the obtained results in detailed form and write detailed discussion. The facts and figures should be according to the theme and not like how they were actually conducted.

Compare and contrast your data with previous works and enhance the scope of discussion by including photographs. Avoid unnecessary information and excessive citation.

Conclude your research with major findings and brief discussion. Do not rewrite the abstract; these are two different things. Abstract is written before doing research and conclusion is written after the research.

Don’t forget to thank the funding agency, colleagues, instructor and other people who helped you complete it successfully.  

Add references about the citations. The style of writing references may vary for different journals.  

Write supporting information if there any like analysis, blank experiments and additional data.

Crux of the matter

Hence it can be clearly seen that both of them possess different characteristics and are used for different purposes. Yet they have few things in common.  

In addition, if you want to learn more about essays and research papers or you need professional assistance in any of the academic writings and want to pay for a research paper , you can check out our website essay48 . You can get help from experts in your academics online and order as well.

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How to Structure an Essay

Essay writing is a fundamental skill, a basic task, that is expected of those who choose to pursue their undergraduate and master’s degrees. It constitutes a key requirement for students to complete a given course credit. However, many students and early career researchers find themselves struggling with the challenge of organizing their thoughts into a coherent, engaging structure. This article is especially for those who see essay writing as a daunting task and face problems in presenting their work in an impactful way.  

Table of Contents

• Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles  
• Essay structure template 
• Chronological structure 
• Problem-methods-solutions structure 
• Compare and contrast structures 
• Frequently asked questions on essay structure 

Read on as we delve into the basic elements of essay writing, outline key principles for organizing information, and cover some foundational features of writing essays.  

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

Essays are written in a flowing and continuous pattern but with a structure of its own. An introduction, body and conclusion are integral to it. The key is to balance the amount and kind of information to be presented in each part. Various disciplines may have their own conventions or guidelines on the information to be provided in the introduction.  

A clear articulation of the context and background of the study is important, as is the definition of key terms and an outline of specific models or theories used. Readers also need to know the significance of the study and its implications for further research. Most importantly, the thesis or the main proposition should be clearly presented.  

The body of the essay is therefore organized into paragraphs that hold the main ideas and arguments and is presented and analyzed in a logical manner. Ideally, each paragraph of the body focuses on one main point or a distinct topic and must be supported by evidence and analysis. The concluding paragraph should bring back to the reader the key arguments, its significance and food for thought. It is best not to re-state all the points of the essay or introduce a new concept here. 

In other words, certain general guidelines help structure the information in the essay. The information must flow logically with the context or the background information presented in the introductory part of the essay. The arguments are built organically where each paragraph in the body of the essay deals with a different point, yet closely linked to the para preceding and following it. Importantly, when writing essays, early career researchers must be careful in ensuring that each piece of information relates to the main thesis and is a building block to the arguments. 

Essay structure template

• Introduction 
• Provide the context and share significance of the study 
• Clearly articulate the thesis statement 
• Body  
• Paragraph 1 consisting of the first main point, followed by supporting evidence and an analysis of the findings. Transitional words and phrases can be used to move to the next main point. 
• There can be as many paragraphs with the above-mentioned elements as there are points and arguments to support your thesis. 
• Conclusion  
• Bring in key ideas and discuss their significance and relevance 
• Call for action 
• References 

Essay structures

The structure of an essay can be determined by the kind of essay that is required.  

Chronological structure

Also known as the cause-and-effect approach, this is a straightforward way to structure an essay. In such essays, events are discussed sequentially, as they occurred from the earliest to the latest. A chronological structure is useful for discussing a series of events or processes such as historical analyses or narratives of events. The introduction should have the topic sentence. The body of the essay should follow a chorological progression with each para discussing a major aspect of that event with supporting evidence. It ends with a summarizing of the results of the events.  

Problem-methods-solutions structure

Where the essay focuses on a specific problem, the problem-methods-solutions structure can be used to organize the essay. This structure is ideal for essays that address complex issues. It starts with presenting the problem, the context, and thesis statement as introduction to the essay. The major part of the discussion which forms the body of the essay focuses on stating the problem and its significance, the author’s approach or methods adopted to address the problem along with its relevance, and accordingly proposing solution(s) to the identified problem. The concluding part offers a recap of the research problem, methods, and proposed solutions, emphasizing their significance and potential impact. 

Compare and contrast structures

This structure of essay writing is ideally used when two or more key subjects require a comparison of ideas, theories, or phenomena. The three crucial elements, introduction, body, and conclusion, remain the same. The introduction presents the context and the thesis statement. The body of the essay seeks to focus on and highlight differences between the subjects, supported by evidence and analysis. The conclusion is used to summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, offering insights into the significance of the analysis.  

Depending on how the subjects will be discussed, the body of the essay can be organized according to the block method or the alternating method. In the block method, one para discusses one subject and the next para the other subject. In the alternative method, both subjects are discussed in one para based on a particular topic or issue followed by the next para on another issue and so on.  

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points and its importance .  

An essay structure well-defined essay structure enhances clarity, coherence, and readability, and is crucial for organizing ideas and arguments to effectively communicate key aspects of a chosen topic. It allows readers to better understand arguments presented and demonstrates the author’s ability to organize and present information systematically. 

Yes, while expert recommend following an essay structure, early career researchers may choose how best to adapt standard essay structures to communicate and share their research in an impactful and engaging way. However, do keep in mind that deviating too far from established structures can hinder comprehension and weaken the overall effectiveness of the essay,  By understanding the basic elements of essay writing and employing appropriate structures such as chronological, problem-methods-solutions, or compare and contrast, researchers can effectively organize their ideas and communicate their findings with clarity and precision. 

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Essay vs. Research Paper: Know the Difference

The purpose of this article is to compare and contrast the essay and research paper formats, highlighting their similarities as well as their differences. Through a comprehensive analysis, readers will gain an understanding of how these two writing genres are distinct from one another in terms of purpose, structure, length, focus, content organization and evaluation criteria. Additionally, readers will be provided with helpful tips on when it may be appropriate to use either format for academic assignments or other types of written works.

I. Introduction: Understanding the Differences between Essay and Research Paper

Ii. definition of an essay, iii. definition of a research paper, iv. commonalities between essays and research papers, v. key distinctions between essays and research papers, vi. the purpose of writing an assignment varies for each genre, vii. conclusion: knowing when to use which type.

The Variety of Academic Writing

• Essays vs Research Papers

With the wide range of assignments that require written content, it can be easy to get confused about the differences between an essay and a research paper. Both are designed to inform or persuade readers on a certain subject. But what sets them apart from each other? Let’s take a closer look at how these two types of writing differ from one another.

Research papers typically involve developing arguments based on extensive research gathered from various sources such as books, articles and journal entries. These texts must then be studied thoroughly in order for writers to gain enough knowledge and understanding so they can form their own opinion or argument about the topic at hand. In contrast, essays do not have any set structure; instead they serve more like vehicles for personal expression—allowing writers to share their thoughts without having to meet stringent expectations regarding format or length limits. Furthermore, while research papers may focus heavily on external facts and statistics, essays tend to prioritize internal analysis using evidence sourced primarily within the text itself.

An essay is a written composition where ideas, interpretations and arguments are presented in an organized fashion. It is typically shorter than a research paper and often takes the form of an argumentative essay, wherein a particular stance or point-of-view is taken on any given subject. Essays are used to explore complex topics and can provide insight into the thinking process of the author.

In contrast to essays, research papers usually require much more information gathering from outside sources such as books, articles, interviews or surveys. Research papers follow predetermined formats (APA) for organizing content logically and accurately citing source material which has been incorporated into their work. Research papers can be longer than essays but also focus on specific topics with a clear purpose stated upfront by the researcher.

• Essays: Explore complex topics; Offer insights
• Research Papers: Require external data; Follow predetermined formats.

Research papers are lengthy documents that require rigorous research and analysis of an academic topic. To be successful, a research paper must meet certain requirements in terms of presentation, argumentation, and formatting.

• Research Paper vs Essay

A crucial distinction to make is the difference between a research paper , which relies on facts from published sources such as books or scientific journals; and an essay , which contains more opinionated content based largely on personal reflection. A good rule of thumb for any student looking to write either type is to determine whether the goal is explanation or persuasion – if you want to inform your reader about something, it’s likely best served by presenting information in the form of a research paper; whereas if you wish them to adopt your point-of-view then structuring arguments into an essay may provide better results.

Similarities in Structural Format Essays and research papers share a common set of structural components. Both types of writing require an introduction, body paragraphs that develop the main points, and a conclusion. The majority of academic papers also follow this same format regardless if it is for essay or research paper assignments. Therefore, each section must contain proper grammar and adhere to the given style guide. Another similarity between essays and research papers is the topic choice process; students should pick topics they find interesting to help motivate them during their writing journey. This helps when researching information needed to support any claims made throughout both types of assignments as well. Additionally, using reliable sources such as peer-reviewed journals or scholarly websites can help bring evidence into each written piece without taking away from its originality. Distinguishing Differences Between Writing Styles When comparing essays versus research papers there are distinct differences present in tone, word count length requirements, purpose/audience relations (with some exceptions), use language complexity levels along with source citations formatting preferences demanded by different instructors or educational facilities who assign these projects.

• “Research Papers” : An assignment more typically found within upper-level college courses which requires deep analysis on multiple complex topics focusing heavily upon acquiring new data through conducting primary level studies.
• “Essays” : A less involved academic form often seen at high school level classes where instead facts already known about certain subjects are used extensively while finding ways to make connections backed up with current & credible references.

. While utilizing arguments when composing either one both will differ due depending upon their nature: structured vs informal argumentative techniques

When it comes to assessing the differences between essays and research papers, there are several key elements that must be considered. Here we explore some of those distinctions to help you better understand each assignment.

The purpose of an essay is often self-expression or persuasion while a research paper generally requires deeper investigation into existing literature or evidence in order to answer a focused question. Essays tend to address subjective topics with personal opinion while research papers focus on objective facts and data analysis.

Essays usually have less breadth than research papers, as they are shorter pieces meant for specific purposes such as argumentative writing. Research projects can range from 10 page book reports up to 100 page dissertations covering multiple aspects related to the topic under review whereas most essay lengths average around 5 pages in length without going too far into detail about any given subject matter.

Understanding the Purpose of Assignments by Genre The purpose behind writing an assignment is often determined by its genre. Different types of assignments may be assigned to achieve a variety of objectives, so it’s important for students to understand the purpose in order to effectively produce their work. This section explores how different genres are used and what they aim to accomplish.

Research papers are typically written as part of a university course or program requirement that requires thorough investigation on a specific topic. These long-form documents require comprehensive research, thoughtful analysis and effective organization in order to make claims that demonstrate deeper understanding on the subject matter at hand.

• It allows readers – including professors and other experts – evaluate academic rigor.

Essays meanwhile are shorter works meant for more subjective exploration into ideas without having such stringent requirements as far as evidence goes.

• This makes them useful tools when considering topics from multiple perspectives or exploring topics too complex for rigorous evaluation.

Ultimately both essays and research papers can inform our knowledge base if done correctly – one through more objective proof while the other provides alternative interpretations from an experiential point of view instead.

As we have discussed throughout this paper, there are many differences between a research paper and an essay. In order to ensure that you make the most of both types, it is important to understand when each should be used. Deciding When To Use A Research Paper The primary purpose of a research paper is for presenting original arguments or ideas based on thorough analysis and investigation into the topic at hand. Generally speaking, these papers will require a more comprehensive approach than essays do; they involve longer-term projects in which sources must be reviewed and evaluated over extended periods of time as well as intensive data collection efforts such as interviews or surveys if necessary.

• These tasks can help students gain deeper insights into their chosen subject matter.

Research papers often result in publication opportunities – whether online or offline – allowing authors greater freedom with respect to expressing their opinion regarding various topics within their field.

• Therefore they tend to provide readers with richer perspectives since they aim towards providing novel contributions via evidence gathered through more detailed studies.

Selecting An Essay Over A Research Paper . Essays offer writers the opportunity to focus solely on communicating ideas without having any additional pressure from trying too hard being perceived by others while doing so. Unlike research papers, these are typically shorter works requiring less rigorous investigative practices yet still able enough render potential insight into certain topics when done correctly. However essays may not necessarily present evidence backed up by references but rely instead upon subjective opinions about different subjects.

• For instance if writing about one’s own personal experiences related to any given theme then no external resources would need researching for support purposes.

Is It Okay to Use "We" In a Research Paper? Here's What You Need to Know

Explore the use of "we" in research papers: guidelines, alternatives, and considerations for effective academic writing. Learn when and how to use it appropriately.

Jun 25, 2024

When embarking on the journey of academic writing, particularly in research papers, one of the first questions that often arises is about pronoun usage. Specifically, many writers grapple with the question: Is it okay to use "we" in a research paper?

This seemingly simple grammatical choice carries significant weight in academic circles. Using pronouns, especially first-person pronouns like "we," can influence the tone, clarity, and perceived objectivity of your work. It's a topic that has sparked debates among scholars, with opinions evolving and varying across different disciplines.

The importance of pronoun usage in academic writing cannot be overstated, especially in contexts like thesis and scientific writing. It affects how your research is perceived, how you position yourself as an author, and how you engage with your readers using the first person or third person. The choice between using "we," maintaining a more impersonal tone, or opting for alternatives can impact the overall effectiveness of your communication.

In this blog post, we'll explore the nuances of using "we" in research papers, examining both traditional and modern perspectives. We'll delve into the pros and cons, provide guidelines for appropriate usage, and offer alternatives to help you confidently navigate writing academic papers.

Traditional Stance on Using "We" in Research Papers

 historical preference for third-person perspective.

Academic writing traditionally favored a third-person perspective, especially in scientific fields. This preference emerged in the late 19th century as part of a push for objectivity in scientific communication. The goal was to present research as unbiased facts and observations.

Key aspects:

• Emphasis on passive voice versus active voice when choosing to use the first person or third person in writing a research paper.
• The use of impersonal constructions and passive voice can help avoid personal pronouns.
• Third-person references to authors

Reasons for avoiding first-person pronouns

Arguments against using "we" in research papers:

• Perceived lack of objectivity
• Ambiguity in meaning
• Concerns about formality
• Shift of focus from research to researchers
• Adherence to established conventions
• Avoid presumption in single-authored papers when you decide to use first-person pronouns or not. when you decide to use first-person pronouns or not.

This approach shaped academic writing for decades and still influences some disciplines, especially in the context of writing a research paper. However, attitudes toward pronoun usage have begun to change in recent years.

Changing Perspectives in Academic Writing

Shift towards more personal and engaging academic prose.

Recent years have seen a move towards more accessible academic writing. This shift aims to:

• Increase readability
• Engage readers more effectively by incorporating second-person narrative techniques.
• Acknowledge the researcher's role in the work
• Promote transparency in research processes

Key changes:

• More direct language
• Increased use of active voice can make your academic papers more engaging.
• Greater acceptance of narrative elements

Acceptance of first-person pronouns in some disciplines

Some fields now allow or encourage the use of "we" and other first-person pronouns. This varies by:

• Discipline: More common in humanities and social sciences
• Journal: Some publications explicitly permit or prefer first-person usage
• Type of paper: Often more accepted in qualitative research or opinion pieces

Reasons for acceptance:

• Clarity in describing methods and decisions
• Ownership of ideas and findings is crucial when writing a research paper.
• Improved reader engagement in scientific writing
• Recognition of researcher subjectivity in some fields

However, acceptance is not universal. Many disciplines and publications still prefer traditional, impersonal styles.

When It's Appropriate to Use "We" in Research Papers

Collaborative research with multiple authors

• Natural fit for papers with multiple contributors
• Accurately reflects joint effort and shared responsibility
• Examples: "We conducted experiments..." or "We conclude that..."

Describing methodology or procedures

• Clarifies who performed specific actions, helping to avoid personal pronouns that might otherwise confuse the audience.
• Adds transparency to the research process, particularly when first-person pronouns are used effectively.
• Example: "We collected data using..."

Presenting arguments or hypotheses

• Demonstrates ownership of ideas
• Can make complex concepts more accessible in a research report.
• Example: "We argue that..." or "We hypothesize..."

Discipline-specific conventions

• Usage varies widely between fields
• More common in Social sciences, Humanities, and Some STEM fields (e.g., computer science)
• Less common in Hard sciences, Medical research
• Always check journal guidelines and field norms, particularly regarding the use of the first person or third person.

Key point: Use "we" judiciously, balancing clarity and convention.

When to Avoid Using "We" in Research Papers

Single-authored papers

• Can seem odd or presumptuous
• Alternatives: Use "I" if appropriate, Use passive voice, and Refer to yourself as " the researcher " or "the author"

Presenting factual information or literature reviews

• Facts stand independently of the author
• Keep the focus on the information, not the presenter, when writing a research paper.
• Examples: "Previous studies have shown..." instead of "We know from previous studies..."  "The data indicate..." instead of "We see in the data..."

When trying to maintain an objective tone

• Some topics in research reports require a more detached approach.
• Avoid "we" when: Reporting widely accepted facts, Describing established theories, Presenting controversial findings
• Use impersonal constructions:  "It was observed that...", "The results suggest..."

Remember: Always prioritize clarity and adhere to your field's conventions.

Alternatives to Using "We"

Passive voice.

• Shifts focus to the action or result
• Examples: "The experiment was conducted..." (instead of "We experimented...")  "It was observed that..." (instead of "We observed that...")
• Use personal pronouns sparingly to avoid overly complex sentences.

Third-person perspective

• Refers to the research or study itself
• Examples: "This study examines..." (instead of "We examine...") "The results indicate..." (instead of "We found...")
• Can create a more objective tone

 Using "the researcher(s)" or "the author(s)"

• Useful for single- authored papers
• Maintains formality while acknowledging human involvement
• Examples: "The researchers collected data..." (instead of "We collected data...")  "The author argues..." (instead of "We argue...")
• Can become repetitive if overused in writing research papers.

Tips for using alternatives:

• Vary sentence structure to maintain reader interest
• Ensure clarity is not sacrificed for formality
• Choose the most appropriate alternative based on context
• Consider journal guidelines and field conventions when writing a research paper.

Remember: The goal is clear, effective communication of your research, whether you use first person or third person.

Tips for Effective Academic Writing

Consistency in pronoun usage.

• Choose a style and stick to it throughout
• Avoid mixing "we" with impersonal constructions
• Exceptions:  Different sections may require different approaches, Clearly mark any intentional shifts in perspective

Balancing formality with clarity and engagement

• Prioritize clear communication
• Use simple, direct language where possible when writing research papers, and try to use the term that best fits the context.
• Engage readers without sacrificing academic rigor
• Techniques:  Use active voice judiciously, Vary sentence structure, Incorporate relevant examples or analogies

Seeking feedback from peers or mentors

• Share drafts with colleagues in your field to improve your research report.
• Ask for specific feedback on writing style
• Consider perspectives from Senior researchers , Peers at similar career stages, Potential target audience members, and how they prefer the use of the first person or third person in research.
• Be open to constructive criticism

Additional tips:

• Read widely in your field to understand style norms when writing research papers.
• Practice different writing styles to find your voice
• Revise and edit multiple times
• Use style guides relevant to your discipline
• Consider the reader's perspective while writing

Remember: Effective academic writing communicates complex ideas while meeting field-specific expectations.

Recap of key points

• The use of "we" in research papers is evolving
• Appropriateness depends on Discipline, Journal guidelines, Research type, Personal preference
• Alternatives include passive voice and third-person perspective, while the increased use of passive voice can sometimes create ambiguity.
• Consider audience, field norms, and clarity when choosing a style
• Consistency and balance in the use of first person or third person are crucial.

Encouragement to make informed choices in academic writing

• Understand the context of your work
• Stay informed about current trends in your field
• Prioritize clear communication of your research
• Be confident in your choices, but remain flexible
• Remember: No universal rule fits all situations, Effective writing adapts to its purpose and audience
• Continually refine your writing skills, including the appropriate use of personal pronouns in APA format.

Final thoughts:

• Writing style impacts how your research is received
• Make deliberate choices to enhance your paper's impact by using appropriate personal pronouns.
• Balance tradition with evolving norms in academic writing
• Your unique voice can contribute to advancing your field, particularly in writing a research paper.

Ultimately, choose a style that best serves your research and readers while adhering to relevant guidelines of scientific writing and thesis format. It may also be acceptable to use first-person pronouns where appropriate.

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Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget

Trump and biden: the national debt.

The national debt is on course to reach a record share of the economy under the next presidential administration, due in part to policies approved by Presidents Trump and Biden during their time in office, including executive actions and legislation passed by Congress. 

While it is important to understand the fiscal impact of the promises candidates make on the campaign trail – particularly because they reflect the candidates’ own policy preferences and are not impacted by unexpected external events or the actions of Congress – the fact that both leading candidates have served as President also allows for a comparison of their actual fiscal records. This analysis focuses on the estimated ten-year debt impact of policies approved by Presidents Trump and Biden around the time of enactment. 1 In this analysis, we find:

• President Trump  approved $8.4 trillion of new ten-year borrowing during his full term in office, or $4.8 trillion excluding the CARES Act and other COVID relief.
• President Biden , in his first three years and five months in office, approved $4.3 trillion of new ten-year borrowing, or $2.2 trillion excluding the American Rescue Plan.
• President Trump approved $8.8 trillion  of gross new borrowing and $443 billion  of deficit reduction during his full presidential term. 
• President Biden has so far approved $6.2 trillion of gross new borrowing and $1.9 trillion of deficit reduction.

In companion analyses, we will show:

• Roughly 77 percent  of President Trump’s approved ten-year debt came from bipartisan legislation, and 29 percent  of the net ten-year debt President Biden has approved thus far came from bipartisan legislation. The rest was from partisan actions.
• President Trump approved $2.2 trillion of debt in his first two years in office and $6.2 trillion  ($2.6 trillion non-COVID) in his second two years. President Biden approved $4.9 trillion ($2.9 trillion non-COVID) in his first two years in office and has so far approved over $600 billion of net ten-year deficit reduction since. 
• President Trump approved $5.9 trillion of net spending increases including interest ($2.8 trillion non-COVID) and $2.5 trillion of net tax cuts ($2.0 trillion non-COVID). President Biden has approved $4.3 trillion of net spending increases including interest ($2.3 trillion non-COVID) and roughly $0 of net tax changes ($60 billion revenue increase non-COVID).
• Debt held by the public rose by $7.2 trillion during President Trump’s term including $5.9 trillion in the first three years and five months. Debt held by the public has grown by $6.0 trillion during President Biden’s term so far. 
• President Trump’s executive actions added less than $20 billion to ten-year debt on net. President Biden’s executive actions have added $1.2 trillion to ten-year debt so far. 
• The President’s budget was on average 39 days late under President Trump and 58 days late under President Biden. 

Summary Table: Executive Actions & Legislation Approved by Presidents Trump & Biden

Note: bipartisan indicates legislation passed with votes from both political parties in either chamber of Congress. *Includes $23 billion of executive actions in the form of student debt payment pauses. 

How Much Debt Did President Trump Approve?

During his four-year term in office, President Trump approved $8.4 trillion  of new ten-year borrowing above prior law, or $4.8 trillion  when excluding the bipartisan COVID relief bills and COVID-related executive actions. Looking at all legislation and executive actions with meaningful fiscal impact, the full amount of approved ten-year borrowing includes $8.8 trillion of deficit-increasing laws and actions offset by $443 billion of deficit-reducing actions. 2

These estimates are based on scores of legislation and executive actions rather than retrospective estimates. Scores are generally made on a conventional basis, though the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) is scored dynamically. The actual debt impact of the policies was likely somewhat higher than these scores. In particular, the TCJA likely reduced revenue more than projected and saved less from repealing the individual health care mandate penalty, 3 while the Employee Retention Credit was likely far more expensive than originally estimated.

Sources: CRFB estimates based on CBO and OMB projections.

The major actions approved by President Trump (and ten-year impact with interest) include:

• The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 ( $1.9 trillion debt increase )
• The Bipartisan Budget Acts of 2018 and 2019 ( $2.1 trillion debt increase ) 
• ACA Tax Delays and Repeals ( $539 billion debt increase )
• Health Executive Actions ( $456 billion debt increase ) 
• Other Legislation ( $310 billion debt increase )  
• New and Increased Tariffs ( $443 billion debt reduction )
• The CARES Act ( $1.9 trillion debt increase ) 
• The Response & Relief Act ( $983 billion debt increase ) 
• Other COVID Relief ( $756 billion debt increase )

How Much Debt Has President Biden Approved?

Over his first three years and five months in office, President Biden has approved $4.3 trillion  of new ten-year borrowing, or $2.2 trillion  when excluding the American Rescue Plan Act. This includes $6.2 trillion of deficit-increasing legislation and actions, offset by $1.9 trillion of legislation and actions scored as reducing the deficit.

These estimates are based on scores of legislation and executive actions rather than retrospective estimates and do not include preliminary rules, unexecuted “side deals,” or actions ruled illegal by the Supreme Court. Updated scores and in-process actions would increase the total. For example, an updated estimate would likely wipe away the $252 billion of scored savings from the Inflation Reduction Act, 4 the informal FRA side deals would reduce its savings by  about $500 billion , and the new student debt cancellation plan could cost  $250 to $750 billion .

The major actions approved by President Biden so far (and ten-year impact with interest) include:

• Appropriations for FY 2022 and 2023 ( $1.4 trillion debt increase ) 
• The Honoring Our PACT Act ( $520 billion debt increase )
• The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law ( $439 billion debt increase ) 
• Other Legislation ( $422 billion debt increase )
• Student Debt Actions ( $620 billion debt increase )
• Other Executive Actions ( $548 billion debt increase ) 
• The Fiscal Responsibility Act ( $1.5 trillion debt reduction )
• The Inflation Reduction Act ( $252 billion debt reduction )
• Deficit-Reducing Executive Actions ( $129 billion debt reduction )
• The American Rescue Plan Act ( $2.1 trillion debt increase )

The next presidential term will present significant fiscal challenges. While past performance is not necessarily indicative of future actions, it is helpful to examine the fiscal performance from each President’s time in office for clues as to how they plan to confront these challenges or how high of a priority fiscal responsibility will be on their agendas.

Both candidates approved substantial amounts of new borrowing in their first term. President Trump approved $8.4 trillion in borrowing over a decade, while President Biden has approved $4.3 trillion so far in his first three years and five months in office. Of course, accountability also rests with Congress as a co-equal branch of government, which passed legislation constituting the majority of the fiscal impact under both presidents.

Some of this borrowing was clearly justified, particularly in the early parts of the COVID-19 pandemic when joblessness was rising rapidly and large parts of the economy were effectively shut down. However, funding classified as COVID relief explains less than half of the borrowing authorized by either President, and arguably, a meaningful portion of this COVID relief was either extraneous, excessive, poorly targeted, or otherwise unnecessary. 5

In supplemental analyses, we will compare a number of other aspects of the candidates’ fiscal records. 

During the next presidential term, the national debt is projected to reach a record share of the economy, interest costs are slated to surge, the debt limit will re-emerge, discretionary spending caps and major tax cuts are scheduled to expire, and major trust funds will be hurtling toward insolvency. 

Adding trillions more to the national debt will only worsen these challenges, just as both Presidents Trump and Biden did during their terms along with lawmakers in Congress. The country would be better served if the candidates put forward and stuck to plans to reduce the national debt, secure the trust funds, and put the budget on a sustainable long-term path.

Appendix I : Details of Policies Approved by President Trump

• Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 ( $1.9 trillion debt increase )   – The TCJA included several tax cuts and reforms. Among those changes, the law reduced individual and corporate income tax rates, virtually eliminated the alternative minimum taxes, repealed or limited numerous deductions and tax breaks, replaced personal and dependent exemptions with an expanded standard deduction and Child Tax Credit, established a new deduction for pass-through business income, shrunk the estate tax, offered full expensing of equipment purchases, and reformed the tax treatment of international income. Most individual and estate tax changes were temporary while most corporate changes were permanent. The legislation also repealed the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate penalty. As a result of these policy changes, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projected the TCJA would boost output by roughly 1 percent at peak and 0.6 percent after a decade. The estimate incorporated in this analysis includes the dynamic feedback effects of this faster growth, based on CBO’s April 2018 analysis of the bill. While it is impossible to know exactly how the bill’s fiscal impact compared to this prospective estimate, a number of factors point towards it adding significantly more to the debt, including: higher-than-expected inflation and nominal incomes and profits leading to higher revenue loss; SALT cap workarounds; increased use of bonus depreciation; and lower than expected revenue from limiting the use of pass-through losses. As a reference point, CBO’s latest estimate for extending the expiring elements of the TCJA is almost  50 percent higher than its 2018 estimate. In addition, the budgetary savings from the individual mandate penalty repeal were likely less than originally projected.
• The Bipartisan Budget Acts of 2018 and 2019  ( $2.1 trillion debt increase )   – The Bipartisan Budget Acts (BBA) of 2018 and 2019 increased the caps on defense and nondefense discretionary spending set by the 2011 Budget Control Act (BCA) and further reduced through a ‘sequester’ activated after the failure of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction. BBA 2018  increased the caps in FY 2018 and 2019 by a combined $296 billion,  effectively repealing the $91 billion per year sequester and further increasing spending above the BCA caps. BBA 2019 essentially codified these increases by  boosting the FY 2020 and 2021 caps by a combined $320 billion. Because the 2021 cap was the final year of the BCA caps, BBA 2019 increased baseline discretionary spending levels beyond 2021 to the new 2021 level plus inflation. Both bills also included smaller additional policies, including some partial offsets. In total, BBA 2018 added $418 billion to the ten-year debt and BBA 2019 added $1.7 trillion.
• ACA Tax Delays and Repeals  ( $539 billion debt increase )   – Three taxes enacted by the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA) – the health insurer tax, the “Cadillac tax” on high-cost health insurance, and the medical device excise tax – were delayed in a 2018 continuing resolution. They were subsequently repealed in one of the full-year funding bills for FY 2020. The Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimated that the health insurer tax would have raised about $150 billion over a decade, the Cadillac tax would have raised $200 billion, and the medical device excise tax would have raised $25 billion. In addition to these tax repeals, policymakers enacted roughly $70 billion of other unpaid-for policies related to health care, retirement savings, and other priorities in these two bills. Interest costs added $64 billion more.
• Health Executive Actions  ( $456 billion debt increase )   – President Trump approved two health-related executive actions with significant costs over his term. Ending federal appropriations for the  ACA’s cost-sharing reduction payments in 2017 led insurers to raise premiums on “silver” ACA plans to fund low-income cost sharing subsidies, ultimately increasing the cost of federal subsidies by an estimated $220 billion. Meanwhile, a  2020 rule to restrict prescription drug rebates paid to pharmacy benefit managers and insurer plans was estimated to cost $177 billion. Interest costs added $59 billion more. Importantly, the rebate rule was delayed and ultimately repealed by Congress under President Biden.
• Other Legislation ( $310 billion debt increase )   – President Trump signed a number of other deficit-increasing bills into law over the course of his term. This includes several appropriations bills for disaster relief as well as the changes to mandatory programs (CHIMPs) that boosted spending in the full-year appropriations bills enacted in his term. Additionally, President Trump signed a permanent extension of several tax “extenders,” which are tax policies that have been routinely extended for short periods. Finally, he signed the Great American Outdoors Act, which transferred certain offsetting receipts and authorized them to be spent without appropriation, and the permanent authorization of the 9/11 victims fund, which authorized funds to pay out claims to 9/11 victims.
• Tariffs  ( $443 billion debt reduction )   – Over the course of his presidency, President Trump used his authority under the Trade Act of 1974 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1978 to increase a number of import tariffs through executive action. Beginning in 2018, the Trump Administration announced the imposition or increase to a variety of tariffs, including on washing machines, solar panels, and steel and aluminum products. In 2019, the tariff rate on many Chinese imports was increased from 10 percent to 25 percent. Based on CBO’s estimates at the time, we estimate these tariffs will have generated over $440 billion of revenue and interest savings over a decade.
• The CARES Act  ( $1.9 trillion debt increase ) – Enacted in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the bipartisan CARES Act included expanded and extended unemployment benefits, economic relief checks of $1,200 per eligible adult and $500 per child, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to provide support to small businesses to keep employees on payroll, and emergency disaster loans and grants to businesses, industries, health care facilities, educational institutions, state and local governments, and others, among many other provisions. Based on our ongoing  tracking , the actual fiscal impact of the CARES Act was likely similar to the initial score though perhaps slightly higher overall.
• The Response & Relief Act  ( $983 billion debt increase )   – Enacted in December 2020 as part of the omnibus appropriations bill for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021, the  Response & Relief Act included funding for a second tranche of PPP payments and small business grants, an extension of enhanced unemployment benefits, economic relief checks of $600 per eligible person, funding support for schools and higher education institutions, vaccine and testing funding, targeted support to industries greatly impacted by COVID-19, an extension and expansion of the Employee Retention Credit, and an extension of various other COVID-related tax and spending relief programs. Based on our ongoing  tracking , the actual fiscal impact of the Response & Relief Act was likely higher than the initial score due to the significantly higher-than-expected deficit increase from the  Employee Retention Credit .
• Other COVID Relief  ( $756 billion debt increase )   – President Trump approved several other measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic and recession. This includes the three other COVID relief laws enacted in March and April 2020: the  Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act , the  Families First Coronavirus Response Act , and the  Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act . It also includes the student loan repayment pauses enacted at the onset of COVID and extended after the CARES Act’s pause ended in October 2020. President Trump also approved  other executive actions that resulted in little deficit impact. Based on our ongoing  tracking , the actual fiscal impact of these bills were likely much higher than the initial score due to the significantly higher-than-expected revenue loss from the  Employee Retention Credit and the higher Medicaid and SNAP costs resulting from a longer-than-projected public health emergency.

Appendix II : Details of Policies Approved by President Biden So Far

• Appropriations for FY 2022 and 2023  ( $1.4 trillion debt increase )   –President Biden signed full-year omnibus appropriations bills for  FY 2022 and  2023 , boosting nominal appropriations by 6 percent and then 9 percent. While those bills only set funding for those specific years, future-year projected levels are calculated by assuming continued inflation growth. This is consistent with the reality that appropriators generally work from the prior year’s spending levels. Based on CBO, we estimate the FY 2022 omnibus directly increased spending by $50 billion and indirectly by $519 billion above baseline, while the FY 2023 omnibus increased spending directly by $58 billion and base discretionary spending indirectly by $511 billion. Interest costs added $175 billion more. Both laws’ impacts on baseline deficits would be substantially smaller had they been scored against an updated CBO baseline that reflected actual inflation rather than projections – the bulk of the increases under both laws kept spending apace with the very-high rate of inflation for those years.
• The Honoring Our PACT Act ( $520 billion debt increase )   – Enacted in August 2022, the PACT Act created new benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances during their tours of duty, expanded existing health and disability benefits, and modified eligibility tests that allowed more veterans to automatically qualify for benefits. Although veterans’ health spending is generally discretionary, the PACT Act allowed the cost of the expansion to be classified as mandatory spending and allowed lawmakers to  shift existing discretionary costs to the mandatory side of the budget. Based on CBO’s score, the PACT Act increased spending by between $277 billion and $667 billion, depending on how much funding was reclassified. Our estimate reflects the midpoint (plus interest), which policymakers effectively codified in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. 
• The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law  ( $439 billion debt increase )   – The 2021  Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act authorized more than $500 billion of direct spending and tax breaks related to surface transportation, broadband, energy and water, transit, and other infrastructure. The law also increased baseline levels of highway spending, translating to more than $50 billion in indirect costs. While lawmakers claimed that it was fully paid for at the time of passage, CBO determined that it only contained $173 billion of scorable savings, leading to $439 billion of new borrowing when interest is included.
• Other Legislation  ( $422 billion debt increase )  –  President Biden signed several other bipartisan pieces of legislation during his first term. This includes  several   packages   of aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza, additional emergency spending related to disaster relief and military readiness, $80 billion of investments and tax credits to encourage onshoring manufacturing facilities for semiconductors in the CHIPS and Science Act, and additional FY 2024 appropriations spending based on  “side deals” to the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
• Student Debt Actions ( $620 billion debt increase )   – The Biden Administration has instituted several changes to the federal student loan program through executive actions. Most significantly, the Education Department introduced the Savings on a Valuable Education (SAVE)  income-driven repayment (IDR) program , which reduced required payments and interest accrual for those enrolled, among other changes – estimated to cost $276 billion. In addition, President Biden extended the  pause of student debt repayments and cancellation of interest for 31 months at a cost of $146 billion. And finally, President Biden enacted a number of targeted debt cancellation measures, including expansions of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and cancellation of debt borrowed for institutions that closed or were found to be fraudulent, at a cost of $145 billion. President Biden also enacted a policy to cancel up to $20,000 per borrower of student debt that would have cost an additional $330 billion (after interactions with the SAVE plan), but this was ruled illegal by the Supreme Court. Recently, the Administration introduced  an alternative debt cancellation plan that could cost between $250 and $750 billion, though it has yet to be implemented and is not counted here because our estimates only include regulations that have been finalized through the full rulemaking process.
• Other Executive Actions  ( $548 billion debt increase )   – President Biden has also expanded deficits through other executive actions. Most significantly, he approved over $200 billion of borrowing by  changing the way Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits – also known as food stamps – are calculated and adjusted. More recently, the Administration announced a rule to limit vehicle emissions, which we estimate will add nearly $170 billion to the debt by boosting the cost of electric vehicle tax credits expanded under the IRA and reducing gas tax revenue. Other executive actions will add a combined $180 billion to the debt by expanding Medicaid enrollment, changing the way prescription drug price concessions are considered by Medicare plans, addressing the ACA’s “family glitch,” allowing states to boost Medicaid payments to managed care plans to pull in additional federal dollars, and an expansion of allowed income for Supplemental Security Income recipient households.
• Fiscal Responsibility Act ( $1.5 trillion debt reduction )   – In June 2023, President Biden signed the bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), which capped discretionary spending for FY 2024 and 2025, among other changes. The FRA set 2024 nondefense discretionary levels to 5 percent below the 2023 level, set defense to be 3 percent higher, and set both to grow by 1 percent between 2024 and 2025. These  caps, along with other measures, were scored to generate over $250 billion of direct savings and also reduce the baseline for future spending to generate an additional $1.1 trillion of additional savings. With interest, the FRA was estimated to reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over a decade. Importantly, negotiators at the time agreed to a number of  “side deals” mentioned above that would reduce the FRA’s savings to roughly $1 trillion if enacted in full in future appropriations bills. A different but similar set of side deals were enacted for FY 2024 and added about $85 billion to deficits – these are included in the “other legislation” category. Additional side deals will not be counted until enacted.
• Inflation Reduction Act  ( $252 billion debt reduction )   – In August 2022, President Biden signed the  Inflation Reduction Act (IRA ) into law, a reconciliation bill focused on energy, health care, and tax changes. The IRA established new and increased existing energy- and climate-related spending and tax credits, expanded ACA health insurance subsidies, required prescription drug negotiations and other drug pricing reforms, introduced a 15 percent corporate “book minimum tax,” established an excise tax on stock buybacks, increased funding to the IRS to close the tax gap, and made other changes. At the time of passage,  CBO and JCT estimated the IRA’s tax breaks and spending would reduce revenue and increase spending by about $500 billion, while its offsets would generate almost $740 billion. Recent estimates of the impact of repealing the IRA tax credits suggest these provisions will reduce revenue and increase spending by $260 billion higher than the official score; at the same time, the IRA’s offsets are also likely to raise more in revenue. On net, we expect a full re-estimate of the IRA would score as roughly budget neutral through 2031, excluding effects related to subsequent regulatory changes. This analysis attributes the additional cost of these regulations as executive actions.
• Deficit-Reducing Executive Actions  ( $129 billion debt reduction )   –President Biden approved two other executive actions that would result in savings over a decade, including changes to payments for Medicare Advantage plans and a temporary stay of the subsequently repealed Trump prescription drug rebate rule.
• American Rescue Plan Act  ( $2.1 trillion debt increase )  –  Enacted in the Spring of 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act was the final piece of legislation that contained many major components designed to provide COVID relief. It included several extensions of enhanced unemployment benefits, additional relief checks of $1,400 per person, and a slew of funding for state and local governments, educational institutions, health care providers, public health agencies, and others. The legislation also included  about $300 billion of policies that we have described as extraneous to the COVID crisis – including a pension bailout and expansions of the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, health insurance subsidies, and child care tax credit – and roughly $100 billion of offsets.

Appendix III: Methodology 

This analysis estimates the additional borrowing approved by Presidents Trump and Biden through tax and spending changes passed by Congress or contained in executive actions from their administrations. It does not estimate the amount of debt that accumulated over their terms, which partially reflects actions taken prior to their time in office and does not account for the fiscal impact of the actions approved by the President but incurred outside of his four-year term. We will publish changes in debt during their terms in a supplemental analysis.

Our analysis incorporates all major pieces of legislation and executive actions – those with more than $10 billion of ten-year budget impact – approved by Presidents Trump and Biden. Estimates rely on ten-year budget scores, as under standard convention. In order to rely on official scores wherever possible, however, all estimates are based on the ten-year budget window at the time of enactment – meaning different policies cover different time frames and thus are not purely additive or comparable.

In general, estimates rely on official estimates from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) presented prospectively. When such scores are not available or not comprehensive, we may use estimates from the Office of Management and Budget, the regulatory agencies, or our own estimates. 

Estimates are not updated to incorporate data and results made available well after implementation; no legislation signed by either President Trump or President Biden has been re-estimated in full to incorporate observed costs or effects, and partial updates would bias the overall numbers. However, possible differences between initial scores and actual costs, including from the TCJA, the IRA, and COVID relief, are discussed throughout this paper.

Estimates incorporate impact on interest costs, which we calculate using the most recent CBO debt service tool at the time of enactment, unless interest impact is included in the estimate. Estimates are generally based on conventional scoring, but in the case of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, we incorporate macroeconomic impacts as estimated by CBO shortly after enactment.

All estimates are in nominal dollars at the time of approval, which means deficit impact from earlier budget windows generally represent a larger share of GDP per dollar due to higher price levels and output over time. 

Finally, the estimates are based on the policies as written and do not try to correct for arbitrary cliffs, side agreements, or other budget gimmicks that may create a misleading picture of the intended fiscal impact of the policy.

1 Our estimates compare ten-year estimates of each action before implementation, generally using prospective scores of policies and adding them together despite being over different windows. Although this is not a perfect apples-to-apples comparison for a variety of reasons, it allows us to rely on official numbers and continue to compare over time. See the methodology section for a more detailed explanation.

2 Many pieces of legislation with fiscal impact include tax and spending changes that both add to and reduce projected deficits. The $8.8 trillion figure is based on the net deficit impact of deficit-increasing bills, rather than the gross deficit increases within those bills. For example, the $1.9 trillion impact of the TCJA represents the combination of tax cuts, base broadening, lower spending as a result of repealing the individual mandate penalty, interest, and dynamic effects on revenue and spending.

3 The larger deficit impact from the TCJA is due to a combination of a larger nominal tax base, lower health savings from individual mandate repeal, the unexpected use of a SALT cap workaround, reduced revenue collection from the limit on pass-through losses, higher revenue loss related to bonus depreciation, and other factors.

4 Due to higher prices and output, greater demand for subsidized activities, and laxer-than-expected regulations, the IRA’s energy provisions are now expected to have a fiscal impact of  $660 billion – about two-thirds more than the original estimate of roughly $400 billion. This excludes the effects of the Administration’s vehicle emissions rule, which we’ve scored separately. At the same time, revenue collection under the IRA is also likely to be higher in light of  higher-than-projected nominal corporate profits , greater expected  voluntary tax compliance , and less-than-expected responsiveness to the buyback tax. Overall, we believe a re-estimate of the IRA would be roughly budget neutral. The emissions rule approved by President Biden would increase deficits by about $170 billion – mainly by further increasing the fiscal impact of the IRA tax credits – and is included in our tally of his executive actions.

5 In a previous analysis, we estimated that  $500 to 650 billion of COVID relief was extraneous – unrelated to the pandemic or subsequent economic fallout – including $300 to $335 billion enacted under President Trump and $200 to $315 billion under President Biden. These prior estimates are not perfectly comparable to estimates in this paper but give a sense of scale. In additional analyses, we estimated that the American Rescue plan likely  significantly overshot the output gap it was aiming to close while providing excessive relief to a number of sectors. There were also excesses and lack of targeting in earlier COVID relief packages, including as it related to  stimulus checks , the additional $600 of weekly  unemployment benefits , and the  Paycheck Protection Program.

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