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One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
Should graduate students be able to form unions?

What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
How does stress affect the body?
Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler's rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
How are black holes created?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Research Paper Guide

Research Paper Topics

Interesting Research Paper Topics for 2024

21 min read

What are Good Topics for a Research Paper?

An interesting research topic is the one that has the following characteristics:

Specific and Clear . The topic should cover a specific aspect or question within a broader subject area. A focused topic allows for in-depth exploration.
Original and Unique - Great research topics are original. They explore a unique angle or perspective on a subject.
Significant - Good topics have academic or real-world significance. They contribute to existing knowledge or address a problem with practical implications.
Relevant - Topics that are timely and related to the current issues and debates in your field of study are better for research.

Research Paper Topics for Your Academic Level

All students get research writing assignments, whether they are in high school, college, or higher. Here are some engaging ideas suitable for different academic levels.

High School Research Essay Topics

Examine the impact of social media on teenagers' well-being.
Assess the effects of climate change and its consequences.
Analyze the dynamics of cyberbullying and online safety.
Explore the influence of music on adolescents.
Investigate the importance of financial literacy education.
Assess gender inequality in high school sports programs.
Examine the impact of technology on the education system.
Analyze youth voting trends and political engagement.
Investigate the role of video games in cognitive development.
Assess teenage substance abuse and prevention programs.

College Research Paper Topics

IELTS vs. TOEFL - Discuss the similarities and differences.
College admission policies and criteria in the United States.
How to plan to pay college tuition?
Elaborate on ACT vs. SAT.
Benefits of Distance Learning.
Impacts of China's one-child policy.
Do college students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
Effect of the No Child Left Behind Act.
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?

Graduate Research Paper Topics

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations and Strategy
Environmental Sustainability in Supply Chain Management: Strategies for Global Corporations
The Ethical Implications of Gene Editing Technologies: CRISPR-Cas9 and Beyond
Financial Derivatives and Risk Management: Advanced Strategies for Portfolio Optimization
The Role of Big Data Analytics in Healthcare: Improving Patient Care and Outcomes
Cybersecurity Threats and Mitigation in Critical Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Analysis
The Intersection of International Trade and Intellectual Property Rights: Trade Agreements and Dispute Resolution
Exploring the Impacts of Climate Change on Urban Planning and Infrastructure
Educational Leadership and School Reform in the 21st Century: Innovative Approaches and Challenges
Theoretical Advances in Quantum Computing: Applications, Limitations, and Future Prospects

Research Paper Topics for Science & Technology

Looking for research paper ideas in your discipline? The list of topics below covers a variety of subjects and disciplines to help you out.

Research Paper Topics for Computer Science

Quantum Computing: Current State and Future Prospects
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Diagnosis and Treatment
Blockchain Technology and Its Applications Beyond Cryptocurrency
Cybersecurity in the Age of IoT: Challenges and Solutions
The Ethical Implications of Machine Learning Algorithms
Natural Language Processing for Sentiment Analysis in Social Media
The Role of Computer Vision in Autonomous Vehicles
Big Data Analytics for Business Intelligence and Decision-Making
Human-Computer Interaction: Enhancing User Experience
The Evolution of Cloud Computing: Trends and Innovations

Research Paper Topics in Machine Learning

Explainable AI (XAI): Techniques and Challenges in Interpretable Machine Learning Models
Federated Learning: Privacy-Preserving Machine Learning Across Decentralized Data Sources
Transfer Learning in Deep Neural Networks: Methods, Applications, and Limitations
Reinforcement Learning: Recent Advances and Real-World Applications
Bias and Fairness in Machine Learning: Detection, Mitigation, and Ethical Considerations
Multi-Modal Learning: Integrating Data from Multiple Sources for Improved Performance
Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs): Innovations in Image Generation and Beyond
Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Healthcare: Applications in Clinical Data Analysis and Diagnosis
AutoML (Automated Machine Learning): Tools, Challenges, and Implications for Non-Experts
Quantum Machine Learning: Harnessing Quantum Computing for Advanced Data Analysis

Research Paper Topics in Chemistry

Green Chemistry: Sustainable Approaches to Chemical Synthesis
Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery: Innovations and Challenges
Chemical Analysis of Environmental Pollutants and Their Remediation
Advancements in Organic Synthesis: New Methods and Strategies
The Role of Catalysis in Industrial Chemical Processes
Chemical Kinetics: Studying Reaction Rates and Mechanisms
Analytical Chemistry Techniques for Food Safety and Quality Control
Supramolecular Chemistry: Self-assembly and Molecular Recognition
The Chemistry of Renewable Energy Sources
Chemical Bonding in Complex Molecules: Insights from Quantum Chemistry

Information Technology Research Paper Topics

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Information Technology
Blockchain Technology: Security and Privacy Implications
Data Governance and Compliance in the Digital Age
Cloud Computing Adoption Strategies for Small and Medium Enterprises
Internet of Things (IoT) Security Challenges and Solutions
E-Government: Advancements and Challenges in Digital Transformation
The Role of Machine Learning in Healthcare Data Management
Cybersecurity Threat Intelligence: Trends and Best Practices
Digital Twins and their Applications in Industry 4.0
Human-Centric IT: Designing Systems with User Well-being in Mind

Research Paper Topics Environmental Science

Climate Change and Its Impact on Global Ecosystems
Biodiversity Conservation and Habitat Restoration
Sustainable Agriculture Practices for Food Security
Air Pollution Control Strategies in Urban Environments
The Effects of Deforestation on Watersheds and Biodiversity
Waste Management and Recycling: Towards a Circular Economy
Ocean Acidification and Coral Reef Conservation
Environmental Impacts of Renewable Energy Technologies
Eco-friendly Transportation Solutions: Promoting Sustainable Mobility
Human Health and Environmental Pollution: Assessing Risks and Mitigation

Research Paper Topics for Medical Students

The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Healthcare Access and Delivery
Epidemiology and Management of Infectious Diseases: A Focus on Emerging Pathogens
Precision Medicine and Personalized Healthcare: Advancements and Challenges
Ethical Considerations in Medical Research: Informed Consent and Human Rights
Mental Health in Medical Education: Strategies for Reducing Burnout and Promoting Well-being
Global Health Disparities: Analyzing Causes and Strategies for Health Equity
Advancements in Surgical Techniques and Robotics in Medicine
The Opioid Epidemic: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Healthcare for Underserved Populations: Access, Barriers, and Innovations
Medical Innovations in Diagnostic Imaging: Impact on Patient Care and Diagnosis

Research Paper Topics in Zoology

The Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife Migration Patterns and Habitats
Behavioral Ecology of Apex Predators: From Wolves to Tigers
Zoonotic Diseases: Investigating the Transmission of Diseases Between Animals and Humans
Marine Biology and Conservation: Coral Reefs, Ocean Acidification, and Marine Biodiversity
The Role of Zoos in Conservation and Species Preservation
Invasive Species: Ecological Impacts and Management Strategies
Bird Migration and Navigation: Mechanisms and Conservation Implications
Animal Communication and Language: Insights from Studies on Dolphins and Primates
Endangered Species Recovery Programs: Successes, Failures, and Lessons Learned
Evolutionary Biology: The Coevolution of Predators and Prey

Research Paper Topics For Social Sciences

Are you a student of social sciences? The list of research paper topics below is for you!

History Research Paper Topics

The Causes and Consequences of the American Civil War
The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society and Labor
The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire: Lessons from History
Women's Suffrage Movements Around the World
The Cold War: Origins, Conflicts, and Effects on Global Politics
The Role of Religion in Ancient Civilizations: Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece
The Renaissance Era: Art, Science, and Cultural Transformation
The Development of Culture in Mughal India
The Decolonization of Africa and Asia: Struggles for Independence
The Civil Rights Movement in the United States: Progress and Challenges

Research Paper Topics for Education

The Impact of Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing Learning or Distracting Students?
Inclusive Education: Strategies for Supporting Students with Disabilities
The Role of Parental Involvement in Student Academic Achievement
Education and Socioeconomic Inequality: Bridging the Gap
The Effectiveness of Online Learning: Pros and Cons
Early Childhood Education: The Importance of Preschool Programs
Teacher Burnout and Strategies for Teacher Well-being
The Influence of Standardized Testing on Curriculum and Instruction
Culturally Responsive Teaching: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
Education Policy Reform: Challenges and Impacts on Student Success

Sociology Research Paper Topics

The Impact of Social Media on Social Interaction and Relationships
Gender Inequality in the Workplace: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Racial Profiling and Policing: Examining Bias and Discrimination
The Sociology of Deviance: Understanding Criminal Behavior
Income Inequality and Its Effects on Society
The Influence of Family Structure on Child Development
Migration and the Social Integration of Immigrants
Environmental Sociology: Exploring the Relationship Between Society and the Environment
The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Norms and Values
Health Disparities in Marginalized Communities: A Sociological Perspective

Psychology Research Paper Topics

The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
Psychological Effects of Social Media Use on Adolescents
Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Strategies for Resilience
The Psychology of Decision-Making: Biases and Heuristics
The Role of Attachment Theory in Parent-Child Relationships
Mental Health Stigma: Barriers to Seeking and Receiving Treatment
The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Functioning
Psychological Factors in Addiction and Recovery
Cognitive Development in Infants: Theories and Milestones
The Psychology of Happiness and Well-being: Factors and Interventions

Research Paper Topics On Media And Communication

The Influence of Social Media on Political Discourse and Public Opinion
Media Bias: Examining News Coverage and Its Impact on Perception
The Evolution of Journalism in the Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities
The Effects of Advertising on Consumer Behavior and Purchasing Decisions
Media Literacy Education: Preparing Citizens for a Digital World
The Role of Media in Shaping Gender Stereotypes and Representation
Fake News and Misinformation: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Cultural Appropriation in Media: Analyzing Its Implications
Media and Crisis Communication: Case Studies and Best Practices
Media Effects on Body Image and Self-esteem: Exploring the Impact of Beauty Standards

Political Science Research Paper Topics

The Role of Political Parties in Shaping Government Policies
Electoral Systems and Their Impact on Representation and Governance
The Rise of Populism: Causes and Consequences
The Influence of Lobbying and Interest Groups on Policy-Making
Comparative Analysis of Political Systems: Democracies vs. Authoritarian Regimes
Foreign Policy Decision-Making: Case Studies and Models
Political Polarization: Understanding the Divisions in Contemporary Politics
Human Rights and International Relations: Challenges and Solutions
Environmental Politics and Climate Change Agreements
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Discourse and Activism

Research Paper Topics for International Relations

The Impact of Globalization on International Security
International Human Rights Law: Challenges and Progress
Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution: Case Studies in Successful Negotiations
The Role of International Organizations in Promoting Peace and Cooperation
Nuclear Proliferation: Examining the Threats and Non-Proliferation Efforts
Cybersecurity in International Relations: Challenges and Strategies
Global Economic Governance: The Role of International Financial Institutions
The Refugee Crisis: International Responses and the Humanitarian Challenge
Climate Change Diplomacy: Agreements, Obstacles, and Climate Justice
The Geopolitics of Energy: Resource Competition and Security Issues

Research Paper Topics On Culture

Cultural Appropriation: Understanding the Controversy and Implications
Cultural Relativism vs. Universalism: Debates in Anthropology and Ethics
Cultural Expressions in Art: Analyzing Cultural Identity Through Creative Works
Globalization and Its Impact on Cultural Homogenization vs. Cultural Diversity
Cultural Influences on Gender Roles and Identity
The Role of Culture in Shaping Dietary Habits and Food Traditions
Cultural Heritage Preservation: Challenges and Strategies
Language and Culture: The Relationship Between Linguistic Diversity and Cultural Identity
Cultural Rituals and Their Significance in Different Societies
Intercultural Communication: Navigating Cultural Differences in a Globalized World

Research Paper Topics for Humanities

Here are some engaging ideas for research paper topics in humanities disciplines.

Research Paper Topics for English Literature

Exploring the Themes of Love and Desire in Shakespeare's Sonnets
Postcolonial Literature: Analyzing the Works of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The Role of Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby"
Feminist Critique of Classic Literature: Reevaluating Jane Austen's Heroines
The Gothic Tradition in Literature: A Comparative Study of Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley
Dystopian Literature: Examining Social Commentary in George Orwell's "1984"
The Evolution of Science Fiction: From H.G. Wells to Contemporary Authors
The Modernist Movement in Poetry: T.S. Eliot and "The Waste Land"
Literary Representations of War: Analysis of Ernest Hemingway's Works
The Influence of Mythology in Literature: A Study of Greek and Roman Epics

Research Paper Topics for English Linguistics

The Evolution of English Language: A Historical Analysis
Exploring Dialectical Variations: A Study of Regional English Accents
Syntax in Shakespearean English: Unraveling Linguistic Patterns
Code-Switching in Bilingual Literature: Impacts on Linguistic Identity
The Influence of Technology on Modern English: A Linguistic Perspective
Gendered Language in Literature: Analyzing Linguistic Representations
Sociolinguistic Aspects of English in Global Communication
Cognitive Linguistics: Understanding Language Processing and Comprehension
The Role of Phonetics in English Language Teaching: Strategies and Challenges
Linguistic Analysis of Online Discourse: Trends in Digital Communication

Research Paper Topics on Arts

The Influence of Renaissance Art on Modern Visual Culture
The Evolution of Street Art: From Vandalism to Urban Beautification
Gender and Identity in Contemporary Performance Art
The Role of Public Art in Shaping Urban Spaces and Communities
Censorship in the Arts: Balancing Expression and Sensitivity
The Intersection of Technology and Art: Digital Media and New Frontiers
Art as a Form of Political Protest: Examining Contemporary Activist Art
The Psychology of Art Appreciation: Understanding Aesthetic Experiences
Art Conservation and Preservation: Challenges and Ethical Considerations
Art Therapy: Exploring the Healing Power of Creativity

Research Paper Topics on Religion

Religious Pluralism and Interfaith Dialogue: Promoting Understanding and Tolerance
The Role of Religion in Shaping Moral Values and Ethics
Religion and Politics: Examining the Influence of Faith on Governance
Religious Rituals and Their Significance in Different Cultures
Secularism and Its Impact on Religious Practice and Belief
Religion and Science: Exploring the Compatibility and Conflict
The Influence of Religion on Gender Roles and Equality
Religious Fundamentalism and Its Implications for Society
Religion and Environmental Ethics: Perspectives on Stewardship
Religious Conversion and the Psychology Behind Faith Changes

Philosophy Research Paper Topics

The Philosophy of Ethics: Exploring Different Ethical Theories
The Problem of Free Will and Determinism: Philosophical Perspectives
Existentialism in Literature: A Philosophical Analysis
The Philosophy of Mind: Dualism vs. Materialism
The Nature of Reality: Metaphysical Approaches and Debates
Moral Dilemmas and Ethical Decision-Making: A Philosophical Examination
Philosophy of Technology: Ethical Implications of Advancements
Political Philosophy: Theories of Justice and Social Contracts
Philosophy of Religion: The Existence of God and Theodicy
Environmental Ethics: Philosophical Perspectives on Nature and Sustainability

Research Paper Topics for Ethics

Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Decision-Making: Balancing Autonomy and Beneficence
The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Accountability and Bias in AI Systems
Corporate Ethics: Ethical Responsibility of Multinational Corporations
Ethical Considerations in Environmental Conservation: Sustainability and Future Generations
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies
The Intersection of Ethics and Technology: Privacy, Surveillance, and Data Ethics
Ethical Implications of End-of-Life Care and Euthanasia
Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment of Animals in Research
The Role of Ethics in Criminal Justice: Police Conduct and Criminal Punishment
The Ethics of Whistleblowing: Balancing Loyalty and Accountability

Law Research Paper Topics

The Evolution of Privacy Rights in the Digital Age: Legal and Ethical Considerations
Criminal Justice Reform: Assessing the Impact of Changes in Sentencing and Policing
Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Era: Copyright, Trademarks, and Patents
The Role of International Law in Addressing Global Human Rights Violations
Environmental Law and Sustainable Development: Balancing Conservation and Economic Interests
Legal Aspects of Cybersecurity: Privacy, Data Protection, and Cybercrime
The Legalization of Marijuana: Implications for Criminal Justice and Public Health
Corporate Governance and Ethics: Analyzing Legal Frameworks for Accountability
Family Law and Child Custody Disputes: Examining Best Interests and Parental Rights
The Intersection of Law and Bioethics: Ethical Dilemmas in Medical and Scientific Research

Research Paper Topics on Criminal Justice

Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System: Causes and Consequences
Police Use of Force: Policies, Accountability, and Community Relations
Criminal Profiling and Its Effectiveness in Solving Crimes
Mental Illness in the Criminal Justice System: Diversion Programs and Treatment
The Impact of Mass Incarceration on Communities and Rehabilitation Efforts
Forensic Science and Criminal Investigations: Advances, Challenges, and Ethics
Cybercrime and Digital Forensics: Investigative Techniques and Legal Implications
Juvenile Justice: Rehabilitation vs. Punishment and the Recidivism Rate
The Death Penalty: Ethical, Legal, and Policy Considerations
Victim Rights and Restorative Justice Programs: Balancing the Scales of Justice

Research Paper Topics on Economics

Income Inequality: Causes, Consequences, and Policy Solutions
The Impact of Economic Globalization on Developing Countries
Behavioral Economics: Exploring Psychological Factors in Decision-Making
The Economics of Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
Monetary Policy and Its Effects on Economic Stability
Trade Wars and Tariffs: Economic Effects and Global Trade Relations
Healthcare Economics: Examining Healthcare Costs, Access, and Reform
The Economics of Education: Investment in Human Capital and Economic Growth
Urban Economics: Challenges and Solutions in Sustainable City Development
Labor Market Trends: Gig Economy, Automation, and Future of Work

Research Paper Topics Related to Marketing

Influencer Marketing: Effectiveness, Ethics, and the Role of Social Media
Consumer Behavior in the Digital Age: Online Shopping Trends and Decision-Making
Brand Loyalty and Customer Retention Strategies in Competitive Markets
Neuromarketing: Understanding the Psychology of Consumer Choices
The Impact of Social Media Marketing on Brand Image and Customer Engagement
E-commerce and Marketplaces: Strategies for Success in Online Retail
Content Marketing: Creating and Measuring the Value of Branded Content
Marketing to Generation Z: Preferences, Values, and Communication Channels
The Role of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Marketing
Crisis Marketing and Reputation Management: Strategies for Navigating Challenges

Best Research Paper Topics 2023

Here are some impressive and easy research paper topics to write an extraordinary paper.

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

Should the Minimum Wage be Raised?
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Harmful or Beneficial?
Is Genetic Engineering Ethical? Examining the Pros and Cons of Genetic Modification
The Death Penalty: Should it be Abolished or Retained?
Gun Control: Balancing Second Amendment Rights and Public Safety
Universal Healthcare: Is it a Right or a Privilege?
The Role of Government in Regulating Big Tech Companies
Climate Change: Is Human Activity the Primary Cause?
Online Privacy: Balancing Security and Civil Liberties
The Legalization of Recreational Marijuana: Weighing the Social and Economic Impacts

US History Research Paper Topics

The American Revolution: Causes, Key Figures, and Impact on the Nation
The Abolitionist Movement: Strategies, Leaders, and the Fight Against Slavery
The Reconstruction Era: Challenges, Achievements, and Failures
The Women's Suffrage Movement: Struggles and Triumphs in the Fight for Voting Rights
The Civil Rights Movement: Leaders, Events, and the Struggle for Equality
The Great Depression: Causes, Effects, and Government Responses
The Vietnam War: Origins, Controversies, and Legacy
The Space Race: The Cold War Competition for Supremacy Beyond Earth
The Civil War: Battlefronts, Political Divisions, and the Emancipation Proclamation
The American Westward Expansion: Manifest Destiny, Conflicts, and Impacts on Native Americans

Persuasive Research Paper Topics

The Importance of Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools
Banning Single-Use Plastics: Protecting the Environment and Marine Life
Promoting Renewable Energy: Transitioning to a Sustainable Future
Mandatory Vaccination: Protecting Public Health and Herd Immunity
The Benefits of Telecommuting: A Win-Win for Employers and Employees
Promoting Healthy Eating Habits: The Case for Implementing Sugar Taxes
The Need for Stricter Animal Welfare Laws: Preventing Animal Cruelty
Accessible Education for All: The Case for Affordable College Tuition
Promoting Voting Rights: Ensuring a Fair and Inclusive Democracy
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness and Support: Breaking the Stigma

Easy Research Paper Topics

The Benefits of Regular Exercise for Physical and Mental Health
The History and Impact of Social Media on Society
The Basics of Climate Change: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
The Life and Achievements of a Notable Inventor or Scientist
The Importance of Recycling and Waste Reduction in Daily Life
The Impact of Fast Food on Diet and Health
Effect of Global Warming on The Frequency And Intensity Of Natural Disasters
Should Marijuana be legalized in US? Costs, Economic And Social Benefits
How Do Terrorist Attacks Influence Public Opinion And Political Behavior In Democratic Countries
Crime Rates: Main Factors That Explain The Variation In Crime Rates Across Different Countries And Regions

Research Paper Topics on Current Affairs

The Impact of COVID-19 on Global Health Systems and Preparedness
Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events: Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
The Future of Work: Remote Work Trends and Implications
Economic Recovery Post-Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities
Vaccine Hesitancy: Understanding Causes and Addressing Concerns
Cybersecurity in the Digital Age: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Defense
Immigration Policies and Border Security: A Global Perspective
The Role of Social Media in Political Movements and Disinformation
Global Supply Chain Disruptions: Causes and Strategies for Resilience
Racial and Social Justice Movements: Progress and Ongoing Challenges

Controversial Research Paper Topics

The Legalization of Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia: Ethical and Legal Considerations
Gun Control Laws: Balancing Second Amendment Rights and Public Safety
The Death Penalty: Is it an Effective Deterrent or a Violation of Human Rights?
Animal Testing: Ethical Issues and Alternatives for Scientific Research
The Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Assessing Risks and Benefits
Abortion: Examining the Ethical, Legal, and Medical Aspects
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech: Protecting Civil Liberties in a Digital Age
Climate Change Denial: Analyzing the Science and Skepticism
School Vouchers and School Choice: The Future of Public Education
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Safety, Labeling, and Environmental Concerns

Research Paper Topics on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Historical Roots of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Tracing the Beginnings
Media Framing of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Impact on Public Perception
The Role of International Diplomacy in Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Human Rights Violations in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Critical Analysis
Refugees and Displacement: The Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in the Conflict
Religious Perspectives in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Comparative Study
Water Scarcity and Resource Management in the Context of the Conflict
Education and Propaganda: Examining the Impact of Curricula on Perpetuating Conflict Narratives
The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Peacebuilding Efforts
Media and Social Media's Influence on Shaping Public Opinion in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Nursing Research Paper Topics

The Impact of Nurse-to-Patient Ratios on Patient Outcomes
Nursing Shortages: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing: Implementing Research into Clinical Care
Nursing Ethics: Ethical Dilemmas and Decision-Making in Patient Care
Palliative Care and End-of-Life Nursing: Improving Quality of Life for Patients
Nursing Informatics: Advancements in Healthcare Technology and Data Management
The Role of Cultural Competence in Nursing: Providing Culturally Sensitive Care
Nursing Burnout and Staff Well-being: Strategies for Prevention and Support
The Impact of Nurse Leadership on Patient Safety and Quality of Care
Pediatric Nursing: Specialized Care for Children and Families

How to Choose a Good Research Paper Topic?

Now that you have a plethora of ideas for your research paper, which one should you choose? Here are some steps you need to follow to choose a good research paper topic:

Identify Your Interests: Start by considering your own interests and passions. Research is much more enjoyable when you're exploring a topic you're genuinely curious about. Think about subjects, issues, or questions that intrigue you.
Brainstorm and Mind Map: Write down potential topics or research questions and create a mind map to visualize how they connect to one another. This can help you see the relationships between different ideas and narrow down your options.
Do Some Preliminary Research: Conduct initial research to see what resources are available on potential topics. This will help you gauge whether there is enough information and credible sources to support your research.
Consider Your Audience: Think about who will be reading your research paper. Tailor your topic to your target audience's interests and knowledge level. You should also comply with the instructor's requirements. Make sure your topic gets approved before you begin with the writing process.
Discuss with Others: Talk to your peers, professors, or mentors about your potential topics. They may offer valuable insights, suggest relevant resources, or help you refine your ideas.

To conclude,

Selecting a good topic is the first and most important step in writing a research paper. Your decision should be guided by your interests, the assignment requirements, and the availability of credible resources.

With this list of potential research paper topics and tips on how to choose a good topic, you are able to select a topic that is both engaging for you and relevant to your audience.

Remember that staying current and conducting preliminary research will help you make an informed choice. Seek feedback from peers and mentors, and don't shy away from challenging or controversial topics when appropriate.

Looking for a research paper writing service? Look no further! MyPerfectWords.com can help you out!

At our professional essay writing service , we have subject specialists and research writers with advanced knowledge and expertise. They will help you choose a topic and write an amazing research paper.

So contact us to get your custom research paper !

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500 Good Research Paper Topics

Bonus Material: Essential essay checklist

Writing a research paper for a class and not sure how to start?

One of the most important steps to creating a great paper is finding a good topic!

Here’s a hand-drafted list from a Princeton grad who has helped professors at Harvard and Yale edit their papers for publication and taught college writing at the University of Notre Dame and .

What’s more, we give you some foolproof formulas for creating your own paper topic to fit the requirements of your class.

Using these simple formulas, we’ve helped hundreds of students turn a B- paper topic into an A+ paper topic.

Keep reading for our list of 500 vetted research paper topics and our magic formulas for creating your own topic!

Of course, if you want help learning to write research papers tailored to your individual needs, check out our one-on-one writing coaching or academic writing workshop . Set up a free consultation to see how we can help you learn to write A+ papers!

Jump to paper topics in:

European & Mediterranean History

African history, asian history, history of the pre-columbian americas.

Latin American History

History of Science

Politics & public policy, education & education policy, political theory, science policy.

Health Sciences & Psychology

What is a research paper?

In order to write a good research paper, it’s important to know what it is!

In general, we can divide academic writing into three broad categories:

Analytical: analyze the tools an author uses to make their point
Research: delve deeply into a research topic and share your findings
Persuasive : argue a specific and nuanced position backed by evidence

What’s the difference between an analytical paper and a research paper? For an analytical paper, it’s okay to just use one or two sources (a book, poem, work of art, piece of music, etc.) and examine them in detail. For a research paper, however, the expectation is that you do, well . . . research .

The depth of research that you’re expected to do will depend on your age and the type of class you’re taking.

In elementary or middle school, a “research paper” might mean finding information from a few general books or encyclopedias in your school library.

In high school, your teachers might expect you to start using information from academic articles and more specific books. You might use encyclopedias and general works as a starting point, but you’ll be expected to go beyond them and do more work to synthesize information from different perspectives or different types of sources. You may also be expected to do “primary research,” where you study the source material yourself, instead of synthesizing what other people have written about the source material.

In college, you’ll be required to use academic journals and scholarly books, and your professors will now expect that you be more critical of these secondary sources, noticing the methodology and perspectives of whatever articles and books you’re using.

In more advanced college courses, you’ll be expected to do more exhaustive surveys of the existing literature on a topic. You’ll need to conduct primary research that makes an original contribution to the field—the kind that could be published in a journal article itself.

For a walkthrough of the 12 essential steps to writing a good paper, check out our step-by-step guide .

Working on a research paper? Grab our free checklist to make sure your essay has everything it needs to earn an A grade.

Get the essential essay checklist

What makes a good research paper topic?

One of the most important features of a research paper topic is that it has a clear, narrow focus.

For example, your teacher may assign you to write a research paper related to the US Revolutionary War. Does that mean that your topic should be “the US Revolutionary War”?

Definitely not! There’s no way to craft a good paper with in-depth research with such a broad topic. (Unless you’re in elementary or middle school, in which case it’s okay to have a more general topic for your research paper.)

Instead, you need to find a more specific topic within this broader one. There are endless ways that you can make this narrower! Some ideas generated from this one broader topic might be:

Causes of the US Revolutionary War
Changes in military strategy during the Revolutionary War
The experiences of Loyalists to England who remained in the American colonies during the Revolutionary War
How the Revolutionary War was pivotal for the career of Alexander Hamilton
The role of alliances with France during the US Revolutionary War
The experiences of people of color during the Revolutionary War
How George Washington’s previous military career paved the way for his leadership in the Revolutionary War
The main types of weaponry during the Revolutionary War
Changes in clothing and fashion over the courses of the Revolutionary War
How Valley Forge was a key moment in the Revolutionary War
How women contributed to the Revolutionary War
What happened in Amherst, Massachusetts during the Revolutionary War
Field medicine during the Revolutionary War
How the Battle of Saratoga was a turning point in the Revolutionary War
How different opinions about the Revolutionary War were reflected in poetry written during that time
Debates over abolition during the Revolutionary War
The importance of supply chains during the Revolutionary War
Reactions to the US Revolutionary war in Europe
How the US Revolutionary war impacted political theory in England and France
Similarities and differences between the US Revolutionary War and the French Revolution
Famous paintings inspired by the US Revolutionary War
Different ways that the US Revolutionary War has been depicted in modern contemporary culture
The appropriation of the “Boston Tea Party” by US politicians in the 2010s

This list could go on forever!

good research paper topics about the US Revolution

In fact, any of these topics could become even more specific. For example, check out the evolution of this topic:

Economic causes of the Revolutionary war
The way that tax policies helped lead to the Revolutionary War
How tax laws enacted 1763–1775 helped lead to the Revolutionary War
How the tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War
How the 1773 tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War, as reflected in letters written 1767–1775
How the 1773 tax-free status of the British East India Company helped lead to the Revolutionary War, as reflected in letters written by members of the Sons of Liberty 1767–1775

As you advance in your educational career, you’ll need to make your topic more and more specific. Steps 1–3 of this topic might be okay in high school, but for a college research paper steps 4–7 would be more appropriate!

As you craft your research paper topic, you should also keep in mind the availability of research materials on your subject. There are millions of topics that would make interesting research papers, but for which you yourself might not be able to investigate with the primary and secondary sources to which you have access.

Access to research materials might look like:

To the best of our knowledge, the sources exist somewhere
The source isn’t behind a paywall (or you or your school can pay for it)
Your school or local library has a copy of the source
Your school or local library can order a copy of the source for you
The source is in a language that you speak
The source has been published already (there’s tons of amazing research that hasn’t been published yet, a frustrating problem!)
You can access the archive, museum, or database where the primary source is held—this might mean online access or travel! To access a source in an archive or museum you’ll often need permission, which often requires a letter of support from your school.

If you’re not sure about access to source materials, talk to a librarian! They’re professionals for this question.

Finally, pick a research topic that interests you! Given that there are unlimited research topics in the world and many ways to adapt a broad topic, there should absolutely be a way to modify a research topic to fit your interests.

Want help learning to write an amazing research paper? Work one-on-one with an experienced Ivy-League tutor to improve your writing skills or sign up for our bestselling academic writing workshop .

Insider tips to generate your own research paper topic

Use these formulas to generate your own research paper topics:

How did X change over a period of time (year, decade, century)?
What is the impact (or consequences) of X?
What led to X?
What is the role of X in Y?
How did X influence Y?
How did X become Y?
How was X different from Y?
How is X an example of Y?
How did X affect Y?
What were some reactions to X?
What are the most effective policies to produce X result?
What are some risks of X?
How is our current understanding of X incorrect? (advanced)
What happens if we look at X through the lens of Y theory or perspective? (advanced)

A good research paper topic often starts with the question words—why, how, what, who, and where. Remember to make it as specific as possible!

Good research paper topics

These research paper topics have been vetted by a Princeton grad and academic book editor!

How did European rivalries (British vs French) impact North American history?
What was the role of British and French alliances with indigneous tribes during the Seven Years’ War?
Reactions to the 1754 Albany Congress among North American intellectual figures
How the Albany Plan served as a model for future attempts at union among the North American colonies
How did different religious identities (Calvinist, Catholic, etc.) play a role in the aftermath of the Seven Years’ War?
What were the consequences of the 1763 Treaty of Paris?
How did the Seven Years’ War impact British debt and colonial economics?
What were some causes of the US Revolutionary War?
How did military strategy change during the Revolutionary War?
What were the experiences of Loyalists to England who remained in the American colonies during the Revolutionary War?
How was the Revolutionary War pivotal for the career of Alexander Hamilton?
What was the role of alliances with France during the US Revolutionary War?
What were the experiences of people of color during the Revolutionary War?
How did George Washington’s previous military career pave the way for his leadership in the Revolutionary War?
What were the main types of weaponry during the Revolutionary War? How did that affect the options for military strategies?
How did clothing and fashion change over the courses of the Revolutionary War?
How was Valley Forge a key moment in the Revolutionary War?
How did women contribute to the Revolutionary War?
What happened in Amherst, Massachusetts (or any other specific location) during the Revolutionary War?
What was field medicine like during the Revolutionary War?
How was the Battle of Saratoga a turning point in the Revolutionary War?
How were different opinions about the Revolutionary War reflected in poetry written during that time?
What were the debates over abolition during the Revolutionary War?
What was the role of supply chains during the Revolutionary War?
What were reactions to the US Revolutionary war like in Europe? What does that tell us about politics in England, France, the Netherlands, etc?
How did the US Revolutionary war impact political theory in England and France?
What are similarities and differences between the US Revolutionary War and the French Revolution?
What are some famous paintings inspired by the US Revolutionary War? What do differences between these paintings tell us about how the artists who created them saw the war?
What are some different ways that the US Revolutionary War has been depicted in modern contemporary culture? What does that tell us?
How was the story of the “Boston Tea Party” appropriated by US politicians in the 2010s, and why?
What was the difference between the Federalists and the Jeffersonians?
How did the 1797 XYZ Affair lead to the Quasi-War with France?
How were loans from European countries and companies (France, Spain, Dutch bankers) key to the early US?
What were reactions to the Constitutional Convention of 1787?
Why did the US remain neutral during the French Revolution?
How did the Alien and Sedition acts contribute to the election of Thomas Jefferson as president?
What was the US’s reaction to the Haitian revolution? Why did the US not recognize Haitian independence until 1862?
What were the reactions to John Jay’s Treaty of 1794?
How have the remarks made by George Washington in his Farewell Address inspired isolationist policies?
How did interpretations of the Monroe Doctrine change over the decades since its creation?
How did the Roosevelt Corollary and Lodge Corollary change and expand the Monroe Doctrine?
How did the presence of US companies like the United Fruit Company affect US military interventions in Latin America?
How was the Monroe Doctrine invoked in the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962?
How was US culture shaped by the Cold War?
How did ecology play a role in the rise of Ancient Egypt?
How did water management technologies impact Ancient Egypt?
How did bureaucracies function in Ancient Egypt?
How did Egyptian art influence Ancient Greek art?
Who could be a citizen in Athens in the 5th century BCE? What does this tell us about classical Athenian society?
What was the impact of the Peloponnesian War?
What was the impact of Alexander the Great’s attempt to create an empire?
How does the way that Alexander the Great is represented in art demonstrate conceptions about the relationship between the human and the divine?
Was there a conception of race in the ancient world? How were these ideas different from our own modern conceptions of race?
What was the role of debt slavery in the Roman republic? How were these policies ended, and what is the significance of the end of debt slavery? What kinds of slavery remained?
To what degree does the movie Gladiator accurately the Roman Empire in 176–192 CE?
What was the role of slavery in managing the large latifundia ?
How and why did the emperor Constantine I adopt Christianity?
How did patterns of urbanism in the latter Roman empire change? What does this tell us about challenges being faced at that time?
What do reactions to the Byzantine empress Theodora tell us about ideas of gender in 6th-century Byzantium?
How did scientific advancements in Islamic Spain influence the rest of Europe?
What was the relationship between Muslim, Christian, and Jewish populations in Islamic Spain? How does this compare to the experience of Muslim and Jewish populations in Christian Spain?
How did medieval troubadour poetry represent a new idea of romantic relationships?
What are similarities and differences between medieval troubadour poetry and lyric poetry in Ancient Greece?
What do letters between women and popes tell us about gender, power, and religion in medieval Europe?
In what ways was Hildegard of Bingen groundbreaking for her time?
Who produced beer in medieval England, and what does this tell us about society?
How did the adoption of hops affect the production and distribution of beer?
How did beer production allow some women a way to be financially independent?
How was clothing used to mark religious and cultural identities in 15th- and 16th-century Spain?
How did print culture change relationships and courting in Georgian England?
How did churches function as social gathering spaces in Georgian England?
To what degree is Netflix’s Bridgerton series historically accurate?
How did ideas of love change in the 18th century? How did philosophy play a role in this?
When were Valentine cards first commercially available? What does that show us about cultural ideas of love and courtship?
What were the consequences of the desertification of the Sahara?
How did trade links on the Red Sea influence Nubian culture?
How did Carthage build power in Northern Africa around 600–500 BCE?
What was the impact of the Mercenary War (241–238 BCE) in Carthage?
How did the Roman province of Africa play a key role in financing the Roman Empire?
What were the consequences of the Donatist division in the 300s in Northern Africa?
What was the impact of the large-scale movement of Bedouins from the Arabian peninsula into the Maghreb?
How was Mande society organized in the Mali Empire?
What was the role of the book trade in Timbuktu? What does this tell us about culture and learning in the Mali Empire?
How did Aksum use trade to build wealth and power?
What do Nok terracotta sculptures tell us about Nok culture?
How did the Luba Empire create a centralized political system? How did the idea of spiritual kins ( balopwe ) play a role in this system?
How did tax collection work in the Lunda empire?
What does it mean to say that the Ajuran Empire was a hydraulic empire? How did control over water resources allow the Ajuran Empire to build and consolidate power?
What is the significance of diplomatic ties between the Somai Ajuran Empire and Ming dynasty China?
How did the tribute system in the Kingdom of Kongo help to stimulate interregional trade?
What was the impact of the introduction of maize and cassava to the Kingdom of Kongo?
How did women wield influence in the Kingdom of Benin?
How did the Industrial Revolution in Europe help lead to the Scramble for Africa 1878–1898?
What were the consequences of the Second Boer War?
What happened in the Year of Africa (1960)?
How did the Han dynasty consolidate power in frontier regions?
How and why did the Han dynasty nationalize the private salt and iron industries in 117 BCE?
What are the earliest records of papermaking, and what is the significance of this invention?
What was the role of Daoist religious societies in rebellions at the end of the Han dynasty (Yellow Turban Rebellion, Five Pecks of Rice Rebellion)?
What do tomb paintings tell us about ancient Chinese society?
What was the impact of the Sui dynasty’s standardization and re-unification of the coinage?
What was the role of standardized testing in Sui dynasty and Tang dynasty China?
Why is the Tang dynasty often regarded as a golden age of cosmopolitan culture in Chinese history?
What was the role of slavery in imperial China?
How did the rise of jiedushi (regional military governments) undermine the civil-service system? What were the consequences of this?
How did Tang dynasty China exert power over Japan and Korea?
What was the Three Departments and Six Ministries system in imperial China and how did it work?
What does the appearance of Inca, Maya, and Aztec goods in North America (Utah, Canada) and the appearance of goods from the Great Lakes region in Maya and Aztec ruins tell us about trade in the Pre-Columbian Americas?
How did celebration of maize play a central role in Mesoamerican cultures?
How did the Aztec empire use relationships with client city-states to establish power? How did the Aztec empire use taxation to exert power?
How did the luxury good trade impact Aztec political power?
How did the building of roads play a key role in the Aztec empire?
How and why has archaeology played a pivotal role in expanding our understanding of the pre-Columbian Americas?
What are some common misconceptions about the Americas in the year 1491? Why do these misconceptions exist?

Latin American History (post-1492)

How and why did the Spanish appropriate Aztec sites of significance (e.g. Mexico City at the site of Tenochtitlan)?
What were reactions among Latin American intellectuals (e.g. Luis María Drago, Alejandro Álvarez and Baltasar Brum) to the Monroe Doctrine?
How was the US’s involvement in the Venezuela Crisis of 1902–1903 a pivotal turning point in the relationship between the US and Latin American countries?
What were the effects of the US’s involvement in the Cuban War for Independence?
How did the Roosevelt Corollary of 1904 benefit the US?
How did Simon Bolivar’s time in Europe affect his ideas about Latin American independence?
How did 19th century academic societies play a role in the advancement of scientific discoveries? Who was excluded from these societies?
How was music connected to the sciences in medieval thinking?
When was the concept of zero first used, and how was it instrumental for advancements in math?
What role did Islamic Spain play in the spread of scientific advancements in medieval Europe?
What role has translation between languages played in the development of sciences?
Why were Galileo’s ideas about astronomy controversial at the time?
What was the connection between art and advancements in human anatomy?
Why were Darwin’s ideas about natural selection controversial at the time?
To what degree does the film Master and Commander accurately depict the voyages of Charles Darwin?
How did the discovery of quinine and other medical innovations help to facilitate the European colonization of Africa?
How and why was the internet invented?
Does Virgil’s Aeneid celebrate the new Roman Empire or subvert it?
Why was the poet Ovid exiled from Rome?
What are the pagan influences in Beowulf ? What are the Christian elements in Beowulf ? What does that tell us about late Anglo-Saxon England?
How does Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales reflect gender roles in late medieval England?
How does Dante’s Inferno draw on book IV of Virgil’s Aeneid ?
How are gender roles presented and subverted in Shakespeare’s plays?
To what degree did Henry David Thoreau live out the ideals he described in Walden in his own life?
How did the serialized publication of novels affect the way that they were written?
Does Dickens’ novel A Tale of Two Cities accurately portray the French Revolution?
How did 18th-century novels propagate the idea of marrying for love?
What did contemporary readers think about Jane Austen and her novels?
To what degree do Jane Austen’s novels reflect economic realities for women in Regency England? What do they leave out?
How did Lord Byron’s personal life affect his poetry?
What do we know about the romantic life of Emily Dickinson?
What were the religious movements that influenced the writer George Eliot, and how do those influences appear in her novels?
In what ways were Walt Whitman’s writings new or different?
How did British poets react to the horrors of Word War I?
What do Tolkien’s letters reveal about the ways in which the two world wars influenced his writings?
How did the friendship between CS Lewis and Tolkien affect their respective writings?
What are the arguments for and against Catalonian independence from Spain?
What are the arguments for and against Scottish independence from the United Kingdom?
What are some risks of contact sports, especially for children?
What are the most effective policies for combating childhood obesity?
What are the most effective policies for reducing gun violence?
Which countries have the longest life expectancy and why?
What are some differences between the healthcare system in the US and in European countries? Which country has the most similar system to the US?
What policies for parental leave exist in different countries? What are some effects of these policies?
Has the drinking age in the US always been 21? What have been some different policies, and what were some consequences of them?
What is the debate around museum artifacts like the Elgin Marbles in London or the Benin Bronzes in Berlin?
How have politicians attempted to control population growth in different countries, either directly or indirectly? What have been some effects of these policies?
Which countries have the most gender parity reflected in national governments? How have they accomplished this?
How has public funding of K-12 education changed since the 1930s in the US?
How has public funding of higher education changed in the US?
What is early childhood education like in different countries?
What are some effects of free or reduced-cost meals in schools?
How does access to menstrual products affect education outcomes for girls in different countries?
What was the impact of Rousseau’s writings on education?
How did Plato’s ideal forms of government reflect contemporary Athenian concerns about the unruly masses ( demos )?
How did Aristotle justify slavery?
How has wealth inequality increased in recent decades?
How is inflation calculated, and what are the implications of this methodology?
How have genetically-engineered crops changed the way that the planet feeds itself?
How has animal testing changed since 2000?
How is animal testing regulated differently in different countries?

Health Sciences and Psychology

How do different societies reflect the natural circadian rhythms of the human body?
How does secondhand smoke affect the human body?
How does lack of sleep affect the body?
How does stress affect the body?
What are some ways to reduce stress?
How have cancer treatments changed in the past 30 years?
Why is it hard to find a “cure” for cancer?
How has the Human Genome Project changed medical science?
How were the Covid vaccines developed so quickly? What is the difference between the various Covid vaccines that have been developed?

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Research Paper Topics

Choose your Topic Smart

What starts well, ends well, so you need to be really careful with research paper topics. The topic of a research paper defines the whole piece of writing. How often have you chosen the book by its title? First impression is often influential, so make sure your topic will attract the reader instantly. By choosing your topic smart, the half of your job is done. That is why we have singled out several secrets on how to pick the best topic for you.

Browse Research Paper Topics by Category:

Anthropology
Argumentative
Communication
Criminal Justice
Environmental
Political Science

What is the Key to a Perfect Topic for a Research Paper?

The key to a perfect topic includes three main secrets: interest, precision, and innovation.

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It is impossible to do something great if you have no interest in what you are doing. For this reason, make sure you choose the topic that drives you. If you are bored by what you investigate, do not expect that your paper will be exciting. Right now, spend some minutes or even hours thinking about what interests you. Jot down all your preferences in life, science, politics, social issues etc. It will help you get the idea what you can write about.

After realizing what drives you, narrow this general idea to a more specific one. A research paper is not about beating around the bush. You will need clear facts and data. You will have to provide evidence to your ideas. You will need to be precise, specific and convincing.

Finally, the idea of any research is that it should be surprising and distinctive. Think what makes your perspective and approach special. What is the novelty of your research?

Use Technology

If you are still stuck, use technology. Today we have an opportunity to make our lives easier with a bit of technology used. You can find paper topic generators online. This software will examine the category you want to investigate and the keywords from your research. Within several seconds, this program generates paper topics, so you can try it yourself. It can help you get started with your assignment.

100% Effective Advice

We will now give you advice that is 100% effective when picking the topic. Firstly, forget about what others may think about your topic. This is your topic and this is your perception of the world. Stay personal and let your personal style get you the top grades. Secondly, never decide on the topic before analyzing the background for your research. By this we mean, investigate the topic before you start the research proper. It happens quite often that students choose the topic and later they realize there is no data or information to use. That is why conduct some research beforehand. Thirdly, read other researchers’ papers on the topic you want to write about. It will help you get the idea of the investigation. Moreover, it will help you understand whether you truly want to write a paper on this topic. Finally, when you have picked the topic, started your research, make sure you dedicate your time and energy. If you want to get high results, you need to study every little details of your research.

Examine Different Ideas

People often come up with genius ideas after analyzing thousands of other people’s ideas. This is how our brain works. That is why you can analyze other people’s ideas for research paper topics and think up your own. If you have never written any paper of that kind, it will help you understand the gist of this assignment, the style and the requirements. By comparing different topics, you can motivate yourself and get inspired with these ideas. Luckily, you have come to the right place. Here is our list of top 100 research paper topics.

What Makes a Good Topic for a Research Paper?

A good research paper topic is the one that is successful and manageable in your particular case. A successful research paper poses an interesting question you can actually answer. Just as important, it poses a question you can answer within the time available. The question should be one that interests you and deserves exploration. It might be an empirical question or a theoretical puzzle. In some fields, it might be a practical problem or policy issue. Whatever the question is, you need to mark off its boundaries clearly and intelligently so you can complete the research paper and not get lost in the woods. That means your topic should be manageable as well as interesting and important.

A topic is manageable if you can:

Master the relevant literature
Collect and analyze the necessary data
Answer the key questions you have posed
Do it all within the time available, with the skills you have

A topic is important if it:

Touches directly on major theoretical issues and debates, or
Addresses substantive topics of great interest in your field

Ideally, your topic can do both, engaging theoretical and substantive issues. In elementary education, for example, parents, teachers, scholars, and public officials all debate the effectiveness of charter schools, the impact of vouchers, and the value of different reading programs. A research paper on any of these would resonate within the university and well beyond it. Still, as you approach such topics, you need to limit the scope of your investigation so you can finish your research and writing on time. After all, to be a good research paper, it first has to be a completed one. A successful research paper poses an interesting question you can actually answer within the time available for the project. Some problems are simply too grand, too sweeping to master within the time limits. Some are too minor to interest you or anybody else.

The solution, however, is not to find a lukewarm bowl of porridge, a bland compromise. Nor is it to abandon your interest in larger, more profound issues such as the relationship between school organization and educational achievement or between immigration and poverty. Rather, the solution is to select a well-defined topic that is closely linked to some larger issue and then explore that link. Your research paper will succeed if you nail a well-defined topic. It will rise to excellence if you probe that topic deeply and show how it illuminates wider issues.The best theses deal with important issues, framed in manageable ways. The goal is to select a well-defined topic that is closely linked to some larger issue and can illuminate it.

You can begin your project with either a large issue or a narrowly defined topic, depending on your interests and the ideas you have generated. Whichever way you start, the goals are the same: to connect the two in meaningful ways and to explore your specific topic in depth.

Of course, the choice of a particular research paper topic depends on the course you’re taking. Our site can offer you the following research paper topics and example research papers:

Moving from a Research Paper Idea to a Research Paper Topic

Let’s begin as most students actually do, by going from a “big issue” to a more manageable research paper topic. Suppose you start with a big question such as, “Why has the United States fought so many wars since 1945?” That’s certainly a big, important question. Unfortunately, it’s too complex and sprawling to cover well in a research paper. Working with your professor or instructor, you could zero in on a related but feasible research topic, such as “Why did the Johnson administration choose to escalate the U.S. war in Vietnam?” By choosing this topic, your research paper can focus on a specific war and, within that, on a few crucial years in the mid-1960s.

You can draw on major works covering all aspects of the Vietnam War and the Johnson administration’s decision making. You have access to policy memos that were once stamped top secret. These primary documents have now been declassified, published by the State Department, and made available to research libraries. Many are readily available on the Web. You can also take advantage of top-quality secondary sources (that is, books and articles based on primary documents, interviews, and other research data).

Drawing on these primary and secondary sources, you can uncover and critique the reasons behind U.S. military escalation. As you answer this well-defined question about Vietnam, you can (and you should) return to the larger themes that interest you, namely, “What does the escalation in Southeast Asia tell us about the global projection of U.S. military power since 1945?” As one of America’s largest military engagements since World War II, the war in Vietnam should tell us a great deal about the more general question.

The goal here is to pick a good case to study, one that is compelling in its own right and speaks to the larger issue. It need not be a typical example, but it does need to illuminate the larger question. Some cases are better than others precisely because they illuminate larger issues. That’s why choosing the best cases makes such a difference in your research paper.

Since you are interested in why the United States has fought so often since 1945, you probably shouldn’t focus on U.S. invasions of Grenada, Haiti, or Panama in the past two decades. Why? Because the United States has launched numerous military actions against small, weak states in the Caribbean for more than a century. That is important in its own right, but it doesn’t say much about what has changed so dramatically since 1945. The real change since 1945 is the projection of U.S. power far beyond the Western Hemisphere, to Europe and Asia. You cannot explain this change—or any change, for that matter—by looking at something that remains constant.

In this case, to analyze the larger pattern of U.S. war fighting and the shift it represents, you need to pick examples of distant conflicts, such as Korea, Vietnam, Kosovo, Afghanistan, or Iraq. That’s the noteworthy change since 1945: U.S. military intervention outside the Western Hemisphere. The United States has fought frequently in such areas since World War II but rarely before then. Alternatively, you could use statistics covering many cases of U.S. intervention around the world, perhaps supplemented with some telling cases studies.

Students in the humanities want to explore their own big ideas, and they, too, need to focus their research. In English literature, their big issue might be “masculinity” or, to narrow the range a bit, “masculinity in Jewish American literature.” Important as these issues are, they are too vast for anyone to read all the major novels plus all the relevant criticism and then frame a comprehensive research paper.

If you don’t narrow these sprawling topics and focus your work, you can only skim the surface. Skimming the surface is not what you want to do in a research paper. You want to understand your subject in depth and convey that understanding to your readers.

That does not mean you have to abandon your interest in major themes. It means you have to restrict their scope in sensible ways. To do that, you need to think about which aspects of masculinity really interest you and then find works that deal with them.

You may realize your central concern is how masculinity is defined in response to strong women. That focus would still leave you considerable flexibility, depending on your academic background and what you love to read. That might be anything from a reconsideration of Macbeth to an analysis of early twentieth-century American novels, where men must cope with women in assertive new roles. Perhaps you are interested in another aspect of masculinity: the different ways it is defined within the same culture at the same moment. That would lead you to novelists who explore these differences in their characters, perhaps contrasting men who come from different backgrounds, work in different jobs, or simply differ emotionally. Again, you would have considerable flexibility in choosing specific writers.

Connecting a Specific Research Paper Topic to a Bigger Idea

Not all students begin their research paper concerned with big issues such as masculinity or American wars over the past half century. Some start with very specific topics in mind. One example might be the decision to create NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement encompassing Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Perhaps you are interested in NAFTA because you discussed it in a course, heard about it in a political campaign, or saw its effects firsthand on local workers, companies, and consumers. It intrigues you, and you would like to study it in a research paper. The challenge is to go from this clear-cut subject to a larger theme that will frame your paper.

Why do you even need to figure out a larger theme? Because NAFTA bears on several major topics, and you cannot explore all of them. Your challenge—and your opportunity—is to figure out which one captures your imagination.

One way to think about that is to finish this sentence: “For me, NAFTA is a case of ___________.” If you are mainly interested in negotiations between big and small countries, then your answer is, “For me, NAFTA is a case of a large country like the United States bargaining with a smaller neighbor.” Your answer would be different if you are mainly interested in decision making within the United States, Mexico, or Canada. In that case, you might say, “NAFTA seems to be a case where a strong U.S. president pushed a trade policy through Congress.” Perhaps you are more concerned with the role played by business lobbies. “For me, NAFTA is a case of undue corporate influence over foreign economic policy.” Or you could be interested in the role of trade unions, environmental groups, or public opinion.

The NAFTA decision is related to all these big issues and more. You cannot cover them all. There is not enough time, and even if there were, the resulting paper would be too diffuse, too scattershot. To make an impact, throw a rock, not a handful of pebbles.

Choosing one of these large issues will shape your research paper on NAFTA. If you are interested in U.S. decision making, for example, you might study the lobbying process or perhaps the differences between Democrats and Republicans. If you are interested in diplomacy, you would focus on negotiations between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Either would make an interesting research paper, but they are different topics.

Although the subject matter and analysis are decidedly different in the humanities, many of the same considerations still apply to topic selection. In English or comparative literature, for example, you may be attracted to a very specific topic such as several poems by William Wordsworth. You are not trying, as a social scientist would, to test some generalizations that apply across time or space. Rather, you want to analyze these specific poems, uncover their multiple meanings, trace their allusions, and understand their form and beauty.

As part of the research paper, however, you may wish to say something bigger, something that goes beyond these particular poems. That might be about Wordsworth’s larger body of work. Are these poems representative or unusual? Do they break with his previous work or anticipate work yet to come? You may wish to comment on Wordsworth’s close ties to his fellow “Lake Poets,” Coleridge and Southey, underscoring some similarities in their work. Do they use language in shared ways? Do they use similar metaphors or explore similar themes? You may even wish to show how these particular poems are properly understood as part of the wider Romantic movement in literature and the arts. Any of these would connect the specific poems to larger themes.

How to Refine Your Research Paper Topic

One of your professor’s or instructor’s most valuable contributions to the success of your research paper is to help you refine your topic. She can help you select the best cases for detailed study or the best data and statistical techniques. S/he can help you find cases that shed light on larger questions, have good data available, and are discussed in a rich secondary literature. She may know valuable troves of documents to explore. That’s why it is so important to bring these issues up in early meetings. These discussions with your instructor are crucial in moving from a big but ill-defined idea to a smart, feasible topic.Some colleges supplement this advising process by offering special workshops and tutorial support for students. These are great resources, and you should take full advantage of them. They can improve your project in at least two ways.

First, tutors and workshop leaders are usually quite adept at helping you focus and shape your topic. That’s what they do best. Even if they are relatively new teachers, they have been writing research papers themselves for many years. They know how to do it well and how to avoid common mistakes. To craft their own papers, they have learned how to narrow their topics, gather data, interpret sources, and evaluate conjectures. They know how to use appropriate methods and how to mine the academic literature. In all these ways, they can assist you with their own hard-won experience. To avoid any confusion, just make sure your instructor knows what advice you are getting from workshop leaders and tutors. You want everyone to be pulling in the same direction.

Second, you will benefit enormously from batting around your research paper in workshops. The more you speak about your subject, the better you will understand it yourself. The better you understand it, the clearer your research and writing will be. You will learn about your project as you present your ideas; you will learn more as you listen to others discuss your work; and you will learn still more as you respond to their suggestions. Although you should do that in sessions with your instructor, you will also profit from doing it in workshops and tutorial sessions.

Secrets to Keep in Mind when Writing a Research Paper

As a bonus, we have prepared several secrets for you to make your paper perfect. Firstly, always write your paper from scratch. Do not copy the already existing materials, as it can lead to unsatisfactory mark or even expulsion. Secondly, start your research early; do not put off investigating the topic. The earlier you start, the easier it will be to meet the deadline. Thirdly, plan your work and create an outline for your task. A planned work will help you be systematic. Plus, it will help you avoid writer’s block, as you always have an outline to follow. Another secret is following all the requirements. A research paper is an academic assignment, so all these structural and formatting standards are important. Finally, make sure you proofread and edit your task. Check your paper for grammar and spelling mistakes, examine your choice of vocabulary. If it seems too much, you can always ask our professional editors and they will check the paper for you. A mistakes-free paper is essential to get high results.

Custom Research Paper Writing Service

If you still have concerns regarding your research paper, we are here to answer your questions. It is no secret that studying is becoming more and more difficult at college. Every week you have an overload of tasks and assignments. You work hard, sleep little. As a result, you can be at the edge of a nervous breakdown trying to finish all the tasks on time. That is why we are here helping thousands of students to study smart.

24/7 you can contact us and order your paper. We never miss the deadline and always provide our clients with a top-notch quality. When you feel that you cannot handle it on your own, a bit of assistance will do no harm. All our writers are experts with years of experience. They are aware of all the subtleties of academic writing and they know all the recent college requirements. You can turn to us for help any time and we will get down to work immediately. From choosing the topic to writing the whole paper – this is what we have to offer. Getting top grades is much easier when the real professionals help you.

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Examples of Research Paper Topics in Different Study Areas

Posted by Rene Tetzner | Sep 19, 2021 | How To Get Published | 0 |

72 Examples of Research Paper Topics in 18 Different Study Areas The examples of research paper topics listed in this post range across disciplines and fields of study to help a wide range of academics, scientists and students choose and develop topics with true research potential that will prove engaging not only for those authors, but also for their readers. A topic of particular personal interest & relevance to the researcher & his or her life tends to make the research and writing processes more exciting and enjoyable. It can also be helpful to know a little about a topic in advance, but prior knowledge is never as important as a true passion for a topic.

The topic chosen for a research paper must be appropriate for the field of study and observe any specific guidelines or requirements associated with the intended paper. The editor of a literary journal, for instance, or the instructor of a literature course will want a paper exploring some aspect of literature, usually the literature of a particular period, genre, style or author, and the same kind of focus will also be required in other research areas. The length and scope of the paper as well as the time available to complete the research and writing should certainly be considered when choosing a topic, and it is always wise to preview recently published sources on a topic to determine how the topic has been treated in scholarship and whether there is enough material to enable the new research. Topics that are of concern to both specialists and more general readers tend to be particularly successful, so I have aimed for topics of this kind in the list below. Areas of interest appear in alphabetical order, and helpful tips are offered amidst the example topics.

ANIMALS & ANIMAL RIGHTS 1. Consider animal testing in relation to animal rights. Do the benefits of animal testing outweigh the suffering of laboratory animals or not? This topic could be wide and general or very closely focussed on one kind of animal or the testing that takes place in a single laboratory. 2. Should animals be used by humans as food? This could include a study of slaughterhouses and processing facilities and perhaps an argument for or against a vegetarian or vegan diet. 3. There should (or should not) be greater penalties for cruelty to animals. Specific instances and their legal ramifications could be described and discussed as meaningful case studies. 4. Is it right to use animals in sports and entertainment? Animals that become hunting trophies, captive cetaceans entertaining tourists, rodeo horses, circus elephants, animals in film, etc. – the possibilities for discussion are virtually endless. Tip: Always be sure to support whatever argument you pursue with convincing evidence acquired through sound research methods. Opinions and feelings may play a part in choosing a research topic and formulating ideas, but they are not enough on their own, no matter how strong or fashionable they may be.

ART & ART HISTORY 1. Art is (or is not) a vital aspect of a primary (or secondary) school education and should (or should not) be included in the curriculum. Discuss. Tip: Since most authors of research papers are well educated, this is the type of topic that could easily include evidence derived from the researcher’s own experiences, whether positive or negative. 2. The importance (or perhaps role) of illustrations in children’s books. A selection of different examples to compare and contrast or a close focus on a particular book, series or author would prove effective. Alternatively, the use of art in books written for adults could be considered. 3. Discuss a work of art in relation to a poem or story, a piece of music, a remarkable building or some other product of human creativity. This topic encourages an interdisciplinary approach that can be particularly interesting, but careful thought should be given to choosing the pieces for comparison. 4. Art history courses often define and describe art periods, styles, schools and the like, so exploring the characteristics, development or impact of any of those or of a particular artist makes a good topic. If specialised terminology is required for this topic, it should be carefully explained and used both accurately and consistently.

COMPUTERS & COMPUTER SCIENCE 1. Mac versus PC: which computer is better and why? Opinions tend to be strong and in many cases uninformed on this issue, which can be an important point for discussion, but it is essential in a research paper to investigate and discuss the facts about the two types of computer. 2. Do spell checkers, grammar checkers and autocorrect functions strengthen or weaken the writing skills of computer users? Consider more than one of these tools in the investigation. 3. Identify the next great development in computer science and discuss why you think it will be so very important. 4. What role or roles do you think artificial intelligence is now playing and/or will in the future play in human evolution?

ECONOMICS & BUSINESS STUDIES 1. Is the wealth of the world distributed equally among its people? What could be done to promote greater equality? 2. Consider the consequences of some aspect of salaries or pay that is currently in the news, such as early-career professionals working for free, promotions given without raises or unacceptably low minimum wages. 3. In what ways and to what degree do social media and networking sites function as instruments for business promotion? 4. Are large corporations able to break the law and get away with it in ways that small businesses and individuals cannot? Why or why not? Tip: Topic 4 here is the type of topic for which there may be far more opinions than actual facts available, so it is important to be especially careful about the quality of evidence used to support an argument.

EDUCATION & SCHOOLS 1. Explore the benefits and drawbacks of a ‘no child left behind’ educational policy. 2. Bullying occurs in the schools of many countries. How serious do you think the problem is in your area, and what, if anything, could be done to improve the situation? 3. Plagiarism is on the rise in modern universities, yet many accused students appear not to understand their error. Explore the concept of plagiarism in the twenty-first century and discuss its consequences. 4. Does religion have a valid place in public schools? If so, what might its role be? If not, why not?

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1. Compare and contrast two different literary texts or the writing of two different authors. Consider a number of aspects such as genre, style, character development, metaphor, imagery and word play in examining and discussing the texts. Tip: Comparing and contrasting two or more things, events or problems in a research paper can be a useful approach for initiating and focussing an investigation. The secret to success is to choose the items for comparison with care and to narrow the topic as much as necessary for the intended paper. 2. Discuss the role, suppression and/or rediscovery of pre-twentieth-century women authors in the English literary canon as it is usually taught in schools. 3. Investigate and discuss the sophisticated use of irony to establish character and communicate potentially unwelcome concepts to readers in the writing of a major author such as Chaucer, Shakespeare or Dickens. 4. Does quality literature have a positive effect on society? Does it make readers wiser, more perceptive, more empathetic or perhaps better writers? Views can be supported with both personal and research-based evidence.

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES & GLOBAL WARMING 1. Is global warming a reality or a hoax? If it really is happening, what are the primary causes? Can humanity make a difference? 2. Oil and mineral exploration has recently taken place in and very close to wildlife reserves and national parks. Consider whether this should be allowed or not. 3. Investigate power sources in your region or country. Are they environmentally sound? What sources of alternate energy might be especially well suited to the area and why? 4. Learn all you can about an endangered wildlife species or group in your locality. Consider the current state of the animals, the reasons why they have become endangered and the actions that have been used and could be used to increase their chances of survival. Tip: A great deal of propaganda is generated around certain issues of current concern, and environmental matters are certainly among them. It is therefore imperative to look for the signs of authoritative scientific reporting as you conduct your research and to be both specific and precise in discussing subjects and events.

FAMILIES, FOOD & NUTRITION 1. Explore the relationship between nutrition and family health. This topic could easily be narrowed to focus, for instance, on breastfeeding and baby health or perhaps the health and social benefits of a family sitting down together over a home-cooked meal. 2. How have fast-food restaurants affected family nutrition and health? Should the menus of such restaurants be regulated? 3. Investigate local family farms and food producers in your area to determine how much of your diet could be acquired from these sources. What would be missing? Would an attempt to purchase as much of your food from local sources as possible result in changes to your diet? 4. Should parents be able to spank their children? Why or why not?

HEALTH & MEDICINE 1. Explore one of the health problems that currently pose particular challenges for humanity and are under intense investigation in the published scholarship: depression, Alzheimer’s, cancer, AIDS and autism are good examples. Consider how the condition affects individuals and society and what might be done to alleviate suffering and cost. 2. Study a group of teenagers under treatment for depression to discover common predictors of the disease and suggest how this information could help in the prevention of teenage depression. Tip: As the first two topics here indicate, when writing a research paper about human health an author should usually dedicate part of the discussion to improving the lives of the people under investigation. 3. Do the benefits of vaccinating children outweigh the risks? Consider different types of vaccinations, the frequency and nature of complications, and the risks to society. 4. Should healthcare and medication be available free of charge to all people? Why or why not?

HISTORY 1. Investigate and discuss the importance of a major historical event, such as the first moon landing or the assassination of J.F. Kennedy, of some decisive battle or war, such as the Battle of Hastings or the American Civil War, or of some revolutionary document, such as Magna Carta or the Declaration of Independence. Why was it so very important? 2. Did Columbus really ‘discover’ America first? Consider other voyagers – the Vikings and Chinese, for instance – as well as native populations. 3. Explore the role and importance of salt in world history. This topic could be productively narrowed to focus on a particular region or period. 4. Learn about a historical individual, family or group through their books. The extensive devotional library of a twelfth-century monastery, the single anthology of romances owned by a fifteenth-century merchant family or the esoteric book collection cherished by a renaissance scholar could be considered in terms of content and examined for reader responses. The possibilities are endless as long as the books can be firmly connected with their historical readers.

THE INTERNET 1. Has the internet affected the ways in which academic and scientific research is published and made available to readers? Consider factors such as open access, publisher paywalls, article retractions and scholarly blogs. 2. Does frequent use of the internet enhance or undermine a child’s health, development, education and/or social skills? Consider what children are doing online as well as what they might be doing were they not online. 3. How big an issue is online security or cyber security as far as you are concerned? What makes you feel safe and secure about your online activities? What might make you feel safer? 4. Examine one or more of the major problems associated with the internet such as child pornography, erroneous information or copyright infringement. Are there effective ways to prevent or eliminate such problems?

LAW 1. Look into the incarceration rates in your country. Are they higher or lower than the rates in other countries? Can you detect a reason for any significant differences? Do you think incarceration is an effective solution for managing crime and promoting the rehabilitation of criminals? 2. Gun control has been an issue of hot debate in recent years. Consider a variety of perspectives as you argue your view of the matter. 3. Should people be legally able to take their own lives when they are suffering from a debilitating terminal disease? Discuss. 4. Despite negative publicity and dire consequences, drivers continue to text while operating vehicles. Why do you think this happens and what would be the most effective way to prevent the problem?

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS 1. Marketing invades nearly every aspect of modern life. Based on your own experience and that of friends and family, do you think the impact of these impersonal communications is predominantly positive or negative? 2. What kind of regulations or limitations apply to marketing products to children in your country or region? Are they appropriate, inadequate or excessive? 3. Discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing customer services. Comparing the views of customers with that of businesses will no doubt prove enlightening. 4. Has all the communicating we do via text messaging, email, social media, blog sites and professional online platforms improved our ability to communicate in person? Be sure to share your reasoning and support your viewpoint.

POLITICS 1. Investigate and discuss the unique nature of the Trump presidency and its implications both within the United States and beyond. Tip: For many research paper topics, including the one above, it is essential to recognise your own national and political perspective (Republican American, Liberal Canadian, etc.), to achieve some level of objectivity and to support your argument with research-based evidence. 2. Examine the conditions and forces associated with the rise of Nazi Germany. Was WWII inevitable? The focus of this topic could be shifted to any major war, such as WWI, the Battle of Hastings or the American Civil War. Discussion of a war’s aftermath can be of interest as well. 3. An enormous amount of money is spent on political advertising during election campaigns, which usually leaves neighbourhoods cluttered with flyers and posters. Is this a legitimate expense? Should parties be responsible for cleaning up the litter after a campaign? 4. Choose a significant political scandal or event that has recently occurred in your country or region and discuss how it began or occurred, how news of it was spread and how it affected individuals and society in the area.

RELIGION & BELIEFS 1. Are dreams meaningful or simply games of the sleeping mind? Research a variety of perspectives on the matter and consider the possible functions and causes of dreams such as prophecy, therapy, eating before bed or falling asleep in an anxious or troubled state. 2. Why are religious cults so appealing and powerful? Consider individual cases in your discussion. 3. Does the regular attendance of citizens at formal religious services have an impact on crime in a region? This topic could be narrowed by choosing a specific type of crime or focussing on children, teenagers or families. 4. Education rather than indoctrination is an ideal for the role of religion in schools. How might this ideal be achieved? Tip: When discussing religion and beliefs, be sure to avoid unsubstantiated value judgements. Instead, base your interpretations firmly on the evidence gleaned from sound research practices.

SOCIOLOGY & SOCIAL CONCERNS 1. Should parents be allowed to engineer designer babies? Different situations and reasons for genetic manipulation should be considered along with a variety of perspectives on the matter. 2. The successful settlement of immigrants in a new country often depends upon the social services immediately available to them. What sort of financial, medical and educational assistance does your country provide for immigrants and refugees when they arrive? Should more or less be provided? 3. Terrorism creates a fear culture that can become a society’s own unintentional terrorist. Explore and discuss how this is true or false of the effects of terrorism in the twenty-first century. 4. Discuss gay rights in relation to your own community. Consider whether gay marriage is permitted, whether gay couples can adopt children, whether gay individuals are welcome at religious services and social events, whether gay pride is publicly displayed and other telltale signs. Could the situation be better?

TECHNOLOGY & INDUSTRIALISATION 1. How did the steel sword, the long bow, gunpowder, airplanes, biological warfare or the atomic bomb change the nature of warfare forever? The focus could be on one of these technological developments or two or more could be compared in a single paper. 2. Investigate how home computers, tablets and smart phones have changed human beings, their behaviours and their culture. Be sure to consult published scholarship on the topic as well as your own experience. Tip: The first of the topics above focuses on historical impacts, whereas the second investigates a current impact, but both should be approached in a research paper context with an equally formal and objective perspective. 3. Railroads and trains have been identified as primary forces in the exploitation, settlement and industrialisation of countries and continents. How is this true or not of your homeland? 4. How has the use of fossil fuels shaped the modern world? This topic could be narrowed to focus on a particular or local area or on one major effect of the predominance of fossil fuels, such as pollution from oil spills or the slow development of alternate energy sources.

WOMEN’S STUDIES 1. Many young women suffer from anorexia and bulimia. Learn all you can about these eating disorders, their causes and their symptoms. How significant is the impact and what might improve the situation? 2. Investigate a major event or development in women’s history, such as the suffrage movement, the admission of women to institutes of higher education, the Salem witch trials or the legalisation of birth control or abortion. What were the immediate and lasting implications of the event or development? 3. Women still tend to earn less money than men for performing the same jobs and duties. Consider specific examples as you discuss why this is the case and suggest how the problem might be realistically remedied. 4. Do beauty contests empower or objectify women? This topic might be shifted to focus instead on female strippers, nude centrefolds or the women who act in pornographic films.

Tip: When writing about research of the kind outlined in the last topic here, do remember to be tactful and professional when presenting evidence. The point is to persuade, not offend your readers.

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Summary This post provides seventy-two examples of engaging research paper topics arranged in eighteen different study areas

Examples of Research Paper Topics

About the author.

Rene Tetzner

Rene Tetzner's blog posts dedicated to academic and scientific writing and publishing. Although the focus is on publishing research papers in peer-reviewed journals, many other important aspects of research-based writing, editing and publishing are addressed in helpful detail.

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101 research paper topics.

Why do we sleep ?
How do GPS systems work?
Who was the first person to reach the North Pole ?
Did anybody ever escape Alcatraz ?
What was life like for a gladiator ?
What are the effects of prolonged steroid use on the human body?
What happened during the Salem witch trials ?
Are there any effective means of repelling insects ?
How did trains and railroads change life in America?
What may have occurred during the Roswell UFO incident of 1947?
How is bulletproof clothing made?
What Olympic events were practiced in ancient Greece?
What are the major theories explaining the disappearance of the dinosaurs ?
How was the skateboard invented and how has it changed over the years?
How did the long bow contribute to English military dominance?
What caused the stock market crash of 2008?
How did Cleopatra come to power in Egypt what did she do during her reign?
How has airport security intensified since September 11 th , 2001?
What is life like inside of a beehive ?
Where did hip hop originate and who were its founders?
What makes the platypus a unique and interesting mammal?
How does tobacco use affect the human body?
How do computer viruses spread and in what ways do they affect computers?
What is daily life like for a Buddhist monk ?
What are the origins of the conflict in Darfur ?
How did gunpowder change warfare?
In what ways do Wal-Mart stores affect local economies?
How were cats and dogs domesticated and for what purposes?
What do historians know about ninjas ?
How has the music industry been affected by the internet and digital downloading?
What were the circumstances surrounding the death of Osama Bin Laden ?
What was the women’s suffrage movement and how did it change America?
What efforts are being taken to protect endangered wildlife ?
How much does the war on drugs cost Americans each year?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
Are humans still evolving ?
What technologies are available to home owners to help them conserve energy ?
How have oil spills affected the planet and what steps are being taken to prevent them?
What was the Magna Carta and how did it change England?
What is the curse of the pharaohs?
Why was Socrates executed?
What nonlethal weapons are used by police to subdue rioters?
How does the prison population in America compare to other nations?
How did ancient sailors navigate the globe?
Can gamblers ever acquire a statistical advantage over the house in casino games?
What is alchemy and how has it been attempted?
How are black holes formed?
How was the assassination of Abraham Lincoln plotted and executed?
Do the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks?
How do submarines work?
Do lie detector tests accurately determine truthful statements?
How did Cold War tension affect the US and the world?
What happened to the lost settlers at Roanoke ?
How does a hybrid car save energy?
What ingredients can be found inside of a hotdog ?
How did Julius Caesar affect Rome?
What are some common sleep disorders and how are they treated?
How did the Freedom Riders change society?
How is internet censorship used in China and around the world?
What was the code of the Bushido and how did it affect samurai warriors ?
What are the risks of artificial tanning or prolonged exposure to the sun?
What programs are available to help war veterans get back into society?
What steps are involved in creating a movie or television show?
How have the film and music industries dealt with piracy ?
How did Joan of Arc change history?
What responsibilities do secret service agents have?
How does a shark hunt?
What dangers and hardships did Lewis and Clark face when exploring the Midwest?
Has the Patriot Act prevented or stopped terrorist acts in America?
Do states that allow citizens to carry guns have higher or lower crime rates?
How are the Great Depression and the Great Recession similar and different?
What are the dangers of scuba diving and underwater exploration?
How does the human brain store and retrieve memories ?
What was the Manhattan Project and what impact did it have on the world?
How does stealth technology shield aircraft from radar?
What causes tornadoes ?
Why did Martin Luther protest against the Catholic Church?
How does a search engine work?
What are the current capabilities and future goals of genetic engineers ?
How did the Roman Empire fall?
What obstacles faced scientists in breaking the sound barrier ?
How did the black plague affect Europe?
What happened to Amelia Earhart ?
What are the dangers and hazards of using nuclear power ?
How did Genghis Khan conquer Persia?
What architectural marvels were found in Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire ?
From where does spam email come and can we stop it?
How does night vision work?
How did journalists influence US war efforts in Vietnam ?
What are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana ?
What causes desert mirages and how do they affect wanderers?
What was the cultural significance of the first moon landing ?
What are sinkholes and how are they formed?
Have any psychics ever solved crimes or prevented them from occurring?
Who is Vlad the Impaler and what is his connection to Count Dracula ?
What are the risks of climate change and global warming ?
What treatments are available to people infected with HIV and are they effective?
Who was a greater inventor, Leonardo di Vinci or Thomas Edison ?
How are the Chinese and American economies similar and different?
Why was communism unsuccessful in so many countries?
In what ways do video games affect children and teenagers?

This is an image of a young woman in a library. She is sitting at a desk with a pile of books and looking toward the ceiling. She appears to be in deep thought.

923 Comments

I like using this website when I assist kids with learning as a lot of these topics are quickly covered in the school systems. Thankyou

Mackenah Nicole Molina

Wow! I always have trouble deiciding what to do a research project on but this list has totally solved that. Now my only problem is choosing what idea on this list I should do first!

Most of these my teacher rejected because apparently ‘these aren’t grade level topics, and I doubt they interest you”

I’m sorry to hear that. Sounds like you will have a potentially valuable character-building experience in the short-term.

Edwin Augusto Galindo Cuba

THIS SITE IS AWESOME, THERE ARE LOTS OF TOPICS TO LEARN AND MASTER OUR SKILLS!

research kid

I need one about animals, please. I have been challenged to a animal research project, Due Friday. I have no clue what to research! somebody help, thanks for reading!

You can do one on bats

For international studies you can do Defense and Security.

This was very helpful.

Research on Ben Franklin? I think THAT will get a real charge out of everyone (hehehehegetit)

Mandy Maher

“Is it possible to colonize Mars?”

maddy burney

these are silly topics

thx for making this real.

Mary Nnamani

Please I need project topics on Language Literature

Marcella Vallarino

I would appreciate a list of survey questions for middle school grades 6-8

I need a research topics about public sector management

I NEED FIVE EXAMPLES EACH ON QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH (EDUCATION, HEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY AND ENGINEERING)

publish research that are interesting please……

hey can you do one on the burmiueda triangle

Anybody know video games effect kids,and,teens. There Fun!!

they’re

I need a topic about woman history if any of u can find 1 please that would be great!

You could research about the history of the astronauts, and of human past (WWI, WWII, etc.)

so about women? Manitoba Women Win the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections, The First Women, January 23, 1849: Elizabeth Blackwell becomes the first woman to graduate from medical school and become a doctor in the United States, Rosa Parks Civil Rights Equal Pay. I have way more. so if you need more just ask.

communism is good

what are you a communist?!?!

Did FDR know about the upcoming attack on Pearl Harbor on 07 DEC 1941.

do you know how babies are born

Christine Singu

kindly assist with a research topic in the field of accounting or auditing

need more about US army

Please can yiu give me a topic in education

I think one should be how can music/Video games can affect the life for people

or How Do Video Games Affect Teenagers?

zimbabwe leader

I think a good topic is supporting the confederate flag!

Need a research topic within the context of students union government and dues payments

do more weird ones plz

joyce alcantara

Hi pls po can you give me a topic relate for humanities pls thank u.

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Research Paper Topics: 200 Best Picks

Did you know that the world's largest desert is not the sandy expanse of the Sahara but rather the icy wilderness of Antarctica? It's a captivating fact that challenges our conventional understanding of deserts. While we typically associate deserts with endless dunes and scorching heat, Antarctica, with its bone-chilling cold and vast stretches of barren ice, meets the technical criteria of a desert. This fascinating paradox showcases the complexity of our natural world and serves as a reminder that there's always more to discover, even in the most unexpected places. In much the same way, choosing research paper topics can lead us to unexpected insights and open new intellectual horizons.

Research Paper Topics: Short Description

Are you struggling to find the perfect essay topics that ignite your academic passion? Look no further! Dive into our comprehensive guide, where you'll uncover a curated list of 200 of the best research paper topics spanning across various subjects. Whether your interests lie in the realms of science, humanities, technology, or the arts, we've got you covered. Let this invaluable resource be your compass on your scholarly journey, helping you identify that ideal topic that not only sparks your curiosity but also propels your academic pursuits to new heights.

What Are Good Research Topics

Choosing a research topic is akin to setting off on a thrilling expedition. You want to venture into uncharted territory, but you also need a compass to keep you on track. So, what makes a research topic good? Let's uncover the secrets from our ' write my paper ' experts:

1. Relevance is Key : The best research topics often intersect with real-world issues. They're questions waiting to be answered or problems in need of solutions. For instance, in the realm of environmental science, 'The Impact of Microplastics on Marine Ecosystems' is a hot topic because it addresses a pressing global concern.

2. Passion Igniters : Good research topic ideas align with your personal interests. If you're fascinated by artificial intelligence, delving into 'Ethical Dilemmas in AI Development' won't feel like a chore; it'll be a captivating journey.

3. Unexplored Avenues : Look for gaps in existing research. The most exciting discoveries often happen where no one has tread before. If everyone's talking about 'The Effects of Climate Change,' maybe you can explore 'Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Vulnerable Communities' - a less explored path with immense potential.

4. Scope Matters : Consider the scope of your project. A topic too broad might lead to superficial research, while one too narrow can be limiting. Strike a balance. Instead of 'The History of World Literature,' try 'The Influence of Japanese Haiku Poetry on Modern American Literature.'

5. Controversy and Debate : Controversial topics can be both intriguing and polarizing. 'Should Genetic Editing in Humans Be Regulated?' is bound to stir passionate discussions, making it an excellent choice for thought-provoking research projects.

6. Fresh Perspectives : Seek topics that allow for diverse viewpoints. 'The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health' can be approached from psychological, sociological, and even technological angles, providing a rich landscape for exploration.

7. Feasibility : Finally, consider the resources and time you have at your disposal. Some interesting research topics might require extensive fieldwork or access to expensive equipment. Opt for a topic that's feasible within your constraints.

Selecting the Right Research Paper Topic

Picking research paper topics can be as easy as pie if you follow these simple steps:

How to Select the Right Research Paper Topic

1. Think About What You Like:

Start by thinking about what you really like or are curious about. It could be anything – from animals to space, movies to history. Imagine writing about something that makes you excited!

2. See What's Already Been Done:

Look around a bit. Find out if others have written about your topic before. This is like checking out the map to see where others have gone. You want to find your own path.

3. Make It More Specific:

Once you know how to research a topic , it's time to narrow down your topic. Instead of talking about 'animals,' you could focus on 'endangered pandas.' This is like choosing a trail in the forest instead of wandering all over.

4. Ask for Help:

Talk to your teacher or friends about your idea. They might have cool suggestions or tips. It's like having buddies on your adventure who know the way.

5. Check Your Tools:

Before you start, make sure you have every tool you need. It's like checking if you have the right gear before going camping. Make sure you have books or internet access for research and enough time to finish.

After settling on a topic, you can buy a research paper easily from our skilled writers, who will expertly manage it on your behalf!

Research Paper Topics on Math

These research papers reflect the diverse and evolving nature of mathematics and its applications in various fields. Researchers in mathematics continue to make significant contributions, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology.

Quantum Computing Algorithms: Investigating the development of quantum algorithms for solving complex mathematical problems and their potential impact on cryptography and computational mathematics.
Topological Data Analysis: Exploring the applications of topological methods in data analysis, particularly in fields like neuroscience, biology, and materials science.
Machine Learning and Mathematics: Analyzing the mathematical foundations of machine learning algorithms, including deep learning and neural networks.
Homotopy Type Theory: Investigating the connections between homotopy theory, category theory, and type theory and their role in the foundations of mathematics.
Number Theory and Cryptography: Exploring recent advances in number theory and their applications in modern cryptography, including post-quantum cryptography.
Differential Equations in Epidemiology: Studying the role of differential equations in modeling the spread of infectious diseases, as highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graph Theory and Network Analysis: Investigating new algorithms and techniques in graph theory for analyzing complex networks, such as social networks and transportation networks.
Mathematics of Machine Vision: Examining the mathematical principles behind computer vision and image processing techniques, including object recognition and image reconstruction.
Algebraic Geometry and Robotics: Exploring the intersections of algebraic geometry and robotics, particularly in the context of robot motion planning and control.
Combinatorial Optimization in Operations Research: Analyzing recent developments in combinatorial optimization algorithms and their applications in solving complex real-world problems in logistics, transportation, and resource allocation.

Research Paper Topics on Science

These are great research paper topics that highlight the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of scientific research, showcasing the ongoing efforts to understand and address complex global challenges.

CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Technology: Investigating recent developments and ethical considerations surrounding CRISPR-based gene editing techniques.
Quantum Computing and Quantum Information: Exploring the latest advancements in quantum computing hardware, algorithms, and their potential applications in fields like cryptography and materials science.
Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery: Analyzing the use of machine learning and AI algorithms for identifying potential drug candidates and accelerating the drug discovery process.
Astrobiology and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life: Discussing recent discoveries related to extremophiles, exoplanets, and the potential for life beyond Earth.
Climate Change and Oceanography: Examining the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems, including rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and changes in marine biodiversity.
Neuroscience and Brain-Computer Interfaces: Investigating the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and their applications in healthcare, communication, and assistive technologies.
Particle Physics and the Search for Dark Matter: Discussing recent experiments and theories related to dark matter, one of the most significant mysteries in modern physics.
Synthetic Biology and Bioengineering: Exploring the latest advancements in synthetic biology, including the design of artificial organisms and bioengineering for medical and environmental applications.
Renewable Energy Technologies: Analyzing recent breakthroughs in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and advanced energy storage systems.
Artificial Photosynthesis: Investigating the development of artificial photosynthesis systems for sustainable energy production and carbon dioxide reduction.

Research Paper Topics on Business

These business research paper topics reflect the ever-changing landscape of the business world, where innovation, ethics, and global challenges play significant roles in shaping business practices and strategies.

Sustainability in Business: Examining strategies for integrating sustainability practices into corporate operations and measuring their impact on profitability and social responsibility.
E-commerce and Online Marketplaces: Investigating the growth of e-commerce, including the role of online marketplaces, consumer behavior, and the future of traditional brick-and-mortar retail.
Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystems: Analyzing the factors contributing to the success of startup ecosystems, including access to capital, mentorship, and government policies.
Digital Marketing Trends: Exploring recent developments in digital marketing, such as influencer marketing, content marketing, and the use of AI in marketing campaigns.
Global Supply Chain Management: Studying the challenges and opportunities in global supply chains, including risk management, sustainability, and the impact of disruptive events.
Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility: Examining ethical dilemmas in business, corporate governance, and the social responsibility of corporations.
Financial Technology (Fintech): Investigating the impact of fintech innovations, including digital banking, cryptocurrency, and peer-to-peer lending, on traditional financial institutions and markets.
Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: Analyzing the benefits and challenges of fostering diverse and inclusive work environments and their impact on employee performance and organizational success.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence: Exploring the use of data analytics and business intelligence tools to make informed decisions, improve operations, and gain a competitive advantage.
Corporate Innovation and Open Innovation Strategies: Investigating how companies foster innovation by collaborating with external partners, startups, and customers, and the impact of open innovation on corporate success and competitiveness.

Research Paper Topics on Psychology

Explore fascinating subjects like mental health, cognitive processes, and the intricacies of human behavior with these psychology research paper topics:

Mental Health Stigma: Analyzing the impact of stigma on individuals seeking treatment for mental health disorders and strategies to reduce stigma in society.
Social Media and Mental Health: Investigating the relationship between social media use, mental health outcomes, and potential interventions for healthier online behavior.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Exploring the latest research on PTSD, including treatment modalities, risk factors, and the neurobiology of trauma.
Positive Psychology and Well-being: Examining the science of well-being, happiness, and positive emotions and their practical applications in therapy and everyday life.
Childhood Development and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Investigating the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences on mental health and strategies for prevention and intervention.
Psychology of Sleep: Analyzing the importance of sleep in mental health, the consequences of sleep disorders, and effective treatments for improving sleep quality.
Substance Abuse and Addiction: Studying the psychological factors contributing to substance abuse, addiction treatment approaches, and the impact of addiction on individuals and society.
Cross-Cultural Psychology: Exploring cultural variations in psychological processes, including cognition, emotion, and behavior, and their implications for mental health and therapy.
Neuroplasticity and Rehabilitation: Investigating the brain's ability to adapt and recover after injury, with a focus on rehabilitation techniques for conditions like stroke and traumatic brain injury.
Psychological Resilience: Examining factors that contribute to psychological resilience in the face of adversity, trauma, or stress and interventions to enhance resilience.

Research Paper Topics on Literature

Explore the world of words and uncover the deeper meanings behind the texts with the following topic suggestions:

Postcolonial Literature and Identity: Analyzing the theme of identity and its intersection with postcolonialism in works of literature from former colonies.
Feminism in Classic Literature: Exploring feminist themes, characters, and narratives in classic literature and their relevance in contemporary society.
Dystopian Literature and Social Commentary: Investigating how dystopian literature serves as a commentary on current social, political, and technological issues.
Literature and Environmentalism: Analyzing how literature portrays environmental concerns, climate change, and humanity's relationship with the natural world.
Adaptation of Literature to Film: Examining the challenges and artistic choices involved in adapting literary works into successful films.
Literature of the Harlem Renaissance: Studying the cultural and artistic movement known as the Harlem Renaissance, with a focus on key literary figures and their contributions.
Magical Realism in Latin American Literature: Exploring the use of magical realism in the works of authors like Gabriel García Márquez and Isabel Allende.
Literature and Mental Health: Investigating the portrayal of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, in contemporary literature and their impact on stigmatization.
Literature and Technology: Analyzing how literature reflects the influence of technology on society, communication, and human relationships.
Literature and Social Justice: Examining literature's role in advocating for social justice, civil rights, and equity, with a focus on diverse voices and marginalized communities.

Research Paper Topics on Environment

Discover the planet's pressing issues with these critical topics:

Climate Change Mitigation Strategies: Investigating innovative approaches to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, including renewable energy adoption, carbon capture and storage, and sustainable transportation.
Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration: Analyzing conservation efforts to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and enhance biodiversity in the face of habitat loss and climate change.
Plastic Pollution and Marine Ecosystems: Exploring the impact of plastic pollution on marine life, ecosystems, and potential solutions for reducing plastic waste in oceans.
Urban Sustainability: Studying sustainable urban planning, green infrastructure, and policies to create environmentally friendly and resilient cities.
Water Resource Management: Investigating strategies for sustainable water resource management, including groundwater replenishment, watershed protection, and water-efficient technologies.
Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture: Analyzing methods to improve food production while minimizing environmental impacts, such as organic farming, precision agriculture, and alternative protein sources.
Ecosystem Services and Valuation: Exploring the value of ecosystem services (e.g., clean air, water, pollination) and methods to incorporate them into decision-making and policy development.
Land Use Change and Deforestation: Studying the drivers of deforestation, land degradation, and the conservation of forests and natural landscapes.
Environmental Justice: Investigating environmental inequalities, including the disproportionate impacts of pollution and climate change on marginalized communities and strategies for achieving environmental justice.
Green Technology and Innovation: Analyzing emerging green technologies, such as sustainable materials, clean energy innovations, and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Looking to Add a Dash of Humor to Your Academic Journey?

Well, why not order our collection of funny research paper topics and let the hilarity begin? Your grades will thank you later!

Research Paper Topics on Biology

Let's delve into the fascinating realms of genetics, ecology, and the intricate workings of living organisms:

The Human Microbiome: Exploring the role of the microbiome in human health, including its impact on digestion, immunity, and its potential in treating various diseases.
Evolutionary Adaptations to Climate Change: Analyzing how species are adapting or struggling to adapt to changing environmental conditions due to climate change.
Neurobiology of Addiction: Investigating the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction and potential targets for treatment and prevention.
Conservation Biology: Analyzing strategies for the conservation of endangered species and ecosystems, with a focus on the role of protected areas and habitat restoration.
Emerging Infectious Diseases: Exploring the biology of newly emerging infectious diseases, their origins, and strategies for prevention and control.
Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement: Investigating genetic engineering and breeding techniques to improve crop yield, resistance to pests, and nutritional content.
Neurodegenerative Diseases: Studying the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's and potential therapeutic approaches.
Synthetic Biology: Analyzing the field of synthetic biology, including the design and construction of novel biological systems and their applications in medicine, energy production, and biotechnology.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: Investigating the relationship between biodiversity and the services ecosystems provide to humanity, such as pollination, water purification, and climate regulation.
Epigenetics and Environmental Influences: Exploring the role of epigenetic modifications in gene expression and how environmental factors can impact these modifications, potentially leading to heritable traits or diseases.

Research Paper Topics on Health and Medicine

The following health research paper topics reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of the health and medicine field.

Vaccine Hesitancy: Understanding and addressing concerns about vaccines.
Telemedicine and Telehealth: The growth of remote healthcare services and their impact on patient care.
Personalized Medicine: Tailoring medical treatments to individual genetics and characteristics.
Cancer Immunotherapy: Advancements in using the immune system to treat cancer.
Antibiotic Resistance: Strategies to combat the growing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics.
Health Disparities: Addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different populations.
Aging Population: Healthcare challenges and innovations in an aging society.
Nutrition and Obesity: Research on the effects of diet on health and strategies to combat obesity.
Artificial Organs and 3D Printing: Advancements in creating artificial organs and tissues.
Precision Nutrition: Customized dietary recommendations based on an individual's genetics and health status.

Research Paper Topics on Education

Shape the future of learning with these education research paper topics, where you can delve into current challenges, innovations, and strategies in the world of education:

Critical Digital Literacy Education: Exploring the importance of teaching critical digital literacy skills to students, including media literacy, online safety, and ethical online behavior.
Educational Neuroscience and Learning: Studying the intersection of neuroscience and education to better understand how the brain learns and applying this knowledge to improve teaching methods and curriculum design.
Personalized Learning Environments: Analyzing the implementation of personalized learning environments, including adaptive learning platforms and customized learning pathways, to enhance student engagement and achievement.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Education: Investigating the use of AI-driven tools and platforms for personalized tutoring, assessment, and content creation in educational settings.
Global Citizenship Education: Exploring strategies for integrating global citizenship education into curricula to promote cross-cultural understanding, social justice, and environmental sustainability.
Homeschooling and Educational Equity: Examining the growth of homeschooling and its potential impact on educational equity, including regulations, resources, and outcomes for homeschooled students.
Teacher Well-being and Burnout: Studying the factors contributing to teacher burnout and stress, along with strategies and policies to improve teacher well-being and retention.
Environmental Education and Sustainability: Analyzing the role of education in fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices, including green curricula and school sustainability initiatives.
Early Career Teacher Support: Investigating mentorship programs, induction strategies, and professional development opportunities to support and retain early career teachers in the education profession.
Education Equity in the Digital Divide Era: Investigating strategies to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology and online resources for all students, particularly in underserved communities.

Research Paper Topics on Sports

Let's dive into the realm of athleticism with the following topics, exploring diverse aspects of sports science.

Concussions in Sports: Analyzing the long-term effects of concussions, prevention strategies, and advances in concussion diagnosis and management in various sports.
The Impact of Sports on Mental Health: Investigating the relationship between sports participation, mental well-being, and strategies to promote mental health among athletes.
Gender Equity in Sports: Exploring gender disparities in sports, including pay gaps, opportunities, and challenges for female athletes, coaches, and administrators.
Sports Psychology and Peak Performance: Studying the psychological factors that influence athletes' performance, including motivation, confidence, and stress management.
Sports and Social Change: Analyzing the role of sports in promoting social justice, diversity, and inclusion, including athlete activism and the impact on broader societal issues.
Youth Sports and Long-Term Development: Investigating the effects of youth sports participation on character development, physical fitness, and future success in sports and life.
Sports Nutrition and Performance: Examining the role of nutrition, dietary supplements, and hydration in optimizing athletic performance and recovery.
Sports and Technology: Exploring the use of technology, including wearables, video analysis, and data analytics, in sports training, performance analysis, and injury prevention.
Sports Medicine and Injury Prevention: Studying the latest advancements in sports medicine, rehabilitation techniques, and injury prevention strategies for athletes.
Sports and Technology Ethics: Investigating ethical issues related to the use of emerging technologies such as genetic enhancements, AI-driven performance analysis, and virtual reality training in sports.

In the world of academia, the journey of selecting a research paper topic is one that should not be taken lightly. It's a voyage that can both fascinate and inspire as your chosen subject becomes a canvas for your curiosity and passion. Remember, our research proposal writing service is here to guide you not only in finding intriguing research paper ideas but also in mastering how to write a reflective essay that captures the essence of your academic exploration!

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150 Research Paper Topics

Whether you’re in high school or college, there will come a time when you’ll be required to write a research paper. For many students, writing a research paper can be a challenging task.

Writing the research paper might seem like it’s the hardest part of the entire paper, but for many students, it’s picking out what topic to write about.

If you’re having a difficult time figuring out what topic to write your research paper about, we’ve compiled a list of 150 topics for you to choose from!

How to Choose a Topic for a Research Paper

Pick a few areas or topics that you’re interested in and narrow it down to the topic that you like the best. You’ll be able to put together an insightful paper if you’re interested in the topic you chose.
Make sure you have enough references for your topic. Doing a quick search will help you see if your topic is discussed enough for you to do research.
Make sure your topic fits within your teacher’s guidelines. Your teacher may have set restrictions on certain topics or even requirements that they may want in your paper.

Health Topics

How can lifestyle habits influence overall health?
How does breastfeeding improve the infant’s health?
Reasons why the flu virus is different from year to year.
Different types of stem cells and their usage.
Sleep disorders’ impact on the overall health condition.
The healthiest diet does not exist.
Stop smoking to improve mental health.
Why are carbs bad for people who are insulin resistant?
Why is the skin on a face more sensitive to breakouts and touch than on any other part of the body?
Low carbohydrate vs. low-fat diets.

Science Topics

How has the earth’s climate changed in the past few decades?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
How are black holes created?
Why is “dark matter” important?
Is global warming a hoax? Is it being exaggerated?
What are the main sources of marine pollution?
Endangered species – How can we preserve them?
What did you do to make the world a better place?
What have NASA’s biggest successes and failures been?

Psychology Topics

What Are Psychological Effects of Technology Addiction?
What Causes Eating Disorders?
How Do Certain People Become Leaders?
How Important Is Love for the Child’s Development?
How Does Lack of Sleep Affect Our Mental Health?
Insomnia and its Effects on Human Health.
Physical and Mental Violence on Children and Domestic Abuse.
How dangerous are eating disorders?
Post-traumatic stress syndrome.
What causes depression?

Ethics Topics

How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Importance of following ethics in psychological research.

Social Media Topics

Are social networks making us lonely and unsociable?
How to protect children online?
Is there such a thing as social media addiction?
Who are world-famous influencers on social media?
Does social media affect our relationships?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
How does social media influence interpersonal communication?
How can one defend privacy issues on Facebook and other social media?
Impacts of social media on youth.

Legal Issues Topics

Should marijuana be legalized at the national level?
Should there be a law preventing cyber-bullying?
What can be done to improve family law?
What countries have the worst legal systems?
What countries have the best legal systems?
What are the main flaws of the legal system in the USA?
Does police brutality contribute to the onset of hate crimes?
Why should the minimum legal drinking age be kept at eighteen years?
Does drug legalization contribute to the increased crime rate?
How do torrenting sites influence creativity and copyright?

Technology Topics

Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
What are some advances in technology related to medicine?
Can everything be solar powered?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?
How can technology help in preventing terrorist attacks?

Government Topics

Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Should the federal government be allowed to regulate information on the internet?
Should the United States of America reform its Immigration policies?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?

Education Topics

Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students’ health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
E-Learning at home VS traditional education.
The Effectiveness and Flaws of the No Child Left Behind Act.
General tests and their effectiveness in various institutions.
How to encourage students to study what they are passionate about?

Business Topics

How has business etiquette changed in the past few years?
Features that define a true business leader.
Things that make young startups fail during the first couple of years.
Does franchising make it easier to run a business?
Pros & cons of outsourcing services.

Sports Topics

Importance of physical exercise in school.
Is cheerleading a sport?
Do sports influence an individual’s emotional well-being?
Safest exercises for students with disabilities.
Collaboration on a sports field. What is the most effective communication strategy among sports team members?
Differences in the Italian Renaissance and Northern Renaissance.
Impacts famous artists had on the world.
The art of Ancient Egypt.
Censorship in art.
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.

Entertainment Topics

Are violent video games really to blame for problems in children’s behavior?
Are beauty contests making beauty standards even more unachievable?
Are modern media gradually replacing newspapers?
Reasons why we cannot do without the mass media.
Compare and contrast the benefits of mass media to society.
How have shows like “Project Runway” influenced fashion? Have they motivated people to become more creative and personal in what they wear?
Are newspapers going extinct?
Do TV shows impose unreal moral standards?
Women competing against men: is it really fair?
How fake moral standards are imposed by television

Current Events Topics

Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US’s immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
Is the U.S. economy becoming stronger or weaker?
Is there a better way to fight the war against drugs internationally?
Can Bitcoin really become the currency of the future in America?
Preventing police brutality: history and what citizens can do.
History of the electoral college system of voting.

History Topics

What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln’s assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler’s rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What Factors Caused the Stock Market Crash in 1929?
What Were the Social Consequences of the Vietnam War?
What Is the Role of Women in the Military?

Physics and Astronomy Topics

What Is Pluto if It’s not a Planet?
Can We Determine How Old the Universe Is?
What Are Dark Holes?
Could People Survive on Mars?
Is Space Exploration Really Necessary?
Can We Prevent a Large Comet from Striking the Earth?
What are the physics behind the creation of rainbows?
The importance of robots in industries.
The evolution of the self-driving car and its impact on the economy.
The role of physics in the healthcare industry.

Animals Topics

Do animals express love?
Is animal testing a kind of animal cruelty?
Should environments be protected if endangered species live there?
How have humans bred domestic animals to be different from their original wild counterparts?
What is the current genetic and fossil evidence that chickens, dogs, and other domestic animals were much different even a few hundred years ago?

Medical Topics

The use of medical marijuana: pros and cons
Is it safe for children to be vegetarians?
How the society views on vaccines change
Can pharmaceutical companies advertise prescription drugs directly to buyers?
The role of doctors in the growing nation’s drug addiction
How many treatments to Autism are there?
How is ageism impacting mental health and addictions?
What are the pros and cons of antipsychotics?
Should alternative medicine be legalized?
Is the relationship between the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry a good one?

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Jay Willis joined Mometrix as Vice President of Sales in 2009, and has developed several key strategic relationships that have enhanced the distribution of Mometrix products. With nearly 20 years of sales experience in the publishing industry, his dedication to providing the highest quality experience for customers, coupled with his sales and marketing expertise, has resulted in significant growth of the Institutional Sales division. Learn more View all posts by Jay Willis

How To Write A Research Paper

Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + FREE Template

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Expert Reviewer: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | March 2024

For many students, crafting a strong research paper from scratch can feel like a daunting task – and rightly so! In this post, we’ll unpack what a research paper is, what it needs to do , and how to write one – in three easy steps. 🙂

Overview: Writing A Research Paper

What (exactly) is a research paper.

How to write a research paper
Stage 1 : Topic & literature search
Stage 2 : Structure & outline
Stage 3 : Iterative writing
Key takeaways

Let’s start by asking the most important question, “ What is a research paper? ”.

Simply put, a research paper is a scholarly written work where the writer (that’s you!) answers a specific question (this is called a research question ) through evidence-based arguments . Evidence-based is the keyword here. In other words, a research paper is different from an essay or other writing assignments that draw from the writer’s personal opinions or experiences. With a research paper, it’s all about building your arguments based on evidence (we’ll talk more about that evidence a little later).

Now, it’s worth noting that there are many different types of research papers , including analytical papers (the type I just described), argumentative papers, and interpretative papers. Here, we’ll focus on analytical papers , as these are some of the most common – but if you’re keen to learn about other types of research papers, be sure to check out the rest of the blog .

With that basic foundation laid, let’s get down to business and look at how to write a research paper .

Overview: The 3-Stage Process

While there are, of course, many potential approaches you can take to write a research paper, there are typically three stages to the writing process. So, in this tutorial, we’ll present a straightforward three-step process that we use when working with students at Grad Coach.

These three steps are:

Finding a research topic and reviewing the existing literature
Developing a provisional structure and outline for your paper, and
Writing up your initial draft and then refining it iteratively

Let’s dig into each of these.

Need a helping hand?

Step 1: Find a topic and review the literature

As we mentioned earlier, in a research paper, you, as the researcher, will try to answer a question . More specifically, that’s called a research question , and it sets the direction of your entire paper. What’s important to understand though is that you’ll need to answer that research question with the help of high-quality sources – for example, journal articles, government reports, case studies, and so on. We’ll circle back to this in a minute.

The first stage of the research process is deciding on what your research question will be and then reviewing the existing literature (in other words, past studies and papers) to see what they say about that specific research question. In some cases, your professor may provide you with a predetermined research question (or set of questions). However, in many cases, you’ll need to find your own research question within a certain topic area.

Finding a strong research question hinges on identifying a meaningful research gap – in other words, an area that’s lacking in existing research. There’s a lot to unpack here, so if you wanna learn more, check out the plain-language explainer video below.

Once you’ve figured out which question (or questions) you’ll attempt to answer in your research paper, you’ll need to do a deep dive into the existing literature – this is called a “ literature search ”. Again, there are many ways to go about this, but your most likely starting point will be Google Scholar .

If you’re new to Google Scholar, think of it as Google for the academic world. You can start by simply entering a few different keywords that are relevant to your research question and it will then present a host of articles for you to review. What you want to pay close attention to here is the number of citations for each paper – the more citations a paper has, the more credible it is (generally speaking – there are some exceptions, of course).

Ideally, what you’re looking for are well-cited papers that are highly relevant to your topic. That said, keep in mind that citations are a cumulative metric , so older papers will often have more citations than newer papers – just because they’ve been around for longer. So, don’t fixate on this metric in isolation – relevance and recency are also very important.

Beyond Google Scholar, you’ll also definitely want to check out academic databases and aggregators such as Science Direct, PubMed, JStor and so on. These will often overlap with the results that you find in Google Scholar, but they can also reveal some hidden gems – so, be sure to check them out.

Once you’ve worked your way through all the literature, you’ll want to catalogue all this information in some sort of spreadsheet so that you can easily recall who said what, when and within what context. If you’d like, we’ve got a free literature spreadsheet that helps you do exactly that.

Don’t fixate on an article’s citation count in isolation - relevance (to your research question) and recency are also very important.

Step 2: Develop a structure and outline

With your research question pinned down and your literature digested and catalogued, it’s time to move on to planning your actual research paper .

It might sound obvious, but it’s really important to have some sort of rough outline in place before you start writing your paper. So often, we see students eagerly rushing into the writing phase, only to land up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on in multiple

Now, the secret here is to not get caught up in the fine details . Realistically, all you need at this stage is a bullet-point list that describes (in broad strokes) what you’ll discuss and in what order. It’s also useful to remember that you’re not glued to this outline – in all likelihood, you’ll chop and change some sections once you start writing, and that’s perfectly okay. What’s important is that you have some sort of roadmap in place from the start.

You need to have a rough outline in place before you start writing your paper - or you’ll end up with a disjointed research paper that rambles on.

At this stage you might be wondering, “ But how should I structure my research paper? ”. Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here, but in general, a research paper will consist of a few relatively standardised components:

Introduction
Literature review
Methodology

Let’s take a look at each of these.

First up is the introduction section . As the name suggests, the purpose of the introduction is to set the scene for your research paper. There are usually (at least) four ingredients that go into this section – these are the background to the topic, the research problem and resultant research question , and the justification or rationale. If you’re interested, the video below unpacks the introduction section in more detail.

The next section of your research paper will typically be your literature review . Remember all that literature you worked through earlier? Well, this is where you’ll present your interpretation of all that content . You’ll do this by writing about recent trends, developments, and arguments within the literature – but more specifically, those that are relevant to your research question . The literature review can oftentimes seem a little daunting, even to seasoned researchers, so be sure to check out our extensive collection of literature review content here .

With the introduction and lit review out of the way, the next section of your paper is the research methodology . In a nutshell, the methodology section should describe to your reader what you did (beyond just reviewing the existing literature) to answer your research question. For example, what data did you collect, how did you collect that data, how did you analyse that data and so on? For each choice, you’ll also need to justify why you chose to do it that way, and what the strengths and weaknesses of your approach were.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that for some research papers, this aspect of the project may be a lot simpler . For example, you may only need to draw on secondary sources (in other words, existing data sets). In some cases, you may just be asked to draw your conclusions from the literature search itself (in other words, there may be no data analysis at all). But, if you are required to collect and analyse data, you’ll need to pay a lot of attention to the methodology section. The video below provides an example of what the methodology section might look like.

By this stage of your paper, you will have explained what your research question is, what the existing literature has to say about that question, and how you analysed additional data to try to answer your question. So, the natural next step is to present your analysis of that data . This section is usually called the “results” or “analysis” section and this is where you’ll showcase your findings.

Depending on your school’s requirements, you may need to present and interpret the data in one section – or you might split the presentation and the interpretation into two sections. In the latter case, your “results” section will just describe the data, and the “discussion” is where you’ll interpret that data and explicitly link your analysis back to your research question. If you’re not sure which approach to take, check in with your professor or take a look at past papers to see what the norms are for your programme.

Alright – once you’ve presented and discussed your results, it’s time to wrap it up . This usually takes the form of the “ conclusion ” section. In the conclusion, you’ll need to highlight the key takeaways from your study and close the loop by explicitly answering your research question. Again, the exact requirements here will vary depending on your programme (and you may not even need a conclusion section at all) – so be sure to check with your professor if you’re unsure.

Step 3: Write and refine

Finally, it’s time to get writing. All too often though, students hit a brick wall right about here… So, how do you avoid this happening to you?

Well, there’s a lot to be said when it comes to writing a research paper (or any sort of academic piece), but we’ll share three practical tips to help you get started.

First and foremost , it’s essential to approach your writing as an iterative process. In other words, you need to start with a really messy first draft and then polish it over multiple rounds of editing. Don’t waste your time trying to write a perfect research paper in one go. Instead, take the pressure off yourself by adopting an iterative approach.

Secondly , it’s important to always lean towards critical writing , rather than descriptive writing. What does this mean? Well, at the simplest level, descriptive writing focuses on the “ what ”, while critical writing digs into the “ so what ” – in other words, the implications. If you’re not familiar with these two types of writing, don’t worry! You can find a plain-language explanation here.

Last but not least, you’ll need to get your referencing right. Specifically, you’ll need to provide credible, correctly formatted citations for the statements you make. We see students making referencing mistakes all the time and it costs them dearly. The good news is that you can easily avoid this by using a simple reference manager . If you don’t have one, check out our video about Mendeley, an easy (and free) reference management tool that you can start using today.

Recap: Key Takeaways

We’ve covered a lot of ground here. To recap, the three steps to writing a high-quality research paper are:

To choose a research question and review the literature
To plan your paper structure and draft an outline
To take an iterative approach to writing, focusing on critical writing and strong referencing

Remember, this is just a b ig-picture overview of the research paper development process and there’s a lot more nuance to unpack. So, be sure to grab a copy of our free research paper template to learn more about how to write a research paper.

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200 Best Ideas for Research Paper Topics in 2023

The discussion you have started should be provoking and intriguing. If your statement is unique and interesting, you will definitely get a high grade and respect from your professors.

Writing a research paper may seem challenging, even though it is a substantial part of everyday student life. You are required to write at least one research paper in a semester for the majority of your subjects.

Do not underestimate research projects. They will demand a lot of time and effort from you. At the same time, do not let your research paper give you anxiety or hurt your overall studies.

To minimize worries and stress while working on the research paper, you must be confident in your topic. There are times when you are assigned the topic, but more frequently, you will have to create one yourself.

The discussion you start should be thought-provoking and intriguing. If your content is unique and interesting, you will definitely get a high grade and respect from your professors.

How to Select the Best Research Paper Topic?

When choosing your research paper topic, you need to make sure it is neither boring nor overdone. An interesting and innovative topic will intrigue your readers and motivate them to read the entire piece. But if you don’t know how to create a topic on your own, use the help of our editors.

Here are some things to consider when selecting an appropriate topic:

The Field Of Your Interest

It’s no secret that you will not be able to write a good insightful research paper if you are not interested in the subject overall, or in the topic in general. On the other hand, if the topic is linked to the field of your interest, you can consider yourself lucky.

Passion and interest in a topic will make it easier to explore the theme and write about it. If you enjoy science, you should be able to talk non-stop about it. The same goes for writing about it.

A Topic Should Be Clear

You need to be sure to understand everything clearly when you choose an essay topic . Do not hesitate to ask questions if there are some unclear points. The more you understand, the simpler it is for you to write a successful research paper. You need to show the readers that you’re a master of the topic and not a confused newbie who does not know what you’re talking about.

Be Precise And Specific

You need to completely understand that you are not writing a descriptive essay. A research paper is an accurate and thorough work, which is based on facts. You cannot waterdown your text. Your statement should be supported with examples or references to other reputable research and academic work.

Be Innovative

How innovative can you be when discussing The French Revolution or Pearl Harbor? However, an innovative approach can give you the edge among other students. A topic should address the matter from a different and surprising perspective. With a deep investigation, you may even find the little known facts that can blow your readers’ minds. This approach will intrigue your readers and will make you research paper stand out..

Visit Edusson Samples to brainstorm possible research paper topics and find relevant paper examples. It is 1000+ papers database. Besides samples, you can find excellent writing tools such as Plagiarism Checker, Title Page Maker and many more.

Ideas for Research Paper Topics

Without a good topic, writing a research paper can be a student’s worst nightmare. So, how do you come up with one? There are dozens of ways to brainstorm, such as discussing with classmates, reading topic prompts, sample papers, magazines, journals, blogs, or books.

Research Paper Topic by Category

Here are some examples of topics you may choose:

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

You have to present facts to demonstrate a clear understanding of the topic. Your introduction and concluding paragraph must be equally strong. Take a look at the following argumentative research topics examples:

Are athletes good role models?
Is the minimum wage too high?
Homelessness: Who is to blame?
Do we need shorter working weeks?
What is the ideal age of consuming alcohol?

Persuasive Research Paper Topics

As a speaker or writer, it is your responsibility to persuade the reader about an issue. Persuasive writing, therefore, should move people and shake their emotions. If, for example, you want to convince people coffee is good for their bodies, then you must do it artistically, and convincingly.

Take a look at these examples of persuasive research topics:

Using animals to conduct research experiments is wrong.
Parents should monitor the websites their children visit.
Domestic gender violence is on the rise.
Children’s exposure to media: Do parental controls work?
There are many cybercrimes today, and they are going to increase.
America should adopt a policy of non-involvement in global conflicts.

Controversial Topics for Research Paper

There are people who like to court controversy whenever they say or do something, more so in public. A good example here is an activist. Whether it is advocacy for gay rights or same-sex marriage, writing on issues like these can be painstakingly difficult. So, you need a strong topic right from the beginning. Controversial topics for a research paper like the following will most certainly get you moving in the right direction:

Gay partners and child adoption.
Surrogate mothers and societal worldview.
Violence in media content.
STEM subjects should be mandatory.
Sex education in middle school.
Should homework be abolished?

Are you having a hard time looking for a comprehensive research paper topic? Try to find the best one by using our topic generation tool.

Best Research Paper Topics 2023

Maybe you have picked a research topic from the above categories for your paper. However, a good college student knows you need a plan B. So here are some other great topics.

Is college education in line with the job market?
Should colleges be faith-based institutions?
Should universities have special accommodation facilities for the disabled?
How has the institution of marriage changed in the postmodern world?
Is there a difference between a man’s and a woman’s heart?
What are the possible health benefits of childbearing and parenting?
Exploring unfair child labor in the workplace.
The significance of ethics to business and how to control bad behavior.
How is cross-border BPO affecting the gross domestic product in your country?
Which companies will make it to the top 5 best in the next decade?
Terrorism and how it affects businesses.
Are universities becoming business-driven?
Causes of data rape and how to prevent it.
Should licensed gun holders be allowed to carry their weapons to school?
Ex-convicts and job searching. Is it difficult finding employment?
Should colleges pay student-athletes and how should they do it?
What should be the basis of workplace promotion: seniority, degree, or performance evaluation?
The significance of search engine optimization on businesses today.
Should women be allowed into extreme sports?
Is feminism changing American society?

Research Paper Topics By Level of Education

Notably, topic difficulty or complexity varies with the level of education. A graduate student will write a high school essay with great ease, while the reverse will result in a lot of difficulties on the part of the student.

In this post, we also help you choose topics based on your academic level while keeping in mind that research paper writing lends credence to student performance.

The research paper topics can often be overwhelming, and to make the process easier and more reliable, many students look for APA format paper writing services . The services are beneficial and provide access to professional knowledge in writing a research paper and ensure that all guidelines are followed.

High School Research Paper Topics

If you are a student in high school, here is a list of topics that you may consider:

Should the government legalize the use of smartphones in high school classrooms?
Leadership training in high school.
Are secondary schools doing enough in harnessing the debating skills of students?
Explore Plato’s philosophy of mathematics.

College Research Paper Topics

Next, here are some college research paper topics to choose from. They include the following:

Explore the design and construction of thermal plants around the globe.
Analyze how the free software movement is positively transforming the world.
Analyze cognitive development in children.
How does the government assess the health care needs of communities?
Pre-election and the effects on voter conduct.
Discuss how to plan for college tuition.
How does menstruation affect young girls?
Substance abuse among college students and its effects on their performance and behavior.
What brings about societal stereotypes?
Factual evidence that AIDS originated from monkeys.

Research Paper Topics By Subject

Another way of choosing the best research paper topic is based on the subject, whether you are a college or high school student. Whether it is in biology, physics, science, literature, history, or psychology, this approach works at all levels of education. Research papers are quite challenging for the average student to write, so it’s no wonder why many students may want to look into options for high school essays for money . A great topic for your research paper should be something engaging that captures the reader’s attention and encourages them to continue reading.

Research Paper Topics on Technology

Cybersecurity: Can we really be safe?
How can technology help in preventing terrorist attacks?
How close did we get to Artificial Intelligence?
What technological innovations promise to change the third decade of the 21st century?
How do regular people influence technological progress?
What technologies does NASA use to explore Mars?
How did Bill Gates and Steve Jobs change the world?
How did cloud technologies change data storing?
Can virtual reality substitute for an actual reality?
What is the future of the internet?

Research Paper Topics on Environment

How did climate change in the last 30 years?
Why some believe that global warming is a hoax?
What are the best ways to reduce global warming?
How does global warming alter wildlife?
Ocean pollution: Unseen tragedies.
Effective ways of reducing air pollution.
How can alternative types of energy help to preserve the Earth’s natural resources?
Endangered species – How can we preserve them?
Recycling. What did you do to make the world a better place?
Drinking water for all – How can we achieve it?

Research Paper Topics on Legal Issues

How do torrenting sites influence creativity and copyright?
Should marijuana be legalized at the national level?
How did the legalization of same-sex marriage influence the USA?
Are punishments for sex crimes fair?
Should there be a law preventing cyber-bullying?
Where is the line between artistic photos and pornography?
How does a new adoption law in Russia refuse orphans their chance for happiness?
Various laws on abortion around the world.
How do prostitution laws differ around the world?

Topics on Business

How can one turn a business idea into a successful startup?
How can creative marketing increase your sales?
Does taxation aim to kill small businesses?
Effective time-management for big and small teams.
Is multitasking a productive method of work?
Sexual harassment in the working environment.
How benefits can make your employees happy.
How do big corporations regularly break the law and get away with it?
What are the various minimum wages around the world? Should The Universal Declaration of Human Rights control them?
What were the most successful businesses in the first two decades of the 21st century?

Topics on World Politics

How did Angela Merkel change Europe?
Impeachment against Donald Trump: Will it happen?
The consequences of Brexit for European values.
Is Vladimir Putin sponsoring global terrorism?
How can world politicians unite against the threat that Russia poses?
Can North and South Korea unite again?
How can we eliminate dictatorial regimes in the 21st century?
Conflicts in Africa.
Do refugees pose any threat to the hosting country?
How can the world unite to fight racism?

Topics on Religion

Is Christianity at its dusk?
Can any religion justify crimes against humanity?
The most popular new age religions.
Sexual abuse in the church.
Should religious beliefs influence health matters?
How do various religions oppress women?
The political context of the global religions throughout time.
How does agnosticism balance between atheism and various religions?
Are we witnessing a new religion forming?
Myths of creation through global religions.

Topics on Health

The effects of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana on a human body.
Vaccination in the 21st century.
The most controversial issues of birth control.
Alzheimer’s: ways of prevention.
Euthanasia – An assisted suicide?
How can research help cure AIDS?
Are there effective ways to prevent cancer?
How do fats positively affect the human body and the mind?
Anorexia and obesity – Two sides to one story.
The importance of mental health.

Topics on Social Issues

How does social media influence interpersonal communication?
How can team sports affect social abilities?
LGBT tolerance around the world.
Global citizenship: Pros and cons.
How to deal with social anxiety.
How can one defend privacy issues on Facebook and other social media?
How to stop bullying in schools.
Discrimination of black women in modern-day America.
Ethnicities that created the USA.
Gender stereotypes in the workplace.

Topics on Education

How to achieve literacy for all.
Is it worth accumulating a huge debt to achieve higher education in the USA?
How can the government make a teacher’s profession become more appealing?
How can we modernize education to make it more appealing?
How do dress codes in schools discriminate against women?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of homeschooling?
Is the present educational system capable of creating geniuses?
The importance of multilingual education.
Guns in school. How to achieve a safe environment.
Do grades do justice to students’ knowledge?

Topics on Popular Culture

The best music projects of 2020.
How do reality shows influence teenagers?
Do celebrities form a specific cast in today’s world?
How much do people depend on heroes? Marvel and DC Cinematic Universes.
How do American and Japanese popular cultures intertwine with each other?
Sexism and ageism in modern Hollywood.
Do shows like American Idol, the Voice, and X-factor really aim to find and develop talents?
The female role in the world according to Beyonce’s Lemonade.
How did YouTube change popular culture?
The meaning of the Harry Potter Book Series in promoting reading.

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Easy Research Paper Topics

Women’s issues.

Are birth control pills good or bad?
Are married women with children happier than single women who did not give birth to a child?
Are there health benefits to having children?
Breast cancer rates are increasing among women in the US. What factors contribute to these rates?
Do women with higher testosterone levels have an athletic advantage compared to women whose testosterone levels are not high?
Has the feminist movement been a help to women or not?
Has the modern-day feminist movement lost its track?
How are cultural expectations of women different in Muslim vs. Western nations?
How common is domestic abuse, or child abuse?
How do the female hormones protect women from heart disease?
How does the education of women change society?
How has feminism changed America? The world?
How has marriage changed?
How is heart health different for men and women?
How has society’s expectations for women to get married and have kids haven’t changed for centuries, even today?
How to help girls from unprivileged towns and neighborhoods get educated?
Should women participate in extreme sports?
What are the most important health risks for women to be aware of?
What is a maid? Is there an acceptable or unacceptable definition for this job?
What is female genital mutilation and how is it connected with AIDS in Africa?
What is the effect of birth control and pregnancy on the mental health of a woman?
What is the history of marriage?
Why do a vast majority of women refuse to report their husbands for domestic abuse? What can be done to help them?
Why do people marry?
Women in politics: why do a small percentage of them succeed?
Are athletes overpaid? Do footballers deserve multi-million contracts? How their salaries influence their performance?
Can anyone compete in a marathon? Should everyone try it at least once? Necessary measures to take in order to compete in this kind of race
Choose a sport and the best athlete that has ever played it. Justify why is that person the greatest of all times
Has Title 9 hurt men’s athletics? Should there be changes?
Have Olympic Games improved or worsened through history?
How money influences the football world today
How much does the crowd at sports events influence the game? Does the roar of the fans or their chants really cause the team to win or lose?
How successful has Title 9 been in changing access to sports for women?
Is there a sport that should be added to the Olympic Games?
Research the history of a sport of your choice. How has the game changed throughout history?
Should college athletes get paid? If so, how should that be done?
Should male and female athletes be paid equally?
Should players form unions to protect their rights?
The impact of the Olympic Games on the economy of the hosting nation?
What do people learn from playing competitive sports?
What does the public think about female athletes?
Why do all children need to play competitive sports in school? How would regular sports activity benefit their health and school performance?
Why do so many young people get injured while playing sports? Is it accidental and unavoidable or is there a way to prevent injuries? Choose between talking about sports in general or discussing some specific sport of your choice.

Criminal justice

African-American men are more likely to spend time in prison in the United States than any other group. What is the underlying cause of this negative trend? What can be done to stop it?
After every terrorist attack, it turns out police received reports about the potential danger. Why do they always ignore these calls?
Are prison sentences for rapes effective? Do convicted rapists recommit their crimes later?
Criminal activities are widely prevalent in news shows, reality TV, television shows, and movies. Does the constant exposure to crime on TV promote these activities and give people ideas?
The death sentence has a long history, but did it help decrease crime rates across the US?
Do convicted criminals abandon their ways and turn into law-abiding citizens?
Do organizations like Prison Fellowship, which attempt to reform prisoners through faith, produce long-term results in changed lives?
Do some people have a genetic predisposition to commit a crime? If so, should government approve genetic testing on criminals?
Does non-dangerous “hazing” add to the rituals and community of an organization? Describe pros and cons of having new members participate in initiation traditions.
How can prisoners help rehabilitate prisoners?
How difficult is it to ex-convicts to find a job?
How does Trump’s victory at the presidential election affect the judicial system in the United States today?
How should the background of the criminal (psychosis, intelligence, family environment, genetic predispositions) affect the decision in a criminal case?
Is Mandatory Minimum sentencing a good idea? Does it aid crime prevention?
Many prisoners re-commit crimes because they find it difficult to cope with “real world” after spending years in prison. What can be done to help them adapt to the new reality after leaving prison?
The number of DUI arrests increases constantly. What can be done about this problem?
On-campus violence: causes and solutions
Online bullying is a common occurrence nowadays. Should cyber-bullies face criminal prosecution?
Out of fear of potential mistake, prisoners on a death row in many states are still waiting for their executions. Does the possibility of wrong death outweigh the need for justice? Is there justice for family members of victims?
Police brutality: causes and potential solutions
Rates of teens engaging in criminal activities keep increasing. How did media contribute to this negative trend?
Should all states have equal laws? Would it prevent some criminals from committing their unlawful deeds?
Should DUI laws be the same across all states?
Should girls and women who falsely accuse someone of raping them face criminal prosecution?
Should people convicted of a DUI be able to attend classes to prevent having their driver’s license revoked?
Should schools allow people with licenses to carry concealed weapons?
Should some crimes require a mandatory death sentence?
Should terrorist suspects be tried in American courts?
Some states have already legalized marijuana. How did cannabis use affect crime rates in these states? Did they go up or down?
Teen gangs and socioeconomic status of households: are they related?
The Innocence Project has released more than 300 convicted criminals based primarily on DNA evidence. Many states give no compensation to those released. Should the compensation be mandatory?
The use of art, music, or theater therapy is a common method of rehabilitating prisoners. How effective are these approaches?
What are the causes of acquaintance rape? How can it be prevented?
What does the general public think about death penalty?
What is the underlying cause (or more of them) behind re-committing crimes?
Why do some people become serial killers? Are there any signs in their behavior to look for?
Why is police brutal when arresting black suspects?
Are older children more successful?
Child labor is a sad reality in third-world countries. Do we contribute to child labor by purchasing products from companies who employ children in their factories?
Do small businesses have a chance to succeed in the competitive market today?
How do blogs help revolutionize businesses?
How did the NAFTA agreement affect business in the United States?
How does birth order affect people in a work environment?
How has terrorism affected businesses?
How important is branding for a business?
Importance of ethics in business: what are the consequences of unethical behavior?
Past, present, and future of search engine optimization (SEO)?
Should companies promote employees based on seniority, college degrees or evaluations of performance?
Should employees be allowed more flexible leave time for caring for children and elderly parents?
What is the best way to grow jobs and reduce the unemployment rate?

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100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers

What’s covered:, how to pick the right research topic, elements of a strong research paper.

Interesting Research Paper Topics

Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you’re using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in.

CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will help you engage with your project and keep you motivated until you’ve typed the final period.

A research paper is similar to an academic essay but more lengthy and requires more research. This added length and depth is bittersweet: although a research paper is more work, you can create a more nuanced argument, and learn more about your topic. Research papers are a demonstration of your research ability and your ability to formulate a convincing argument. How well you’re able to engage with the sources and make original contributions will determine the strength of your paper.

You can’t have a good research paper without a good research paper topic. “Good” is subjective, and different students will find different topics interesting. What’s important is that you find a topic that makes you want to find out more and make a convincing argument. Maybe you’ll be so interested that you’ll want to take it further and investigate some detail in even greater depth!

For example, last year over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a rigorous research program founded by Harvard researchers. The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . The program actually does not require you to have a research topic in mind when you apply, but pro tip: the more specific you can be the more likely you are to get in!

Introduction

The introduction to a research paper serves two critical functions: it conveys the topic of the paper and illustrates how you will address it. A strong introduction will also pique the interest of the reader and make them excited to read more. Selecting a research paper topic that is meaningful, interesting, and fascinates you is an excellent first step toward creating an engaging paper that people will want to read.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is technically part of the introduction—generally the last sentence of it—but is so important that it merits a section of its own. The thesis statement is a declarative sentence that tells the reader what the paper is about. A strong thesis statement serves three purposes: present the topic of the paper, deliver a clear opinion on the topic, and summarize the points the paper will cover.

An example of a good thesis statement of diversity in the workforce is:

Diversity in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for businesses, as it fosters innovation, enhances creativity, improves decision-making, and enables companies to better understand and connect with a diverse customer base.

The body is the largest section of a research paper. It’s here where you support your thesis, present your facts and research, and persuade the reader.

Each paragraph in the body of a research paper should have its own idea. The idea is presented, generally in the first sentence of the paragraph, by a topic sentence. The topic sentence acts similarly to the thesis statement, only on a smaller scale, and every sentence in the paragraph with it supports the idea it conveys.

An example of a topic sentence on how diversity in the workplace fosters innovation is:

Diversity in the workplace fosters innovation by bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, which stimulates creativity, encourages new ideas, and leads to the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

The body of an engaging research paper flows smoothly from one idea to the next. Create an outline before writing and order your ideas so that each idea logically leads to another.

The conclusion of a research paper should summarize your thesis and reinforce your argument. It’s common to restate the thesis in the conclusion of a research paper.

For example, a conclusion for a paper about diversity in the workforce is:

In conclusion, diversity in the workplace is vital to success in the modern business world. By embracing diversity, companies can tap into the full potential of their workforce, promote creativity and innovation, and better connect with a diverse customer base, ultimately leading to greater success and a more prosperous future for all.

Reference Page

The reference page is normally found at the end of a research paper. It provides proof that you did research using credible sources, properly credits the originators of information, and prevents plagiarism.

There are a number of different formats of reference pages, including APA, MLA, and Chicago. Make sure to format your reference page in your teacher’s preferred style.

Analyze the benefits of diversity in education.
Are charter schools useful for the national education system?
How has modern technology changed teaching?
Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing.
What are the benefits of a gap year between high school and college?
What funding allocations give the most benefit to students?
Does homeschooling set students up for success?
Should universities/high schools require students to be vaccinated?
What effect does rising college tuition have on high schoolers?
Do students perform better in same-sex schools?
Discuss and analyze the impacts of a famous musician on pop music.
How has pop music evolved over the past decade?
How has the portrayal of women in music changed in the media over the past decade?
How does a synthesizer work?
How has music evolved to feature different instruments/voices?
How has sound effect technology changed the music industry?
Analyze the benefits of music education in high schools.
Are rehabilitation centers more effective than prisons?
Are congestion taxes useful?
Does affirmative action help minorities?
Can a capitalist system effectively reduce inequality?
Is a three-branch government system effective?
What causes polarization in today’s politics?
Is the U.S. government racially unbiased?
Choose a historical invention and discuss its impact on society today.
Choose a famous historical leader who lost power—what led to their eventual downfall?
How has your country evolved over the past century?
What historical event has had the largest effect on the U.S.?
Has the government’s response to national disasters improved or declined throughout history?
Discuss the history of the American occupation of Iraq.
Explain the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Is literature relevant in modern society?
Discuss how fiction can be used for propaganda.
How does literature teach and inform about society?
Explain the influence of children’s literature on adulthood.
How has literature addressed homosexuality?
Does the media portray minorities realistically?
Does the media reinforce stereotypes?
Why have podcasts become so popular?
Will streaming end traditional television?
What is a patriot?
What are the pros and cons of global citizenship?
What are the causes and effects of bullying?
Why has the divorce rate in the U.S. been declining in recent years?
Is it more important to follow social norms or religion?
What are the responsible limits on abortion, if any?
How does an MRI machine work?
Would the U.S. benefit from socialized healthcare?
Elderly populations
The education system
State tax bases
How do anti-vaxxers affect the health of the country?
Analyze the costs and benefits of diet culture.
Should companies allow employees to exercise on company time?
What is an adequate amount of exercise for an adult per week/per month/per day?
Discuss the effects of the obesity epidemic on American society.
Are students smarter since the advent of the internet?
What departures has the internet made from its original design?
Has digital downloading helped the music industry?
Discuss the benefits and costs of stricter internet censorship.
Analyze the effects of the internet on the paper news industry.
What would happen if the internet went out?
How will artificial intelligence (AI) change our lives?
What are the pros and cons of cryptocurrency?
How has social media affected the way people relate with each other?
Should social media have an age restriction?
Discuss the importance of source software.
What is more relevant in today’s world: mobile apps or websites?
How will fully autonomous vehicles change our lives?
How is text messaging affecting teen literacy?

Mental Health

What are the benefits of daily exercise?
How has social media affected people’s mental health?
What things contribute to poor mental and physical health?
Analyze how mental health is talked about in pop culture.
Discuss the pros and cons of more counselors in high schools.
How does stress affect the body?
How do emotional support animals help people?
What are black holes?
Discuss the biggest successes and failures of the EPA.
How has the Flint water crisis affected life in Michigan?
Can science help save endangered species?
Is the development of an anti-cancer vaccine possible?

Environment

What are the effects of deforestation on climate change?
Is climate change reversible?
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect global warming and climate change?
Are carbon credits effective for offsetting emissions or just marketing?
Is nuclear power a safe alternative to fossil fuels?
Are hybrid vehicles helping to control pollution in the atmosphere?
How is plastic waste harming the environment?
Is entrepreneurism a trait people are born with or something they learn?
How much more should CEOs make than their average employee?
Can you start a business without money?
Should the U.S. raise the minimum wage?
Discuss how happy employees benefit businesses.
How important is branding for a business?
Discuss the ease, or difficulty, of landing a job today.
What is the economic impact of sporting events?
Are professional athletes overpaid?
Should male and female athletes receive equal pay?
What is a fair and equitable way for transgender athletes to compete in high school sports?
What are the benefits of playing team sports?
What is the most corrupt professional sport?

Where to Get More Research Paper Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original research topic ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

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55 Research Paper Topics to Jumpstart Your Writing

The research paper is one of the most tried and true assignments in high school or college. It's your teacher's opportunity to see how well you can research, convey, and organize that research, and assemble everything into one five-paragraph (or maybe 15-page) paper.

Before you get started on your paper, you'll need to have a comprehensive understanding of what your teacher expects out of your completed assignment, as well as a really great topic that you can spend a lot of time researching. However, with several classes filled with many students, your teachers have likely seen the same topics over and over (and over) again. Here are some research paper topics that are guaranteed to keep your interest (and theirs). Borrow one of these ideas or get inspiration from this list, which is broken down by subject category.

Social issues research paper topics

Social issues are always going to exist, unfortunately. But the more we learn about what they are, how we can solve them, and how to prevent them, the better off we'll be. Here are a few social issues topics to think about and to do research on.

Many children are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD and are subsequently put on medication, but some advocate that children are overly medicated and that we should instead have more patience for those who can't sit still or have minor behavioral issues. How should this issue be approached?
The homeless population in the United States is more than 1.5 million people. What are the conditions that lead to someone's being homeless? Are there ways to combat it?
Girls who have been in the foster care system are more likely to be human trafficked. Why is this? What can be done?
Someone who grows up in poverty is more likely to live in poverty all their life. Why is that? How can someone escape poverty?
Opioid addiction is a huge issue in the United States right now. What led to the widespread abuse of opioid drugs? What is being done to solve this problem?
Sexual assault is a hot button issue on college campuses. How widespread is sexual assault on college campuses and what is being done to stop it?
Each year, 1.2 million students drop out of high school. What is causing them to drop out? What can be done to combat the dropout rate?
Many terminally-ill patients in America are advocating for assisted suicide. What countries already allow this, and what are the pros and the cons?
Performance artists in public places such as beach boardwalks have their activities regulated by some local governments. Why is this? What are the pros and the cons?
TV shows such as "Hoarders" have shed light on people who collect tremendous amounts of items, trash, and/or animals in their house. How are these people being helped? What causes hoarding problems?

Political research paper topics

The events in politics may always be changing, but the nature of politics remains the same. There's always a lot to discuss and a lot to learn, making for a very interesting research topic for your paper. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking.

North Korea has recently ramped up its nuclear program. What are some ramifications of this?
There has been a large political divide in the country for the past few years. What factors led to the large division?
What is the AHCA? How is it different from the ACA?
The U.S. recently pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement. What is the Paris Climate Agreement and what is America's history of involvement with it?
Confederate monuments are being torn down after the events in Charlottesville. Write about the history of one confederate monument that's been torn down. When was it built? What were the circumstances of it being constructed?
Some feel that religious liberties have been threatened in the United States for several years. Why do they feel this way? What is the history of religious liberties in this country?
Much of the news in the last couple of years has been the rise of populism. What is the definition of populism? How does it affect the political climate?
Many parents are choosing not to vaccinate their children because they have read that there is a link between vaccines and autism. Should parents have to vaccinate their children to guarantee herd immunity for all children? Even though the evidence points out that vaccines do not cause autism, why do parents still insist? How have certain celebrities contributed to this issue by being vocal on this topic?
Many people in "Middle America" don't feel that their viewpoints are adequately expressed in the national media. Why do they feel this way? How does this affect national discourse?

Historical research paper topics

Many of us learn a lot about the Revolutionary War or the Civil War in our classrooms, but often there's not enough time to explore everything that you might be interested in. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path research paper topics that will be sure to capture your attention as well as your instructor's.

What caused the market crash of 2008? How are we still recovering?
There were several all black towns in the United States in the early 20th century. What led to the establishment of these cities?
Who were the Freedom Riders?
What were the Tulsa Race Riots?
What was Female Hysteria in the Victorian era?
There are a lot of conspiracy theories surrounding Kennedy's assassination. Research about one in depth and discuss how the theory came about.
What was the Korean War over? How does it affect society today?
What was the Vietnam War over? How does it affect society today?
What was the Space Race? Who were the major players and why did it matter so much who got to the moon first?
Why did a lot of protesters and "hippies" gather at Haight-Ashbury in the 1960s? Write about the history of this notable neighborhood in San Francisco.
What were Jim Crow laws? How do they still affect society today?
When was Affirmative Action enacted? How does it still affect society today?
What was the Reconstructive era? How does it still affect the South today?
What was Watergate? Who were the major players and what was the result? How did it affect the country?
What was the Equal Rights Amendment? Why was it not ratified?
What was Prohibition? What were the circumstances and why did it finally end?
Who was the first woman to hold political office in the United States?
Eleanor Roosevelt was a very notable First Lady. Who was she and why was she so important?
What was the case Loving v. Virginia? Who did it involve and what was it about?

Environmental research paper topics

There are many things to learn and research on about the world around us. Whether it's how we can combat climate change or research alternative fuels, it's important to know the answers for a healthy global environment for our future children and grandchildren. Here are a few ideas for environmental research paper topics.

What is global warming? What can we do to minimize the effects of it?
Some people say that certain global warming studies are funded by industries that have a vested interest in the issue, such as solar energy companies. How are they funded and conducted? Should the research be conducted by impartial parties?
The polar ice caps are melting. What does this mean for our environment?
There are many endangered species throughout the world. Pick one to write about and write about conservation efforts being made.
What are alternative fuels? Should we use them or not? Write about the pros and the cons.
What are some ways you could individually reduce your carbon footprint?
What countries are leading the globe on combating climate change? What steps are they taking to lead the way?
What is deforestation and how does it affect the environment?
Many coral reefs are disappearing. Why is that and what kind of actions are scientists taking?
What are sinkholes? Why do they occur?

Film, literature, and art research paper topics

Film, literature, and art are part of what defines a culture. It's not surprising then that there is much to explore when you are thinking about these topics. Here are a few interesting paper topics that pertain to film, literature, and art.

Look at a list of classic films. Pick one and write about why it was so influential.
In the year 2017 it's still quite rare to find a female film director. Pick a favorite female film director and discuss what unique perspectives she adds to film and culture.
There's more of a push to ignore the traditional "canon" of literature because it features a lot of white, male writers. What do this mean and what do you think of it?
Female artists are highly underrepresented in art museums throughout the world. Is it just that there aren't many female artists traditionally? What are some efforts being made to include more female artists?
Some people feel that Hollywood is hypocritical in embracing director Roman Polanski. What makes them feel this way? What events made him a controversial figure?
Read a banned book and research on why the book was banned. What were the circumstances?
They say poetry is a dying art. What do you think? Is poetry still alive and well?

After you've chosen a topic, be sure to get a second opinion

Choosing an interesting research paper topic is often half the battle. Once you get a topic nailed down that you're really fascinated by, it's a lot easier to research and write about it.

After you've written all of the content of your research paper, it's always important to get someone to look over your paper and ensure that it's error-free and makes sense to the reader. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to your instructor or a parent for advice. Finally, if you want to ensure that your paper doesn't contain any spelling or grammar mistakes, you should consider hiring a professional editor such as one from ServiceScape to take a look at your paper. A professional can help you spot an error that you may have missed and help you achieve clean, easy-to-read copy that is guaranteed to impress.

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Research Paper Topics – Definition, Guide & Examples

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Inhaltsverzeichnis

1 Definition: Research Paper Topics
3 Interesting Topics to Write about
4 Interesting Topics for College
5 In a Nutshell

Definition: Research Paper Topics

A research paper topic is a subject, investigation, or issue that a person is interested in and plans to conduct research on. A research paper topic can be both a research question and a hypothesis. You can also phrase your topic as a question, but this is not a requirement. Choosing good research paper topics can be a big deal. It can also be stressful. Good research paper topics that are well thought out, well researched, and well written can be a springboard into future studies and careers.

It is really important to find a good topic for your research paper. Your bachelor or master thesis will be much easier with a good research paper topic.

How do I choose topics for a research paper?

Ask yourself, “what do I want to know about?” Don’t limit yourself to writing what you already know about but treat this as an opportunity to learn. Read journals, go back through the course syllabus, keep an eye on mainstream media. Focus on a topic that engages you and captures your imagination. The next step is to create a research question that will become the basis of your thesis.

What are some good topics for a research paper?

Good research paper topics will be interesting, tackle subjects from a fresh perspective, be manageable and have core data and research you can draw from. Of course, all good research paper topics need to fit within your course guidelines. Try to think about what your research into this topic has to offer to the academic community. Continue reading this article for some research paper topic examples.

What are some business topics for my research paper?

Good research paper topics don’t necessarily need to capture the zeitgeist but there is certainly a lot going on in the business world today to capture your imagination. Try to think about some modern concepts that are new to the academic world. There will always be plenty to discuss when it comes to research paper topics like social media or e-commerce.

Tip: Think ahead and ensure that you’re going to have enough research to work with when you start writing your research paper outline . If your topic is lacking important data or research, perhaps it’s best to choose another field. Unless you’re a postgraduate student and you’re ready to conduct your own research.

What are research topic examples?

Finding a research paper topic can be difficult, as it feels impossible to narrow your selection down. Of course, the topic that you choose will depend on what you’re studying and whether you’re writing your bachelor’s thesis or a postgraduate thesis. Some examples include:

Bio or business ethics
The education system
The current political climate
Environmental issues

These examples will need to be further narrowed down, but hopefully they were able to get you thinking. Scroll down on this article for some further research paper topic examples.

What makes a good research topic?

Your research paper topic needs to be clear from the very beginning of your research paper. It is vital that the reader is able to understand what they’re reading about and your thesis statement should assist them with this. Your research paper should be generating new questions in the academic community so that research in this field is able to thrive.

Interesting Topics to Write about

We’ve talked about the importance of finding research paper topics that are interesting to you. We’ve also talked about the importance of not restricting yourself to researching what you already know about.

Read and let ideas come to you naturally. Good research paper topics can’t be forced. Don’t fixate on a particular possibility. Ask yourself if your possible research paper topics are to broad or to narrow.

Research on coffee consumption in your town might be too narrow a subject, coffee consumption in the country could be too wide, but coffee consumption in your state might form the basis for some great research paper topics.

Examples for research paper topics:

Research paper topics – medical.

Researching for a medical research paper has some similarities and some differences from research papers in other fields. In determining research paper topics in the medical area you need to figure out a topic and decide whether it’s going to be based on quantitative (original) or synthetic research (building on other people’s research).

Medical information can be incredibly complex so a good medical research paper topic will involve lots of notes and those notes need to be well organised to be an effective aid. Good medical research paper topics are frequently written up using the IMRAD method: introduction , (research) methods used, results, and discussion.

Of course there is no shortage of medical subjects that will make good research paper topics. Look around you. We’re a rich and prosperous nation. So why is obesity rising? Why is depression so prevalent? We should be happy. Why are medical issues like autism and dyslexia affecting more children than ever? Why is drug use proving so impossible to rein in? And why are so many kids suddenly allergic to nuts and why are so many adults suddenly gluten intolerant? There are no shortage of medical subjects to form the basis of research paper topics.

Interesting Topics for College

Every College and every student is different so there are no hard and fast rules that apply to everyone and everything when determining what makes an interesting research paper topic. But no matter where you are and what you are studying, following these five golden rules can help you pick out the most interesting research paper topics.

Be specific and focused: Know where your research is going and what you want to achieve. I want to establish that sub Antarctic squid are mating more frequently than usual and having more baby giant squid.
Be original: Fresh research on fresh topics is always more engaging. Who wouldn’t want to read about the mating rituals of sub Antarctic deep water giant squid?
Make it important: Those giant squid are moving out of sub Antarctic waters and coming to waters near you and they’re hungry. This makes it important.
Make it relevant: If the squid come to waters near you and your College, it’s also relevant, especially if they are going to eat all the local prawns and there will none left for the professors marking your paper.
Is the subject matter trending?: Well, in this case, if you are right about the squid, it soon will be. Good research paper topics capture the zeitgeist.

In a Nutshell

Okay, so we’ve talked a bit about what makes for good research topics and how to choose one.

The key piece if advice is to let it come to you naturally. It’s a creative process and creativity isn’t a process that can be forced.

Of course there are parameters and guidelines. When your great idea does come – usually at an inopportune time, your job is to harness it and mould it in a topic that works within the formal constructs of writing good research paper topics.

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271 Strong Argumentative Research Paper Topics You Must Know

Writing good argumentative research paper topics can always place you in a rock and a hard place. Writing from scratch can be daunting, but writing to a deadline is worse. Creating a terrific academic argumentative research paper takes a few tweaks. Through them, you will eventually craft a standardized paper that would earn you all points and, if not all, perhaps better grades.

This article will discuss the various angles you could take flawlessly to finish an argumentative research paper. Consequently, do not let terror take over you when writing a research paper.

Instead, it will be your forte after reading through this article’s steps.

What Is An Argumentative Research Paper?

An argumentative research paper is a paper that is structured in a way that allows you to present and defend your ideas about the topic, and that’s what definitional argument paper topics involve. The main purpose of an argumentative research paper is to make it possible for you to demonstrate your arguments. They may be based on either scientific knowledge or personal experience.

College argumentative research paper topics can be a single paper or a collection of several papers that you have written. Alternatively, it can be a series of papers in which you have analyzed different aspects of the topic. It will take you a while of introspection to understand this.

An award-winning research paper or one that could earn you better grades must be deeply rooted in facts. Generally, you must employ extensive evidence to defend your opinion or point.

What Are The Different Types Of Argumentative Research Paper Topics?

The are many different types of argumentative research paper topics. Here we explore the classic classification of the topics and their characteristics

Classical Western Argument These types of classical argument paper topics have always been footed on two bases: to convince the audience that they are right and give well-reasoned answers to questionsThey are easy argument paper topics. Topics for argumentative research paper tasks do not necessarily have to be complicated. An introduction is imperative for a classical western argument since it welcomes the audience and builds goodwill and a connection with the readers. It also announces the overall theme or thesis of the argument.It must have a narration that portrays necessary background facts. It is intended to inform the listener about the setting and occurrences that produced the argument.A classic western argument must have confirmation, refutation, and summation. Remember, the summary must be concrete, echoing the gravity of the argument and equally reflecting the best solution to the readers.
Toulon Argument The primary goal of a Toulmin argument is frequently to gather the most compelling proof in favor of the presented statements. For example, if you take “Philosophy argument paper topics”, you have to work through this topic well and understand it.The goal of a Toulmin argument is precise, unlike the previous types. It is made up of six parts, namely: introduction, data, warrants, qualifiers, rebuttal, and backing. It has a conclusion intended to trigger evocative thought among the readers.
Rogerian Argument The Rogerian argument seeks the greatest plausible solution based on the wants and preferences of everyone concerned, or, in other words, some form of unanimity. The essay structure of this type of argument does not bear innate disparities to the different types. It has a structure that aims at reaching a consensus amidst the contest.The Rogerian argument topics for a paper focus on expanding comprehension between conflicting viewpoints by noting that an issue can be viewed from various perspectives. Its building blocks are; an introduction, an acknowledgement of the opposition, a thesis statement, support for the thesis, and a conclusion.Notably, the summary has to highlight the imperatives of a classical argument paper topic, even if it cannot resolve the problem wholly. Also, it has to acknowledge that more work needs to be done in the future to find lasting remedies.

How To Write A Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis statement outlines the topic of your assignments, that is, argumentative research essay topics, and provides a summary of the article’s content, particularly your position on the subject. It is helpful to pose a concern before making your assertion in a thesis, so that your thesis can provide a resolution.

This is a powerful strategy for getting the reader interested in your subject and the viewpoint you advocate. The basic custom of any argument should be briefly covered in a thesis. By accomplishing this-getting thesis writing help, you can assist the reader in becoming ready for the essay’s main body.

When writing a thesis statement, you must include: A question A provocative statement A well-laid description An anecdote that compels the readers to find out more about the essay

Whenever you start writing, make an effort to define your aim explicitly. This is what argumentative research paper topics college institutions demand. Constantly write on your subject if you cannot express your purpose effectively.

How To Select A Topic For An Argumentative Essay

You might occasionally find yourself debating points you do not particularly agree with. That is just good – making a convincing argument does not need you to believe what you are saying fervently.

However, picking a subject you are passionate about is a fantastic option when you have complete freedom over it. A strong perspective and various supporting arguments are the two essential elements of a high quality successful argumentative essay.

It will be simpler for a student to obtain proof to back up an argument if they are fascinated and enthusiastic about the issue that they chose. The evidence itself is what matters most.

Decide on a topic by considering issues that are important to you, irrespective of whether they are good or bad. Create a list of concepts, and then pick a couple to focus on. You will then elaborate upon such concepts by addressing a few compensatory picks.

Making these lists may lead you to discover that a few are more powerful than others. The greater the issue, the more proof you have and the more compelling you believe that proved to be.

Again, choosing a different argument research topic is acceptable if you think one issue would have more verifiable data, but you would prefer not to pen about it. If you are enthusiastic about our topic, it might be much simpler to uncover solid arguments and evidence to support your claims than if you are not.

Well, here is a list of sample argumentative research paper topics you could decide to choose from and develop a terrific essay.

Good Argument Paper Topics On Education

Here are some ingenious argumentative essay sample topics touching on matters of education:

Can parents be able to alter their unborn children’s characteristics?
Should pupils need to be immunized to attend a public school?
Should global governments take action to combat climate change?
Should physical education classes have an impact on a student’s grades?
Is free college a good idea?
Should Greek life be banned from academic institutions?
Should comprehensive sex education be given to scholars?
It should be possible for pupils to choose the high school curriculum.
The importance of physical education in education.
Schools should not permit the use of cell phones.
Like scholars, teachers need to pass a professional exam.
Less work should be assigned to pupils in schools.
High schools should be required to include sex education.
The Best Alternative to Regular School is Home Schooling
Scholars should only spend three months studying and nine months vacationing.
Sporting Activities Can Help You Change Your Life.
Lies Are a Vital Component of a Healthy Relationship
There Are Aliens
Keeping a Journal Is a Fun Stress Reduction Technique
Colleges need medical facilities to aid scholars in overcoming stress and depression.
You Can Learn Important Life Skills from Video Games
Having a pet is a way to improve your happiness.
Better Off Renting Than Buying a Home
Is the American educational system ideal for the modern world?

Interesting Argument Paper Topics On Ethics

When faced with an argumentative essay touching on ethics, here are samples to jog your mind:

Do GMOs benefit or hurt humans?
Should Facebook be permitted to gather user data?
Should autonomous vehicles be made legal?
Is it moral to use automation to replace human labor?
Should use a cell phone while driving is prohibited by law?
Has the Internet had a good or bad impact on society?
Should college athletes receive compensation for playing on teams?
Must fracking be permitted?
Same-sex couples ought to be permitted to wed.
Death Penalties: Are They Still Valid in the Twenty-First Century?
Benefits of Medical Marijuana Legalization
Without organized religion, the world might be a better place.
More harm than good is caused by technology.
What would life be like if animals ruled the world?
What if scholars and teachers switched places?
How will having flying automobiles affect our daily lives?
The most prosperous people are school dropouts.
Why drinking is advisable before a test
What if humans were to view the world as dogs do?
The causes behind Starbucks’ delicious flavor
How defying your parents can help you succeed?
Why passing the driving test is crucial
The top pupils are those who do not attend class.
The best visitors are those who arrived already stuffed.
Why I enjoy junk mail
Why setting your school on fire is not an option
Clowns are not as terrifying as you would imagine.
The reason why your washing won’t do itself
Why you should continue to wear a mask even after COVID-19
Which film has ever been the worst?
How playing video games can benefit your career search
Why I don’t like country music
Why films are superior to books
Is it wrong to show sex scenes on television?
Should learning institutions condone cheating?
Should young people have access to birth control?
Is religion a valid justification for terrorism?
Does bullying make one stronger?
Do you think young kids should have access to cell phones and tablets?
Should minors be allowed to obtain contraception without their parent’s permission?
Is it time for single-payer healthcare in the US?
Should assisted suicide be allowed to exist?
Should nutritional supplements and products for weight loss, such as teas, be allowed to use influencer marketing?
Should physicians be permitted to promote medications?
Is the electoral college still a useful mechanism in contemporary America?
Should Puerto Rico gain statehood?
Is automatic voter registration a good idea?
Should prisoners have the right to vote?
Should justices of the Supreme Court be voted into power?
Children should not be served soda at restaurants.
Should sexual labor be made legal?
Should Indigenous Peoples’ Day take the place of Columbus Day?
Should executions be permitted?
Are uniforms for schools a good idea?
Should using animals for clinical tests be permitted?
Should the crime of drug possession be dropped?
Must unpaid internships be permitted?
Must abortion be outlawed?
Do individuals misuse their freedom to carry weapons?
Is there a racial component to police violence?
It is time to raise the legal drinking age.
A child’s sexual orientation is established when they are young.
All around the world, same-sex unions should be permitted.
Inmates should not be kept as illegal immigrants.
Should all women have access to reproductive health care and birth control?
Would anyone benefit equally from our tax system?
Is vaping just as dangerous as cigarette smoking?
Is global consumption a serious problem?
Is social media a privacy infringement?
Does everyone need to get vaccinated?
Do food firms have a say in what we eat?
Does our system of education fit our culture?
Why should certain languages be recognized as official in the US?
Is the death penalty ever justified?
Victims of rape ought to abort their unborn children.
Equal paternity leave should be granted to fathers.
Do trouble-making behaviors among teenagers stem from boredom?
Parents who have failed their children should be disciplined.
Animal testing ought to be prohibited.
Gaming that is violent needs to be prohibited.
Adopting parents with mental impairments should not be permitted.
Islamist nations should allow alcohol usage.
Everyone should receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
School dress codes ought to be abolished
Assignments should not be required
Pets ought to be allowed in learning institutions
Cellphone use should be permitted in class for scholars.
The daily schooling hours ought to be cut shorter
Why longer school breaks are necessary
Every classroom needs a TV.
We must extend our summer vacation.
Schools ought to have recess in between class sessions.
A pet belongs in every classroom.
Is a College Education Still Required?
Should High School Graduates Have a Gap Year?
Cyberbullying in High School Is a Serious Problem
Scholars ought to be permitted to dress however they like.
The Existing Grading System Does Not Reflect Scholars’ Knowledge in the Contemporary World
Is a Lower Voting Age Needed?
The Benefits of Offering Free Condoms to Scholars
Partners expecting a child ought to take parenting classes
Sex education ought to be taught in schools.
Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
Standardized Tests Need to Be Banned
Scholar loans: Are They Favorable or Bad?
Is drug use on campuses a test or a genuine issue?
Do College Relationships Last a Long Time?
Children should not be permitted to attend college classes by scholars.
Fraternities’ detrimental effects on scholars’ behavior and performance
When Is a Gap Year a Welcomed Idea?
There should be more benefits for college athletes when schooling.
Most college units are already obsolete and unfit for the contemporary world.
The cost of lodging in universities ought to be zero.
Celebs ought not to serve as teenage girls’ role models.
Diet obsession can result in a variety of eating conditions and health complications.
School uniforms ought to be required.
Males and females can have friendships that are limited to just that.
The vegetarian lifestyle is not practical
Democracy is currently the sanest form of government.
GMO diets aren’t as risky as we once thought
Horror films may harm one’s mental health.
Junk food ought not to be offered in school lunches.

Easy Argument Paper Topics On Sports

Sports argumentative essay topics can prove hard to formulate. Here are samples:

Should there be a gender divide in sports?
Should baseball’s designated hitter system be eliminated?
Should American sports treat soccer with more respect?
Should players and coaches receive the same compensation?
Girls should be urged to participate in sports and put just as much effort into their studies as boys do.
College Sports Players Must Be Paid
Sports should allow women to compete against men.
Countries benefit economically and socially by hosting the Olympic Games.
Media coverage of female athletes is still sexist.
Certain sports can encourage violent behavior.
Injury Has a Significant Impact on an Athlete’s Mental Health
Among Athletes, Eating Disorders Are a Common Issue
Schools and Colleges should emphasize physical education more
Taking part in sports can have calming, resonant effects on the body and mind.
Motivating girls to participate in sports is important.

Argument Paper Topics On Religion

Argumentative essay topics on religion could prove contentious. Below are samples:

Should religious institutions be subject to taxation?
Should schools allow religious clubs?
Should the pledge of allegiance include “one nation under God”?
Should religion be covered in the classroom?
Should clerics be permitted to wed?

Professional Argument Paper Topics On Economics

Argumentative topics in economics essays are easy. Here are some examples:

Is raising the minimum wage necessary?
Do monopolies deserve to exist?
Is the concept of universal basic income wisely?
Should the tax rate on companies be higher or cheap?

Argument Paper Topics On Society And Culture

Formulating argumentative essay topics on culture and society, in general, should not bother you that much. Here are samples. But if you have problems with your writing you can order a dissertation online .

Is graffiti considered destruction or art?
Should books with offensive language be prohibited?
Should YouTube content be more strictly regulated?
Is the study of art important?
Should people be able to share their art and music online?
Current assessments do not match the scholar’s ability.
Breastfeeding in public should be permitted for women.
To bring about change, the Internet was developed.
When it comes to giving their kids a nutritious diet, parents should be accountable.
Churches ought to be taxed as well.
The Contribution of Art to the Evolution of Our World
Using Art Therapy to Treat Mental Illness
Scholars that participate in the arts excel academically.
Unlike traditional art, digital art lacks soul.
Everybody ought to enrol in art classes in school
Is Art Actually Required?
What Inner Fears Do Children Express in Their Art?
What Is Art For?
How Has the Representation of Women in Art Changed Over the Centuries?
Most art forms were created in ancient Greece, which is where they originated.
A potent treatment for psychological issues is music.
Hard Rock Harmfully influences teenage Behavior
If You Pay Attention, You Can Hear Music in the Natural World
Billie Eilish Is Not Your Average Teen Pop Star-Star
The Human Brain is Positively affected by Music
The Calming Power of Celtic Music
Modern music is largely commercial rather than artistic.
Rap music encourages aggression.
A better pregnancy can be ensured by classical music.
College scholars’ academic performance is improved through music

Technology Argument Paper Topics

Many learners avoid technology-related argumentative topics due to their technicality. Below are samples:

Owners of social media platforms should keep an eye on and delete comments that use offensive language.
Does technology contribute to individuals feeling more alone?
Will there ever be a moment when no new technological developments take place?
Vlogging is not a legitimate career.
Is LinkedIn useful in terms of job search?
The number of business opportunities has significantly increased thanks to social media.
Is Java going out of style?
Are social media profiles of candidates something employers should look through?
Social media cause teenage despair.

Science Argument Paper Topics

Below are argumentative topics touching on the science field:

The Morality of Cloning the Benefits of Genetic Engineering and How They Can Change the World the Potential Benefits of Investing in Space Exploration
Universities should spend more money on scientific programs.
How Do New Scientific Discoveries Affect Our Everyday Lives?
Do New Technologies Pose Health Risks?
The use of animals in scientific research should be prohibited
The Science of Medical Marijuana’s Healing Effect
Food that has been genetically modified: Is it healthy for us or not?
Why Science Should Be Taught to Everyone.

Argument Paper Topics On The Environment

Argumentative topics on the environment tend to be broad. Here are useful samples:

Existing environmental statutes do not avert human encroachment and habitat obliteration
Human encroachment endangers the lives of plants and animals
Climate change is real
Developed nations primarily cause global warming
A change in farming practices is required to cease environmental obliteration.
Environment-friendly effects of vegetarianism
The worst polluters of air and water are industrial by-products and farming additives
Overpopulation is the root cause of city pollution
We must protect the world’s resources.
Hunting is a sinful activity.
Is using animals in a circus acceptable?
Evil dogs ought to be put to sleep.
Recycling ought to be required.
Should recycling be made required?
Is competition advantageous?
Does blogging as a profession have a future?
Is it possible for people to ever exist without the Internet?
Should everyone volunteer and donate to charities?
Does the media infringe on famous people’s privacy?

Argument Paper Topics On Government

Politics is not everyone. Below are argumentative topics on governance you could exploit:

In wealthy nations, unlawful immigration is a serious problem.
Citizenship should always be granted to persons sired within a particular country’s borders. Stricter immigration laws should be enforced against illegal immigration
Border restrictions should be tightened to stop illegal immigration.
The main driver of unlawful immigration is poverty.
Deporting illegal immigrants to their nations of origin is usually pointless.
High Illegal Immigration Rates May Encourage Prostitution
High levels of unlawful immigration are one of the main causes of terrorism.
Lowering immigration costs may help avert illegal immigration
Refugee applicants ought not to be viewed as unauthorized immigrants.
Is Racial Profiling Still Appropriate in Today’s World?
Euthanasia for terminally ill patients should be made legal.
All should have access to free higher education.
Is Donald Trump’s presidency detrimental to the US and the rest of the world, or beneficial?
In colleges and schools, energy drinks have to be prohibited.
In the US, gambling ought to be outlawed.
Should abortion be outlawed globally?
Should the death penalty be carried out universally?
Certain kinds of animal experimentation and other forms of study ought to be prohibited.
Should the government take additional steps to provide accessibility for the physically challenged?
Are people born with the skill to be a politician, or do they learn it?

High Quality Argument Paper Topics On Health

There are numerous argumentative topics on health to choose from. Below are samples:

Everyone should have access to free health care.
It is possible to discover a working cure for AIDs
Art therapy can be effective for a wide range of health issues
Healthy alternatives: benefits and drawbacks
The negative consequences of a head injury
Does the media accurately represent the risk of coronavirus?
Are electronic cigarettes more harmless than smoke?
Could 3D printing help the medical field?
Nanotechnology can aid in cancer treatment
How would stem cells reduce cardiac arrest patients’ mortality rates?
Pro-life vs. Pro-choice views on abortion
Alcoholism harms all aspects of life, not just health
The production and sale of tobacco should be prohibited
Vaping is safer than cigarette smoking.
The risks of the COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the benefits.

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Research paper

Writing a Research Paper Introduction | Step-by-Step Guide

Published on September 24, 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on March 27, 2023.

The introduction to a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals:

Present your topic and get the reader interested
Provide background or summarize existing research
Position your own approach
Detail your specific research problem and problem statement
Give an overview of the paper’s structure

The introduction looks slightly different depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or constructs an argument by engaging with a variety of sources.

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Step 1: introduce your topic, step 2: describe the background, step 3: establish your research problem, step 4: specify your objective(s), step 5: map out your paper, research paper introduction examples, frequently asked questions about the research paper introduction.

The first job of the introduction is to tell the reader what your topic is and why it’s interesting or important. This is generally accomplished with a strong opening hook.

The hook is a striking opening sentence that clearly conveys the relevance of your topic. Think of an interesting fact or statistic, a strong statement, a question, or a brief anecdote that will get the reader wondering about your topic.

For example, the following could be an effective hook for an argumentative paper about the environmental impact of cattle farming:

A more empirical paper investigating the relationship of Instagram use with body image issues in adolescent girls might use the following hook:

Don’t feel that your hook necessarily has to be deeply impressive or creative. Clarity and relevance are still more important than catchiness. The key thing is to guide the reader into your topic and situate your ideas.

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This part of the introduction differs depending on what approach your paper is taking.

In a more argumentative paper, you’ll explore some general background here. In a more empirical paper, this is the place to review previous research and establish how yours fits in.

Argumentative paper: Background information

After you’ve caught your reader’s attention, specify a bit more, providing context and narrowing down your topic.

Provide only the most relevant background information. The introduction isn’t the place to get too in-depth; if more background is essential to your paper, it can appear in the body .

Empirical paper: Describing previous research

For a paper describing original research, you’ll instead provide an overview of the most relevant research that has already been conducted. This is a sort of miniature literature review —a sketch of the current state of research into your topic, boiled down to a few sentences.

This should be informed by genuine engagement with the literature. Your search can be less extensive than in a full literature review, but a clear sense of the relevant research is crucial to inform your own work.

Begin by establishing the kinds of research that have been done, and end with limitations or gaps in the research that you intend to respond to.

The next step is to clarify how your own research fits in and what problem it addresses.

Argumentative paper: Emphasize importance

In an argumentative research paper, you can simply state the problem you intend to discuss, and what is original or important about your argument.

Empirical paper: Relate to the literature

In an empirical research paper, try to lead into the problem on the basis of your discussion of the literature. Think in terms of these questions:

What research gap is your work intended to fill?
What limitations in previous work does it address?
What contribution to knowledge does it make?

You can make the connection between your problem and the existing research using phrases like the following.

Now you’ll get into the specifics of what you intend to find out or express in your research paper.

The way you frame your research objectives varies. An argumentative paper presents a thesis statement, while an empirical paper generally poses a research question (sometimes with a hypothesis as to the answer).

Argumentative paper: Thesis statement

The thesis statement expresses the position that the rest of the paper will present evidence and arguments for. It can be presented in one or two sentences, and should state your position clearly and directly, without providing specific arguments for it at this point.

Empirical paper: Research question and hypothesis

The research question is the question you want to answer in an empirical research paper.

Present your research question clearly and directly, with a minimum of discussion at this point. The rest of the paper will be taken up with discussing and investigating this question; here you just need to express it.

A research question can be framed either directly or indirectly.

This study set out to answer the following question: What effects does daily use of Instagram have on the prevalence of body image issues among adolescent girls?
We investigated the effects of daily Instagram use on the prevalence of body image issues among adolescent girls.

If your research involved testing hypotheses , these should be stated along with your research question. They are usually presented in the past tense, since the hypothesis will already have been tested by the time you are writing up your paper.

For example, the following hypothesis might respond to the research question above:

The final part of the introduction is often dedicated to a brief overview of the rest of the paper.

In a paper structured using the standard scientific “introduction, methods, results, discussion” format, this isn’t always necessary. But if your paper is structured in a less predictable way, it’s important to describe the shape of it for the reader.

If included, the overview should be concise, direct, and written in the present tense.

This paper will first discuss several examples of survey-based research into adolescent social media use, then will go on to …
This paper first discusses several examples of survey-based research into adolescent social media use, then goes on to …

Full examples of research paper introductions are shown in the tabs below: one for an argumentative paper, the other for an empirical paper.

Argumentative paper
Empirical paper

Are cows responsible for climate change? A recent study (RIVM, 2019) shows that cattle farmers account for two thirds of agricultural nitrogen emissions in the Netherlands. These emissions result from nitrogen in manure, which can degrade into ammonia and enter the atmosphere. The study’s calculations show that agriculture is the main source of nitrogen pollution, accounting for 46% of the country’s total emissions. By comparison, road traffic and households are responsible for 6.1% each, the industrial sector for 1%. While efforts are being made to mitigate these emissions, policymakers are reluctant to reckon with the scale of the problem. The approach presented here is a radical one, but commensurate with the issue. This paper argues that the Dutch government must stimulate and subsidize livestock farmers, especially cattle farmers, to transition to sustainable vegetable farming. It first establishes the inadequacy of current mitigation measures, then discusses the various advantages of the results proposed, and finally addresses potential objections to the plan on economic grounds.

The rise of social media has been accompanied by a sharp increase in the prevalence of body image issues among women and girls. This correlation has received significant academic attention: Various empirical studies have been conducted into Facebook usage among adolescent girls (Tiggermann & Slater, 2013; Meier & Gray, 2014). These studies have consistently found that the visual and interactive aspects of the platform have the greatest influence on body image issues. Despite this, highly visual social media (HVSM) such as Instagram have yet to be robustly researched. This paper sets out to address this research gap. We investigated the effects of daily Instagram use on the prevalence of body image issues among adolescent girls. It was hypothesized that daily Instagram use would be associated with an increase in body image concerns and a decrease in self-esteem ratings.

The introduction of a research paper includes several key elements:

A hook to catch the reader’s interest
Relevant background on the topic
Details of your research problem

and your problem statement

A thesis statement or research question
Sometimes an overview of the paper

Don’t feel that you have to write the introduction first. The introduction is often one of the last parts of the research paper you’ll write, along with the conclusion.

This is because it can be easier to introduce your paper once you’ve already written the body ; you may not have the clearest idea of your arguments until you’ve written them, and things can change during the writing process .

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis —a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

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Home » Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Research Paper – Structure, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Research Paper

Definition:

Research Paper is a written document that presents the author’s original research, analysis, and interpretation of a specific topic or issue.

It is typically based on Empirical Evidence, and may involve qualitative or quantitative research methods, or a combination of both. The purpose of a research paper is to contribute new knowledge or insights to a particular field of study, and to demonstrate the author’s understanding of the existing literature and theories related to the topic.

Structure of Research Paper

The structure of a research paper typically follows a standard format, consisting of several sections that convey specific information about the research study. The following is a detailed explanation of the structure of a research paper:

The title page contains the title of the paper, the name(s) of the author(s), and the affiliation(s) of the author(s). It also includes the date of submission and possibly, the name of the journal or conference where the paper is to be published.

The abstract is a brief summary of the research paper, typically ranging from 100 to 250 words. It should include the research question, the methods used, the key findings, and the implications of the results. The abstract should be written in a concise and clear manner to allow readers to quickly grasp the essence of the research.

Introduction

The introduction section of a research paper provides background information about the research problem, the research question, and the research objectives. It also outlines the significance of the research, the research gap that it aims to fill, and the approach taken to address the research question. Finally, the introduction section ends with a clear statement of the research hypothesis or research question.

Literature Review

The literature review section of a research paper provides an overview of the existing literature on the topic of study. It includes a critical analysis and synthesis of the literature, highlighting the key concepts, themes, and debates. The literature review should also demonstrate the research gap and how the current study seeks to address it.

The methods section of a research paper describes the research design, the sample selection, the data collection and analysis procedures, and the statistical methods used to analyze the data. This section should provide sufficient detail for other researchers to replicate the study.

The results section presents the findings of the research, using tables, graphs, and figures to illustrate the data. The findings should be presented in a clear and concise manner, with reference to the research question and hypothesis.

The discussion section of a research paper interprets the findings and discusses their implications for the research question, the literature review, and the field of study. It should also address the limitations of the study and suggest future research directions.

The conclusion section summarizes the main findings of the study, restates the research question and hypothesis, and provides a final reflection on the significance of the research.

The references section provides a list of all the sources cited in the paper, following a specific citation style such as APA, MLA or Chicago.

How to Write Research Paper

You can write Research Paper by the following guide:

Choose a Topic: The first step is to select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. Brainstorm ideas and narrow down to a research question that is specific and researchable.
Conduct a Literature Review: The literature review helps you identify the gap in the existing research and provides a basis for your research question. It also helps you to develop a theoretical framework and research hypothesis.
Develop a Thesis Statement : The thesis statement is the main argument of your research paper. It should be clear, concise and specific to your research question.
Plan your Research: Develop a research plan that outlines the methods, data sources, and data analysis procedures. This will help you to collect and analyze data effectively.
Collect and Analyze Data: Collect data using various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. Analyze data using statistical tools or other qualitative methods.
Organize your Paper : Organize your paper into sections such as Introduction, Literature Review, Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion. Ensure that each section is coherent and follows a logical flow.
Write your Paper : Start by writing the introduction, followed by the literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and follows the required formatting and citation styles.
Edit and Proofread your Paper: Review your paper for grammar and spelling errors, and ensure that it is well-structured and easy to read. Ask someone else to review your paper to get feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Cite your Sources: Ensure that you properly cite all sources used in your research paper. This is essential for giving credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism.

Research Paper Example

Note : The below example research paper is for illustrative purposes only and is not an actual research paper. Actual research papers may have different structures, contents, and formats depending on the field of study, research question, data collection and analysis methods, and other factors. Students should always consult with their professors or supervisors for specific guidelines and expectations for their research papers.

Research Paper Example sample for Students:

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health among Young Adults

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults. A literature review was conducted to examine the existing research on the topic. A survey was then administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Introduction: Social media has become an integral part of modern life, particularly among young adults. While social media has many benefits, including increased communication and social connectivity, it has also been associated with negative outcomes, such as addiction, cyberbullying, and mental health problems. This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of young adults.

Literature Review: The literature review highlights the existing research on the impact of social media use on mental health. The review shows that social media use is associated with depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health problems. The review also identifies the factors that contribute to the negative impact of social media, including social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Methods : A survey was administered to 200 university students to collect data on their social media use, mental health status, and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. The survey included questions on social media use, mental health status (measured using the DASS-21), and perceived impact of social media on their mental health. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis.

Results : The results showed that social media use is positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also found that social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO are significant predictors of mental health problems among young adults.

Discussion : The study’s findings suggest that social media use has a negative impact on the mental health of young adults. The study highlights the need for interventions that address the factors contributing to the negative impact of social media, such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and FOMO.

Conclusion : In conclusion, social media use has a significant impact on the mental health of young adults. The study’s findings underscore the need for interventions that promote healthy social media use and address the negative outcomes associated with social media use. Future research can explore the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health. Additionally, longitudinal studies can investigate the long-term effects of social media use on mental health.

Limitations : The study has some limitations, including the use of self-report measures and a cross-sectional design. The use of self-report measures may result in biased responses, and a cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causality.

Implications: The study’s findings have implications for mental health professionals, educators, and policymakers. Mental health professionals can use the findings to develop interventions that address the negative impact of social media use on mental health. Educators can incorporate social media literacy into their curriculum to promote healthy social media use among young adults. Policymakers can use the findings to develop policies that protect young adults from the negative outcomes associated with social media use.

References :

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2019). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive medicine reports, 15, 100918.
Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Escobar-Viera, C. G., Barrett, E. L., Sidani, J. E., Colditz, J. B., … & James, A. E. (2017). Use of multiple social media platforms and symptoms of depression and anxiety: A nationally-representative study among US young adults. Computers in Human Behavior, 69, 1-9.
Van der Meer, T. G., & Verhoeven, J. W. (2017). Social media and its impact on academic performance of students. Journal of Information Technology Education: Research, 16, 383-398.

Appendix : The survey used in this study is provided below.

Social Media and Mental Health Survey

How often do you use social media per day?
Less than 30 minutes
30 minutes to 1 hour
1 to 2 hours
2 to 4 hours
More than 4 hours
Which social media platforms do you use?
Others (Please specify)
How often do you experience the following on social media?
Social comparison (comparing yourself to others)
Cyberbullying
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Have you ever experienced any of the following mental health problems in the past month?
Do you think social media use has a positive or negative impact on your mental health?
Very positive
Somewhat positive
Somewhat negative
Very negative
In your opinion, which factors contribute to the negative impact of social media on mental health?
Social comparison
In your opinion, what interventions could be effective in reducing the negative impact of social media on mental health?
Education on healthy social media use
Counseling for mental health problems caused by social media
Social media detox programs
Regulation of social media use

Thank you for your participation!

Applications of Research Paper

Research papers have several applications in various fields, including:

Advancing knowledge: Research papers contribute to the advancement of knowledge by generating new insights, theories, and findings that can inform future research and practice. They help to answer important questions, clarify existing knowledge, and identify areas that require further investigation.
Informing policy: Research papers can inform policy decisions by providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers. They can help to identify gaps in current policies, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, and inform the development of new policies and regulations.
Improving practice: Research papers can improve practice by providing evidence-based guidance for professionals in various fields, including medicine, education, business, and psychology. They can inform the development of best practices, guidelines, and standards of care that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
Educating students : Research papers are often used as teaching tools in universities and colleges to educate students about research methods, data analysis, and academic writing. They help students to develop critical thinking skills, research skills, and communication skills that are essential for success in many careers.
Fostering collaboration: Research papers can foster collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers by providing a platform for sharing knowledge and ideas. They can facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and partnerships that can lead to innovative solutions to complex problems.

When to Write Research Paper

Research papers are typically written when a person has completed a research project or when they have conducted a study and have obtained data or findings that they want to share with the academic or professional community. Research papers are usually written in academic settings, such as universities, but they can also be written in professional settings, such as research organizations, government agencies, or private companies.

Here are some common situations where a person might need to write a research paper:

For academic purposes: Students in universities and colleges are often required to write research papers as part of their coursework, particularly in the social sciences, natural sciences, and humanities. Writing research papers helps students to develop research skills, critical thinking skills, and academic writing skills.
For publication: Researchers often write research papers to publish their findings in academic journals or to present their work at academic conferences. Publishing research papers is an important way to disseminate research findings to the academic community and to establish oneself as an expert in a particular field.
To inform policy or practice : Researchers may write research papers to inform policy decisions or to improve practice in various fields. Research findings can be used to inform the development of policies, guidelines, and best practices that can improve outcomes for individuals and organizations.
To share new insights or ideas: Researchers may write research papers to share new insights or ideas with the academic or professional community. They may present new theories, propose new research methods, or challenge existing paradigms in their field.

Purpose of Research Paper

The purpose of a research paper is to present the results of a study or investigation in a clear, concise, and structured manner. Research papers are written to communicate new knowledge, ideas, or findings to a specific audience, such as researchers, scholars, practitioners, or policymakers. The primary purposes of a research paper are:

To contribute to the body of knowledge : Research papers aim to add new knowledge or insights to a particular field or discipline. They do this by reporting the results of empirical studies, reviewing and synthesizing existing literature, proposing new theories, or providing new perspectives on a topic.
To inform or persuade: Research papers are written to inform or persuade the reader about a particular issue, topic, or phenomenon. They present evidence and arguments to support their claims and seek to persuade the reader of the validity of their findings or recommendations.
To advance the field: Research papers seek to advance the field or discipline by identifying gaps in knowledge, proposing new research questions or approaches, or challenging existing assumptions or paradigms. They aim to contribute to ongoing debates and discussions within a field and to stimulate further research and inquiry.
To demonstrate research skills: Research papers demonstrate the author’s research skills, including their ability to design and conduct a study, collect and analyze data, and interpret and communicate findings. They also demonstrate the author’s ability to critically evaluate existing literature, synthesize information from multiple sources, and write in a clear and structured manner.

Characteristics of Research Paper

Research papers have several characteristics that distinguish them from other forms of academic or professional writing. Here are some common characteristics of research papers:

Evidence-based: Research papers are based on empirical evidence, which is collected through rigorous research methods such as experiments, surveys, observations, or interviews. They rely on objective data and facts to support their claims and conclusions.
Structured and organized: Research papers have a clear and logical structure, with sections such as introduction, literature review, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. They are organized in a way that helps the reader to follow the argument and understand the findings.
Formal and objective: Research papers are written in a formal and objective tone, with an emphasis on clarity, precision, and accuracy. They avoid subjective language or personal opinions and instead rely on objective data and analysis to support their arguments.
Citations and references: Research papers include citations and references to acknowledge the sources of information and ideas used in the paper. They use a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Peer-reviewed: Research papers are often peer-reviewed, which means they are evaluated by other experts in the field before they are published. Peer-review ensures that the research is of high quality, meets ethical standards, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
Objective and unbiased: Research papers strive to be objective and unbiased in their presentation of the findings. They avoid personal biases or preconceptions and instead rely on the data and analysis to draw conclusions.

Advantages of Research Paper

Research papers have many advantages, both for the individual researcher and for the broader academic and professional community. Here are some advantages of research papers:

Contribution to knowledge: Research papers contribute to the body of knowledge in a particular field or discipline. They add new information, insights, and perspectives to existing literature and help advance the understanding of a particular phenomenon or issue.
Opportunity for intellectual growth: Research papers provide an opportunity for intellectual growth for the researcher. They require critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, which can help develop the researcher’s skills and knowledge.
Career advancement: Research papers can help advance the researcher’s career by demonstrating their expertise and contributions to the field. They can also lead to new research opportunities, collaborations, and funding.
Academic recognition: Research papers can lead to academic recognition in the form of awards, grants, or invitations to speak at conferences or events. They can also contribute to the researcher’s reputation and standing in the field.
Impact on policy and practice: Research papers can have a significant impact on policy and practice. They can inform policy decisions, guide practice, and lead to changes in laws, regulations, or procedures.
Advancement of society: Research papers can contribute to the advancement of society by addressing important issues, identifying solutions to problems, and promoting social justice and equality.

Limitations of Research Paper

Research papers also have some limitations that should be considered when interpreting their findings or implications. Here are some common limitations of research papers:

Limited generalizability: Research findings may not be generalizable to other populations, settings, or contexts. Studies often use specific samples or conditions that may not reflect the broader population or real-world situations.
Potential for bias : Research papers may be biased due to factors such as sample selection, measurement errors, or researcher biases. It is important to evaluate the quality of the research design and methods used to ensure that the findings are valid and reliable.
Ethical concerns: Research papers may raise ethical concerns, such as the use of vulnerable populations or invasive procedures. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines and obtain informed consent from participants to ensure that the research is conducted in a responsible and respectful manner.
Limitations of methodology: Research papers may be limited by the methodology used to collect and analyze data. For example, certain research methods may not capture the complexity or nuance of a particular phenomenon, or may not be appropriate for certain research questions.
Publication bias: Research papers may be subject to publication bias, where positive or significant findings are more likely to be published than negative or non-significant findings. This can skew the overall findings of a particular area of research.
Time and resource constraints: Research papers may be limited by time and resource constraints, which can affect the quality and scope of the research. Researchers may not have access to certain data or resources, or may be unable to conduct long-term studies due to practical limitations.

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Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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How to Write a Research Paper Introduction (with Examples)

The research paper introduction section, along with the Title and Abstract, can be considered the face of any research paper. The following article is intended to guide you in organizing and writing the research paper introduction for a quality academic article or dissertation.

The research paper introduction aims to present the topic to the reader. A study will only be accepted for publishing if you can ascertain that the available literature cannot answer your research question. So it is important to ensure that you have read important studies on that particular topic, especially those within the last five to ten years, and that they are properly referenced in this section. 1 What should be included in the research paper introduction is decided by what you want to tell readers about the reason behind the research and how you plan to fill the knowledge gap. The best research paper introduction provides a systemic review of existing work and demonstrates additional work that needs to be done. It needs to be brief, captivating, and well-referenced; a well-drafted research paper introduction will help the researcher win half the battle.

The introduction for a research paper is where you set up your topic and approach for the reader. It has several key goals:

Present your research topic
Capture reader interest
Summarize existing research
Position your own approach
Define your specific research problem and problem statement
Highlight the novelty and contributions of the study
Give an overview of the paper’s structure

The research paper introduction can vary in size and structure depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or is a review paper. Some research paper introduction examples are only half a page while others are a few pages long. In many cases, the introduction will be shorter than all of the other sections of your paper; its length depends on the size of your paper as a whole.

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What is the introduction for a research paper, why is the introduction important in a research paper, craft a compelling introduction section with paperpal. try now, 1. introduce the research topic:, 2. determine a research niche:, 3. place your research within the research niche:, craft accurate research paper introductions with paperpal. start writing now, frequently asked questions on research paper introduction, key points to remember.

The introduction in a research paper is placed at the beginning to guide the reader from a broad subject area to the specific topic that your research addresses. They present the following information to the reader

Scope: The topic covered in the research paper
Context: Background of your topic
Importance: Why your research matters in that particular area of research and the industry problem that can be targeted

The research paper introduction conveys a lot of information and can be considered an essential roadmap for the rest of your paper. A good introduction for a research paper is important for the following reasons:

It stimulates your reader’s interest: A good introduction section can make your readers want to read your paper by capturing their interest. It informs the reader what they are going to learn and helps determine if the topic is of interest to them.
It helps the reader understand the research background: Without a clear introduction, your readers may feel confused and even struggle when reading your paper. A good research paper introduction will prepare them for the in-depth research to come. It provides you the opportunity to engage with the readers and demonstrate your knowledge and authority on the specific topic.
It explains why your research paper is worth reading: Your introduction can convey a lot of information to your readers. It introduces the topic, why the topic is important, and how you plan to proceed with your research.
It helps guide the reader through the rest of the paper: The research paper introduction gives the reader a sense of the nature of the information that will support your arguments and the general organization of the paragraphs that will follow. It offers an overview of what to expect when reading the main body of your paper.

What are the parts of introduction in the research?

A good research paper introduction section should comprise three main elements: 2

What is known: This sets the stage for your research. It informs the readers of what is known on the subject.
What is lacking: This is aimed at justifying the reason for carrying out your research. This could involve investigating a new concept or method or building upon previous research.
What you aim to do: This part briefly states the objectives of your research and its major contributions. Your detailed hypothesis will also form a part of this section.

How to write a research paper introduction?

The first step in writing the research paper introduction is to inform the reader what your topic is and why it’s interesting or important. This is generally accomplished with a strong opening statement. The second step involves establishing the kinds of research that have been done and ending with limitations or gaps in the research that you intend to address. Finally, the research paper introduction clarifies how your own research fits in and what problem it addresses. If your research involved testing hypotheses, these should be stated along with your research question. The hypothesis should be presented in the past tense since it will have been tested by the time you are writing the research paper introduction.

The following key points, with examples, can guide you when writing the research paper introduction section:

Highlight the importance of the research field or topic
Describe the background of the topic
Present an overview of current research on the topic

Example: The inclusion of experiential and competency-based learning has benefitted electronics engineering education. Industry partnerships provide an excellent alternative for students wanting to engage in solving real-world challenges. Industry-academia participation has grown in recent years due to the need for skilled engineers with practical training and specialized expertise. However, from the educational perspective, many activities are needed to incorporate sustainable development goals into the university curricula and consolidate learning innovation in universities.

Reveal a gap in existing research or oppose an existing assumption
Formulate the research question

Example: There have been plausible efforts to integrate educational activities in higher education electronics engineering programs. However, very few studies have considered using educational research methods for performance evaluation of competency-based higher engineering education, with a focus on technical and or transversal skills. To remedy the current need for evaluating competencies in STEM fields and providing sustainable development goals in engineering education, in this study, a comparison was drawn between study groups without and with industry partners.

State the purpose of your study
Highlight the key characteristics of your study
Describe important results
Highlight the novelty of the study.
Offer a brief overview of the structure of the paper.

Example: The study evaluates the main competency needed in the applied electronics course, which is a fundamental core subject for many electronics engineering undergraduate programs. We compared two groups, without and with an industrial partner, that offered real-world projects to solve during the semester. This comparison can help determine significant differences in both groups in terms of developing subject competency and achieving sustainable development goals.

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The purpose of the research paper introduction is to introduce the reader to the problem definition, justify the need for the study, and describe the main theme of the study. The aim is to gain the reader’s attention by providing them with necessary background information and establishing the main purpose and direction of the research.

The length of the research paper introduction can vary across journals and disciplines. While there are no strict word limits for writing the research paper introduction, an ideal length would be one page, with a maximum of 400 words over 1-4 paragraphs. Generally, it is one of the shorter sections of the paper as the reader is assumed to have at least a reasonable knowledge about the topic. 2 For example, for a study evaluating the role of building design in ensuring fire safety, there is no need to discuss definitions and nature of fire in the introduction; you could start by commenting upon the existing practices for fire safety and how your study will add to the existing knowledge and practice.

When deciding what to include in the research paper introduction, the rest of the paper should also be considered. The aim is to introduce the reader smoothly to the topic and facilitate an easy read without much dependency on external sources. 3 Below is a list of elements you can include to prepare a research paper introduction outline and follow it when you are writing the research paper introduction. Topic introduction: This can include key definitions and a brief history of the topic. Research context and background: Offer the readers some general information and then narrow it down to specific aspects. Details of the research you conducted: A brief literature review can be included to support your arguments or line of thought. Rationale for the study: This establishes the relevance of your study and establishes its importance. Importance of your research: The main contributions are highlighted to help establish the novelty of your study Research hypothesis: Introduce your research question and propose an expected outcome. Organization of the paper: Include a short paragraph of 3-4 sentences that highlights your plan for the entire paper

Cite only works that are most relevant to your topic; as a general rule, you can include one to three. Note that readers want to see evidence of original thinking. So it is better to avoid using too many references as it does not leave much room for your personal standpoint to shine through. Citations in your research paper introduction support the key points, and the number of citations depend on the subject matter and the point discussed. If the research paper introduction is too long or overflowing with citations, it is better to cite a few review articles rather than the individual articles summarized in the review. A good point to remember when citing research papers in the introduction section is to include at least one-third of the references in the introduction.

The literature review plays a significant role in the research paper introduction section. A good literature review accomplishes the following: Introduces the topic – Establishes the study’s significance – Provides an overview of the relevant literature – Provides context for the study using literature – Identifies knowledge gaps However, remember to avoid making the following mistakes when writing a research paper introduction: Do not use studies from the literature review to aggressively support your research Avoid direct quoting Do not allow literature review to be the focus of this section. Instead, the literature review should only aid in setting a foundation for the manuscript.

Remember the following key points for writing a good research paper introduction: 4

Avoid stuffing too much general information: Avoid including what an average reader would know and include only that information related to the problem being addressed in the research paper introduction. For example, when describing a comparative study of non-traditional methods for mechanical design optimization, information related to the traditional methods and differences between traditional and non-traditional methods would not be relevant. In this case, the introduction for the research paper should begin with the state-of-the-art non-traditional methods and methods to evaluate the efficiency of newly developed algorithms.
Avoid packing too many references: Cite only the required works in your research paper introduction. The other works can be included in the discussion section to strengthen your findings.
Avoid extensive criticism of previous studies: Avoid being overly critical of earlier studies while setting the rationale for your study. A better place for this would be the Discussion section, where you can highlight the advantages of your method.
Avoid describing conclusions of the study: When writing a research paper introduction remember not to include the findings of your study. The aim is to let the readers know what question is being answered. The actual answer should only be given in the Results and Discussion section.

To summarize, the research paper introduction section should be brief yet informative. It should convince the reader the need to conduct the study and motivate him to read further. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, choose trusted AI academic writing assistants like Paperpal to effortlessly craft your research paper introduction and other sections of your research article.

1. Jawaid, S. A., & Jawaid, M. (2019). How to write introduction and discussion. Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia, 13(Suppl 1), S18.

2. Dewan, P., & Gupta, P. (2016). Writing the title, abstract and introduction: Looks matter!. Indian pediatrics, 53, 235-241.

3. Cetin, S., & Hackam, D. J. (2005). An approach to the writing of a scientific Manuscript1. Journal of Surgical Research, 128(2), 165-167.

4. Bavdekar, S. B. (2015). Writing introduction: Laying the foundations of a research paper. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 63(7), 44-6.

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What is a Research Paper?

In the 21st century, writing a research paper has become one of the most crucial parts of most academic degrees. While it may not be necessary, it is best to write one as your research paper can get you into your dream college sometimes!

A Research Paper is a kind of academic writing that provides data, interpretation, and analysis of a Research Question. In some universities, writing a research paper is often a part of their academic curriculum, that is often referred to as ‘Dissertation”.

Why should students write research papers?

You might sometimes wonder how a research paper will help you in life? The truth is, there are many reasons why students should engage in research writing early in their studies. Some of these benefits include:

It helps students excel at research writing for their higher studies.
Enables students to acquire firsthand knowledge, discover new facts, and even get published.
Students get a chance to make useful connections with professors and other researchers.
Writing a unique research paper gives students recognition and credits in many universities.

What makes a Research good?

Writing a good research paper requires a lot of effort and critical thinking. But imagine, if a class of 115 students is writing research papers, then whose paper will stand out? There are some factors that make a research paper unique and recognized. Let’s see what they are.

Research Topic must be crisp, self-explanatory, and unique.
The paper must be reliable and valid.
Appropriate research methods must be used as per the topic.
The objective of the research must be clearly stated.
The collection of data and interpretation must be done in the right manner.

What are some research topics for students?

Choosing a research topic can become a tiring process, especially when you have no idea which direction to go in. In this section of the blog, we will help you with some research title examples for students, and how to choose your choice of research topic.

To choose a research topic of your choice:

Lean into your interest in the topic : For example, if you are interested in studying human psychology, then narrow it down to the field of psychology you would like to research about.
Look for topics : Now suppose, you have narrowed down your choice to Child Psychology. The next step is to look for topics that have enough information for research, and ones that are easily accessible.
Guidelines & Ethics : Make sure the topic that you are finalising falls in line with the guidelines that your university/guide/professor has provided. For example, researching “Autism in Children” will not help you if your guidelines clearly state research on adults.

Given below are some Research Topic examples that you can choose for your paper, or get an idea from. Let’s dive in and get you that A+ and your dream university!

Religion and Globalization – Students can choose this topic to study if there is any relationship between religion and globalisation, and how religions are making use of global communications.
Body Shaming & Its Impact on Mental Wellness and Emotional Expressivity – Many people are victims of body shaming from a very young age. Research on how body shaming impacts a person’s self-worth and other factors can be studied.
AI and its impact on various businesses – How is Artificial Intelligence impacting different businesses? Is it a boon or a bane for certain businesses?
Relationship between multilingualism and socialization – Can being multilingual boost socialization among people? Do people feel more safe and comfortable around people who speak the same language in a different country?
LGBTQ+ – What are the rights of people who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community? How accepting is today’s society towards the community?
Impact of Climate Change on Happiness – Can climate change impact a person’s happiness? Does it have a significant impact on how a person feels?
Work-Life Balance – What are workplaces doing to maintain work-life balance? Why is it important?
Relationship between Technology and Risk Management? – How can technology play a role in Risk management? How does it help?
Parenting Styles and its Impact on Children – Different parenting styles can have different impacts on children. Research about the consequences of different styles.
Rapid Urbanization and its Social Impact – What are the positive and negative impacts of urbanisation?

Final Words

Finding a perfect research topic often seems impossible, and a very hectic task. But we hope this blog has helped you in finding your research interest, and formulating a topic. Writing a research paper can help students in various ways, such as developing academic writing skills. Moreover, many international universities appreciate and prefer students who have published their own research, as it portrays innovation and leadership skills. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your research now! And if you still feel stuck deciding the topic, then you can refer to some AI tools as well. To know more about these tools, read this blog on Best AI Tools for Students in 2024 .

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How to Write Geography Essay: Topics and Examples

Table of contents

1 What Is Geography Essay
2 Choosing a Topic
3 Research and Data Collection
4 Planning the Essay
5 Writing the Essay
6 Examples of Geography Essays
7 Unlocking the World: Key Insights from Our Geographic Exploration

Welcome to the dynamic world of geography essays, where understanding the Earth’s surface becomes an enlightening journey. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to writing a geography essay, starting with the crucial step of selecting a captivating topic. We’ll navigate through various popular topics, emphasizing the importance of effective research and data collection.

In this article, we’ll cover:

How to select engaging and relevant geography essay topics.
The importance of thorough research and effective data collection methods.
Strategies for planning and organizing your geography essay for clarity and impact.
Tips for writing a compelling geography essay, including structuring and presenting arguments.
Analyzing examples of successful geography essays to guide and inspire your work.

As we transition into the details, prepare to enhance your understanding and skills in geography essay writing.

What Is Geography Essay

As we delve into the essence of a geography essay, it’s important to understand that it meticulously examines Earth’s landscapes and human activities. Furthermore, it aims to analyze how these two aspects interact, focusing on spatial relationships and patterns. Transitioning into the specifics, such essays often delve into particular geographic issues, aiming to broaden our comprehension of the world.

Moreover, when writing a geography essay, one must include accurate geographical data. This data, encompassing maps, statistics, and case studies, is crucial for a well-grounded analysis. Consequently, the essay should present facts and interpret them, offering fresh insights into the discussed topic.

Additionally, it’s noteworthy that an essay on geography stands out from others due to its unique subject matter approach. It demands a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of the world’s physical and human dimensions. This requirement makes crafting such an essay a challenging yet fulfilling endeavor.

Lastly, the primary goal of a geography essay is to enlighten and inform. It persuades readers to view the world through a geographical lens, grasping the complex interplay between humans and their environment. This type of essay transcends mere academic exercise, serving as a means to foster a deeper appreciation for our world and its complex dynamics.

Choosing a Topic

The crucial point for a successful geography essay is selecting an engaging and appropriate topic. To choose a topic that resonates, consider current events, your interests, and the scope of your assignment. A good topic should captivate your interest and offer sufficient scope for in-depth study and analysis.

Popular geography essay topics often revolve around climate change , urban development, and cultural landscapes. These topics provide a rich ground for exploration and allow for diverse perspectives and interpretations. For example, a thematic essay on geography could focus on how urbanization affects local ecosystems or how cultural practices shape landscape use.

Analyzing the Direct Impact of Climate Change on the Amazon Rainforest’s Biodiversity
Urbanization in Mega Cities: Environmental Consequences and Sustainable Solutions
Wind and Solar Power: Pioneers of Sustainable Energy Landscape
Managing Water Scarcity in the Middle East: Strategies and Challenges
The Amazon Deforestation Crisis: Causes, Impacts, and Global Responses
Spatial Inequality: A Detailed Look at Poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa
The Dynamics of Population Growth and Overconsumption in Asia
Cultural Preservation of Indigenous Peoples in the Amazon Basin
Earthquakes in Japan: Analyzing Causes, Effects, and Preparedness Strategies
Geography’s Role in the Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire
Implementing Sustainable Agricultural Practices in India for Food Security
The Kashmir Conflict: A Geopolitical Analysis of Border Disputes
The Growing Crisis of Climate Refugees in the Pacific Islands
The Importance of Urban Green Spaces in New York City’s Environmental Health
The Impact of Globalization on Maori Culture in New Zealand
Ecotourism in Costa Rica: Balancing Economic Benefits and Environmental Preservation
Addressing Ocean Plastic Pollution: Case Studies from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch
The Nile River Conflict: Water Politics in a Changing Climate
Preventing Desertification in the Sahel: Strategies and International Cooperation
GIS in Disaster Management: Case Studies of Earthquake Response and Recovery
Measuring the Effects of Glacial Melting on Greenland’s Coastal Communities
Tracing the Economic Geography of the Silk Road in the 21st Century
The Health Impacts of Air Pollution in Beijing: Urban Policies and Challenges
Vulnerable Communities: Assessing the Socioeconomic Impacts of Climate Change in Bangladesh
The New Face of Migration: Syrian Refugees and European Response
The Critical Role of Metropolitan Areas in Combating Global Warming
Saving Madagascar’s Rainforest: Conservation Strategies and Challenges
The Transition to Renewable Energy in Germany: A Model for the World?
Satellite Imagery in Land Use Changes: A Study of the Brazilian Amazon
Arctic Sovereignty: The Geopolitical Implications of Melting Ice Caps for Global Powers

To guide and inspire your topic selection, you can use geography essay examples. These examples showcase a range of topics and approaches, helping you understand what makes a topic both engaging and feasible for study. Remember, a well-chosen topic is the first step toward a compelling and insightful geography essay.

Research and Data Collection

To talk about thorough research, it is the backbone of any geography study, providing the factual and theoretical foundation to understand complex geographical phenomena. To explain why the study of geography is important, one must delve into diverse and reliable sources that offer insights into how geographical factors shape our world and affect our lives. This research underpins the type of geography being studied, whether physical, human, or environmental.

Collecting geographical data can be done through various methods. Firstly, fieldwork is essential, especially for physical geography, as it allows for the direct observation and measurement of geographical features and processes. For human geography, surveys and interviews can yield valuable data on human behaviors and social patterns. Moreover, a thorough literature review also helps understand existing research and theories, providing a critical context for new findings.

Furthermore, evaluating sources for their credibility and relevance is vital. This involves checking the qualifications of the authors, the rigor of their methodologies, and the recency of their findings. Reliable sources are peer-reviewed and come from reputable academic or scientific institutions. What is more, ensuring the credibility of sources strengthens the arguments made in a geography essay and enhances the overall understanding of the topic.

In summary, comprehensive research and careful data collection are fundamental in geography. They enable a deeper understanding of how geographical aspects shape our environment and lives, which is central to the discipline.

Planning the Essay

When you start planning a geography essay, it begins with creating an outline to organize thoughts and research. This step is crucial as it helps structure the essay logically, ensuring a smooth flow of ideas. Start by listing major points and supporting evidence. This framework guides the writing process and maintains focus on the chosen topic. Planning involves outlining the essay and crafting a compelling thesis. Planning involves outlining the essay and crafting a compelling thesis. This process ensures the essay remains focused and coherent, addressing the chosen geography topic. By establishing a clear roadmap for the essay, writers can navigate their arguments and evidence with precision, avoiding common pitfalls such as digression or ambiguity. Now, with our plan in place, let’s transition to examining the structure more closely, exploring how to effectively organize our thoughts and research into a well-structured essay that engages and informs the reader.

Writing the Essay

When you finally start writing, a geographical essay involves several key steps, each demanding attention to detail and a balance between descriptive and analytical writing. This balance is crucial in creating an essay about geography that informs, engages, and persuades.

The introduction sets the stage. Start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, followed by background information that provides context to the topic. This section should conclude with a clear and concise thesis statement that guides the rest of the essay.

In the body, organize paragraphs thematically or chronologically , depending on the essay’s focus. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that relates to the thesis. Following this, present your arguments and support them with geographical theories and data. This is where you incorporate detailed information from your research, including statistics, case studies, and examples. Make sure to explain how this data supports your arguments. A geography research paper demands precision in presenting data and clarity in its interpretation.

When discussing geographical theories, link them directly to your topic. This shows your understanding of the subject and how these theories apply to real-world scenarios. Remember, each paragraph should have a smooth transition to the next, maintaining a coherent flow of ideas.

In the conclusion, summarize the key points of your essay. Restate the thesis in light of the arguments and evidence presented. The conclusion should not introduce new information but encapsulate what the essay has covered. It’s also an opportunity to emphasize the importance of the topic, suggesting potential areas for future research or implications of your findings.

Throughout the essay, maintain a balance between descriptive and analytical writing . Descriptive writing helps paint a picture for the reader, making the data and theories more relatable. Analytical writing, on the other hand, demonstrates your ability to think critically about the topic, evaluating and interpreting the information in a meaningful way.

Examples of Geography Essays

Diversity in style and approach marks the essence of geography writing. A popular method is the comparative approach, contrasting different geographical phenomena. This method often appears in works comparing landscapes or urban vs. rural areas. Another common technique is the case study, focusing on a specific location or event for in-depth analysis of a particular issue.

Thematic approaches cover broader topics like climate change, globalization, or human migration, weaving together various theories and data for a comprehensive view. Additionally, argumentative compositions present a thesis supported by geographical evidence, frequently seen in discussions about environmental policies or land use conflicts.

Each style offers unique insights, providing varied ways to explore and understand geographical concepts and issues. For an in-depth exploration and diverse perspectives on these topics, consider reviewing geography essay examples. This resource can enrich your understanding and offer a broad spectrum of approaches to geographical analysis, from case studies on environmental conservation to essays on urban development and spatial inequalities.

Geography Unveiled: Costa Rica’s Absolute Location Revealed
Geography Unveiled: Navigating Earth’s Spatial Tapestry through Five Themes
The Ever-Changing Canvas of New England Weather
The Mystique and Marvels of the Desert Biome
The Impact of Geography on the Development of Egypt

Unlocking the World: Key Insights from Our Geographic Exploration

This journey through the realm of geography reveals the field’s depth and complexity. From initial planning to diverse writing methods, the main insight stands out: geography compositions are more than maps and data; they are about comprehending our world’s rich tapestry. They balance descriptive narrative and critical analysis, backed by meticulous research and credible sources.

Whether exploring climate change impacts, urban developments, or cultural landscapes, these works offer a lens to see and understand the world anew. They prompt critical thinking about our environment and our place in it. Navigating various geographic topics brings not just academic insights but also life lessons in appreciating our world’s complexity and beauty.

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ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

This article is part of the research topic.

Greenhouse Gas Emission (GHG) Reduction and Economic Structural Transformation

Environmental Regulation Effects from the Perspective on the Industrial Chain : Evidence from Energy Enterprises in China Provisionally Accepted

1 ZheJiang Economic and Trade Polytechnic, China
2 School of Economics, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, China

The final, formatted version of the article will be published soon.

More attention has been paid to environmental regulation of greenhouse gas emissions in the energy industry under the transformation of industrial structure. This paper takes microdata of Chinese energy enterprises from 1998 to 2012 as a sample to build a duty-sharing model, analyzes the effect of environmental regulations on the industrial chain, and explains the "double growth" phenomenon that occurred in China, which is nothing short of miraculous in terms of the environment and economy. In the industrial chain, the environmental obligations and responsibilities will be shared between upstream and downstream enterprises due to trade linkages. This paper finds that environmental responsibilities will move forward through the industrial chain when environmental regulations are strengthened. Downstream companies will loosen "relative" control constraints, thereby expanding output but increasing demand for upstream products. Different from the existing research, we claim that, since environmental regulation has a differential effect on the industrial chain, it will promote the growth of output in the entire chain, in contrast to the theory of "cost compliance", which claims that environmental regulation will inevitably lead to the output. Based on this research, this paper puts forward some suggestions and insights on how the government implements environmental regulations.

Keywords: environmental regulation, Industrial chain, energy industry, Relative Deregulation, DID model

Received: 05 Mar 2024; Accepted: 10 Apr 2024.

Copyright: © 2024 Zhang, Yan and Huang. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

* Correspondence: Mx. Xin Huang, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, School of Economics, Hangzhou, China

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The appropriation of the "Boston Tea Party" by US politicians in the 2010s. This list could go on forever! In fact, any of these topics could become even more specific. For example, check out the evolution of this topic: Causes of the US Revolutionary War. Economic causes of the Revolutionary war.
1000+ Research Topics For Your Dissertation Or Thesis
1000+ FREE Research Topics & Ideas. If you're at the start of your research journey and are trying to figure out which research topic you want to focus on, you've come to the right place. Select your area of interest below to view a comprehensive collection of potential research ideas. AI & Machine Learning. Blockchain & Cryptocurrency.
Top 100 Research Paper Topics: Start Smart
Top 10 Sociology Research Paper Topics: Find ideas related to different sociological theories, research and methodologies. Feminist Methodologies and Epistemology. Quality-of-Life Research. Sociology of Men and Masculinity. Sociology of Leisure and Recreation. Environmental Sociology.
Examples of Research Paper Topics in Different Study Areas
Your SEO optimized title. Sep 19, 2021 How To Get Published 0. Score 98% Score 98%. 72 Examples of Research Paper Topics in 18 Different Study Areas. The examples of research paper topics listed in this post range across disciplines and fields of study to help a wide range of academics, scientists and students choose and develop topics with ...
101 Research Paper Topics
If you are interested in your topic, learning about it will be more pleasurable and you will write with greater passion, so choose your topic thoughtfully. Use the following list of 101 research paper topics as a starting point for your paper. As you begin learning and writing about your topic, you should revise or amend your research question ...
Research Paper Topics That Fascinate and Inspire
A topic too broad might lead to superficial research, while one too narrow can be limiting. Strike a balance. Instead of 'The History of World Literature,' try 'The Influence of Japanese Haiku Poetry on Modern American Literature.'. 5. Controversy and Debate: Controversial topics can be both intriguing and polarizing.
150 Research Paper Topics
How to Choose a Topic for a Research Paper. Pick a few areas or topics that you're interested in and narrow it down to the topic that you like the best. You'll be able to put together an insightful paper if you're interested in the topic you chose. Make sure you have enough references for your topic. Doing a quick search will help you see ...
Good Research Paper Topics You Can Really Use, With Examples and Ideas
Research Topic Examples You Can Use. Let's say the topic example is: Abortion Dilemmas Faced by Adults. Keep the overall structure of the topic example, but make significant changes in both of the main ideas. Examples of adaptations for this topic might include: Life-Stage Dilemmas Faced by Older Adults. or.
How to Write a Research Paper
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.
200 Research Paper Topics Across Disciplines [2024 Update]
17 College Research Paper Topics. 18 Health Research Paper Topics. 19 Politics Research Paper Topics. 20 History Research Paper Topics. 21 Music Research Paper Topics. 22 Literature Research Paper Topics. 22.1 After Choosing the Research Topic. 22.2 Closing Thoughts. When students approach the final stage of their academic journey, they ...
How To Write A Research Paper (FREE Template + Examples)
Step 1: Find a topic and review the literature. As we mentioned earlier, in a research paper, you, as the researcher, will try to answer a question.More specifically, that's called a research question, and it sets the direction of your entire paper. What's important to understand though is that you'll need to answer that research question with the help of high-quality sources - for ...
300+ Research Paper Topics for Every Student in 2024
Health Research Paper Topics. Education Research Paper Topics. Environmental Research Paper Topics. Research Paper Topics on Media and Communication. Research Paper Topics on Politics. Psychology Research Paper Topics. Science & Technology Research Paper Ideas. Research Paper Topics on Business. History Research Paper Topics.
100 Original Research Paper Topics For Students in 2023
Research Paper Topic by Category. Here are some examples of topics you may choose: Argumentative Research Paper Topics. You have to present facts to demonstrate a clear understanding of the topic. Your introduction and concluding paragraph must be equally strong. Take a look at the following argumentative research topics examples:
100 Interesting Research Paper Topics for High Schoolers
Composing a research paper can be a daunting task for first-time writers. In addition to making sure you're using concise language and your thoughts are organized clearly, you need to find a topic that draws the reader in. CollegeVine is here to help you brainstorm creative topics! Below are 100 interesting research paper topics that will ...
55 Research Paper Topics to Jumpstart Your Writing
The research paper is one of the most tried and true assignments in high school or college. It's your teacher's opportunity to see how well you can research, convey, and organize that research, and assemble everything into one five-paragraph (or maybe 15-page) paper. Before you get started on your paper, you'll need to have a comprehensive understanding of what your teacher expects out of your ...
Research Paper Topics ~ Definition & Examples
Definition: Research Paper Topics. A research paper topic is a subject, investigation, or issue that a person is interested in and plans to conduct research on. A research paper topic can be both a research question and a hypothesis. You can also phrase your topic as a question, but this is not a requirement. Choosing good research paper topics ...
271 Strong Argumentative Research Paper Topics
What are argumentative research paper topics? Here are 271 college argumentative research paper topics and not only. Toll-free: +1 (877) 401-4335. Order Now. About; ... Well, here is a list of sample argumentative research paper topics you could decide to choose from and develop a terrific essay.
Writing a Research Paper Introduction
Table of contents. Step 1: Introduce your topic. Step 2: Describe the background. Step 3: Establish your research problem. Step 4: Specify your objective (s) Step 5: Map out your paper. Research paper introduction examples. Frequently asked questions about the research paper introduction.
Research Paper
Definition: Research Paper is a written document that presents the author's original research, analysis, and interpretation of a specific topic or issue. It is typically based on Empirical Evidence, and may involve qualitative or quantitative research methods, or a combination of both. The purpose of a research paper is to contribute new ...
How to Write a Research Paper Introduction (with Examples)
Define your specific research problem and problem statement. Highlight the novelty and contributions of the study. Give an overview of the paper's structure. The research paper introduction can vary in size and structure depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or is a review paper.
Top 10 Research Topics For Students
Top 10 Research Topics For Students. Given below are some Research Topic examples that you can choose for your paper, or get an idea from. Let's dive in and get you that A+ and your dream university! Religion and Globalization - Students can choose this topic to study if there is any relationship between religion and globalisation, and how ...
How to Write Geography Essay: Topics, Tips and Examples
To guide and inspire your topic selection, you can use geography essay examples. These examples showcase a range of topics and approaches, helping you understand what makes a topic both engaging and feasible for study. Remember, a well-chosen topic is the first step toward a compelling and insightful geography essay. Research and Data Collection
Frontiers
More attention has been paid to environmental regulation of greenhouse gas emissions in the energy industry under the transformation of industrial structure. This paper takes microdata of Chinese energy enterprises from 1998 to 2012 as a sample to build a duty-sharing model, analyzes the effect of environmental regulations on the industrial chain, and explains the "double growth" phenomenon ...
Cyber Resilience Act Requirements Standards Mapping
To facilitate adoption of the CRA provisions, these requirements need to be translated into the form of harmonised standards, with which manufacturers can comply. In support of the standardisation effort, this study attempt to identify the most relevant existing cybersecurity standards for each CRA requirement, analyses the coverage already offered on the intended scope of the requirement and ...
Research TASK Grade 12 2024
THE RESEARCH TASK A HYPOTHESIS TESTING APPROACH TO RESEARCH TASKS IN GEOGRAPHY FET Table 1: Research Activity and Due Date Steps Marks Descriptor(s) Term Formulation of the hypothesis Due Date: 1 10 Hypothesis (Must be in the form of a statement including - what, where and impact of geographical issue) Term 1 & 2 2024 Geographical Mapping ...

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