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Notes on style, writing a proposal, writing a budget, writing a timeline, research methodologies for designers, funding opportunities, external resources.

Reading, Notetaking, and Time Management
Theses and Dissertations

Define your project + Identify your needs.

Develop a key research question. What is your methodology? What outcomes do you expect to see?
Establish realistic goals. What is your timeline? What other responsibilities do you have? What can you truly accomplish in the amount of time you have?
Assess your needs. Are you undertaking preliminary research and in search of seed funding? Or, do you have an ongoing project which has developed into a full-blown research agenda? Scale is important in writing a research agenda: large-scale, long-term projects are often only funded if you can demonstrate seed funding or matched funds.
Why is your research/project important? What is its significance? Will you be undertaking experimental research? Contextualize project relevance.
Sketch a project budget and timeline.
Define deliverables clearly.

Identify potential funding sources.

Determine your category: dissertation, archival, experimental, fieldwork, or manuscript? Funders will usually list these categories in the CFP.
Try to align your project goals with those of your funder’s. Make sure you’re “speaking the same language."
Most importantly, apply early and often.

Develop a proposal and budget.

Follow the application guidelines exactly.
Adjust your project to fit the CFP guidelines. Check that your methodology aligns to your project budget and timeline.
Be clear and concise. Use images, diagrams, drawings, and maps where applicable.
Use active, persuasive language. When describing outcomes, don’t use conditional/hedging words like might / may / maybe / would / could.
Seek feedback and write many drafts.

Submit the proposal before the deadline.

Writing for proposals is not the same as for academic work. It needs to be highly accessible with limited use of industry-specific terminology. Do not assume that the reviewer of your application has expertise in your field.

Use short, clear sentences
Employ an active voice (I or we)
Remain future-focused
Commit to strong, persuasive phrasing
Convey enthusiasm and confidence

A grant proposal must always complete two tasks:

Clearly articulate the hypothesis of your research in its broadest strokes.
Demonstrate that your goals in the research endeavor and the goals of the funding institution are symbiotic.

Introduction/Abstract

As early in the proposal as possible, identify and explicitly state the question your research will answer. Avoid empty verbs like “shaped,” “influenced,” “sheds light,” “nuances,” and “complicates” that allude to the existence of an argument but do not state what that argument is. You might consider writing the abstract last even though it will be the first thing readers see in your proposal.

Though all grant CFPs (calls for proposals) vary, most call for a “grant narrative.” If they don’t ask for a separate abstract, incorporate the abstract into the first paragraph of your narrative. A successful abstract will accurately reflect the proposal and should quickly address your key question, research methodology, and relevance to the funding institution. Reviewers will have to sort through dozens or even hundreds of applications so state the who, what, why, where, when, how, how much, to what end(s) clearly and early. You can elaborate in the body of the grant narrative.

In a grant, it is more important to demonstrate the urgency of your research and relevance to the funding institution than to frame the “gaps” in the literature (as you would in a research paper). Frame research in schools of thought without much detail about individual scholars. Offer avenues for reviewers from other fields (historians, ecologists, sociologists, etc) to enter your intellectual world by relating your research questions to broader issues.

In the body, establish your general topic before you introduce your own argument about that topic. This framing will make your intervention’s relevance to the field evident. You can expand upon the historical or theoretical background to the project and explain how some of the research you’ve already done has led you to your key questions.

Research/Methodology

Be sure to give the fellowship committee some sense of your research process. You don’t need to re-invent the wheel when formulating a research strategy. In Writing Services, students often come to us with successful grant proposals, save for when they discuss methodologies. Research methodologies (aka research process) is either left out entirely, or students spend a good chunk of their word count trying to describe how they are going to conduct research. When writing a grant application, draw on extant methodologies to communicate to your reviewers how (and within what intellectual tradition) you’ll be conducting research. For a comprehensive list of methodologies in the design fields, see below.

Institutional Goals

A successful project will address the goals of the funding institution. Sometimes these goals are clear (example: the grant is for dissertation research, and you need funding to travel to an archive to finish your dissertation). However, you will usually need to construct an argument relating your project to the aims of the CFP. Find the mission statement for the institution that offers the grant. Use this statement to identify how your research will advance the institution’s goals. Figure out the reason the funding exists and devote serious thought to how your project relates to that reason. Even if the relevance seems obvious to you, clearly state it; the grant review committee goes through a mountain of applications, so don’t trust that they will make these connections on their own. Also, articulate the specific reasons why you need this money. What will it allow you to do that you couldn’t do otherwise? And why are you the best person to do this project?

A grant budget is usually comprised of two things: a spreadsheet of how the grant will be used on expenses and a budget narrative (justification). A budget narrative is a paragraph which should explain the expenses. Even when proposal guidelines do not specifically mention a narrative, be sure to include one. This budget narrative can exist at the bottom of the table and should provide a brief overview of the budget.

Spell out project costs via a spreadsheet or table with the budget detailed as line items and include a budget narrative to explain and justify the table.
Make sure that all budget items meet the funding agency’s requirements.
Factor in the estimated taxes applicable for your case.

Certain grants will ask for a timeline in your budget proposal. This timeline should list all the activities you will need to carry out to meet each of your objectives.

Your timeline may be written as a narrative, but it can also be put into a table. A visual representation of your timeline may be easier for reviewers to understand.

Divide your timeline by quarters or months, depending on how long the funding period is. Place each activity into a quarter or month as opposed to specifying specific dates. These activities might include preliminary research, fieldwork, visits to archives, installation, model-making, publication design, etc. Include all activities from the day funding is awarded to the last day of funding.

Include when deliverables will be finished (or when you will fulfill reporting deadlines) and when/how you will assess the project’s progress and address any inadequacies.

If collaborating with other designers and researchers, be sure to address who is responsible for completing each task.

Keep the timeline realistic.

Research Methods for Architecture by Rumiko Handa (Hollis online access)
Architectural Research Methods by Linda Groat (Loeb Library stacks)
Research Methods for the Architectura Profession by Ajla Aksamija (Loeb Library stacks)
Research in Landscape Architecture: Methods and Methodology by Oxon Abingdon (Loeb Library stacks)
The Little Book of Research Writing by Varanya Chaubey (Kennedy School Library)
Operative Design: a Catalogue of Spatial Verbs by Anthoni Di Mari (Loeb Library stacks)
Landscape Architectural Research: Inquiry, Strategy, Design by Elen Deming (HOLLIS online access)
CARAT database of grants and fellowships
Spin database of sponsored funding opportunities
Graham Foundation
Scholarships for International Students
Travelling Fellowships at the GSD
Architecture Fellowships, Prizes, and Travel Programs
Fellowship Writing by the Yale Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning
Grant Writing Tips from Harvard Catalyst
Fellowships from the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
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Home » Research Paper Format – Types, Examples and Templates

Research Paper Format – Types, Examples and Templates

Table of Contents

Research Paper Formats

The format of a research paper is essential for maintaining consistency, clarity, and readability, enabling readers to understand the research findings effectively. Different disciplines follow specific formats and citation styles, such as APA, MLA, Chicago, and IEEE. Knowing the requirements for each format ensures that researchers present their work in a professional and organized manner.

Why Research Paper Format is Important

Consistency : A standardized format ensures that each paper has a similar structure, making it easier for readers to locate information.
Credibility : Following a professional format enhances the credibility of the work, making it look polished and reliable.
Guidelines for Citations : Proper format helps in organizing references and citing sources accurately, which is crucial for avoiding plagiarism.
Reader Comprehension : An organized format improves readability, enabling readers to follow the research arguments and findings effortlessly.

Types of Research Paper Formats

1. apa format (american psychological association).

Discipline : Commonly used in social sciences, psychology, education, and business.
Title Page : Includes title, author’s name, affiliation, course, instructor, and date.
Abstract : A brief summary of the research, usually around 150-250 words.
Main Body : Contains sections such as introduction, method, results, discussion, and conclusion.
References : Lists all sources cited in the paper in APA style.
Double-spaced, Times New Roman 12-point font.
One-inch margins on all sides.
In-text citations include author’s last name and year (e.g., Smith, 2020).

2. MLA Format (Modern Language Association)

Discipline : Commonly used in humanities, literature, and cultural studies.
Header : Author’s name, instructor’s name, course, and date.
Title : Centered on the first page, no separate title page required.
Main Body : Sections for introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
Works Cited : Lists all references in MLA style.
One-inch margins, with in-text citations including the author’s last name and page number (e.g., Smith 45).

3. Chicago Format (Chicago Manual of Style)

Discipline : Used in history, business, fine arts, and sometimes social sciences.
Title Page : Includes the title, author’s name, and institutional affiliation.
Abstract (Optional) : Brief summary, sometimes included depending on requirements.
Main Body : Includes introduction, main sections, and conclusion.
Footnotes/Endnotes : Citations are either in the form of footnotes or endnotes.
Bibliography : Lists all sources in Chicago style.
One-inch margins, with footnotes or endnotes for in-text citations.

4. IEEE Format (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

Discipline : Primarily used in engineering, computer science, and technical fields.
Title Page : Includes title, author’s name, affiliations, and acknowledgment.
Abstract : Brief summary, typically 100-150 words.
Main Body : Sections such as introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
References : Numbered list of references, with citations in brackets (e.g., [1], [2]).
Double-column layout, single-spaced, Times New Roman 10-point font.
One-inch margins, with citations indicated by numbers in brackets within the text.

5. Harvard Format

Discipline : Widely used in academic publications, particularly in the UK.
Title Page : Title, author’s name, date, and affiliation.
Abstract : Summary of the research.
Main Body : Sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
References : Alphabetized list in Harvard style.
One-inch margins, with in-text citations including the author’s last name, year, and page number if applicable (e.g., Smith, 2020).

General Template for Research Paper

Here is a general template applicable across various formats, especially useful if a specific format isn’t required. Researchers can adjust sections based on the format style guide they need to follow.

Paper Title
Author’s Name(s)
Institutional Affiliation
Brief summary of the research, key findings, and significance.
Typically 150-250 words.
Background of the study and research questions.
Purpose and significance of the research.
Summary of existing research relevant to the topic.
Identification of gaps in the literature.
Detailed explanation of research methods and procedures.
Description of sample, data collection, and analysis techniques.
Presentation of findings, often with tables, charts, or graphs.
Clear and objective reporting of data.
Interpretation of findings.
Comparison with other studies, implications, and potential limitations.
Summary of the research and its contributions.
Suggestions for future research.
Complete list of all sources cited in the paper.
Follow the specific citation style format (APA, MLA, etc.).
Appendices (if required)
Additional information, data, or materials relevant to the study but not included in the main text.

Tips for Formatting a Research Paper

Check Formatting Guidelines : Each journal or institution may have specific requirements, so always refer to the official guidelines.
Use Consistent Citations : Ensure all in-text citations and references follow the same format, matching the required style.
Use Headings and Subheadings : Organize sections with clear headings to improve readability and structure.
Proofread for Formatting Errors : Small formatting errors can detract from the professionalism of the paper, so carefully review layout and style.
Use Templates in Word Processors : Many word processors offer built-in templates for APA, MLA, and other styles, helping streamline the formatting process.

Example of Research Paper Formatting in APA

Title Page Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health Author Name University Name Course Name, Instructor Name Date

Abstract This study explores the impact of social media use on adolescent mental health, focusing on levels of anxiety and depression. Data were collected from high school students through a survey. Results suggest a positive correlation between social media use and anxiety, highlighting the need for guidelines on healthy social media habits. (Word count: 150)

Main Body Introduction Discusses the background of social media’s popularity and its psychological effects on teenagers.

Methodology Details the survey process, sample selection, and data analysis techniques.

Results Presents survey findings on the levels of anxiety and depression associated with social media usage.

Discussion Interprets findings in light of previous research and discusses potential implications.

Conclusion Summarizes the key findings, suggesting areas for future study.

References Lists all references in APA format, alphabetically by author.

A research paper’s format is essential for presenting information clearly and professionally. By following specific guidelines, such as APA, MLA, or IEEE, researchers ensure that their work is accessible and credible. Using templates and formatting tips, researchers can structure their papers effectively, improving readability and impact.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). American Psychological Association.
Gibaldi, J. (2016). MLA Handbook (8th ed.). Modern Language Association of America.
University of Chicago Press. (2017). The Chicago Manual of Style (17th ed.). University of Chicago Press.
IEEE Standards Association. (2020). IEEE Citation Reference . IEEE.
Pears, R., & Shields, G. (2019). Cite Them Right: The Essential Referencing Guide . Red Globe Press.