The Introduction should contain your thesis statement or the topic of your research as well as the purpose of your study. You may include here the reason why you chose the particular topic or simply the significance of your research paper's topic. You may also state what type of approach it is that you'll be using in your paper for the entire discussion of your topic. Generally, your Introduction should state briefly all the major points of your topic your readers will be reading about.
Body
The body of your paper is where you will be presenting all your arguments to support your thesis statement. Please be reminded of the “Rule of 3” where you should find 3 supporting arguments for each position you take. Start with a strong argument, followed by a stronger one, and end with the strongest argument as your final point.
Conclusion
Conclusion is where you form a summary of all your arguments and state your final stand. Explain why you've ended up with the said conclusion.
Research Paper Outline Examples
As mentioned earlier, here are some sample outlines for research papers:
Sample #1
Thesis Topic: A Study on Factors Affecting the Infant Feeding Practices of Mothers in Las Pinas City
1. Introduction
a. Statement of the Problem
b. Definition of Terms
c. Theoretical Framework
d. Methodology
1. Type of Research
2. Respondents
3. Questionnaire
e. Hypothesis
f. Review of Related Literature
g. Scope and Limitations
h. Significance of the Study
2. Body
a. Background of the Study
1. Benefits of Breastfeeding
2. WHO Recommendations
3. The International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes
4. The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative
5. The Innocenti Declaration on the Protection, Promotion and Support of Breastfeeding
6. National Situationer
7. The Milk Code
8. BFHI in the Philippines
9. Milk Code Violations
10. Formula Feeding
11. Factors Influencing the Decision Regarding Infant Feeding Method
12. Area Situationer
b.