CPS Online Graduate Studies Research Paper (UNH Manchester Library): Format of Capstone Research Projects at GSC

Format for a GSC Graduate Capstone Research Paper

TITLE

• principle function is to inform reader about topic
• should be concise statement of main idea (maximum length 12 to 15 words)
• avoids words that serve no useful purpose:

"A study of . . ."
"An experimental investigation of . . ."

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ABSTRACT

• single paragraph (about 100 to 150 words)
• brief summary of content and purpose of paper
• should be self-contained and fully intelligible without reference to the body of the paper
• should usually be written last, although working abstract often helps writer to focus

INTRODUCTION

• states the specific topic or research problem
• explains importance of topic in broader context
• might include brief discussion of relevant theories
• should include statement of hypothesis and possible implications of the conclusions

LITERATURE REVIEW/BACKGROUND/HISTORY

• includes brief review of previous work
• includes clear explanation of the difference between literature on the topic and this body of work

FRAMEWORK FOR ANALYSIS

• clearly states the theory/model used
• introduces evaluation criteria

METHODS

• necessary in empirical studies
• explains exact experimental process and experimental design
• identifies participating subjects
• describes apparatus and materials used
• summarizes procedures

RESULTS

• necessary in empirical studies
• summarizes data collected during experiment
• mostly descriptive statistics, etc.
• clearly states main findings
• verbally describes tables and figures

DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS

• contains conclusions, speculations, and inferences
• evaluates results of experiment with respect to the hypothesis or research questions
• applies evaluative criteria to situation
• qualifies results and conclusions
• notes shortcomings of the study

CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS

• poses questions for further research
• relates topic to the "Big Picture" and states significance of study

REFERENCES

• lists all references cited in APA form

APPENDICES

• insert supplemental information and, if necessary, descriptions of the material
• appendix contents may include images, tables, figures, lists of tables, table of figures