A research-paper outline should show how the study moves from question and method to evidence and interpretation. Give each section a purpose before drafting.
A practical starting point
Add the main claim and supporting evidence beneath each heading. A gap in the outline often reveals a gap in the study’s reasoning.
Understand the task
A discussion section explains what the findings mean in relation to the research question. Start with the main result and interpret it before moving to less central findings. The results section reports the evidence; the discussion explains its significance.
Develop the reasoning
Compare the findings with relevant earlier work. Explain agreement and difference in terms of method, setting or theory where the evidence allows. Do not claim that one study overturns an entire field without a strong basis.
Use evidence carefully
Discuss limitations through their effects on interpretation. State what the design can establish, what it cannot and how uncertainty could be reduced. Recommendations for research should arise from those limits.
Review the finished work
Keep the discussion anchored to the data. Avoid introducing results that have not been reported or making practical claims beyond the study’s reach. The final synthesis should answer the question at the appropriate level of confidence.
Before you submit
- Check the brief and marking criteria for this task.
- Confirm the source and date of each factual claim.
- Review the argument before making the final language checks.
- Keep the final file and any submission confirmation.
Support for UK students
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