Did all the types of research paper mix up in your mind? Do you not see any difference between the main research paper types?
This problem should be solved from the inside, you know. In this article, you will find the most reliable information on the major types of research paper.
Many students think that there are only two types of research paper: analytical and argumentative. That is why they find themselves absolutely embarrassed when assigned to interpret or compare and contrast something in research papers.
In order to help you avoid this, let us present you 7 the most popular types of research paper:
- 1Types of research paper: ARGUMENTATIVE
- Types of research paper: ANALYTICAL
- Types of research paper: DEFINITION
- Types of research paper: COMPARE AND CONTRAST
- Types of research paper: CAUSE AND EFFECT
- Types of research paper: REPORTS
- Types of research paper: INTERPRETIVE
When writing an argumentative research paper, you need to present two sides of a certain controversial issue. You will also have to support one of them by providing sufficient arguments and proves.
In contrast to argumentative, analytical papers imply that you will analyze existing theories, methods, findings, or approaches instead of focusing on your personal viewpoint.
When writing definition research papers, your purpose is to give a factual definition to a certain notion. Your purpose is to summarize rather than analyze when writing definition papers.
Usually, compare and contrast papers are assigned at Literature or Philosophy classes. However, they can also be assigned in Social sciences in order to compare 2 different viewpoints.
When writing a research paper of this type, your purpose is to trace the causes and the effects of a particular action or phenomenon.
They are usually written to outline a case study situation. Usually, reports include an executive summary along with appendices, graphs, and tables.
To write an interpretive research paper means to explain some viewpoints, theories, or phenomena and ground your explanations on evidences.
Is everything clear to you now? Then, good luck with making your research paper!
You can also read about research paper references on our blog.






