subject: Term Paper Structure Requirements [print this page] One of the biggest questions that students face while creating their term paper is the structure they need to follow. More often than not, the length of the term paper is around 3500 words, but it has to be structured well to ensure the reader retains the interest in the document till the last word. If you have to ensure this objective is met, you have to adhere to a particular structure which leads the reader through the document till the last page. Here is some information that will give you an insight into the term paper structure requirements.
The first section of the term paper should be the title page. The way in which the title page needs to be done depends on the style you are asked to follow. For example, the format of the title page for APA style is different from that of the MLA style. Since MLA style is most commonly used, here are some simple tips. The double spacing rule that applies to all pages of the research paper, applies to the title page as well. Every word in the title should begin with a capital letter and the title should be center aligned. The title page should also carry other details such as your name, instructor's name, the course as well as submission date.
The next section in the overall structure of the term paper is the "Table of Contents". This is the section that will give people an insight into the various sections of the paper. All the sections of your term paper (abstract, review, methodologies used, results derived, the discussion, conclusion and appendix) should find a mention in this table. Every section needs to be numbered in the table. Sub-sections, if any, should also be mentioned clearly, along with page numbers for each of them. The title of each section and every sub-section should be clear and evident, but should be worded less.
The third aspect of the structure is the abstract. This is also referred to as the introduction by a few. It is nothing but a quick synopsis of your overall term paper. This abstract has to contain all the important facts related to your term paper. This is the first text that the reader will read to understand what to expect in the rest of the documentation. Therefore, you have to mention the problem you have identified and the solutions you are recommending. You need to also mention the methodologies adopted to arrive at the solution for the problem and also the results of each of them. Remember, this is just a synopsis. Therefore, limit the word count to 250 to 300 words.
The abstract will be followed by the main body of the term paper. This is the largest section of the entire paper since it includes your research in detail. The body of the term paper should have the details of the problem mentioned clearly. It should also detail the methodical approach adopted to arrive at a logical resolution. The current status of your research, in addition to your viewpoint, should also find a mention in the main body.
The next segment of the style structure for the term paper is conclusion. As the name says, this is the section where you will offer a quick recap of your entire project. The interpretations as well as observations need to be reiterated in this section. The limitations as well as the highlights of the term paper should also find a place in this section.
The last two sections are the Citations Page and Appendices. The information in these two sections do not form a part of the word count. However, they do play an important role in establishing the credibility of your work.
