IJSCI · ISSN 3049-0251 · Student resources
How to Write a Research Paper as an Undergraduate
Writing a first research paper is hard mainly because nobody shows you the order of work. This guide breaks the job into steps that a student can follow in sequence, from choosing a question to submitting a clean manuscript.
Step 1: Start with a question, not a topic
A topic is a broad area, such as solar energy. A question is something your work can answer, such as how panel tilt affects output in your local climate. Write your question in one sentence. If you cannot, you are not ready to write.
Step 2: Read before you write
Read ten to fifteen recent papers closest to your question. For each, note the problem, method, main result and limitation in a small table. This becomes your introduction and tells you what is already known, so you do not repeat it.
Step 3: Write in the right order
| Order | Section | Why this order |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Methodology | You know it best, and it is the easiest to write |
| 2 | Results | Describe your tables and figures as they are |
| 3 | Introduction | Now you know what you need to set up |
| 4 | Discussion and conclusion | They depend on the results |
| 5 | Abstract and title | They summarise the finished paper |
Papers are read from title to conclusion but are not written that way.
Step 4: Write clearly
- Use short sentences and one idea per paragraph.
- Define each abbreviation the first time you use it.
- Prefer precise words to impressive ones.
- Make every figure and table readable on its own.
- Cite sources for every fact that is not yours.
Step 5: Revise and get feedback
Leave the draft for a day and read it again. Ask your guide or a senior to comment. Check the structure against the manuscript preparation guide, and rewrite any passage that looks copied from a source; see the journal’s plagiarism policy.
Step 6: Submit
Use the IJSCI template, complete the checklist in the author guidelines and submit online. Keep your paper ID. If reviewers ask for changes, treat them as free advice, answer each point and revise politely.
Frequently asked questions
How long should my first research paper be?
Follow the length given in the journal’s author guidelines. A focused paper is better than a long one.
Which section should I write first?
Most authors find it easiest to start with the methodology and results and to write the abstract last.
How many papers should I read before writing?
Ten to fifteen recent, closely related papers is a practical starting point for an undergraduate paper.
What if reviewers ask for revisions?
This is normal. Address each comment, explain your changes and resubmit by the date given.
Related author guides
Discuss your submission with the editorial office
If you have a question about scope, manuscript requirements or publication fees, email editor@ijsci.com. Include your paper ID if you have already submitted.
