Basic Format Requirements for Writing Small Papers (Basic Format of Ordinary Papers)
Basic Format Requirements for Writing Small Papers
1. Structure and Organization
A paper consists of three parts: the beginning section, the main body, and the concluding section. Each part has a unified basic requirement for its structure and main content. For example, the main body of the paper must include “Literature Review,” “Research Methods,” “Research Results and Discussion,” and “Conclusion.” As the author of the paper, one cannot arbitrarily add or delete any of these sections.
Regarding the structure of each chapter, under each major heading, there is an introductory paragraph at the beginning. In the introduction, it is necessary to describe the layout of this section so that readers have a clear idea before reading. At the end of each chapter, there is a summary of the entire chapter. Between paragraphs, there are transitional sentences that connect the previous and following content. When readers finish each section, there are subheadings to remind them of the topics to be discussed next. The use of figures and tables in the paper makes the information clearer and more comprehensible.
Unlike writing detective novels, every part of the paper must clearly state the writing intention. Do not create suspense for the readers, making them constantly wonder, “What is the author’s purpose in writing this section?” As the author of the paper, always keep the readers in mind and provide them with as much convenience as possible.
2. Language
The language used in the paper should be formal and concise. Use passive voice more often and avoid active voice. Try to avoid using the first person and refrain from using flashy or emotionally charged language, such as “Excellent! Wonderful!” etc.
Tense is an important aspect to pay attention to in paper writing. The commonly used tenses are the present tense and the past tense. Inappropriate use of tense may violate scientific ethics (Day, 1989). According to scientific ethics, once a paper is officially published, it becomes acknowledged knowledge. Therefore, when citing others’ published research results, use the present tense to show respect. When describing one’s own research results, use the past tense to show humility. Below are the common practices for using present and past tenses in papers:
The following situations generally use the present tense:
- (a) Describing the necessity of the research.
- (b) Describing the research results published by predecessors in journals.
- (c) Discussing current theories and well-known principles.
- (d) Describing research results in figures or tables.
- (e) Discussing one’s own research results.
- (f) Presenting research conclusions.
- (g) Making suggestions for future research.
The following situations generally use the past tense:
- (a) Describing one’s own research methods.
- (b) Reporting one’s own research results.
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