Research papers can be challenging—not just because of the writing, but because of the unfamiliar academic expectations behind each section. This section of the Writing Skills guide helps you understand the structure and purpose of a research paper, especially for longer assignments like capstone projects. It explains what to include in specific sections, introduces key concepts like ethics and worldview, and clarifies what readers of academic research papers are often looking for.
This guide is especially helpful for students in JIBC courses such as RESM-2100, LAWS-4000, LAWS-4003, and ESMS-4900.
While this guide supports your academic writing process, be sure to reach out to your instructor for assignment-specific requirements. If you need help locating or evaluating sources, the JIBC Library (library@jibc.ca) is here to assist you with research support.
The following JIBC Tip Sheets are designed to help students write a research paper.
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Check out the JIBC Vault where you will find exemplary JIBC student capstone papers and faculty publications.
The Library has a Capstone LibGuide that pulls together some of the top platforms to find research for your Capstone. Use the guide to find academic articles, statistics, government reports, and more.