What tense to use when writing a research paper?
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Julian Davis
Works at the International Finance Corporation, Lives in Washington, D.C., USA.
As an expert in academic writing, I would like to share some insights on the appropriate use of tenses in a research paper. The choice of tense is crucial as it can significantly impact the clarity and precision of your writing. It is important to note that the use of tenses can vary depending on the discipline, the type of research, and the specific guidelines of the journal or institution you are writing for. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed.
Step 1: English Answer
Introduction:
The introduction typically uses the present tense to present the research question, the significance of the study, and the current state of knowledge in the field. It sets the stage for the reader and provides context for the research that is about to be discussed.
Literature Review:
In the literature review, the past tense is commonly used to summarize previous research findings. This is because you are describing completed studies and their outcomes. However, when referring to theories or concepts that are still relevant and applicable, the present tense may be used.
Methodology:
The methodology section is where the past tense is predominantly used. This is because you are describing actions that have been completed in the course of your research. You detail how you conducted your study, the materials you used, and the procedures you followed.
Results:
When presenting your results, the past tense is also typically used. You are reporting on what was found during the study. It's important to maintain a clear and factual tone, which the past tense helps to achieve.
Discussion:
In the discussion section, the use of tenses can be more varied. You may use the past tense to refer to the results of your study and the present tense when discussing the implications of those results or when referring to current theories and concepts that are relevant to your findings.
Conclusion:
The conclusion often uses the present tense to summarize the main findings and their significance. It also uses the present tense to suggest future directions for research or to state the broader implications of the study.
**Generalizations and Theoretical Contributions:**
When making generalizations or discussing the theoretical contributions of your research, the present tense is often used. This is because you are stating conclusions or theories that are considered to be universally applicable or true at the time of writing.
Consistency:
It is crucial to maintain consistency in your use of tenses throughout the paper. Inconsistent use can confuse readers and detract from the clarity of your arguments.
Exceptions and Variations:
There may be exceptions to these guidelines. For instance, some disciplines or specific journals may have their own conventions regarding the use of tenses. Always consult the guidelines provided by the journal or your institution.
Step 2: Divider
Step 1: English Answer
Introduction:
The introduction typically uses the present tense to present the research question, the significance of the study, and the current state of knowledge in the field. It sets the stage for the reader and provides context for the research that is about to be discussed.
Literature Review:
In the literature review, the past tense is commonly used to summarize previous research findings. This is because you are describing completed studies and their outcomes. However, when referring to theories or concepts that are still relevant and applicable, the present tense may be used.
Methodology:
The methodology section is where the past tense is predominantly used. This is because you are describing actions that have been completed in the course of your research. You detail how you conducted your study, the materials you used, and the procedures you followed.
Results:
When presenting your results, the past tense is also typically used. You are reporting on what was found during the study. It's important to maintain a clear and factual tone, which the past tense helps to achieve.
Discussion:
In the discussion section, the use of tenses can be more varied. You may use the past tense to refer to the results of your study and the present tense when discussing the implications of those results or when referring to current theories and concepts that are relevant to your findings.
Conclusion:
The conclusion often uses the present tense to summarize the main findings and their significance. It also uses the present tense to suggest future directions for research or to state the broader implications of the study.
**Generalizations and Theoretical Contributions:**
When making generalizations or discussing the theoretical contributions of your research, the present tense is often used. This is because you are stating conclusions or theories that are considered to be universally applicable or true at the time of writing.
Consistency:
It is crucial to maintain consistency in your use of tenses throughout the paper. Inconsistent use can confuse readers and detract from the clarity of your arguments.
Exceptions and Variations:
There may be exceptions to these guidelines. For instance, some disciplines or specific journals may have their own conventions regarding the use of tenses. Always consult the guidelines provided by the journal or your institution.
Step 2: Divider
2024-05-12 06:45:44
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Works at the International Renewable Energy Agency, Lives in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Most of the paper should be written in the PAST TENSE (was, were). The present tense (is, are) is used when stating generalizations or conclusions. The present tense is most often used in the Introduction, Discussion and Conclusion sections of papers.
2023-06-19 07:23:05
Sophia Lewis
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Most of the paper should be written in the PAST TENSE (was, were). The present tense (is, are) is used when stating generalizations or conclusions. The present tense is most often used in the Introduction, Discussion and Conclusion sections of papers.
