Under each section of the research paper outline, I have listed some questions or issues that you might consider when writing the section. For example under the literature review, you might want to incorporate the four questions that I note in preparing your review. However, these questions and issues are merely illustrative. Feel free to include materials, questions and issues in your paper.

I. . Abstract (150 words, centered above the text and single-spaced)
    --the issue of interest
    --the hypothesis
    --data
    --conclusions

II. The problem and its setting (introduction)

     A. The statement of the problem/issue
    --define general concepts not part of hypothesis

     B. The hypotheses (research and null)
    --research hypothesis with the dependent variable and independent variable(s)

     C. The definitions of terms
    --define any concept used in the hypothesis

     D. The importance of the study
    --why is the issue timely or important?

III. Literature review
    --what are the debates on the issue?
    --how do others define concepts?
    --what data do others examine?
    --how do others see the issue?

IV. Data and methodology

     A. The data
    --type of data
    --explain how the data was gathered
    --explain the source of the data
   -- note any problems or strengths of the data set

     B. The research methodology
    --explain the selection of the statistical method
    --explain why this method is best for the data and the question

V. Discussion and Results
    --what are your findings?
    --why are these important findings?
    --how do your findings compare with others?
    --any implications from your findings?

VI. References
    --see APSA Style Manual for Political Science

Data Sources: