Academic research has two major categories: analytical and argumentative. In both categories, extensive research is important for supporting a claim or thesis.

    Argumentative research

   Some College essay questions fall under the argumentative research paper category. The writer needs to clearly communicate his stance with regard to the topic, which is in form of a thesis statement. With this paper type, the source of the thesis is a controversial issue that is debatable and has refutations that are addressed by the research. Just as with any paper, the student is expected to support the thesis in the entire paper, using primary and secondary information.

    Analytical research

   This type of research involves the writer posing a question that needs to be investigated further. The question acts as the driving force behind that paper. The writer takes no stance but is expected to remain objective while investing the topic. The intention of the writer is not to convince the audience that he has the right ideas. The aim is to provide a critical interpretation in the entire paper, using primary and secondary information. His analysis of the paper needs to be buttressed b y the sources.

    Considerations

   The commonality that exists between the two types of research is the process. Writing research papers is a process that is important. To some extent, a predetermined notion or idea has to be given up, in order for a new conclusion to be obtained from the research process. Writing a research paper is not easy, especially for new students. This is because they start writing with a number of ideas planned out already. That particular outlining is not possible with research papers when the data collection is still in progress.

   A good writer must determine his thesis and conclusion, when he is not much further in his writing process. A research paper is different from other forms of academic writing, like expository writing. The research paper combines both primary and secondary information. The thesis or claim acts as a guide in arriving at a conclusion.