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Research Paper Template

Our proven research paper template, with word-count guidance. Free to use. Instant access.

Developed by Grad Coach's Doctoral-Qualified Team15 Million Downloads · Used by 500+ Universities

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What it covers

This template covers everything examiners expect from a research paper, the same structure we’ve used with 10,000+ students:

The title page/cover page
Abstract (or executive summary)
Section 1: Introduction
Section 2: Literature review
Section 3: Methodology
Section 4: Findings/results
Section 5: Discussion
Section 6: Conclusion
Reference list
Appendices

Each section comes with plain-language instructions and a worked example.

You can download a fully editable MS Word File (DOCX format), copy it to your Google Drive or paste the content to any other word processor.

Frequently asked questions

What format is the template (DOC, PDF, PPT, etc.)?

The research paper template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of research papers can this template be used for?

Any formal academic research paper following the standard best-practice structure. Some universities add minor requirements on top, so check yours before you finalize your structure.

Is this for undergrad, Master or PhD-level work?

Any level of study. It’s likely overkill for an undergraduate paper, but it won’t be missing anything.

How long should my research paper be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. The template gives indicative ranges for the two sections that vary least, the abstract (100–300 words) and the introduction (250–500 words), but leaves the rest open, since word count for the literature review, methodology, results, discussion and conclusion swings too much by field and level to put a number on.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here.

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog.

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my research paper?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our private coaching services.