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  • Evan John Evan John
  • 5 min read

Verb Tenses to Use in a Research Paper

Understanding when and where to use different verb tenses is important for writing a clear, coherent, and impactful research paper. To help you understand, we will look at various verb tense usage across various sections of a research paper, providing practical insights to help college students enhance the quality and effectiveness of their writing.

The research paper has different sections, each requiring thoughtful consideration of verb tense usage. From the introductory paragraphs, where you introduce your topic and outline your research objectives, to the conclusion, where you summarize your findings and suggest avenues for future exploration, the choice of verb tense can significantly shape the clarity and persuasiveness of your arguments. By clearly understanding verb tenses in each section, you’ll be better equipped to communicate your ideas and findings easily.

Verb Tenses used in each section

Abstract – (present tense)

The abstract provides a concise summary of the entire research paper, including its purpose, methodology, results, and conclusions. It typically uses the present tense to convey the current relevance of the study and its findings. Key findings and implications are often highlighted to give readers a quick overview of the research.

Introduction -( present tense)

In the introduction, the present tense is often employed to set the stage for the study and outline its objectives. For instance, phrases like “This study explores…” or “This research aims to…” establish the current focus and purpose of the investigation. Present tense is also used to introduce background information or state general truths related to the research topic. By using the present tense, the introduction creates a sense of immediacy and relevance, engaging the reader from the outset.

Literature Review – (past tense)

When discussing previous research in the literature review section, the past tense is commonly utilized. Researchers typically describe the findings of past studies using phrases like “John (2015) found that…” or “Previous research has shown…” This usage of past tense helps to convey that the discussed studies have already been conducted and their findings are established. Additionally, the present perfect tense may be employed to summarize existing knowledge by stating, “Several studies have shown…” This tense choice emphasizes the ongoing relevance of past research findings to the current study.

Methodology – (past tense)

In the methodology section, the past tense is predominantly used to describe the research procedures and methods employed. Researchers typically detail how the study was conducted, such as “Participants were recruited from…” or “Data were collected using…” By using the past tense, the methodology section provides a clear and chronological account of the research process. Additionally, passive past tense might be utilized when describing the research design or instruments used, such as “Surveys were administered to…”

Results – (past tense)

When presenting the findings of the study in the results section, the past tense is commonly utilized. Researchers report the outcomes of data analysis using phrases like “The data showed a significant correlation between…” or “Participants reported higher levels of…” This usage of past tense reflects that the research findings are based on data collected and analyzed in the past. Past tense is also used to describe data analysis methods and present numerical results, providing a clear and objective account of the study’s outcomes.

Discussion – (present and Past tenses)

In the discussion section, both past and present tenses are commonly employed. Past tense is used to interpret the results and discuss their implications, such as “These findings suggest that…” or “The results indicate a need for further investigation into…”. By using the past tense, researchers reflect on the outcomes of the study about existing literature and theoretical frameworks. Present tense might also be used to make general statements or recommendations based on the results, emphasizing their ongoing relevance and implications for future research directions.

Conclusion – (present tense)

In the conclusion section, the present tense is typically used to summarize the main findings of the study and reiterate its significance. Phrases like “This study demonstrates…” or “The findings highlight…” emphasize the current relevance and impact of the research. Present tense is also employed to suggest future research directions, stating “Further studies could explore…” or “Future research should focus on…”. By using the present tense, the conclusion section provides a forward-looking perspective and underscores the ongoing importance of the study’s findings.

Read on Abstract of a Research Paper

Conclusion

If you want to write an excellent research paper, you need to understand where every verb tense needs to be used in each section. If you get these skills it will serve you throughout your college life and beyond. By following and understanding this blog keenly, you’ll be able to produce research papers that are not only well-written but also effectively communicate the significance of your work.

Whether you’re conducting a literature review, describing your research methodology, or interpreting your findings, the judicious use of verb tenses will enable you to write a good research paper that engages the professor and contributes meaningfully to your field of study. So, embrace the challenge, refine your skills, and let your research paper shine and get good grades.

 

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