What This Document Is
This document provides comprehensive guidelines for completing a major research paper within an introductory economics course at the University of California, Berkeley. It’s designed to help students navigate the process of crafting a well-structured, insightful, and academically rigorous economics paper. It outlines expectations for research, analysis, and presentation, serving as a crucial reference point throughout the paper-writing process.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for any student enrolled in or preparing for an economics research paper assignment, particularly within a foundational course like Introduction to Economics. It’s most valuable when you’re beginning to formulate your research question, conducting your literature review, or structuring the different sections of your paper. Understanding these guidelines *before* you start writing can significantly improve the quality of your work and ensure you meet the course’s specific requirements.
Topics Covered
* Formulating a focused and impactful research question
* Conducting a thorough and relevant literature review
* Structuring an economics paper for clarity and impact
* Developing a logical argument and supporting evidence
* Integrating existing economic theory into original research
* Understanding the expectations for theoretical and empirical work
* The importance of relating research to course material
What This Document Provides
* A recommended four-part paper structure (abstract, introduction, body, conclusion)
* Guidance on assessing the feasibility and significance of research questions
* Strategies for identifying and synthesizing relevant academic literature
* Insights into how to position your research within the existing body of knowledge
* Direction on developing an “extension” to current economic understanding
* Clarification on the level of depth and effort expected for the assignment
* Suggestions for relevant academic databases and journals for research.
