Writing MBA Research and Course Papers

While pursuing MBA, you will inevitably, end up writing many research or case study papers. One of the core elements of these papers, besides the fact that these need to precisely address the situation or problem on hand, is that these need to flow smoothly while putting your point across elegantly, and with out confusing the reader.

Important to note also is that fact that these papers should typically follow the APA guideline or one proposed by your professor/ university.

Below I have discussed one way n which you can organize your writing. Main focus below is on hierarchy and overall flow. You spend so much time reading, researching and writing, don’t you want to ensure you are presenting your content the write way?

While the final out-put of your paper will vary vastly depending on your research, case study, thesis or per your professors requirements, few general guidelines should always apply.

So, what are these general guidelines?

1) A research paper or a case study should always start with an ‘Abstract’ or an ‘Overview’ section. Some times ‘Background’ is suitable as well. This is the section where you will provide a high level overview of what you will be or are covering in those tons of papers to follow.

2) The second section should almost always have a brief explanation of the problem or research on hand. This can be as small or lengthy depending on the depth of your topic.

3) Following this you want to get into the meat and potatoes of your paper. This is where you explain the research and your findings or discuss the case and your thoughts or solutions you are proposing for the research/ problem on hand.

4) The next section should be one that picks a side (especially if you have suggested multiple options or shown multiple research results). This is essentially your recommendation section or a stand you are taking.

5) And finally the ‘Conclusion’. It is always important to briefly recap your findings/ position and why you are doing so.

I can tell you from my personal experience that the start and finish of your paper will have the most impact on your reader. While the entire paper and its flow is critical to receiving an ‘A’ grade, the bookends (French, Doug, 2005, The Princeton Review, Verbal Workout for GMAT, Random House, Inc., NY, 2nd Ed.) are the key to impressing the reader. Solid 'bookends' show that you have a clear understanding of the problem on hand and the research you are claiming to be yours or are proposing.

Also be sure to cite any research or work that is not yours so you are following your university’s academic integrity guidelines. University’s typically require that you follow APA guidelines. I will dig deeper and provide few useful APA resources I found online while doing my research in my next blog.

Until then, Good luck with your papers.