Research

Research Paper Analysis Template

Template for critically analyzing research papers — methodology evaluation, findings assessment, and citation quality review.

Paper Overview

Record title, authors, journal, publication date, and DOISummarize the research question or hypothesis in one sentenceIdentify the theoretical framework or conceptual basisNote the stated contribution to the field

Methodology Assessment

Evaluate research design appropriateness for the questionAssess sample size, selection method, and representativenessReview data collection instruments and their validationCheck for control variables and potential confoundersEvaluate the statistical methods and significance thresholds used

Findings Review

List the primary findings and their statistical significanceAssess whether findings support or refute the hypothesisCheck that all reported results are consistent with the dataEvaluate the practical significance beyond statistical significanceReview figures and tables for clarity and accuracy

Limitations & Bias

Identify limitations acknowledged by the authorsCheck for potential selection bias or response biasAssess generalizability of findings to other populationsReview funding sources for potential conflicts of interest

Implications & Citation Quality

Evaluate the author conclusions against the evidence presentedAssess the recency and relevance of cited referencesIdentify seminal works that should have been citedRate overall paper quality: strong, moderate, weakNote applicability to your own research or project

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