The key elements of scientific research

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In scientific work, you must demonstrate your ability to approach a problem critically, objectively, and understandably.

To prevent plagiarism, quotes in scientific texts must be identified clearly.

You strictly follow the layout and procedures. The examiner will often mention both.

A scientific article is what?

"semester off? I have to do term papers, so no." This is a common statement made among classmates. Unlike in school, when final marks were mostly determined by oral exams, tests, and class participation, at university you will be exposed to a new type of examination: the dreaded scientific paper, whether it takes the shape of seminar papers, term papers, or final theses. Although it frequently necessitates spending days or weeks working at the library, it is not as horrible as it is portrayed to be. You start off modest with largely shorter-term articles when you first begin your education. And as you produce more scientific papers, you will internalise techniques, establish more routines, and become an authority on the subject by the time you finish. No matter if it is a term paper, bachelor thesis, or master thesis, we show you exactly how to make a good impact with your scientific documents.

The role of academic publications in studies

To prepare for the "ultimate opponent," which is your thesis, you should write term papers throughout your studies to hone your scientific writing skills. The goal is for you to learn how to research a subject thoroughly, process information, and, if required, add to it for yourself and other people who are subject-matter experts. The term paper serves as a practise run for subsequent scientific publications; essays or longer monographs will appear to follow a similar format. Naturally, it is an exam as well because your work will be assessed. With each term paper, the instructor should provide you with criticism so you may develop your writing abilities.

What makes scientific writing unique?

Researching current information and providing a solution to a key topic are the foundations of scientific writing. Gaining information, which includes classifying, expanding, and occasionally even re-evaluating the existing quo, is the ultimate objective. To do this, you must balance three levels:

What is the scientific subject at this level?

What have other scientists discovered and published about it at this discourse level?

The level of argumentation: What can you add to the body of knowledge today? Do the topic and the status of the study allow for a critical discussion?

In a scientific article, you address a specific question on a certain subject. In addition, you outline the study that has previously been done on this subject; honesty is crucial here to prevent falling victim to plagiarism. Finally, your personal contribution to the state of research is the highest discipline: Here, you demonstrate your ability to engage with the subject critically and offer your own insight.

Be careful to avoid plagiarism.

Numerous federal politicians have been accused of plagiarising works throughout the years, most notably Karl-Theodor Guttenberg, the former German defence minister and creator of the term "guttenbergen" ( to copy). But several of Guttenberg's colleagues, like Annette Schavan and the Russian Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky, have also cheated. Guttenberg is not the only one. not suitable examples. You should constantly bear in mind the following guiding concept so that you don't follow suit: Never pass off someone else's creation as your own. It is necessary to carefully and clearly label passages and information taken from other texts as quotes. After all, this is other parties' intellectual property. Plagiarism can, at worst, result in expulsion.