Academic writing for researchers

A research proposal is a document outlining what you plan to research, what contribution it will make to the field, and how you will conduct the research.

Write a research proposal when:

• applying for a higher degree research program
• submitting grant or funding applications.

Include in the proposal:

• purpose of your research
• field of knowledge and context
• proposed knowledge gaps to be addressed by your research
• review of relevant literature in the field
• intended methodology
• significance of the study
• proposed benefits and outcomes
• required specialist equipment or resources.

Develop a research proposal

Work through the Writing your research proposal tutorial from Monash University to learn more.

A literature review helps to demonstrate how your research contributes to the field, by summarising existing knowledge and identifying research gaps. It provides a rationale for your research, and justifies its value and position in the context of an existing body of knowledge.

Write a literature review for:

• research projects
• articles
• theses
• reports.

There are different types of literature reviews. Narrative and systematic-style reviews are two common types.

Speak with your supervisor before choosing a review type.

Find out more about systematic-style reviews.

Work through the Writing a literature review tutorial from Monash University to learn more.

A thesis is a long form document that presents a coherent argument in a logical way. It demonstrates how your research contributes to the body of knowledge in your field.

The structure of your thesis is discipline-dependent. Consult your supervisor for advice.

An integrated thesis incorporates published and unpublished papers. Whereas a traditional thesis includes:

• introduction
• literature review
• methods
• results
• analysis
• discussion
• conclusion.

Get started with preparing your thesis

View Monash University's Writing the thesis chapters tutorial to learn more.

Find an example of a thesis in your field.

Find Griffith theses

Find Australian theses

In arts-based inquiry, an exegesis is the written component or dissertation that accompanies a creative output.

A practice-led exegesis responds directly to the creative work and situates it within its specific field of research.

The structure of an exegesis is different from a traditional thesis. While there is no set template, an exegesis usually includes:

• introduction
• positioning of the research and researcher
• contextual review—a survey of artistic practice-based knowledge in your field
• discussion of methodology and methods
• discussion of critical ideas underpinning the project and critical commentary on the work produced
• conclusion.

Learn more about writing an exegesis in your discipline.

• TEXT Special edition 44 (2017) The Exegesis Now
• TEXT Special Issue 3 (2004) Illuminating the Exegesis

Seek advice from your supervisor about the best approach to writing your exegesis.

A report is a structured document produced in response to an investigative process, completion of a project, or implementation of a service. A report may include a list of outcomes and recommendations.

The structure will depend on the report type and its purpose.

Report sections may include:

• abstract
• introduction
• method
• results
• discussion
• references.

Read about research report writing

Work through this Report writing tutorial from ANU to learn more.

A research blog is a useful way to communicate your ideas and research informally to a broad audience.

Write a blog to:

• share your research stories
• promote your research
• broaden your audience reach
• engage with potential collaborators
• participate in conversations with other researchers
• build your online profile.

Get advice on blogging from The Research Whisperer.

View Griffith academic Mark Pearson's blog:

Read Journlaw