How can you identify the main argument in a research paper?

1 Look for the thesis statement

The thesis statement is the most direct and concise way of expressing the main argument. It is usually one or two sentences that summarize the main point and the main reasons or subclaims of the paper. It is often located at the end of the introduction, but it may also appear elsewhere in the paper. To identify the thesis statement, look for words or phrases that indicate the author's position, perspective, or opinion on the topic, such as "argue", "claim", "demonstrate", "prove", or "show". You can also ask yourself what the author wants you to believe or accept after reading the paper.

2 Follow the structure of the paper

The structure of the paper can also help you identify the main argument and how it is developed and supported throughout the paper. Most research papers follow a standard format of introduction, body, and conclusion, but they may also have subheadings, sections, or chapters that indicate the main topics or aspects of the argument. To follow the structure of the paper, look for transitions, keywords, or signposts that show how the author moves from one point to another, such as "first", "second", "next", "however", "therefore", or "in contrast". You can also make a brief outline or summary of the paper to highlight the main ideas and their connections.

3 Evaluate the evidence and reasoning

The evidence and reasoning are the elements that support and justify the main argument. The evidence is the data, facts, examples, or sources that the author uses to back up their claims. The reasoning is the logic, analysis, or interpretation that the author uses to link the evidence to the claims. To evaluate the evidence and reasoning, look for citations, references, or footnotes that indicate the sources and quality of the evidence. You can also ask yourself how relevant, reliable, and sufficient the evidence is for the argument. Similarly, look for explanations, arguments, or arguments that show how the author uses the evidence to make their point. You can also ask yourself how clear, coherent, and convincing the reasoning is for the argument.

4 Compare and contrast different perspectives

The main argument in a research paper is not always the only or the best one. There may be alternative or opposing perspectives that challenge or contradict the main argument. To compare and contrast different perspectives, look for counterarguments, objections, or limitations that the author acknowledges or addresses in the paper. You can also look for other sources or papers that present different views or evidence on the same topic. You can then weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective and decide which one is more persuasive or valid.

5 Reflect on your own position

The final step in identifying the main argument in a research paper is to reflect on your own position and how it relates to the main argument. The main argument may agree, disagree, or partially agree with your own views or beliefs on the topic. To reflect on your own position, look for assumptions, biases, or values that influence your thinking or interpretation of the paper. You can also ask yourself how the paper has changed, confirmed, or challenged your understanding or opinion on the topic. You can then articulate your own argument and how it differs or agrees with the main argument.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?