A math research paper can be a challenge for some students.
A math research paper will generally discuss some aspect of a mathematical principal, rule or equation. Commonly, the paper will be discussing a math problem and explaining solve it. Understand that when you are assigned to write a math research paper, the purpose of the assignment is to demonstrate to the instructor that you understand the mathematical concept and apply it. Before you write the majority of the research paper, you should create a write-up, which can also be thought of as an outline, for your paper.
Instructions
1. Choose a problem to write about for your math research paper if one is not assigned to you. You can come up with your own problem to discuss and solve based on the concepts you are currently learning about in your course. However, your instructor will generally supply you with a list of problems or topics to choose from.
2. Work on the introduction for your math research paper. The introduction states what the problem or concept is that you are going to discuss in the research paper, and it also explains why the problem is important. For example, the problem might be demonstrating a broader mathematical concept, such as the Pythagorean theorem.
3. Solve the problem. Before you complete the write-up for your math research paper, take the time to actually solve the math problem you will be discussing. This will give you a guide when writing your paper.
4. Outline each step in solving the mathematical problem as separate paragraphs in your paper. For your write-up, include the step you're discussing for each paragraph. Then, list what knowledge you need to complete each step, such as knowledge of a specific formula or concept, and how the step was completed. By the last paragraph in this part of the write-up, you should have solved the problem.
5. Answer the original problem you stated in the introduction in the conclusion of your math research paper. The conclusion will already be known from the preceding paragraph, but restate it in the conclusion. Also, reiterate why this type of math problem or concept is significant using different words from the ones you used in the introduction.
