Scientific literature comprises scholarly publications that report on research—observed, experienced, or theoretical—in the natural and social sciences.
Parts of a Scientific Paper
For the most part, a typical peer-reviewed scientific paper includes the following sections:
Title: Subject of the paper and what was studied.
Abstract: Brief summary, including the reason for the study, the primary results, and the main conclusions.
Introduction: General background, and sometimes a brief literature review; why the study was done.
Methods and Materials: How the study was performed, including techniques and equipment, so that it can be replicated by others.
Results: What happened during the study.
Discussion: What the results mean and why they are significant.
Conclusion: Summary of the results; may include reasons why further research is needed.
List of References (or Bibliography): Provides documentation of the sources consulted for the study.
Library Account
Off-Campus Access
Ask Us
