AI Prompts for Every Section of a Research Paper

Replace [topic] with your research topic. Use AI to plan and draft, then rewrite in your own words and check every fact. Most universities require you to disclose AI use.

1. Title

Give me 5 clear, specific, researchable title options for a study on [topic], suitable for [undergraduate/master's/PhD] level. Include one short and one detailed version.

2. Abstract

Write a 250-word abstract for a study on [topic] covering background, aim, methods, key findings and conclusion.

3. Introduction

Outline an introduction for a study on [topic]: background, the problem, the rationale, and the research aims.

4. Problem statement

Help me write a concise problem statement on [topic]. Explain the gap in current knowledge and why it matters.

5. Objectives and research questions

Write 3–5 SMART research objectives for a study on [topic], each with a matching research question.

6. Literature review

Suggest a structure for a literature review on [topic] organised by key themes, with subheadings and the kinds of studies I should look for under each.

7. Theoretical framework

Suggest theories that could frame a study on [topic] and explain how each relates to my variables.

8. Methodology

Propose a methodology for a study on [topic]: design, population, sample size, sampling technique, instruments, data collection and analysis. Justify each choice.

9. Ethics

Draft an ethical considerations section covering informed consent, confidentiality, voluntary participation, risk and data protection.

10. Expected results

Outline the expected findings for each objective and suggest how to present them (tables, charts, themes). Use neutral language.

11. Discussion

List the key discussion points for these findings: [paste findings]. Compare with previous research and cover implications and limitations.

12. Conclusion

Write a concise conclusion summarising the main findings, contributions and recommendations.

13. References — read this first

Never copy references straight from a chatbot. AI often invents papers that don't exist. Instead, find real sources with Google Scholar, Elicit or Perplexity, open each one, then format them with a citation tool like ZoteroBib.

14. Appendices

What should go in the appendices of a study on [topic]? (e.g. questionnaire, consent form, data-collection tool, ethics approval letter)