IMRAD is the acronym of an organizing structure often used in academic papers, especially those involving scientific and primary research. The components of this structure are: Introduction, Methods, Results, And Discussion. Although students pursuing non-science majors and careers will rarely be asked to write in the IMRAD format, all will benefit from understanding the scientific principles and logic of this structure for several reasons. First, a strong IMRAD strictly adheres to the scientific method, which is important to consider when attempting to credibly answer any research question in any discipline. Secondly, writing an IMRAD will develop analytical skills, which will be helpful to selecting, interpreting, and reaching a conclusion about evidence in more traditional arguments throughout the term. Lastly, everyone will encounter study results occasionally in their lives, whether academically, professionally, through the news, or when making personal health and behavioral decisions. Writing an IMRAD and thinking about how to design a credible study will be essential to better understanding and scrutinizing future IMRADs you will encounter throughout your life.

Prompt:

What do you worry about? Is there something that scares you? Maybe something you think needs to be changed? Choose an issue that causes you concern and investigate it. It can pertain to our University, the environment, a social issue, music, film, and pretty much anything you are personally interested in looking into. Once you’ve carried out a method of researching your issue, write an IMRAD style essay detailing your experience.

To do this, you will need to:

1) Formulate a clear, focused, and answerable research question.

2) Choose a method that will let you investigate and gather data.

3) Analyze the data.

4) Write an introduction, posing your main research question and offering sufficient background information about the issue.

5) Devise a discussion and conclusion which reflects on the findings, analysis, and overall significance of the issue.

Format and Requirements

* Minimum of 1,000 words (not including abstract)

* Sources: at least 1 sources from scholarly or reputable news sources, along with your primary research (methods)

* Follow APA styling rules: typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, appropriate header and heading, 1-inch margins, stapled

* You may use the 1st person (“I”), but don’t be excessive.

* Include in-text citations and a Works Cited page