Template of a Definition Paper

A definition paper is one that is purely factual and simply explains a situation or topic in a relatively un-emotive manner. Although a definition paper can support a thesis and does reach a conclusion the information contained in the paper does not reflect the writer's opinion on the subject matter.

Title page

See title page template.

Abstract

150 words maximum, single-spaced summarizing the paper.

Introduction

The introductory paragraph explains what the paper is about and the focus of the paper. If we use Clare's (In Cold Blood by Capote; see previous articles) thesis example the introduction would include the thesis as it stands plus the central focus of the information supplied in the paper. So in Clare's thesis the paper would also discuss the concept of journalist bias and integrity and these features would be mentioned in the introduction as well.

Main body

The number of paragraphs the paper has will depend on the word count of the finished article. Like we have noted in the argumentative and analytical papers each paragraph of a definition paper will provide further explanations of the issues described in the opening paragraphs, using topic and transition statements to allow the paper to inform in a logical and linear manner.

Conclusion

It is important to note that in the conclusion of any paper that there be no new information introduced in the paper. In a definition paper the concluding paragraph will summarize the relationship between the main points in the paper and the thesis statement, with the final sentence providing closure on the issue.