As a rule, you already briefly introduce your research subject in the introduction. However, it is often common to explain your research subject in detail and precisely in the following chapter.

Example

Due to the moderate effectiveness and side effects of antidepressants, it is worthwhile to look for alternative treatment options. A relatively new intervention in the field of depression is jogging. Jogging is understood as slow running, comparable to the pace of fast walking (Newrezella 2009, p. 74). Occasionally it is also referred to as aerobic running, since the energy for the muscles is produced from muscle sugars and fats using oxygen, which is obtained, among other ways, through breathing (Bartmann 2005, p. 21). One study was able to prove that jogging has an antidepressant effect for all age groups and both genders, with women benefiting even more from the sport than men (Reule and Bartmann 2009, p. 19). Although the effect of jogging on depression is still a relatively unexplored area, positive factors have already been proven, which are explained in more detail below.

Source: Slightly modified from a student paper in the module “Academic Work, Methods and Learning Strategies” (anonymous)

The description of the research subject is an obligatory part of the structure of an academic paper.

Frequently asked questions

Der Beitrag Description of the Research Subject erschien zuerst auf Online Writing Lab.