Is it ok if I use a quote to begin my reasearch paper
You can. Here are some other ideas that are probably more successful:
Professional writers who write for magazines and receive pay for their work use five basic patterns to grab a reader's interest:
historical review
anecdotal
surprising statement
famous person
declarative
from: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/intros.htm
Scroll down about 1/4th of the way to read the details for each of these ideas.
Yes, it is generally acceptable to use a quote to begin your research paper. Using a relevant quote can help you grab the reader's attention and provide a compelling introduction to your topic. However, it is important to use quotes thoughtfully and appropriately. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively incorporate a quote into your research paper:
1. Choose a relevant quote: Select a quote that is directly connected to your research topic or the main argument you want to present. Make sure the quote is from a reputable source, such as a famous scholar, expert, or recognized authority in the field.
2. Provide context: Introduce the quote by providing some background information about the topic you will be discussing in your research paper. This context will help the reader understand the significance of the quote and its relevance to your paper.
3. Integrate the quote smoothly: Incorporate the quote seamlessly into your writing by using signal phrases or introductory clauses. For example, you can introduce the quote by saying, "According to [author's name],..." or "In the words of [author's name],...". This helps attribute the quote to its original source and establishes credibility.
4. Analyze and explain the quote: After presenting the quote, provide an analysis or explanation of its meaning and how it relates to your research topic or thesis statement. This allows you to demonstrate your understanding and critical thinking skills to the reader.
5. Cite the quote properly: It is essential to cite the quote using the appropriate citation style specified by your instructor or academic institution. Common citation styles include APA, MLA, Chicago, etc. Follow the specific guidelines for your chosen style to create a proper in-text citation and include the full citation in your reference or bibliography page.
Remember, using a quote as an opening for your research paper can be an effective technique, but it is crucial to ensure that the quote is relevant, properly cited, and smoothly integrated into your writing.