These terms, some of which are unique to research papers, relate to the areas of research, writing, proofreading, and presentation.

Active voice

The voice in a sentence that shows that the subject of the verb is performing the action.

Annotated bibliography

A bibliography that includes a commentary about the works being cited.

Bibliography

A list of materials that were used to research a topic.

Bookmark

A browser function that enables a Web site to be marked for easy retrieval.

Call number

An alphanumeric combination used to organize books on library shelves.

Card catalog

A system for looking up all materials in a library, now usually computerized.

Citation

A standard format for listing all research sources.

Database

An organized collection of data.

Dissertation

A formal written composition that puts forward a new point of view based on research work that has been completed. A dissertation is usually required to obtain an advanced degree.

Interviewee

The person who is being interviewed.

Journal

An academic publication similar to a magazine.

Keyword

A word used to search the Internet or library catalog for relevant information.

Microfiche

Reproduction of texts placed on a flat sheet of film and read on a special machine.

Microfilm

Reproduction of texts placed on a strip of film and read on a special machine.

Passive voice

The voice in a sentence that shows that the subject of the verb is receiving the action.

Peer review

A process by which experts in a specific field assess a paper for suitability and accuracy.

Periodical

A magazine, newspaper, journal, or newsletter that is published on a regular basis.

Plagiarism

Using the information, writings, or ideas of another as one's own.

Primary source

The original source of information, such as an eyewitness account, letter, speech, or statistical data.

Public domain

Works that are freely available for use by the general public.

Quotation

An expression, either written or verbal, that is used in its exact original form.

Referee

The experts who review a paper as part of the peer review process.

Reference

A source used in research, commonly understood to include encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and the like.

Search engine

A program on the Internet that enables a user to look for specific information.

Secondary source

Works that are not the original source of information, but are based on primary sources and add to them.

Term paper

A research paper that usually takes most of a term to complete.

Thesis

The main statement that a research paper sets out to prove.

Web Portal

A Web site that provides a wide range of resources for further exploration.