First person can be used sparingly in the introduction and conclusion, but generally not in the body of the paper where you're supplying your explanations and supporting details.
Check with your teacher to make sure, but this is what I would accept.
Is it all right to write a research paper in first person when asked your opinion and to give references to back it up?
3 answers
I would shy away from first person unless specifically to write from that perspective.
In most cases, no. Third person and passive voice is much preferred.
The question is thus something like an oxymoron. If it were a true research paper, it would not be a response to a request for your opinion. Research should not be about you.
You are trying to solve a basic problem, uncover new facts, or test a theory. The identity of the person doing the research should not influence the findings, and the reader should not be burdened with such information.
The question is thus something like an oxymoron. If it were a true research paper, it would not be a response to a request for your opinion. Research should not be about you.
You are trying to solve a basic problem, uncover new facts, or test a theory. The identity of the person doing the research should not influence the findings, and the reader should not be burdened with such information.
9 answers