Before we start discussing the types of research paper, let me remind you what a research paper is. Briefly, a research paper is a statement of your thoughts based on the information you picked up from various sources related to the topic of your paper. Now, let us consider the types of research paper.
 
There are two types of research paper: analytical and argumentative. The analytical type of research paper implies using some facts for analyzing different aspects of the problem under discussion. The argumentative type of research paper uses facts to persuade the readers in your point of view on the topic of your paper.
 
Now, let us consider the difference between these two types of research paper.

1. The analytical type of research paper. Here we should pay attention to the word “analyze”. What does it mean? It means that you should choose the main issue and divide it into the subtopics in order to comprehend them better. If you choose the analytical type of research paper, it implies that by means of analyzing the problem of your paper you become an expert in this field and you can propose your own viewpoint and give your recommendations. But to write this type of research paper, you should definitely have critical thinking.
2. As it was mentioned above, the argumentative type of research paper is of persuasive character. Here you should know the exact meaning of the word “argument”. It means the chain of generalizations based on some facts, which lead to certain conclusions. Unlike the analytical type of research paper, you do not have to do any explorations of your topic. You have a particular position on some problem and you need to use facts in order to prove your position and to persuade the readers.

Before you choose any of these types of research paper, think whether you have critical thinking and your persuasive skills are good enough to succeed.