How can one enhance a research paper's credibility?

A research paper's credibility is significantly enhanced by citing credible sources. This practice demonstrates that the writer has engaged with existing literature and drawn from recognized and authoritative voices in the field. Citing well-respected journals, research studies, books, or other scholarly works lends weight to the arguments and positions presented in the paper, allowing readers to trust the information provided.

In addition to reinforcing the argument's validity, citing a range of credible sources can show the depth of research conducted. It allows for supporting evidence from multiple angles or authorities, which bolsters the overall reliability of the claims made. Moreover, it helps situate the paper within a broader scholarly conversation, highlighting the relevance and importance of the research topic.

Utilizing informal language would typically undermine the seriousness of the academic discourse and may hinder the perception of credibility. Relying solely on primary research, while important, does not inherently improve credibility unless it is presented alongside corroborative and respected secondary sources, as it could risk a lack of context or broader validation. Lastly, limiting references to only one source restricts the research's foundation and could be seen as narrow or biased, detracting from the paper’s overall credibility.