Guide to

Business Research Proposal

and
Business Research Project

Bachelor of Business Management (Hons), Bachelor of Accounting (Hons) and Bachelor of

Accounting and Finance (Hons)

September 2016

Faculty of Business, Accounting & Management

SEGi University
 Table of Contents

Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3

1.0 Business Research Project Format ...................................................................................... 5

2.0 Title Page ............................................................................................................................... 6

3.0 Declaration Form .................................................................................................................. 7

4.0 Abstract .................................................................................................................................. 8

5.0 Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................... 8

6.0 Table of Contents ................................................................................................................. 9

7.0 List of Tables ......................................................................................................................... 9

8.0 List of Figures ........................................................................................................................ 9

9.0 List of Abbreviations .......................................................................................................... 10

10.0 The Written Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project .................. 10

10.1 Body of Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project .......................... 10

10.1.1 Research Overview ..................................................................................................... 10

10.1.2 Literature Review ....................................................................................................... 11

10.1.3 Research Design .......................................................................................................... 12

10.1.4 Data Analysis and Findings........................................................................................ 12

10.1.5 Conclusions .................................................................................................................. 12

10.2 Tables ............................................................................................................................... 13

10.3 Figures .............................................................................................................................. 13

10.4 Footnotes .......................................................................................................................... 14

10.5 References ........................................................................................................................ 14

10.6 Appendices ....................................................................................................................... 14

10.7 Turnitin Report ............................................................................................................... 15

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10.8 Literature and Sources ................................................................................................... 15

11.0 Writing Conventions....................................................................................................... 15

11.1 Units of Measurements ................................................................................................... 15

11.2 Use of Symbol for Percentage ........................................................................................ 16

11.3 Policy on Direct Quotations ........................................................................................... 16

11.4 Technical Specifications ................................................................................................. 16

11.4.1 Font Type and Size...................................................................................................... 17

11.4.2 Margins and Alignment .............................................................................................. 17

11.4.3 Spacing ......................................................................................................................... 17

11.4.4 Pagination .................................................................................................................... 18

11.4.5 Paper ............................................................................................................................ 18

11.4.6 Binding ......................................................................................................................... 18

12.0 Supervisor and Supervisee ............................................................................................. 19

13.0 Change of Business Research Title ................................................................................ 20

14.0 Submission of Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project ............. 20

List of Appendices ....................................................................................................................... 21

September 2016 2
Introduction
Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project are compulsory subjects for final year
students for the conferment of the Bachelor of Business Management (Hons), Bachelor of
Accounting (Hons) and Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Hons) degrees by SEGi University.

This module is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to produce
independent and in-depth research in the fields of business and management like human resource
management, marketing, finance, accounting, economics, strategy, supply chain and general
management. It draws on the social sciences for conceptual and theoretical inspiration.

This Guide is intended to provide guidelines to enable students to produce the Business Research
Proposal and the Business Research Project.

Students are expected to demonstrate their ability to carry out the complex research tasks on one’s
own with minimum supervision.

The summary requirements for the Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project are
as follows:

Business Research Proposal –

Business Research Project
Research Methodology
 The Business Research Proposal should be  The Business Research Project should be
in students’ area of specialization; continued from Business Research
Proposal;
 Students will need to submit Business  Each student will be assigned one
Research Proposal to lecturer-in-charge; supervisor from the relevant academic
background from Faculty of Business
Accounting and Management;

September 2016 3
 Business Research Proposal –
Business Research Project
Research Methodology
 1 comb-bound copy and 1 CD of Business 1 hardbound copy and 1 CD of Business
Research Proposal must be submitted by Research Project must be submitted by the
the 13th week of the semester; 13th week of the semester;
 Word limit: 2,500 to 3,000  Word limit: 10,000 to 12,000
 Contents:  Contents:
o Title Page; o Title Page;
o Abstract; o Declaration form;
o Table of Contents; o Abstract;
o List of Tables; o Acknowledgements;
o List of Figures; o Table of Contents;
o List of Abbreviations or Glossary; o List of Tables;
o Main Body – Chapters 1, 2 and 3; o List of Figures;
o References/Bibliography; o List of Abbreviations or Glossary;
o Appendices; and o Main Body – Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5;
o Turnitin Report. o References/Bibliography;
o Appendices; and
o Turnitin Report.

This Guide is intended to provide general advice on producing a basic academic research and
specific requirements relating to the submission of the completed work. The lectures and basic
research work delivered during the Research Methodology course is vital in developing the
necessary skills and knowledge required in academic research. Resources that include books,
academic and professional journals, web sites and literature are important sources of reference.

Students are advised to be in regular contact with supervisor assigned to him/her through face-to-
face meetings, e-mails or phone. Prior meeting appointments should always be made to ensure the
availability of both parties. The Business Research Project is the sole responsibility of the student.
The role of the supervisor is only to guide and provide advice to the student during the research
process.

September 2016 4
1.0 Business Research Project Format
The Business Research Project should contain the preliminary pages, the main text and the
supplementary pages. The Business Research Project should be presented in the English language.

(i) The preliminary pages consist of the following:

 Title page;
 Declaration form;
 Abstract;
 Acknowledgements;
 Table of Contents;
 List of Tables;
 List of Figures; and
 List of Abbreviations or Glossary.

(ii) The main text is divided into:

 Chapters; and
 Sections.

(iii)The supplementary pages consist of:

 References/Bibliography;
 Turnitin Report; and
 Appendices/Annexes.

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2.0 Title Page
A title page should include:
 Full title of research project (uppercase);
 Full name of author (uppercase);
 Degree for which the Business Research Project is submitted;
 Name of Faculty of Business, Accounting & Management;
 Name of SEGi University; and
 Month and year of submission.

The title should be able to accurately and concisely describe the contents of the research paper.
Typing should be single-spaced. The format is shown in Appendix A2.

September 2016 6
3.0 Declaration Form
The declaration form should read as follows:

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this Business Research Project is based on my original work except for
quotations and citations that have been duly acknowledged. I also declare it has not been previously
or concurrently submitted for any other degree at SEGi University / College or other institutions.

(Signed)_________________
Name of Student (uppercase)
Date:

September 2016 7
4.0 Abstract
Notes to be taken into consideration when writing the abstract:
 Reference to literature and past studies shall not be included in the abstract;
 Abbreviations or acronyms must be preceded by full terms;
 Abstract shall not exceed 250 words;
 Abstract shall be presented in double-spacing; and
 Abstract shall include: (i) the brief problem statements; (ii) a brief description of research
methodology and research design; (iii) the summary of significant findings and results; (iv) the
brief discussion on limitations of the study; and (v) conclusions.

The format is shown in Appendix B.

5.0 Acknowledgements
The acknowledgements should contain the acknowledgement of guidance and assistance from
individuals and institutions/organizations. The acknowledgements can be written in the first person
or the third person.

September 2016 8
6.0 Table of Contents
The Table of Contents shall contain the following in sequence with corresponding page numbers,
and all relevant subdivisions of the Business Research Project, including:
 The titles of chapters;
 Sections;
 Subsections;
 References;
 Appendices; and
 Other functional parts of the whole Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project.

A Table of Contents should not be listed in the Table of Contents itself. The format is shown in
Appendix C.

7.0 List of Tables

A separate List of Tables listing all the tables in the research paper should be prepared on a separate
page following the Table of Contents. The list shall contain the exact titles or captions of all tables
in the paper and the corresponding page numbers.
Example:
List of Tables

Table 1.1 Summary of average monthly household income 5

Table 1.2 Summary of average monthly household spending 7

8.0 List of Figures

Figures include graphs, maps, illustrations, diagrams and others. A separate List of Figures listing
all the figures in the research paper should be prepared on a separate page following the List of
Tables. The list should consist of the exact titles or captions of all figures in the paper and the
corresponding page numbers.

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9.0 List of Abbreviations
This list serves as a reference to readers not familiar with the abbreviations used in the research
paper. The abbreviations and acronyms used in the Business Research Proposal or Business
Research Project should be listed in the List of Abbreviation with their full names. The full names
and meanings shall also given at the first mention in the paper. This list should not include
universally recognized scientific symbols (e.g.: oC, cm, kg, and others).

10.0 The Written Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project

This section discusses the contents that should be included in a Business Research Proposal or
Business Research Project and the presentations of tables, figures, references and appendices.

10.1 Body of Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project

This section specifies the basic structure of Business Research Proposal or Business Research
Project.

10.1.1 Research Overview

This is an introductory chapter that introduces the problems/issues in the respective industry. The
discussion here should indicate the importance and validity of the issues identified which leads to
setting of the research questions and research objectives. The criteria to be included in Chapter 1
are:
Section Description
Research A description, search or review of the industry where the problems or
background issues to be studied. This should be straight forward, with description
from the general field of research and narrow down to the specific areas
concerned.

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 Section Description
Problem statement To address the issues or gaps in the body of knowledge. The argument of
issues or gaps should be addressed and described in detail, then, the
research objectives and research questions will be in place naturally.
Research questions The research questions must be in line with research objectives. It should
indicate the variables to be investigated.
Research objectives This should consist of:
 Primary/general objectives; and
 Secondary/specific objectives.
It is to state what are to be achieved from the research project.
Significance of It should state the value of this study to theoretical body of knowledge in
study the relevant fields and practical aspects of professions.
Scope of study This is to set a parameter of the study so as to provide a framework and
findings that can be interpreted within the parameter. It is to show the
practicability and management of the research project.

10.1.2 Literature Review

This chapter should contain a critical review of literature and references related to the topic. The
literature selected should be up-to-date and be analyzed logically. It is necessary to discuss and
analyze the body of knowledge to determine what is known and what is yet not known. The
following should be covered:
 The major theories and schools of thought;
 The gaps in the body of knowledge;
 The definition of terms, methodological issues and the major findings in past studies.

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10.1.3 Research Design
This should contain the descriptions and discussions of research methodology and statistical
techniques for this study. The following are to be included:
Section Description
Research framework The need to present the conceptual framework for the study, after the
identification of issues in Chapter 1 and review of past studies in
Chapter 2.
Hypotheses generation The discussions of the relationship between the independent and
dependent variables identified in the study.
Sample selection The types and number of samples with their description and
justification/sampling frame.
Description of data The types of data to be collected (e.g.: nominal, ratios).
Instruments for data The methods used to collect data needed (e.g.: questionnaires,
collection observations, annual reports and others).
Statistical procedures The statistical analyses/tests to be conducted in order to fulfill the
research objectives/questions/hypotheses. The statistical procedures
used should enable a clear justification in the results of analyses.

10.1.4 Data Analysis and Findings

This chapter presents the complete set of data analysis and results related to the study. Key
information and findings should be highlighted in the form of text, figures and tables. It is usual to
start the discussion by outlining the descriptive statistics. The results of the study are also discussed
in relation to the hypotheses proposed. The main findings, significance and implications should be
highlighted.

10.1.5 Conclusions
This is the summary and conclusion of the entire study. It should include a brief description of the
problems or issues, research methodology and major findings. The applicability of findings and
contribution of this study should also be highlighted. A thoughtful interpretation and discussion of

September 2016 12
the findings in relation to previous studies should be included and justified. The limitations of
study should be identified together with suggestions for future studies.

10.2 Tables
Tables should be numbered consecutively throughout the Business Research Proposal or Business
Research Project.

The following alternative numbering schemes may be used:

(a) Number tables consecutively throughout the text (e.g.: Table 1, Table 2 and so on); or
(b) Number tables by chapter (e.g.: Table 1.1, Table 1.2, Table 2.1 and so on).

Tables should be presented after their mention in the text and they are captioned (titled) single-
spaced above the tables. All letters in the caption should be in lowercase except for the first letter.
Table sources and notes should be placed directly below the table.

Example:
Table 1.1 Summary of average household income

Year Average household income (RM)

2010 999,999
2011 999,999
2012 999,999
Source: Department of Statistics (2014)

10.3 Figures
Figures include maps, charts, graphs, diagrams, photographs and others. Figures are numbered
consecutively throughout the Business Research Proposal or Business Research Project, including
text and appendices.

The following alternative numbering schemes may be used:

September 2016 13
1. Number tables consecutively throughout the text (e.g.: Figure 1, Figure 2 and so on); or
2. Number tables by chapter (e.g.: Figure 1.1, Figure 1.2, Figure 2.1 and so on).

Note: The numbering of tables and figures should be presented using the same style, that is, if the
tables are numbered by chapters, then figures should also be numbered by chapters (Table 1.1,
Table 1.2; Figure 1.1, Figure 1.2 etc.)

Figures should be presented after their mention in the text and they are captioned (titled) single-
spaced above the figure. All letters in the caption should be in lowercase except for the first letter.
Figure sources and notes should be placed directly below the figure.

10.4 Footnotes
Footnotes should be used sparingly. They can be used to clarify terminology or to state conversion
factors. Authority for specific statements and research findings of others should not be included in
footnotes. The numbering of footnotes must be continuous within each chapter or appendices and
not throughout the text.

10.5 References
The references list should contain a list of literature cited within the text. The referencing format
for the Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project is the American Psychological
Association (APA) style. The format is shown in Appendix D.

10.6 Appendices
Appendices are placed after the references list. If there are three or more appendices, a “List of
Appendices” should be prepared. Otherwise the appendices can be listed in the Table of Contents.

Appendices may include the sample survey questionnaire, the original data, summaries,
preliminary tests, tabulations, supporting documents and forms and other pertinent documents.

September 2016 14
A time plan should be included in Business Research Proposal as a guideline to complete the
Business Research Project. The format is shown in Appendix E.

10.7 Turnitin Report

The Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project must be done individually and
must entirely be the student's own work. Students are required to submit Turnitin Reports for both
the Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project.

The overall Similarity Index in the Turnitin Report should be 25% or less and each individual
match should be 2% or less.

10.8 Literature and Sources

Students are advised to refer to research journals and academic articles (50% or more), text books,
newspapers, magazines or articles from reputable websites of universities, professional bodies,
government or corporate websites (50% or less).
Students are advised to avoid references from general websites with unauthenticated or
unauthorised sources.

11.0 Writing Conventions

This section discusses the writing conventions that are commonly accepted and used. These
include units of measurement, symbols, policies on direct quotations and technical specifications.

11.1 Units of Measurements

The internationally recognized units of measurements should be used as follows:

September 2016 15
 Liter L
Milliliters mL
Kilogrammes kg
kilometers km
Hectares ha
Metric tonnes t
Parts per million ppm
grams g
U.S. Dollars USD
Metric tonnes/hectares t/ha

The number of unit measurements should not be spelt out (e.g.: “5kg” instead of “five kg”). A
sentence should not begin with a digit or number. So students would need to either reorganize the
sentence or begin it with the spelt-out numeral (e.g.: Four hundred respondents have been selected
in this study).

11.2 Use of Symbol for Percentage

The symbol % may be used to replace the word percent (e.g.: 25%) and it should be typed without
space after the number. Regardless the preference over the symbol % or the word percent,
consistency should be maintained throughout the report.

11.3 Policy on Direct Quotations

It is advisable to minimize direct quotations. Students should paraphrase and acknowledge facts
and ideas from others.

11.4 Technical Specifications

Typing should be done on word processing software with printing done on letter quality or a laser
printer.

September 2016 16
11.4.1 Font Type and Size
The entire text of the Business Research Project, including headings and page numbers, should be
produced with the same font type and size. The font size should be 12-point and should not be
scripted or italicized except for scientific names and terms in a different language. Headings may
be bold printed. Footnotes and text in tables should not be less than 8-point.

The following font types may be used for Business Research Proposal and Business Research
Project:
 Arial;
 Book Antigua;
 Bookman;
 Helvetica;
 Times New Roman; or
 Palatino.

11.4.2 Margins and Alignment

The left margin should be at least 40mm while the right, top and bottom margins at least 25mm.
Margin specifications are meant to facilitate binding and trimming. All information – headings,
footnotes, figures and page number – must be within the text area. The alignment of text should
be justified.

11.4.3 Spacing
All typing and printing of the Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project must be
done on one side of the paper only. The spacing is as follows:
 Text – One-and-a-half spacing.
 Space before each heading in the text – Double the spacing of one-and-a half.
 Space after each heading in the text – One-and-a-half spacing.
 If there are two headings in a row, insert one-and-a-half spacing before the second heading.
 References

September 2016 17
 - Single-spacing, and double-spacing between entries.
- Arrange the entries in alphabetical order.
- 0.5 inch indented after the first line of the reference entry.

11.4.4 Pagination
All pages should be numbered centrally or right-flushed at the bottom margin. Page numbers
should not be placed in brackets, hyphenated or accompanied by other decorative devices. Text or
figures should be printed on only one side of each sheet.

11.4.5 Paper
White simili paper (80gm) or paper of equivalent quality should be used. Paper should be of A4
size (210mm x 297mm).

11.4.6 Binding
One copy of the Business Research Proposal should be COMB-BOUND and 1 CD (containing
the Business Research Proposal and any relevant documents, Turnitin reports and references) are
required for submission.

The Business Research Project should be hard cover bound in DARK BLUE. One copy of
Business Research Project and 1 CD (containing Business Research Project, raw data, results of
analysis and any relevant documents, Turnitin reports and references) should be submitted.

The following should be lettered in gold from the head to the foot of the Business Research Project
spine with the font of 18-points:

 Name of candidate;
 Degree for which the work is submitted; and
 Year of submission.

September 2016 18
The following should be lettered in 18-point gold block font:
 Title of Business Research Project;
 Name of candidate;
 Degree for which the work is submitted;
 Name of institution; and
 Year of submission.

The format is shown in Appendix A1.

12.0 Supervisor and Supervisee

A supervisor will be assigned to students taking Business Research Project at the final semester in
the final year for the conduct of research project. Followings are the responsibilities of supervisor
and supervisee:

Supervisor Supervisee
 Give guidance about the research to be  Discuss with the supervisor a schedule of
undertaken and the standard expected, the meetings to be agreed upon by both parties;
planning of research project, literature and
sources;
 Maintain contact through regular meetings;  Take the initiatives in raising problems or
difficulties;
 Be accessible to student at appropriate  Maintain the progress of work in
times when he may need advice; and accordance with the stages agreed with the
supervisor; and

 Request written work and return such work  Take due account of supervisor’s opinions.
with constructive criticism and in
reasonable time.

September 2016 19
Upon meeting with supervisor, students are advised to fill in the particulars of the meetings in the
log sheet. The format is shown in Appendix F.

13.0 Change of Business Research Title

It is advisable that Business Research Proposal to be prepared in students’ area of specialization
and Business Research Project to be in continuous process once the research proposal has been
approved. Under certain circumstances and constraints in which these lead to limited progress in
carrying out Business Research Project, students are advised to change the research title with
approval from supervisor and Head of Department. Students are required to submit form
BRP/CT/01 (Notification of Change of Business Research Proposal Title). The form is shown in
Appendix G.

14.0 Submission of Business Research Proposal and Business Research Project

The Business Research Proposal should be submitted with the completed Checklist (Appendix I)
form.

The Business Research Project should be submitted in Week 13 of semester together with the
completed Submission of Business Research Project form BRP/ST/01 (Appendix H) and
Checklist form BRP/CL/01 (Appendix I).

15.0 Marking Scheme

Students are advised to refer to the marking rubrics as per Appendix J.

16.0 Recommended Readings

Students are advised to refer to the list of recommended reading as per Appendix K.

September 2016 20
 List of Appendices

Appendix Description Page

A1 Spine and Cover of the Business Research Project 22

A2 Title Page 23

B Abstract 24

C Table of Contents 25

D Referencing 28

E Sample Time Plan for Project 35

F Meeting Log Sheet 36

G Notification of Change of Business Research Project Title 37

H Submission of Business Research Project 38

I Checklist 39

J Marking Rubrics 40

K Recommended Readings 43

September 2016 21
 APPENDIX A1

LEE WEN YEN

THE INFLUENCE OF WEB REVIEWS ON PURCHASE

INTENTIONS OF POTENTIAL HOTEL CUSTOMERS
IN MALAYSIA

LEE WEN YEN

BBM(MM)
2015

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT (HONS)

SEGi UNIVERSITY
2016

SPINE COVER

September 2016 22
 APPENDIX A2

THE INFLUENCE OF WEB REVIEWS ON PURCHASE INTENTIONS

OF POTENTIAL HOTEL CUSTOMERS IN MALAYSIA

By

LEE WEN YEN

Business Research Project in Partial Fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Business Management (Hons) at the Faculty of Business, Accounting and
Management, SEGi University, Malaysia

May 2016

September 2016 23
 APPENDIX B

Abstract

THE INFLUENCE OF WEB REVIEWS ON PURCHASE INTENTIONS

OF POTENTIAL HOTEL CUSTOMERS IN MALAYSIA

By

Lee Wen Yen

May 2016

Supervisor: Supervisor’s Name

Faculty: Faculty of Business, Accounting and Management

The objective of the study is to study the impact that hotel guests reviews posted on
consumer-generated websites have on the customer decision-making process and service
expectations of hotels in Malaysia. The study was conducted to test the hypotheses and the
research question. A total of 500 respondents were involved in an online survey that asked
them for their views and intentions after reading other customers’ reviews of a selection of
popular hotels in Malaysia. Results show a positive correlation between both hotel purchasing
intention and expectations of the customers. It was also found that the presence of hotel staffs'
responses to guests’ reviews has a negative impact on purchasing intentions. The study
adds to the existing research on word-of-mouth marketing in the hospitality industry.

September 2016 24
 APPENDIX C

Table of Contents

Declaration ii
Abstract iii
Acknowledgements iv
List of Tables v
List of Figures vi
List of Abbreviations vii

Chapter One: Research Overview

1.1 Research Background 1
1.2 Problem Statement 1
1.3 Research Questions 5
1.4 Research Objectives 7
1.5 Significance of The Study 8
1.6 Scope of The Study 9
1.7 Operational Definition 10
1.8 Proposed Chapters 11

Chapter Two: Literature Review

2.1 Introduction 13
2.2 Defining Topic 14
2.3 Literature Review of The Variables 15
2.4 Literature Gap 16
2.5 Research Framework 17
2.6 Research Hypotheses 18

2.7 Conclusion 19

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Chapter Three: Research Methodology
3.1 Introduction 20
3.2 Research Instrument/ Measurement 21
3.3 Pilot Study 22
3.4 Research Design 23
3.4.1 Sample Size 24
3.4.2 Target population 25
3.4.3 Sampling Technique 26
3.5 Research Approach 27
3.5.1 Descriptive Analysis 28
3.5.2 Reliability Test 29
3.5.3 Normality Test 30
3.5.4 Linearity Test 31
3.5.5 Correlation Analysis 32
3.5.6 Multiple Regression Analysis 33
3.6 Conclusion 34

Chapter Four: Results and Findings

4.1 Introduction 35
4.2 Pilot study 36
4.3 Research Approach 37
4.3.1 Descriptive Analysis 38
4.3.2 Reliability Test 39
4.3.3 Normality Test 40
4.3.4 Linearity Test 41
4.3.5 Correlation Analysis 42
4.3.6 Multiple Regression Analysis 43
4.4 Hypotheses Results 44
4.5 Conclusion 45

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Chapter Five: Conclusions
5.1 Introduction 46
5.2 Overall Findings based on the Research Objectives 47
5.3 Implication of the Study 48
5.4 Limitations of the Study 49
5.5 Recommendations for Future Study 50
5.6 Conclusion 51

References 52

Appendices 53
- Sample Questionnaire
- Meeting Log Sheet
- Turnitin Report
- SPSS results

September 2016 27
 APPENDIX D

The American Psychological Association (APA) referencing format is commonly used in research
projects and theses. The following show how various sources of information are referenced in the
research reports. Students are advised to visit www.apastyle.org for more information.

Introduction
Citing means formally recognizing, within your text, the resources from which you have obtained
information.
Bibliography lists work for background or for further reading and may include work that is not
being cited in the text.
Reference is the detailed description of the items from which you have obtained your
information and cited in the text. The reference list provides information necessary to retrieve the
sources used. Sources of information cited in the text must appear in the reference list, and each
source referenced in both places must be identical in spelling and year of publication.

APA Referencing Style

General Formatting
• 12-point font
• 1-inch margins
• Double-spaced
• Numbered pages (top right)
• Running head on each page (The words “Running head” appear only on the first title page)
 Running head is a shortened version of title and cannot exceed 50 characters including
spacing and punctuation
** Remember to check your English (e.g., U.S. English vs. U.K. English)

Title Page Elements

Title (APA, 2013, p. 23)
• No abbreviations (short form)
• No more than 12 words
• Centered and positioned in the upper half of the page (press ENTER 3 or 4 times)
• Initial capitalization (Uppercase and Lowercase Letters)
• No capitalization for prepositions

Author Name (APA, 2013, p. 23)

• Format: First Middle Last
• No titles or degrees
September 2016 28
• Separate suffixes with a space, no comma (e.g., John Smith Jr.)
• Centered below title

Author Affiliations (APA, 2013, pp. 23-24)

• Centered under each author name
• Group authors with same affiliation, but maintain contribution hierarchy
• If no affiliation with university or organization, use location and state
• No abbreviations

Author Note (APA, 2013, pp. 24-25)

• Center label “Author Note” below title and byline information
• In first indented paragraph, list authors and complete affiliations, e.g., First Author,
Department, University; Second Author, Affiliation; Third Author, Affiliation; etc.
• Indicate any changes in affiliation since the study in a new indented paragraph
• Indicate any acknowledgments of grant or funding support or special circumstances in a new
indented paragraph
• Provide contact information in final indented paragraph, e.g., Correspondence concerning this
article should be addressed to Author, Department, University, Location, State Abbreviation
and Zip. Email: address (no period at end)

September 2016 29
Abstract
• Center label “Abstract” at top of page 2
• Use a single paragraph without indentation
• Not more than 250 words

Manuscript Body
• Center title of manuscript at top of page 3
• Begin manuscript with first indented paragraph
• Do not use a header such as “Introduction”

Level of Headings
Level of Heading Format
1 Centered, Bold, Uppercase and Lowercase Heading
2 Flush Left, Bold, Uppercase and Lowercase Heading
3 Indented, bold, lowercase paragraph heading ending with a
period. [Begin text…]
4 Indented, bold, italicized, lowercase paragraph heading ending
with a period. [Begin text…]
5 Indented, italicized, lowercase paragraph heading ending with a
period. [Begin text…]

Word Choice
• Use active voice, not passive: “We conducted …” versus “The survey was conducted …”

Style
Spacing
• After commas, colons, semicolons
• Between periods in name initials (J. R. Zhang)
• Exceptions: U.S., a.m., e.g., i.e.
• In mathematical equations or results, i.e., 25 + 25 = 50; ≥ 7.98 ft; p ≥ .90

Periods
Use periods with:
• Initials (J. R. Zhang)
• Identity-concealing labels (F.I.M.)
• U.S. when used as an adjective (U.S. Navy)
• Latin abbreviations (a.m., vs., i.e., e.g.)
• Reference abbreviation (Vol. 2, 3rd ed., p. 9, pp. 3-12, Eds.)

Don’t use periods with:

• State abbreviations (NY; Washington, DC)
• Acronyms and all-capital letter abbreviations (APA, NIMH, IQ)
• After Internet or email addresses (http://www.apa.org)
• Units of measurement (cm, ft, kg, mg, min, hr, lb), except for inch (use in.)

September 2016 30
Commas
• Between items in a list, including before “and” and “or” (e.g., height, width, and depth)
• March 19, 1980, was a good day (Exception: March 1980 was a good month)
• Citations (Miller, 1980)
• In numbers of 1,000 or more to separate groups of three (Exceptions: page numbers,
temperatures, acoustic frequencies, degrees of freedom)

Other Punctuation
• Multiple citations: (Miller, 1980; Smith & Jones, 1999)
• Ratios: 2:1
• To represent per in units of measurement: 7 mg/kg
• Most prefixes and suffixes do not require a hyphen (e.g., antisocial, sociodemographic,
coworker; see p. 99 for complete list)
• Use en dash in ranges and compound words (e.g., test–retest, U.S.–Mexico border, 1.65–7.89
mg)

Numbers
Use numerals with:
• 10 and higher, including ordinals
• 5 mg
• 3 times as many
• Multiplied by 5
• 5%
• 8th percentile
• Units of time: 5 hr, 3 years old, 9 p.m.
• 5-point scale
• Case 2, Grade 5

Spell out numbers:

• Beginning a sentence, e.g., Twenty houses….
• Two-thirds majority, one tenth of the class
• When two numbers abut (e.g., fifteen 8-point scales, 2 one-way ANOVA)
• Ordinals from first to ninth

Italics
• Titles of books, periodicals, films, videos, etc.
• Genera, species, and varieties
• To introduce a new or key term (only on first reference)
• Statistical symbols: SD, p, R

No Italics
• foreign phrases and abbreviations common in English
• a posteriori et al.
• a priori per se
• chemical terms

September 2016 31
• trigonometric terms
• sin, tan, log
• nonstatistical subscripts to statistical symbols or mathematical expressions: Fmax, SA + SB
• Greek letters
•β
• abbreviations of acronyms
• intertrial interval (ITI)

In-Text Citations
For in-text citations with three, four, or five authors, list all last names followed by commas on
first reference (e.g., Smith, Jones, Marks, & Davis, 2011) and only first author followed by et al.
and date for subsequent citations (Smith et al., 2011). For six or more authors, use the first author
and et al. for all citations.
One Author
• (Chalmers, 2008)
• Chalmers (2008)
• In 2008, Chalmers …

Two Authors
• (Chalmers & Robinson, 2008)
• Chalmers and Robinson (2008)
• In 2008, Chalmers and Robinson …

Three to Five Authors

• (Chalmers, Robinson, Morrison, Morrison, & Thomas, 2008)
• After first reference: (Chalmers et al., 2008)
• Chalmers, Robinson, Morrison, Morrison, & Thomas (2008)
• After first reference: Chalmers et al. (2008)
• In 2008, Chalmers, Robinson, Morrison, Morrison, & Thomas …
• After first reference: In 2008, Chalmers et al. …

Six or More Authors

• (Chalmers et al., 2008)
• Chalmers et al. (2008)
• In 2008, Chalmers et al. …

Group Authors
• (National Institute of Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2001)
• After first reference: (NIDA, 2001)
• In a landmark study, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA, 2001) …
• After first reference: In a landmark study, NIDA (2001) …
• Do not abbreviate long or confusing organization names

September 2016 32
References
• Only include sources used in the preparation of the paper
• Arrange entries in alphabetical order by last name of author
• Use a hanging indent: the first line is at the left margin; subsequent lines are indented half an
inch.
• Double space all entries.
• No extra spacing is needed between entries.
• Use one space only after all punctuation (including author’s initials)
• Only use the initials of the authors' first and middle names.
• List all authors in reverse order: last name, first and middle initials.
• If two or more authors are listed, use an ampersand (&) before the last author.
• List up to seven authors; if there are more than seven authors, list the first six followed by an
ellipsis and ampersand, then the last author.
• Use commas after authors' names and before an ampersand.
• If no author is given, start with the title and then the date.
• Capitalize only the first words of book or article titles and subtitles unless they are proper
nouns; capitalize all important words in the name of a journal.
• Capitalize first word of a subtitle after colon.
• Italicize the names of books and periodicals.
• Use an en dash for page ranges.
• Only include the issue number for journals that have separate pagination for each issue. Add
the issue number in parentheses after the volume number,
e.g., Journal of Animal Science, 23(5), 2–13.

Reference Examples
Journal Articles
Article in print:
Cronkite, W., & Walters, B. (2012). The ins and outs of television newscasts. Journal of
Journalism and Television, 35, 1977–1985.

Article in print with subtitle:

Cronkite, W., Walters, B., & Stern, H. D. (2012). The ins and outs of television newscasts: An
analysis. Journal of Journalism and Television, 35, 1977–1985.

Online article with eight or more authors:

Cronkite, W., Walters, B., Stern, H. D., Bradford, W. A., Jennings, P., Brokaw, T. G., … &
Costas, B. (2012). The ins and outs of television newscasts: An analysis. Journal of Journalism
and Television, 35, 1977–1985. doi:10.1111/1467-8624.00207
*Note: If no doi number is given, use “Retrieved from URL” (use journal home page).

Books
Book in print:
Cushing, P. T. (2005). Counseling as an art: The creative arts in counseling. Alexandria, VA:
American Counseling Association.

September 2016 33
Online book:
Jackson, P. K., & Johnson, M. G. (2001). The post-traumatic stress disorder sourcebook: A
guide to healing, recovery and growth [Adobe Digital Editions version].
doi:10.1036/0071393722
Self, B., Turner, T. J., & Williams, L. (1995). Ethical issues in contemporary society. Retrieved
from http://www.netlibrary.com/

Book with editors:

Sprinthall, N. A., & Mosher, R. L. (Eds.). (1978). Value development as the aim of education.
Schenectady, NY: Character Research Press.

Chapter in print book:

Kalish, C. W. (2000). Children's thinking about truth: A parallel to social domain judgments? In
M. Laupta (Ed.), Rights and wrongs: How children and young adults evaluate the world (pp. 6–
22). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Chapter in an online book:

Helsley, J. D. (2008). Anxiety disorder due to a general medical condition. In J. Vanin & J.
Helsley (Eds.), Anxiety disorders: A pocket guide for primary care (pp. 195–207).
doi:10.1007/978-1-59745-263-2_13

Technical and Research Reports

Organizational report retrieved online:
World Health Organization. (2005). Mental health policy, plans and programmes. Geneva,
Switzerland: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.who.int/mental_health/policy/services/2_policy%20plans%20prog_WEB_07.pdf

Authored organizational report:

Ulmer, C., McFadden, B., & Nerenz, D. R. (2009). Race, ethnicity, and language data:
Standardization for health care quality improvement (Report of Subcommittee on Standardized
Collection of Race/Ethnicity Data for Healthcare Quality Improvement). Washington, DC:
National Academies Press.

Tables and Figures

• Table 1, Table 2 (not Table 1a, Table 1b)
• Table title format:
Table 2
Title in Initial Cap on a Separate, Line Italicized, No Period
• Column heads should be centered and in initial cap
• Footnotes:
• Note. General notes for the table.
• aSuperscript lowercase letters for specific notes
• *for probability, e.g., *p < .01, **p < .001
• Figure title format:
Title in Initial Cap, No Period

September 2016 34
 APPENDIX E

Sample Time line for Research Project

Activities 1st month 2nd month 3rd month 4th month

Title / proposal revision
Questionnaire design
Pilot test
Data collection - survey, interview
Data analysis
- data entry
- analysis and interpretation
Report writing & review
Printing & binding
Submission

September 2016 35
 APPENDIX F

RECORD OF PROJECT SUPERVISION

NAME OF STUDENT

PROGRAM BBM / BAC / BAAF SEGi

PROJECT TITLE

YEAR & SEMESTER

NEXT
DATE TIME PLACE AREAS DISCUSSED MEETING
SHEDULED

The above is an accurate record of the meetings

Supervisor (to sign) Students (to sign)

September 2016 36
 APPENDIX G

Reference No: BRP/CT/01

NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE OF BUSINESS RESEARCH TITLE

Name of Student ID
Student
Address Telephone/Mobile
No.
Email Address
Faculty Program
Intake Supervisor

Declaration by Student:
I hereby give the notice that I intend to change/revise the title of my business research project:
______________________________________________________________________________
to the following business research title:
______________________________________________________________________________
The reasons being are:
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

_________________ _________
Signature of Student Date

_________________ _________
Signature of Supervisor Date

_________________ _________
Signature of Head of Department Date

September 2016 37
 APPENDIX H

Reference No: BRP/ST/01

SUBMISSION OF BUSINESS RESEARCH PROJECT

Student’s Particulars:
Name of Student Student ID
Address Telephone/Mobile
No.
Email Address
Faculty Program
Intake Supervisor

Declaration by Student:
I hereby submit 1 DARK BLUE hard bound copy and 1 CD containing the softcopy of the business
research project report and related documents as final deposition of the final business research
project titled:

______________________________________________________________________________

_________________ _________
Signature of Student Date

_________________ _________
Signature of Supervisor Date

_________________ _________
Signature of Head of Department Date

September 2016 38
 APPENDIX I

Reference No: BRP/CL/01

CHECK LIST

Items Remarks ( for completed tasks)

Title page
Declaration Form
Abstract
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents

List of Tables
List of Figures
List of Abbreviations or Glossary
Main Body:

 Chapter 1

 Chapter 2

 Chapter 3

 Chapter 4

 Chapter 5
References/Bibliography
Appendices
CD

September 2016 39
 APPENDIX J

MARKING RUBRICS

BUSINESS RESEARCH PROJECT ASSESSMENT SHEET

Name of Student
BRP Title
Supervised By

Research Project
Criteria Proposed Marks Comments
Marks Rewarded
Chapter 1 (15%)
1 Research Background 2

2 Problem Statement 2

3 Research Objectives 2

4 Research Questions 2

5 Significance Of The Study 2

6 Scope Of The Study 2

7 Operational Definition 2

8 Proposed Chapters 1
Sub Total 0

Chapter 2 (20%)

1 Introduction 1

2 Defining Topic/Theory 2

3 Literature Review of the Variables 10

4 Literature Gap 2

5 Research Framework 2

September 2016 40
6 Research Hypotheses 2

7 Conclusion 1
Sub Total 0

Chapter 3 (20%)
1 Introduction 1

2 Research Instrument/Measurement 2

3 Pilot study 2

3 Research Design 4 0

4 Research Approach 10

5 Conclusion 1

Sub Total 0

Chapter 4 (25%)
1 Introduction 1

2 Pilot study 4

3 Data Analysis 15

4 Hypotheses Results 4

5 Conclusion 1

Sub Total 0

Chapter 5 (10%)

1 Introduction 1

Overall Findings based on the Research

2 2
Objectives

3 Implication of the study 2

4 Limitation of the study 2

5 Recommendation for Future Research 2

6 Conclusion 1

September 2016 41
 Sub Total 0

Others (10%)

1 Referencing 5

2 Overall Presentations 5

Sub Total 0

Total 100

September 2016 42
 APPENDIX K

RECOMMENDED READINGS

1. American Psychological Association. (2011). Publication manual of the American

Psychological Association (6th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

2. Fisher, C. (2007). Researching and writing a dissertation: A guidebook for business

students (2nd ed.). Harlow, England: Prentice Hall.

3. Hair, Jr., J. F., Money, A. H., Samouel, P., & Page, M. (2007). Research methods for
business. Chichester, West Sussex: John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

4. Hair, J. F., Jr., Celsi, M. W., Money, A. H., Samouel, P. & Page, M. (2011). Essentials
of business research methods. Armonk, NY: M.E. Sharpe Incorporated.

5. Kumar, M., Abdul, S. T. & Ramayah, T. (2012). Business research methods. Kuala
Lumpur: Oxford University Press.

6. O’Connell, R & Orris, J. B. (2011) Essentials of Business Statistics. (4th ed.). McGraw-
Hill/Irwin.

7. Saunders, M., Lewis, P., Thornhill, A. (2012). Research methods for business students
(6th ed.). Harlow, England, Prentice Hall.

8. Sweeney, D. J. & Williams, T. A, Camm J. D, Cochran, J. J. (2012) Quantitative

Methods for Business (12th ed.). South-Western College Pub

9. Zikmund, W.G., Babin, B. J., Carr, J. C. & Griffin, M. (2013). Business Research Methods
(9th ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning

September 2016 43