A research paper requires a comprehensive understanding of a topic by researching it thoroughly. The purpose of a research paper is to build writers knowledge of a subject. After researching a topic thoroughly, the author compiles and evaluates the information. The writer then restructures and presents the subject from their point of view, incorporating citations from compiled research to back up their analysis.
A narrative writing does not necessarily require a comprehensive understanding of a particular topic and usually is the author's point of view. The purpose of this essay is to help build writing skills