It's important to remember that the type of research paper will affect the tone and overall writing style of the paper. The two main types of research papers are Analytical and Argumentative.
Analytical Essays
Analytical essays have the goal of looking deep into the subject of the essay and developing a conclusion by the end of the essay. The goal isn't to persuade the reader into any particular way of thinking.
These essays usually start with a thesis that establishes what they will be analyzing and why. An example is a paper exploring the use of metaphors in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
A basic template for this kind of thesis would be: "I will be analyzing ___ to show ___."
Argumentative Essays
Argumentative essays have the goal of persuading the reader to agree with a predetermined conclusion or belief that the writer has. The goal isn't to explore every possible idea.
These essays usually start with a thesis statement that establishes their position on their argument. An example would be an essay arguing that high schools should have a later start time.
A basic template for this kind of thesis would be: "I am arguing that ____ because ____."