short term paper def

Short-Term Paper

The term short-term paper refers to debt securities issued at a discount, with maturities that range from ninety days to nine months. Short-term paper may be issued by government agencies, large financial institutions, or corporations. Examples of these securities include commercial paper, promissory notes, and Treasury bills.

If held by another company, these obligations fall into the category of short-term investments, while the entities issuing these securities would classify them as a current liability on the balance sheet.

Explanation

In the course of normal business operations, companies require cash to pay for goods and services, including salaries of employees. Sound financial management techniques go beyond holding cash in bank accounts, or borrowing money using lines of credit.

Government agencies, large financial institutions, and corporations may depend on short-term paper to help finance their day-to-day operations, while others might invest in these securities as an alternative to holding cash in a bank account.

Short-term paper is usually issued at a discount, and the difference between the purchase or sales price and the face value of the security represents the financing cost or return on investment. Since these investments are typically issued by financially strong entities, the risk of default is low. Maturities between 90 and 270 days also insulate investors from interest rate risk.

Short-term paper can be placed into the market directly by the issuer, typically to a large institutional investor as part of a money market fund. Some dealers also specialize in placing short-term paper in the marketplace. Trading in these investments is robust, providing investors with the ability to liquidate their holdings quickly.

Related Terms

current assets , marketable securities , short-term investments

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Short-Term Paper

Definition of short-term paper.

Short-term papers are financial instruments that typically have original maturities of less than nine months. Short-term paper is typically issued at a discount and provides a low-risk investment alternative.

BREAKING DOWN Short-Term Paper

Short-term papers are negotiable debt instruments that are either unsecured or backed by assets such as loans issued by a corporation. Structured investment vehicles (SIV) that invest in long-term assets finance those assets by selling short-term paper with an average maturity of 90 days. The paper is backed by a pool of mortgages or loans used by collateral and is, hence, referred to as short-term asset-backed paper . In the case of default, investors of the asset-backed paper can seize and sell the underlying collateral assets.

Examples of short-term paper include U.S. Treasury bills and negotiable instruments issued by financial and non-financial corporations, such as commercial papers , promissory notes, bills of exchange, and certificates of deposit (CDs). In the case of U.S. Treasury bills, the papers are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government and are, thus, considered the safest investments because the government cannot default.

Mutual funds invest deeply in short-term paper due to their relatively safe and high liquidity features. These financial instruments are part of the money market and are issued at a discount to par and repaid the face value upon maturity. The difference between the purchase price and the face value of the security represents the return on investment for the holders. For the issuer, this difference represents the cost of financing the loan security. The debt security can also be issued as an interest-bearing security.

The papers are usually issued with a minimum denomination of $25,000. This means the major investors of these securities are institutional investors who seek short-term vehicles to deposit their cash temporarily given that short-term papers are an alternative to holding cash in a bank account. It is not uncommon for issuers to adjust the amounts and/or the maturities of papers to suit the investment needs of a particular buyer or group of buyers. Investors can purchase short-term paper directly from the issuer or through dealers who act as intermediaries between the issuer and lender.

The majority of financial institutions rely on being able to roll over short-term paper for their day-to-day financing needs. During the U.S. financial-market meltdown of 2008 , institutions essentially halted issuing short-term paper, and the U.S. government had to intervene to provide liquidity for corporations caught without the means to finance operations.

Related Terms

Related articles, an introduction to commercial paper, what are short-term investment options, interest rate risk between long-term and short-term bonds, get a short-term advantage in the money market, introduction to strips, why do longer term cds pay a higher rate than the short-term cds.

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Short-term paper.

Bonds. Paper representations of money due. This piece of paper was bough 9.7 years ago and issued as 10 year paper. It now has about 3 months left before it pays its last interest payment of 30 bucks on that par value grand. It will also pay back the par value: $1,030 as a final payment, coming due in 83 days. You can buy that promise for $1,022 and make a very modest investment return but with very little risk. The bonds are already funded. The company who issued them has plenty of cash to pay back investors for letting them rent their cash for 10 years. And the short term paper market lives on. In fact, short term paper is an enormous multi trillion dollar industry, with many people hoping to get a bit more interest on their cash savings...so they buy tag ends of corporate bonds coming due soon. See: Commercial Paper...because that's what this is and it trades in the form of Money Market Funds if you want to buy baskets of paper nearly due, more or less a mutual fund of short term paper. Like a money salad. Eat it fresh.

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Commercial Paper: Understanding its Role in Short-Term Financing

✅ All InspiredEconomist articles and guides have been fact-checked and reviewed for accuracy. Please refer to our editorial policy for additional information.

Commercial Paper Definition

Commercial paper refers to a short-term, unsecured promissory note or debt instrument issued by large corporations to obtain funds to meet short-term debt obligations. It is typically used for the financing of payroll, accounts payable and inventories, and its maturity usually ranges from a few days to 270 days.

Characteristics of Commercial Paper

Commercial paper, due to its unique nature and purpose, has certain distinguishable traits that you should be aware of.

Short-Term Nature

One of the most prevalent characteristics of commercial paper is its short-term nature. These financial instruments typically have a maturity period of less than 270 days. This is because they are designed to meet short-term funding needs and are not meant to be a long-term debt instrument. This limited timeframe often results in less risk for investors, making it a popular choice for those seeking a temporary parking place for their funds.

Unsecured Status

Commercial paper is often unsecured, meaning there are no assets or collateral backing the promise of payment. If the issuing company goes bankrupt or becomes insolvent, there is a risk that the paper would become worthless and investors would lose their money. Despite this risk, the high creditworthiness of issuing companies often overcomes investor concerns about the unsecured nature of the paper.

High Credit Rating

Another common feature of commercial paper is that it's often issued by companies with a high credit rating. The participants in this market are usually financially strong corporations with good credit records. Because the quality of the issuing company plays a pivotal role in the investor's decision, commercial paper is often issued by corporations with top-tier credit ratings.

Role in Corporate Financing and Liquidity Management

Commercial paper plays a key role in corporate financing and liquidity management. Companies often use this instrument to finance their short-term operational needs such as payroll, inventory, and accounts receivables. It's a more cost-effective alternative to bank loans, allowing corporations to meet their immediate financial obligations without tying up their long-term credit lines. On the liquidity management front, commercial paper provides corporations with a tool to balance their cash flow and maintain necessary operational liquidity.

Commercial paper's short-term nature, unsecured status, typically high credit rating, and key role in corporate financing and liquidity management, make it a pivotal instrument in meeting the immediate financial needs of corporations, while presenting a relatively low-risk, short-term investment opportunity for investors.

Issuing Commercial Paper

Before a company issues commercial paper, it first needs to decide whether commercial paper is the right instrument for it. One significant factor that companies often consider is the current interest rate. Compared to long-term financing options, commercial paper will typically have a lower cost due to its shorter maturity period; however, if interest rates are high, the company might still find commercial paper to be expensive. Thus, a future projection of interest rates also comes into play when making a decision.

Another crucial factor is the company's credit rating. Commercial paper is not backed by collateral, which means investors rely entirely on the issuer's credibility. Companies with higher credit ratings can issue commercial paper at a lower cost compared to those with lower ratings since the risk perceived by investors is lesser. Therefore, credit ratings substantially affect the decision to issue commercial paper.

If a company decides to issue commercial paper, it follows a certain procedure. The process generally involves the following steps:

Step-by-Step Process of Issuing Commercial Paper

1. meeting with a financial institution.

The first step for the company is to meet with a financial institution. The institution serves as a dealer by helping to issue and sell the commercial paper. It facilitates the issuance process and provides the necessary liquidity to the company.

2. Preparing the Paper

After the agreement with the financial institution is established, the company prepares the commercial paper. It entails laying down the details such as the maturity period, interest rate, and size of the issue. The company may decide to issue the paper on a discount basis, which means it sells the paper for less than its face value, or on an interest-bearing basis where the company pays the interest at the end of the maturity period.

3. Making the Paper Available

The commercial paper is made available to the potential investors through the dealer. The investors may include institutional investors, corporations, or even individuals, with institutional investors being the most common.

4. Settlement

Once the investor purchases the paper, the funds are transferred to the company, and the investor receives the commercial paper. The company then uses these funds to meet its short-term needs.

The commercial paper issuance process is indeed a strategic decision for companies requiring short-term funding, helping them capitalize on lower borrowing costs compared to traditional means of short-term financing. However, it's crucial to evaluate the factors contributing to this decision and make informed choices.

Buyers of Commercial Paper

Primarily, it is the institutional investors that are typical buyers of commercial papers. Institutional investors can be entities such as pension funds, mutual funds, insurance companies, or commercial banks, to name just a few. Their interest in commercial paper stems largely from the advantages these debt instruments have to offer.

Institutional Investors and Commercial Paper

Institutional investors, due to their financial clout and their need for safe, short-term investments, are perfectly suited to be buyers of commercial paper. These debt instruments offer a way for them to park their funds for a short duration (usually less than 270 days), while they strategize on other long-term investment opportunities.

Low-Risk Income

One of the primary attractions of commercial paper for institutional investors is that it is considered low risk. This is because commercial paper is generally issued by corporations with high credit ratings, meaning the risk of default is typically low. Not to forget that these are unsecured loans, thus, investors rely on the corporation's financial strength and reputation for assurance.

The return on commercial paper, while not as high as more risky investments, is generally better than that offered by government bonds of similar maturity. Therefore, buying commercial paper provides institutional investors with a source of steady and comparatively safe income.

Diversification

Commercial paper also offers a means of portfolio diversification. Diversification is a key strategy in risk management, and buying commercial paper can help institutional investors spread their risk across a variety of assets. Unlike other investments, commercial paper is not correlated with stock market performance, which means its value may remain stable even when the stock market is experiencing turbulence. This makes it an attractive opportunity to balance the risk inherent in other investments.

Quick Liquidity

Commercial papers typically have short maturity periods that allows investors to retain a level of liquidity. This ensures investment flexibility as the institutional investors can quickly turn these papers into cash without significant loss if the need arises.

In conclusion, the features of commercial paper—low risk, consistent returns, diversification benefits, and liquidity—are what primarily draw institutional investors to it. These factors make commercial paper a valuable and strategic tool for these investors.

Risks Associated with Commercial Paper

Credit risk.

Commercial paper is widely considered a safe investment due to its typically high credit ratings and short maturity. However, there is still a level of credit risk involved, especially for investors. Credit risk pertains to the possibility that the issuing entity will default or fail to fulfill their financial obligations, resulting in loss of principal or interest amount for the investor. During the 2008 financial crisis, some high-profile firms that issued commercial paper defaulted owing to poor financial health, leaving investors in a lurch.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is more so a concern for issuers than investors. If interest rates rise after a firm has issued commercial paper, the cost of issuing new commercial paper could also increase. In such a situation, the issuer has to pay a higher rate of interest on new issuances. For existing investors, however, a rise in interest rates could potentially increase their yield.

The 2008 financial crisis did elevate this risk, as emergency measures were enacted to combat the economic downturn, leading to fluctuating interest rates.

Liquidity Risk

Finally, liquidity risk is also a vital concern in the realm of commercial paper. This risk refers to the fear that an investor may not be able to buy or sell their holdings in the commercial paper quickly without incurring a substantial loss in value.

Such a situation was evident during the 2008 financial crisis when liquidity in the commercial paper market shrunk rapidly as many investors panicked and tried to sell their holdings, causing a sudden and substantial drop in their value. It also made it harder for issuers to re-issue their commercial paper efficiently, thus disrupting their short-term financing.

While commercial paper generally is a useful financial instrument for both issuers and investors, the financial crisis of 2008 illustrated how these innate risks could materialize and impact all stakeholders involved. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend these risks before engaging in any commercial paper transactions.

Commercial Paper vs. Other Short-term Instruments

When comparing commercial paper with other short-term debt instruments such as treasury bills and short-term bonds, it's important to look at key factors like yield, credit quality, and liquidity.

Commercial Paper: Commercial paper generally has a higher yield compared to other short-term instruments. This is because commercial paper incorporates a higher level of risk compared to government-backed securities, leading the issuer to offer a higher return to attract investors.

Treasury Bills: The yield on Treasury Bills, or T-Bills, is typically lower than that of commercial paper. T-Bills are considered among the safest investments since they're backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, and therefore, they offer a lower return.

Short-Term Bonds: Similar to T-Bills, short-term bonds have lower yields than commercial paper. Corporate short-term bonds may have slightly higher yields as the risk is usually higher than for T-Bills, but still less than commercial paper.

Credit Quality

Commercial Paper: Generally, only firms with a high credit rating issue commercial paper. However, since commercial paper is unsecured, meaning not backed by collateral, it's usually subject to a greater risk than other short-term instruments, hence a higher yield.

Treasury Bills: As mentioned previously, T-bills are backed by the U.S. government, making them a very safe investment with high credit quality.

Short-Term Bonds: The credit quality of short-term bonds can vary greatly depending on the issuer. Bonds issued by reputable corporations or government entities are typically safer and consequently have lower yields than those from less established issuers.

Commercial Paper: Commercial paper is generally less liquid than T-Bills and short-term bonds. While primary dealers are able to monetize commercial paper, it can be harder for individual investors to sell their holdings before maturity.

Treasury Bills: T-Bills are highly liquid. They have a robust secondary market where investors can buy and sell their positions without much difficulty.

Short-Term Bonds: Liquidity of short-term bonds depends on their issuer and the size of the issue. Bonds from large, reputable issuers are more likely to have a greater degree of liquidity.

In conclusion, while commercial paper, treasury bills, and short-term bonds are all means of short-term financing, they each possess different characteristics in terms of yield, credit quality, and liquidity. It's important for investors to consider these factors when choosing which instrument is the best fit for their investment portfolio.

Commercial Paper and the Financial Market

In the context of the broader financial market, commercial paper tends to hold a significant position. As a form of short-term unsecured borrowing, it serves as a crucial funding source for many corporations. Particularly for the institutions with high credit ratings, issuing commercial paper often becomes a cost-effective way to cater to their short-term liquidity needs.

How Changes in the Commercial Paper Market Act as an Economic Indicator

The commercial paper market is closely watched by economists and financial market participants due to its potential function as an economic indicator. Fluctuations in the commercial paper market can reflect broader economic trends.

Impact on Interest Rates

The volume of commercial paper issuance tends to rise when interest rates are low. This is because companies can borrow at relatively low costs, making commercial paper a more attractive option compared to long-term debt. Conversely, if the volume of issuance drops, it may suggest that companies are finding it more expensive to borrow, implying an upward movement in interest rates.

Reflection of Credit Conditions

The state of the commercial paper market can also signal changes in credit conditions. If companies are issuing less commercial paper, it may mean they are struggling to find buyers, which could suggest tighter credit conditions. This could be because investors are wary of corporations' creditworthiness, either because of issues specific to certain companies or because of broader economic concerns.

Indication of Economic Health

Another way commercial paper offers insights into economic health lies in its maturity structure. When nervousness pervades the market, investors may avoid commercial paper with longer maturities, favoring the relative safety of shorter maturities. An increased skew towards shorter maturity commercial paper could be an indication of financial-market stress, hinting at a softer economic outlook.

These points underscore how changes in the commercial paper market can offer valuable signals about broader economic and financial trends. Yet, it is critical to remember that while analyzing patterns in commercial paper can provide useful chapters of a bigger economic story, they are just one part of the narrative, with many moving pieces influencing overall market dynamics.

Implications of Commercial Paper in CSR and Sustainability

From a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability standpoint, the issuance of commercial paper carries significant implications. Organisations that champion values such as environmental stewardship, social welfare and economic equality often use commercial paper to further bolster their commitment towards such benchmarks.

###Green Commercial Paper

Of particular interest is the concept of green commercial paper. This novel financial instrument is closely aligned with environmental conservation goals and green economy transitions. As part of sustainability financial strategies, organisations utilise the funds raised through green commercial paper to finance eco-friendly projects and initiatives. Examples may include, but are not limited to, renewable energy projects, waste management solutions, or initiatives aimed at reducing a company's carbon footprint.

Furthermore, this short-term financing solution constitutes an attractive proposition for impact investors. These investors seek the dual-advantage of profitable returns and positive social/environmental outcomes – a criterion that green commercial paper ably fulfils.

###CSR and Stakeholder Engagement

Another key consideration in the nexus of commercial paper and CSR revolves around stakeholder engagement. As stakeholders become more aware and mindful of an organisation's environmental and social practices, they're more likely to show a preference for those thatfinance their activities through sustainable means, like commercial paper.

Given this, organizations issuing commercial paper often enjoy enhanced reputation, augmented customer loyalty, and even potential marketing advantages. On the other hand, companies also need to ensure that they uphold their CSR commitments. A failure to do so can result in reputational damage and lost stakeholder trust, impacting the credibility and tradability of their commercial paper.

###Regulatory Factors

Lastly, regulatory bodies and frameworks that emphasize sustainable finance are also encouraging organizations to incorporate herald economic instruments such as commercial paper into their financial strategies. One prominent example is the European Union’s classification system for green investments, or 'taxonomy', which categorises economic activities based on their environmental impact.

In conclusion, the issuance of commercial paper, particularly green commercial paper, can help organizations align with CSR and sustainability financial strategies. However, it is vital for them to sincerely commit to and implement their sustainability goals to enjoy the full spectrum of benefits from commercial paper.

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Short-term paper

15 USC § 80a-2(a)(38)

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Definition of short-term

• impermanent
• provisional
• provisionary

Examples of short-term in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'short-term.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Dictionary Entries Near short-term

short-tempered

short-termer

Cite this Entry

“Short-term.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short-term. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

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Home » Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Term paper is a type of academic writing assignment that is typically assigned to students at the end of a semester or term. It is usually a research-based paper that is meant to demonstrate the student’s understanding of a particular topic, as well as their ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources.

Term papers are usually longer than other types of academic writing assignments and can range anywhere from 5 to 20 pages or more, depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the assignment. They often require extensive research and the use of a variety of sources, including books, articles, and other academic publications.

Term Paper Format

The format of a term paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of your professor or institution. However, a typical term paper usually consists of the following sections:

• Title page: This should include the title of your paper, your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and the date.
• Abstract : This is a brief summary of your paper, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of your topic, the research question or hypothesis, your methodology, and your main findings or conclusions.
• Introduction : This section should introduce your topic and provide background information on the subject. You should also state your research question or hypothesis and explain the importance of your research.
• Literature review : This section should review the existing literature on your topic. You should summarize the key findings and arguments made by other scholars and identify any gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
• Methodology: This section should describe the methods you used to collect and analyze your data. You should explain your research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
• Results : This section should present your findings. You can use tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate your data.
• Discussion : This section should interpret your findings and explain what they mean in relation to your research question or hypothesis. You should also discuss any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research.
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your main findings and conclusions. You should also restate the importance of your research and its implications for the field.
• References : This section should list all the sources you cited in your paper using a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Appendices : This section should include any additional materials that are relevant to your study but not essential to your main argument (e.g., survey questions, interview transcripts).

Structure of Term Paper

Here’s an example structure for a term paper:

I. Introduction

A. Background information on the topic

B. Thesis statement

II. Literature Review

A. Overview of current literature on the topic

B. Discussion of key themes and findings from literature

C. Identification of gaps in current literature

III. Methodology

A. Description of research design

B. Discussion of data collection methods

C. Explanation of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

A. Presentation of findings

B. Analysis and interpretation of results

C. Comparison of results with previous studies

V. Discussion

A. Summary of key findings

B. Explanation of how results address the research questions

C. Implications of results for the field

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

B. Significance of findings

C. Future directions for research

VII. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

How to Write Term Paper

Here are some steps to help you write a term paper:

• Choose a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your course. If your professor has assigned a topic, make sure you understand it and clarify any doubts before you start.
• Research : Conduct research on your topic by gathering information from various sources such as books, academic journals, and online resources. Take notes and organize your information systematically.
• Create an outline : Create an outline of your term paper by arranging your ideas and information in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write a thesis statement: Write a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea of your paper. Your thesis statement should be included in your introduction.
• Write the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention, provide background information on your topic, and introduce your thesis statement.
• Write the body : The body of your paper should provide supporting evidence for your thesis statement. Use your research to provide details and examples to support your argument. Make sure to organize your ideas logically and use transition words to connect paragraphs.
• Write the conclusion : The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread your term paper carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Format and cite your sources: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your professor and cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style.
• Submit your paper : Submit your paper on time and according to the instructions provided by your professor.

Term Paper Example

Here’s an example of a term paper:

Title : The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Traditional security measures are no longer enough to protect against these threats. This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, including how AI can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, the challenges of implementing AI in cybersecurity, and the potential ethical implications of AI-powered security systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their cybersecurity strategies.

Introduction :

The increasing number of cybersecurity threats in recent years has led to a growing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity. AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. Additionally, AI can automate responses to threats, allowing for faster and more effective mitigation of security incidents. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for large amounts of high-quality data, the potential for AI systems to make mistakes, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in security.

Literature Review:

This section of the paper reviews existing research on the use of AI in cybersecurity. It begins by discussing the types of AI techniques used in cybersecurity, including machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. The literature review then explores the advantages of using AI in cybersecurity, such as its ability to detect previously unknown threats and its potential to reduce the workload of security analysts. However, the review also highlights some of the challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for high-quality training data and the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks.

Methodology :

To better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with using AI in cybersecurity, this paper conducted a survey of cybersecurity professionals working in a variety of industries. The survey included questions about the types of AI techniques used in their organizations, the challenges they faced when implementing AI in cybersecurity, and their perceptions of the ethical implications of using AI in security.

The results of the survey showed that while many organizations are interested in using AI in cybersecurity, they face several challenges when implementing these systems. These challenges include the need for high-quality training data, the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks, and the difficulty of integrating AI with existing security systems. Additionally, many respondents expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in security, such as the potential for AI to be biased or to make decisions that are harmful to individuals or society as a whole.

Discussion :

Based on the results of the survey and the existing literature, this paper discusses the potential benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity. It also provides recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their security strategies, such as the need to prioritize data quality and to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable.

Conclusion :

While there are challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, the potential benefits of using these systems are significant. AI can help organizations detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of security breaches. However, it is important for organizations to be aware of the potential ethical implications of using AI in security and to take steps to ensure that these systems are transparent and accountable.

References:

• Alkhaldi, S., Al-Daraiseh, A., & Lutfiyya, H. (2019). A Survey on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Cyber Security. Journal of Information Security, 10(03), 191-207.
• Gartner. (2019). Gartner Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/gartner-top-10-strategic-technology-trends-for-2020/
• Kshetri, N. (2018). Blockchain’s roles in meeting key supply chain management objectives. International Journal of Information Management, 39, 80-89.
• Lipton, Z. C. (2018). The mythos of model interpretability. arXiv preprint arXiv:1606.03490.
• Schneier, B. (2019). Click Here to Kill Everybody: Security and Survival in a Hyper-Connected World. WW Norton & Company.
• Wahab, M. A., Rahman, M. S., & Islam, M. R. (2020). A Survey on AI Techniques in Cybersecurity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(2), 22-27.

When to Write Term Paper

A term paper is usually a lengthy research paper that is assigned to students at the end of a term or semester. There are several situations when writing a term paper may be required, including:

• As a course requirement: In most cases, a term paper is required as part of the coursework for a particular course. It may be assigned by the instructor as a way of assessing the student’s understanding of the course material.
• To explore a specific topic : A term paper can be an excellent opportunity for students to explore a specific topic of interest in-depth. It allows them to conduct extensive research on the topic and develop their understanding of it.
• To develop critical thinking skills : Writing a term paper requires students to engage in critical thinking and analysis. It helps them to develop their ability to evaluate and interpret information, as well as to present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
• To prepare for future academic or professional pursuits: Writing a term paper can be an excellent way for students to prepare for future academic or professional pursuits. It can help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary for success in higher education or in a professional career.

Purpose of Term Paper

The main purposes of a term paper are:

• Demonstrate mastery of a subject: A term paper provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. It requires students to research and analyze the topic, and then present their findings in a clear and organized manner.
• Develop critical thinking skills: Writing a term paper requires students to think critically about their subject matter, analyzing various sources and viewpoints, and evaluating evidence to support their arguments.
• Improve writing skills : Writing a term paper helps students improve their writing skills, including organization, clarity, and coherence. It also requires them to follow specific formatting and citation guidelines, which can be valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
• Contribute to academic discourse : A well-written term paper can contribute to academic discourse by presenting new insights, ideas, and arguments that add to the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic.
• Prepare for future research : Writing a term paper can help prepare students for future research, by teaching them how to conduct a literature review, evaluate sources, and formulate research questions and hypotheses. It can also help them develop research skills that they can apply in future academic or professional endeavors.

Advantages of Term Paper

There are several advantages of writing a term paper, including:

• In-depth exploration: Writing a term paper allows you to delve deeper into a specific topic, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
• Improved writing skills: Writing a term paper involves extensive research, critical thinking, and the organization of ideas into a cohesive written document. As a result, writing a term paper can improve your writing skills significantly.
• Demonstration of knowledge: A well-written term paper demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, which can be beneficial for academic or professional purposes.
• Development of research skills : Writing a term paper requires conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and synthesizing information from various sources. This process can help you develop essential research skills that can be applied in many other areas.
• Enhancement of critical thinking : Writing a term paper encourages you to think critically, evaluate information, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills can be useful in many areas of life, including personal and professional decision-making.
• Preparation for further academic work : Writing a term paper is excellent preparation for more extensive academic projects, such as a thesis or dissertation.

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Deciphering the Essence of Critical Thinker

This essay about the essence of a critical thinker, defining it as more than just dissecting information but as engaging in proactive analysis, questioning norms, and fostering intellectual curiosity. It explores how critical thinking extends beyond academia, shaping individuals’ approach to societal issues and personal dilemmas. Emphasizing self-reflection and humility, it portrays critical thinking as a dynamic and multifaceted pursuit, essential for navigating the complexities of the world and contributing to progress and collective wisdom.

How it works

In the dynamic landscape of academia and beyond, the term “critical thinker” often emerges as a beacon of intellectual prowess. Yet, its definition, shrouded in complexity, warrants a closer examination to truly grasp its essence. A critical thinker is not merely one who dissects information, but rather, an individual who navigates the intricacies of thought with discernment and depth.

At its core, a critical thinker embodies a multifaceted approach to understanding the world. It transcends the realm of passive consumption, instead embracing a proactive stance towards knowledge.

Rather than accepting information at face value, a critical thinker engages in a nuanced analysis, probing beneath the surface to unearth underlying assumptions and biases.

Moreover, the hallmark of a critical thinker lies in their ability to question the status quo. They eschew conformity in favor of independent inquiry, challenging prevailing norms and ideologies. Through this process of interrogation, they foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, driving innovation and progress in diverse spheres of inquiry.

Crucially, the journey of a critical thinker extends beyond the realm of academia, permeating every facet of life. Whether confronting societal issues or navigating personal dilemmas, they approach challenges with a blend of skepticism and open-mindedness. In doing so, they not only broaden their own horizons but also contribute to the collective wisdom of society.

Furthermore, a critical thinker is characterized by their capacity for self-reflection and introspection. They recognize the inherent subjectivity of their own perspectives, remaining vigilant against the pitfalls of egocentrism. By cultivating humility and self-awareness, they continually refine their thought processes, evolving as thinkers and individuals.

In essence, the definition of a critical thinker defies easy categorization, encompassing a rich tapestry of qualities and attributes. It is a testament to the complexity of human cognition, transcending rigid definitions and boundaries. As we strive to unravel the mysteries of the mind, let us embrace the ethos of critical thinking as a guiding principle in our pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

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Computer Science > Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition

Title: putr: a pure transformer for decoupled and online multi-object tracking.

Abstract: Recent advances in Multi-Object Tracking (MOT) have achieved remarkable success in short-term association within the decoupled tracking-by-detection online paradigm. However, long-term tracking still remains a challenging task. Although graph-based approaches can address this issue by modeling trajectories as a graph in the decoupled manner, their non-online nature poses obstacles for real-time applications. In this paper, we demonstrate that the trajectory graph is a directed acyclic graph, which can be represented by an object sequence arranged by frame and a binary adjacency matrix. It is a coincidence that the binary matrix matches the attention mask in the Transformer, and the object sequence serves exactly as a natural input sequence. Intuitively, we propose that a pure Transformer can naturally unify short- and long-term associations in a decoupled and online manner. Our experiments show that a classic Transformer architecture naturally suits the association problem and achieves a strong baseline compared to existing foundational methods across four datasets: DanceTrack, SportsMOT, MOT17, and MOT20, as well as superior generalizability in domain shift. Moreover, the decoupled property also enables efficient training and inference. This work pioneers a promising Transformer-based approach for the MOT task, and provides code to facilitate further research. this https URL

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