Transcript The Research Process: How Do I Begin a Research Paper?

The Research Process:
How Do I Complete a
Research Assignment?
Mardigian Library
library.umd.umich.edu
Step 1:
Understand your assignment
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What exactly am I supposed to do?
What format?
How long?
Types of sources?
Citation style (MLA or APA)?
Ask instructor to clarify
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Step 2:
Explore possible topics
 Read background material to make an informed choice
 Browse newspapers, magazines, or encyclopedias
 Look for topics online using library web page:
http://library.umd.umich.edu
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Mardigian Library web site
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Choose CQ Researcher
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Choose Issue Tracker
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Step 3:
Develop & narrow your topic
 Narrow your topic to match the length of the
assignment
 Focus in on a clear thesis
 Check with your instructor if you have
questions about your topic
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Narrowing your topic
Broad Topic:
Technology
Narrower Topic: Artificial intelligence
Best Topic:
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Will researchers develop a
computer that duplicates
human intelligence?
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Another example:
Broad Topic:
The environment
Narrower Topic: Global warming
Best Topic:
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Are renewable energy
credits an effective way to
reduce global warming?
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Step 4:
Strategize & search
 Make a list of questions
 Brainstorm about where to find the answers
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Web sites?
Books?
Journal articles?
People?
 Write down search terms
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Formulating search terms
Example: Should drivers over 70 be required to
take competency tests before they can renew
their drivers’ licenses?
Possible search terms:
Drivers
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people over 70
tests
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Alternate search terms
People over 70:
Drivers:
 vehicle operators
 motorists
Tests:
 exams
 examinations
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 senior citizens
 older people
 the elderly
License:
 permit
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Step 5:
Refine your search
 Keep a research log of the places you search
and terms you use
 If you aren’t finding what you need, re-think
your search strategy
• Right kind of database?
• Other search terms?
 Use helpful articles to find other articles
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Use subject headings
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Use the bibliography
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Step 6:
Evaluate what you find
 Who wrote this? What are his/her credentials?
 Why was this written? To persuade? To sell?
 Who edited or reviewed this work? Is it
backed by a reputable publisher or institution?
 Am I finding similar information in other
places?
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Step 7:
Organize your material & write
your paper or presentation
 Mardigian Library can help with research and
citing your sources
http://library.umd.umich.edu/research/internet/
citing.html
 University Writing Center can help with actual
writing
http://www.casl.umd.umich.edu/writ_center/
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The Research Process
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Step 1: Understand your assignment
Step 2: Explore possible topics
Step 3: Develop & narrow your topic
Step 4: Strategize & search
Step 5: Refine your search
Step 6: Evaluate what you find
Step 7: Organize your material & write your paper
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