The research process can be an overwhelming endeavor. To make this process more manageable, below is an outline of a straightforward strategy for embarking on a research project. While these steps provide a solid foundation, feel free to adapt them to suit your specific needs and the unique challenges you may encounter. As you delve into the scholarly literature, your research questions may evolve, and your literature review may change as you identify prominent themes. The following tips and strategies will help you navigate this complex process.
Getting Started:
Choosing the right research topic is crucial. Here are a few key factors:
- Always prioritize your professor’s instructions. Ensure your chosen topic falls within the specified scope and requirements.
- Select a topic that genuinely interests you. This will make the research process more engaging and enjoyable.
- List keywords and phrases and their synonyms which may be useful to search this topic?
- Conduct a preliminary search to assess the availability of information.
- Too much information: Narrow your focus (e.g., instead of "reading comprehension," focus on "reading comprehension strategies").
- Too little information: Broaden your scope (e.g., instead of "reading comprehension strategies for 8th grade male students in South Carolina" consider "reading comprehension strategies middle school").
- Clarify your research objectives: It helps you identify the core issue and the specific knowledge you aim to gain.
- Create an outline of your topic. to guide your research process and to provide a clear direction for your research
- Consider the different types of sources you may need for different parts of your project (e.g. an encyclopedia for your Introduction; scholarship for your Literature Review).
- If you're struggling, seek guidance from your instructor. You'll be glad you did!
Remember!
- Start early: Allow time for research to ensure thorough exploration of the topic.
- Consult an Edens Librarian: Seek guidance from a librarian to navigate complex databases and identify relevant research materials.
- Be flexible: As you research, be open to adjusting your initial research question as new information emerges.
- Maintain academic integrity: Properly cite all sources used in your research to give credit to authors and avoid plagiarism.
