Research Tips

When doing research, interpretation of the material you read matters and can lead you to the development of your own thesis.  There is probably no right or wrong thesis as long as it is reasonable, logically connected to the subject researched. In fact, new ideas and thoughts are welcome, a refreshing change from the ordinary.

The best way to research a subject is to read about it carefully, take notes as you read, think about the ideas other writers have expressed, and feel perfectly free to determine your own thoughts on the subject. Reading varied opinions on a subject researched is worthwhile. Sometimes disagreeing with what others have said is a good starting point for developing your own thesis. 

At first, you might react to a research assignment by thinking that you know nothing about the topic and don’t even know where to begin. That’s normal, since you are expected to do the research in order to learn about a subject, develop a thesis, and then prove your ideas about the subject. As you find more and more information on the subject, pick and choose among sources to select the ones that offer support for your own ideas. Because there is often more information about most subjects than can be used, being selective makes a difference.

The best way to write the paper itself is to put aside all that you’ve read about the subject and write your first draft without referring to your notes or looking at what your sources have said. You might note places where sources need to be incorporated, but wait until you’ve finished the first draft before including outside information.  For subsequent drafts, you can choose from the quotations and ideas that verify or substantiate what you have said and then integrate the material into your paper.

The SWC has further information on the nuts and bolts of research, documentation, etc. (Research). Research projects do involve hard work, but they also provide a great opportunity to learn in depth about different subjects and stretch your mind as you develop your ideas.

See you next time the breeze is cool, the sun is up, and the waves roll into view! ‘Til then, hang ten!