Research
Research
Research is the systematic process of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to answer questions or support arguments. It forms the foundation of credible academic writing.
Types of Research
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary | Original data collection (surveys, interviews, experiments) |
| Secondary | Analysis of existing sources (books, articles, studies) |
| Qualitative | Focus on understanding and interpretation |
| Quantitative | Focus on measurement and statistics |
The Research Process
- Define your research question
- Review existing literature
- Gather relevant sources
- Evaluate source credibility
- Analyze findings
- Synthesize into your argument
Evaluating Sources
- Authority — Who wrote it? What are their credentials?
- Accuracy — Can claims be verified?
- Currency — Is the information current?
- Purpose — Why was this created?
- Objectivity — Is there bias?
Good research means finding credible sources, not just convenient ones.
Where to Find Sources
- Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar)
- Library catalogs
- Peer-reviewed journals
- Government reports
- Reputable news organizations
Quick Tips
- Start early—good research takes time
- Keep organized notes with full citation info
- Look for primary sources when possible
- Consider multiple perspectives