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2. Conducting Research
Understanding the kinds of sources that are available and how to work with them will help you decide where to go for what kinds of information.
Video
Knowing the requirements of the assignment
To fulfill your assignment, you’ll need to understand the deadlines, requirements, and goals your instructor has set.
Example
Consider your purpose, audience, and assignment
To effectively address your assignment, analyze the requirements along with what you know about your goals for writing and intended readers.
Quizzes
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1.
Understanding the assignment
Understand the parameters and goals of your assignment.
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2.
Determining the assignment’s requirements
Know some methods that will help you focus on your assignment’s requirements.
Video
Comparing primary and secondary research
Two different types of sources are helpful in research projects, and understanding how they differ will aid you as you determine how best to use them.
Example
Distinguish between primary and secondary sources
Deciding whether your project requires primary or secondary sources is necessary early on—depending on your discipline—to allow for relevant, effective support for your main points.
Quizzes
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1.
Evaluating types of sources
Think about how to evaluate various sources.
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2.
Determining which sources are reliable
Recognize the usefulness and reliability of various sources.
Video
Developing a research plan and schedule
Planning your project in stages will keep you focused on the right tasks at the right time.
Example
Prepare a research plan
Answer questions to think through your project and develop a clear strategy (and timeline) for research.
Quizzes
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1.
Following a research schedule
Develop a schedule for conducting your research that keeps you on task.
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2.
Developing a research schedule
Create deadlines that are conducive to both your writing style and the assignment.
Video
Consulting print and online sources
You can access a variety of online and print resources by using effective search techniques online.
Example
Locate print and online sources using keywords
Choosing the best starting point in the search for good sources can make a big difference in how long your research takes—and in how reliable the sources are you’ll find.
Quizzes
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1.
Determining a source’s value
Consult the appropriate resources for your line of research.
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2.
Deciding which sources to use
Determine how to access the most useful and relevant sources.
Video
Taking precise, documented notes
Choosing a system for taking notes gives you an organized approach to noting key points and making connections among important ideas.
Example
Take effective notes
Taking effective notes depends on capturing your insights as you read and preserving clear records about what you find.
Quizzes
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1.
Taking useful notes
Take effective notes as you investigate your sources.
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2.
Note-taking strategies
Know the best strategies for taking notes.