6 Research Tips for More Drafting More Effective Papers

Academic papers are a tedious part of every student’s life, but we have 6 research tips to help you make your papers more effective and efficient! Indeed, doing academic research requires hard work, and most of it comes from the researching part of the task. Drafting research papers can be challenging because it’s hard to know where to start, where to find the right sources, or how to manage all the information gathered. Keeping the following research tips in mind can help make the task easier to bear while also improving the quality of your papers.

1. Start Broad, Then Dive into Specifics

   Researching is a big task, so it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Begin with a basic internet search to get a general overview of your topic. Online resources like Google and Wikipedia can help orient you, providing a brief history and key points. Once you have a broad understanding, you can dive into more specific sources.

   
   

2. Use a Variety of Sources

   Don't limit yourself to just one type of source. While the internet is full of useful information, books can be just as helpful because they often provide more focused and detailed content. Additionally, bibliographies in books can lead you to other valuable sources. Combining information from different types of sources will help you form a well-rounded perspective.

   
   

3. Recognize Quality Sources

   Not every source is reliable, so it's crucial to identify high-quality ones. Use your analytical skills and critical thinking to evaluate sources. Ask yourself: Does this source agree with other sources I have found? Is the author an expert in the field? Does the author have a conflict of interest regarding this topic?

   
   

4. Verify Information from Multiple Sources

   Before you dive into the analysis of data, double check that your sources are valid. The internet is vast, and not all information is accurate. Ensure that the information you find is verified by multiple sources. Rather than relying on one webpage, check that at least two other places say something similar. This helps ensure the accuracy of your research.

   
   

5. Stay Organized

   With all the information, quotations, and notes you gather, it can be stressful to keep everything organized. Develop an effective system for your research notes. Ensure that your research methodology is consistent. Use bookmarks in your internet browser, index cards, or an annotated bibliography that you update as you go. This will make it easier to refer to sources while writing and organizing your ideas.

   
   

6. Take Advantage of Library Resources

   Libraries are treasure troves of information. Many high school and university libraries offer resources not only for students but for the larger community. Check out library websites for research tips and guides or access to specific databases. Libraries can provide you with reliable sources and additional support for your research.

Effective research is the backbone of a well-written paper. By starting broad, using a variety of sources, recognizing quality information, verifying facts, staying organized, and utilizing library resources, you can make your research process smoother and more productive. Even better, these research tips are easily transferrable to building your own study skills! Remember, the goal is not just to gather information but to synthesize it into a coherent and compelling argument. Happy researching!

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Resources:

1. “Advice for Students: 10 Steps Toward Better Research.” Lifehack. Web. 21 Aug. 2015. http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/advice-for-students-10-steps-toward-better-research.html

2. “Federation University Australia.” Researching Tips. Web. 21 Aug. 2015. http://federation.edu.au/library/resources/researching-tips