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Planning is an important step in the research process as it can save you time in the long run. Refer to the strategy section in the Research Toolkit for some good general tips to get started with. This page is mostly aimed at S4 - S6 who are doing individual research projects.
Planning is an important step in the research process as it can save you time in the long run. Refer to the strategy section in the Research Toolkit for some good general tips to get started with. This page is mostly aimed at S4 - S6 who are doing individual research projects.
2-WhyResearch.pdf7-Messy.pdfBooks available in the library
Books available in the library
Shon, P. C. (2019) Plan your essay. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
Choosing a topic
Choosing a topic
At various points through school you will need to choose your own topic to research. It can be a bit overwhelming try following these tips.
If you are unsure about what topic you would like to write about, consider conducting some preliminary research. You can read through social media posts, newspapers, databases, or even your class notes to find a topic or issue that you may want to write/ research about. General reference resources can be a really good place to start.
When you are searching for a topic, pay special attention to information that interests, excites, angers, saddens, or thrills you. It is much easier to brainstorm and research a topic you are passionate about than one you are uninterested in.
In brainstorming a topic, think about things you already know some information about, but want to know more about. Also, think about things you know little about, but are eager to have more knowledge on.
From Topic to Research Question
From Topic to Research Question
After choosing a topic and gathering background information you will need to find focus for your research with a research question.
Explore questions
Explore questions
Ask open-ended “how” and “why” questions about your general topic.
Consider the “so what” of your topic. Why does this topic matter to you? Why should it matter to others?
Reflect on the questions you have considered. Identify one or two questions you find engaging and which could be explored further through research.
Determine and evaluate your research question
Determine and evaluate your research question
- What aspect of the more general topic you will explore?
- Is your research focussed or broad enough? (If it can be answered with a Yes/No think again, if it brings in too much information and you're overwhelmed think again)
Hypothesize
Hypothesize
Consider the path your answer might take. - If you are making an argument, what will you say?
Why does your argument matter?
How might others challenge your argument?
What kind of sources will you need to support your argument?
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