In-depth research will reveal the group of authors working on a topic and citing one another's work. It will also reveal the main issues, areas of agreement, and areas of disagreement. A research paper should reveal your understanding of this, and should cite most of the authors. Achieve an understanding of the authors and their work by reading and following the citations in each article. Find and consider opposing viewpoints If your paper supports a particular view, find, read, and cite opposing views.
Good research includes an understanding of critics' points of view.
Keep flexible focus Follow what's interesting, but don't stray off your topic. Read enough before you begin actually writing the paper to avoid finding out too late that you regret your topic choice. Ask anyone their most memorable educational experiences, and they will mention papers or projects they have done with commitment and lots of hard work. If you focus on mastering the topic and presenting it to the best of your ability, you gain something much deeper than a grade and a few credits. Return to Neil Hellman Library Copyright by The College of Saint Rose.