When writing a research paper, it has to be factual. Therefore, when you already have your own topic for writing, always make sure to dig up for facts a soon as possible. There are a lot of ways to collect relevant information from different reliable resources.

Ever heard of someone talk about “close reading” in reference to your research process for an essay or an article? While the term may not be familiar (many of us focus on the writing and editing processes, as well as its tools, such as grammar and style checkers), it’s something that everyone who are diligent about their sources regularly do.

When you do close reading, you actively engage your research items so that you develop your own ideas based from them. It’s that phase of the research process that helps you avoid plagiarizing your sources, turning up arguments that are more than just a parroting of other people’s thoughts.
How do you do it?

Understanding your topic can be a great advantage in your part as a writer. Writing is like being at school. You need to study the topic very well, understand it after reading all your gathered information before you start planning your writing ahead.

If you don’t know much about your topic, chances are you can’t produce such a believable and well-written content that will be accepted by all your readers.

There are times where you don’t really know not a single bit of information about your topic however, a little research can always do the trick. Reading is just the right answer for your query. Read all important details pretty well so that your mind will start working about the things that will help you to write an effective research paper base on your own ideas and which will be supported by the facts that you collected.

To give a clearer way on how to deal your research writing here are some tips to help you out:

1. Highlight all points of interest. Some of your notes and research will be more valuable than others. Make sure these significant points are properly highlighted so that you can return to them much more easily.

2. Look for patterns. Take note of techniques that the source material uses to further their argument. It can reveal a larger intention that can illuminate some points for you, which you can then use as a basis for your later support.

3. Keep asking questions. Don’t just read your sources’ opinion, challenge it. Keep asking questions and challenging conclusions, deciding whether you agree or not as you sift through the material. This process, on its own, can crystallize your own arguments and views.

4. Look deeper. Don’t accept opinions at face value. Each statement can have very different connotations to a wide variety of people. Make sure you consider them before deciding to use an argument.

5. Consider the context. While one argument may sound like it supports your thesis, the context in which it is valid could be completely different. Always incorporate that into your close readings.

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Category: Writing
Keywords: close reading, research styles