Research Tips: Part 2

Writers conduct research. It is a key important skill for all writers (it's also helpful for students in every academic field). If you practice this skill, you might even be able to make a living as a researcher.

General guidelines for research

1. Ask for help. Seek out help from librarians, academics/teachers, experts, journalists, people...

2. Try to find out if someone's already done the research you're planning.

3. Learn the basics about your issue. Your research will do you no good if it isn't accurate and to the point. If your information is wrong, or if you don't fully understand what you're talking about, you'll undermine your position, and your argument will fail.

4. Know what you're going to use the information for.

5. Be skeptical about your sources, and check your facts twice. All sources of information are not equally reliable. The Internet is a great informational source, but there's no guarantee that any of it is accurate. If you find information on the Internet, it's best to be cautious about using it without first checking it elsewhere.

6. Be persistent. Information may be difficult and tedious to find. Persistence is perhaps the most important research tool there is.
Problems to avoid/Things to Remember:

•1. Don't rely on your opinions. A hunch or a belief is not a fact. If you can't back up a statement, it may not be true or relevant.

•2. Be wary of statistics. They can be used incorrectly to sway your opinion. You'll get better at figuring out if you're being duped by numbers. Critically think how the numbers are being used and for what purpose.

•3. Always double-check your sources.

•4. Know what the opposite side of the story is so that you are aware how your opponents or people who might disagree with you are thinking.

•5. Think critically. You have a brain. Use it.

Conduct some research. Report on your blog what you learned today after researching.