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Why So Much #$%! Research?

Actually, that’s an intelligent question. It's another way of asking why so much importance is placed on the ability to use research materials when writing in college. The answer is simple: because an adult professional conducts some form of research and analysis of research virtually every work day.

You may be asked to:
  • evaluate a new inventory program for possible purchase
  • determine the relationship between an employee's case load and client outcome
  • compare your company’s price structure to a competitor’s
  • find the best location for opening a new satellite office
  • select the best cell phone service for your staff or family
  • and so on

Whether it's school or life, the research process stays the same:

(1)  define question to be answered
(2)  determine what is required  to
       answer it
(3)  gather reliable information/data
(4)  analyze information gathered
(5)  submit answer to question with
       documentation

As you prepare your research writing assignments, get feedback for each step of this process--from your teacher, coworkers, or classmates. Your goal is to carefully complete each step so that one of the most important truths about writing is revealed to you:

Each step builds upon the one before it. One misstep can compromise the end product.

However, the flip side of that coin is much shinier: The writer who works methodically through the five steps of the process—and especially the writer who solicits feedback from places like the Effective Writing Center—is much more likely to have an outstanding outcome.


Great Links
The Research Process - Online Guide to Writing and Research
Secrets of My Research Success