Taking Notes
Taking Notes. Research Papers are the Easiest Papers You Will Ever Write!. Heard that before? Actually, putting the final paper together can be very easy if you have had a clear goal while you were researching your topic. “Research” Paper.
Taking Notes
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Presentation Transcript
Research Papers are the Easiest Papers You Will Ever Write! • Heard that before? • Actually, putting the final paper together can be very easy if you have had a clear goal while you were researching your topic.
“Research” Paper • Since it is a “research” paper, you will actually have to generate very little information to go in the paper. • Instead, you will combine your notes, collected from various sources during your research, and put them together in a meaningful way to create the body of your paper.
So, writing the paper is easy… • However, do not plunge into note-taking too quickly. • You need to know what to look for and why you need it.
Read! Read! Read! • Read all the information you have found on your topic.
After a Preliminary Reading… • You should be familiar with the “issues” related to your topic. • So, you should decide on an area of concentration…
It’s A Trend… • Look for a trend in your information. • What statement could you make about your topic that a good bit of your information supports? • This “Trend” is your working thesis.
Write a Working Thesis • State your main idea in a declarative sentence. • Limit your subject.
Highlight • Keep your working thesis in mind at all times. • Do not highlight/use material unrelated to your topic.
A working thesis is a primary way to ensure you have focus as you take notes. • Of course, your thesis will most likely evolve as you continue to research your topic.
In other words, • A thesis sentence is one that you will prove and defend in your paper. • It is not your conclusion or the answer to a problem. • Rather, • It anticipates your conclusion • And it sets in motion your examination of facts so that you can reach your conclusion
Organize Your Information • First jot down ideas or words about your topic • Second, expand the list to show a hierarchy of major and minor ideas
The Working Outline Format: • Working Thesis: • (Major Point) • (Major Point) You must have 2-4 points/areas of research!!!
Sample Working Outline • A major theme in OMAM involves the contrast between power and weakness. • Strength • Weakness You must have 2-4 points/areas of research!!!
Sample Working Outline • A major theme in OMAM involves the contrast between power and weakness. • Strength • George • Lenny • Weakness • George • Lenny You must have 2-4 points/areas of research!!!
