![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.scu.edu\/mmason17\/files\/2017\/04\/now-what.gif\")
Source: Pixar\/Disney<\/p><\/div>\n
- \n
- Pick a topic. \u00a0This can be one of the most challenging parts. \u00a0I typically review my class notes and assignment description. \u00a0If I am still stuck, I turn to social media to find inspiration.<\/li>\n
- I start researching. \u00a0I begin with a simple Google search to get a basic description. \u00a0Then, I read my topic’s Wikipedia page to get a big picture idea. \u00a0(I don’t use Wikipedia as a source nor do I assume it is all fact. \u00a0It is simply an opportunity to become familiar with the topic.)<\/li>\n
- Next is more detailed research. \u00a0I begin with Google; I often use Google search tools to find only academic or credible sources. \u00a0(For example, if you put site:.edu in your search bar, only .edu sites will appear). \u00a0I like this tool because it allows me to not have to weed through not credible sources. \u00a0I always save articles I find that pertain to my topic, so I can refer to them later.<\/li>\n
- Often Google does not provide enough resources, so my next step would be the library. I will search through library databases and catalogs of books in order to find more information.<\/li>\n
- I go back to all of my different sources and annotate with highlights and phrases. \u00a0These highlighted sentences often become the sentences I quote in my paper.<\/li>\n
- I build a very rough outline, so I know which direction my paper will\u00a0go in. \u00a0I often include my researched information into my outline to make my life easier\u00a0later on.<\/li>\n
- Now, I\u00a0can write. \u00a0I try not to write the entire paper in one sitting, especially if it is long, because my attention will fade and my writing will worsen as I get more distracted. \u00a0This also allows me to have multiple opportunities to look back at my work to guarantee consistent flow.<\/li>\n
- The most important and often the hardest step of any paper is revision. \u00a0I reread my paper multiple times: online and in paper, out loud and in my head, in different locations, and different times of day. \u00a0I also try to have one of my friends read it as well so there is a second set of eyes examining it. \u00a0Revision is an ongoing process that can continue forever. \u00a0But when I do feel confident in my paper, I turn in my paper and pray for a good grade.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.scu.edu\/mmason17\/files\/2017\/04\/giphy-1.gif\")
Source: Disney<\/p><\/div>\n
\nFor\u00a0my English class, we read an article the described BEAM and how it could help our research processes. \u00a0I liked their tips, so I am going to share them with you.<\/p>\n
So what is\u00a0BEAM?<\/p>\n
B<\/span>ackground<\/strong>: This is the facts. \u00a0It is often common knowledge or perceived to be common \u00a0knowledge. \u00a0The author may use this information as background or for their argument. \u00a0Because these facts are strong points, it adds authority and credibility.<\/p>\n
E<\/span>xhibit<\/strong>: This is the example or the evidence for the claim. \u00a0It can be very simple and not need more\u00a0description or it could be more complicated and need more explanation.<\/p>\n
A<\/span>rgument<\/strong>: This is the author’s claim that often stems off of another author’s claim. \u00a0This can be described as authors getting into a conversation with each other.<\/p>\n
M<\/span>ethod<\/strong>: This is the main concept. \u00a0It can also be similar to background information. \u00a0This can also be complex vocabulary.<\/p>\n
By keeping BEAM in the back of my head while researching, I think it will allow me to find and collect a more well-rounded set of information. \u00a0This will force me to find all necessary information not just easy to find information. \u00a0Additionally, BEAM can be used at the end of your research process during revision. \u00a0It is a check list to make sure you have a comprehensive research project. \u00a0I will end with how the article quickly describes the differences and importance of\u00a0b<\/strong>ackground, e<\/strong>xhibit, a<\/strong>rgument, and m<\/strong>ethod.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n“Writers rely on background sources, interpret or analyze exhibits, engage arguments, and follow methods.” –JOSEPH BIZUP<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
<\/p>\n
Well its goodbye for now…<\/p>\n
![\"tumblr_mr25acsgf41rijbg1o1_500\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.scu.edu\/mmason17\/files\/2017\/03\/tumblr_mr25acsgf41rijbg1o1_500.gif\")
Source: Disney<\/p><\/div>\n
But I promise there is always tomorrow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
When I am assigned a research project, I am immediately faced with a long process. \u00a0Here is how I would approach a research project. Pick a topic. \u00a0This can be one of the most challenging parts. \u00a0I typically review my … Continue reading