Step 2: Research
To get started you need to ask a research question. Research is finding out the answers to what you don’t know. The answer to your research question is your thesis statement for your research paper. Start by finding your focus: what is it you are looking for or what questions are you trying to answer? Then consider how your purpose will affect your research. Are you trying to persuade your audience or to inform them?
Research Methodology
- Question: Ask a research question. This then focuses your research
- Generate Ideas: Brainstorm how you will answer the tquesstions using methods presented
- Organize your Ideas: Remember the keyto a methodology is that another person must be able to follow the steps you took in doing your research
- Thesis: Your research should answer your question—from this you have your thesis statement
Mapping a Methodology
After you have determined your question and before you begin your research think abut what kinds of research do you need to do. One way to do this is by using a mind-map such as in Fig. 1.3. A methodology mind map will help you to shape your Research Question into Major Steps and Minor Steps.
In this mind map the person wants to know whether or not solar power can be used to heat the Science and Industry Building. The Major Steps indicate ways to determine if it is feasible: Analyze Models, Gather Information, Analyze SI Building, and Conduct Interviews. The minor steps are things to be researched to answer the question. For instance, to gather information you might learn more about SI Building heating costs. Thinking about your research methodology even before you start your research will help you do better research and better present the information once the research is finished.
