Library Resources

A research strategy is a plan that keeps you organized and focused on your chosen topic.

The Literature Review Process

In order to begin writing your research paper, you must first read supporting literature. The example below illustrates a step by step guide on how to gather, assess, and evaluate appropriate literature for the intended research paper.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Image from https://libguides.library.cofc.edu/english110                    

Concept Mapping 

Concept mapping is a visual representation of interrelated concepts that connects specific ideas to the bigger picture. This brainstorming strategy can be used to generate and connect themes of your proposed research topic. In this example below, you can see that the initial topic is focused on climate change. In this case, themes are organized by evidence, causes and solutions with supporting details.

Image From https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/using-concept-maps/

Thesis Statement 

A thesis statement is an essential component of a research paper or essay. It is often written in the introduction paragraph of a paper and is typically expressed in one sentence. The thesis statement provides the reader with a concise summary of the main point, argument or claim that you are making in your essay/paper. In other words, it keeps your paper focused and aligned for the reader. Every point that you make in your paper should, in some way, support or relate back to your original thesis statement. Make sure that your statement is clear and specific! 

Here are some examples of a thesis statement:

Given the debilitating surgery and lifelong changes they endure, kidney donors should be financially compensated for their act of self-sacrifice. 

Americans should incorporate thirty minutes of moderate exercise into their daily routines because it helps maintain a healthy body weight and reduces the risk of high blood pressure. 

Reading develops a child's mind by enhancing comprehension skills, increasing vocabulary, and exposing them to new worlds or ideas they might not otherwise encounter. 

Thesis Statement Resources

• Purdue Owl: Creating a Thesis Statement: Articles and information on creating an effective thesis for your academic paper.
• Writer's Web: Thesis Statement Exercises: Choose the best revision for each. These exercises help students and writers develop a better understanding of the thesis statement.

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