RESEARCH_language

Chapter 1: Introduction

Importance of Credible Sources

• Utilizing highly regarded and reputable sources is essential for establishing the credibility of a research paper.

• High-quality sources enhance the researcher’s confidence and lend authority to the overall argument presented in the paper.

• Citing credible sources demonstrates that other established scholars and researchers support the claims being made, thereby strengthening the argument and appeal to the audience’s rationale.

Language in Academic Writing

• A clear and articulate use of ordinary language enhances comprehension, but the use of specialized terminology and academic jargon is also appropriate when necessary.

• Researchers should avoid overly creative titles and figurative language, as these elements may distract from the clarity and focus of the research.

• The goal should be to strive for straightforward, clear articulation without including unnecessary phrases that could obscure the intended message.

• Aim for brevity; if a phrase can be removed without altering the meaning, it should be considered for removal to keep the writing concise.

Proper Use of Verb Tenses

• Different sections of a research paper require distinct verb tense usages to clearly convey timelines and relationships:

  • Introduction: Utilize the present tense to establish facts and context.

  • Statement of the Problem (SOP): Employ simple present and future tenses to outline the current state and future intentions.

  • Literature Review: Use the past tense to discuss prior works, as these sources were completed in the past.

  • Methodology: Future tense is to be employed to describe upcoming research activities.

• Ensure clarity and cohesiveness in transitions between sections, making logical connections between ideas.

Chapter 2: Simple Past Usage

Common Errors in Tense Usage

• Many students mistakenly continue to use future tense beyond the proposal stage, which can lead to confusion in the paper’s timeline.

• It is important to understand that research sections are divided into planning (Chapters 1-3) and conducting the study (Chapters 4-5) phases.

Methods Section Tense Requirements

• Always maintain future tense during the proposal stage; however, this should transition to past tense in the final paper. Adequately express methodology using:

  • Active voice: "The study will utilize quantitative methods to measure outcomes."

  • Passive voice: "A descriptive analysis will be conducted on the gathered data."

• Table of Verb Tenses:

  • Introduction: Present tense.

  • Literature Review: Past tense.

  • SOP: Simple present & future.

  • Methods: Future tense in both active and passive voices.

Chapter 3: Common Tense Errors

Effective Abstracts

• Abstracts should be crafted only after completing the final version of the paper; they must be in past tense to report on the work that has been done.

• Include comprehensive findings, methodologies, and implications using clear and concise language to encapsulate the research effectively.

Chapter 4: Cohesion and Cohesive Devices

Importance of Cohesive Devices

• Cohesive devices play a crucial role in ensuring clarity, smooth transitions, and logical organization throughout the research paper.

• These devices should be applied strategically to sequence and emphasize ideas, maintaining a logical flow.

• Avoid redundancy in the use of cohesive devices; a varied vocabulary enhances the overall quality of writing.

Chapter 5: Effective RRL Writing

Collaborate with Sources

• The volume of citations within a Research Literature Review (RRL) does not singularly validate the strength of the argument; rather, integrating and synthesizing the findings of various authors enhances clarity and cohesiveness.

• Paraphrase sources appropriately while retaining the original meaning to ensure clarity, providing a balanced view of existing literature.

• Clearly articulate your own insights, compare contrasting viewpoints, and express the implications of the research.

Chapter 6: Abstract Construction

Rhetorical Moves for Abstracts

• An effective abstract should encompass five key rhetorical moves:

  • Introduction: Contextualizes the purpose and significance of the research study.

  • Purpose: Clearly states the objectives of the research and what it aims to uncover.

  • Method: Outlines the research design and data collection methods utilized.

  • Product: Describes any outcomes, findings, or developments that emerged from the research.

  • Conclusion: Highlights the broader implications and interpretations of the findings, giving readers a clear understanding of their importance.

Chapter 7: Conclusion

Attention to Formatting and Style

• Ensure consistent adherence to the APA Style throughout the research paper, encompassing both in-text citations and reference lists.

• Strictly follow specific guidelines for formatting citations, which include correct punctuation placement and adherence to author-date formats.

• Maintain a pastoral voice (third person) throughout the paper, with the exception of acknowledgments, allowing the research to take precedence.

• Engage in reflective practices once the defense is complete, revising and editing the entire paper to improve clarity and correctness while ensuring adherence to academic standards.