1. The document provides guidance on choosing an academic research topic, determining the goal or angle of the paper, and selecting an appropriate genre such as analytical or argumentative. 2. Once a topic and genre are chosen, students should conduct research using library databases and other sources to find information to support their arguments and become informed on the subject. 3. The document offers tips for writing the paper such as starting with an outline to stay focused and following the assigned style guidelines.

1. Academic Research & Writing

2. Start with a solid research topic. Consider: What do you know on the subject? Who will your audience be? What do they already know about it? What do you want to inform your audience about? Before you start searching for information, brainstorm and choose a research topic.

3. Once you choose a topic, decide what your “angle” or goal will be. Will you be proving a point? Making a case? Analyzing information? It is important determine the goal of your paper, so that you can find the best genre to meet your writing needs.

4. The most common genres for academic, research-based writing are: Analytical Offers a critical interpretation on a subject, shows the writer’s “analysis” of the subject-matter. Does not take a stance. Explores existing information and tries to present a new understanding. Argumentative Takes a stance on a topic and tries to persuade readers to agree with the writer’s position. Both genres require that the writer support their points with authoritative information from credible, scholarly sources.

5. Once you choose a subject and an angle, it is time to start searching for information to support your ideas. By searching for and reading articles related to your subject, you will: Understand the different views proposed by other writers and experts Find information and data to support your arguments Become an informed writer

6. Library Databases and news banks: http://www.stu.edu/eResearch The library’s E-Research page provides direct access to a variety of general and subject-specific databases, including full-text databases.

7. Library Databases vs. Online Search Engines Authority Scholarly Credibility

8. A good place to start your research. ABI/INFORM Academic Search Premier ProQuest Central General Reference Center InfoTrac/InfoTrac OneFile Not sure how to start your research… Ask your STU librarians!

9. General Business File ASAP (Gale) Health Business Elite (EBSCO) LexisNexis Academic Mergent Online Statistical Datasets ProQuest Central Your source for reference assistance: Larry Treadwell: [email_address]

10. SportDiscus ABI/INFORM Academic Search Premier

11. PsycInfo Health Reference Center Academic ProQuest Central Academic Search Premier InfoTrac ABI/INFORM

12. You’ve chosen a topic, brainstormed ideas, decided on an angle, and read several relevant articles... It’s time to start writing! Some things to remember: It’s a good idea to start with an outline. It will keep your writing focused, and aid in developing a strong, thesis-driven essay. Follow the conventions set by your department’s designated style manual. – APA, MLA, Turabian, Chicago