Based on MLA Hand book VII Edition

1. Research & Writing
Dr.P.Samuel
Assistant Professor & HOD
PG Department of English
Thiruvalluvar University College of Arts
& Science, Arakkonam

2. Introduction
Research Methodology – Unit I
Selecting a topic
Conducting Research
Compiling a Working Bibliography
Evaluating sources
Taking Notes
Outlining
Writing Drafts
Language and Style

3. The Research Paper as a Form of
Exploration
Personal Essays and Research Papers
We write personal essays, ideas in school level
We undertake research when we need to go
beyond our personal knowledge
We undertake research to probe an issue,
solve a problem, or make an argument to
what others have written

4. Types of Research
• Primary Research
Study of a subject
through firsthand
investigation
Example:
Analyzing a literary or
historical text, or a film
etc.,
• Secondary Research
Examination of studies
that other researchers
have made of a subject
Example:
Articles and books
about political issues,
historical events or
literary works

5. Using Primary Research
• Primary research is defined as a methodology
used by researchers to collect data directly,
rather than depending on data collected from
previously done research.
• Technically, they “own” the data. Primary
research is solely carried out to address a
certain problem, which requires in-depth
analysis.

6. Using Secondary Research
All researches depend at least partly on SR
Learning to identify and analyze the work of
others
Discovering, Assessing, and assimilating
others’ research (then articulating own ideas)

7. Combining Research & Original Ideas
• Research increases knowledge &
understanding
• Shapes your thinking
• Research paper should not merely reviews

8. Research Papers and Professional
Writing
• Learn to write a research paper
• Need to consult sources of information about
a specific subject
• Combine this information with your ideas
• Present your thoughts, findings & conclusions
effectively.

9. Thank you
drsamenglish@gmail.com