Choosing and refining a research topic

Welcome to Long-Form Research Project! This lesson focuses on choosing and refining a research topic. Effective communication is fundamental to academic and professional success.

Research writing involves finding, evaluating, and synthesizing information from sources to support an original argument. CRAAP test for evaluating sources: Currency (Is it recent enough?), Relevance (Does it relate to your topic?), Authority (Who wrote it? Are they credible?), Accuracy (Is it supported by evidence?), Purpose (Is it informing, selling, or persuading?). Citation formats (MLA, APA, Chicago) give credit to sources and allow readers to verify information. Plagiarism is using someone else's ideas or words without attribution—even unintentional plagiarism has consequences. Paraphrase by reading a passage, closing it, and writing from memory in your own words. Strong research essays synthesize multiple sources into a coherent, original argument rather than just reporting what sources say.

As you engage with this material, consider both the theoretical foundations and practical applications. Think critically about how this concept builds on prior knowledge and where you might apply it beyond the classroom.

Challenge yourself to go beyond memorization—seek to understand the "why" behind the processes and principles.