Question

Read Ariel’s summary of his research process for a research-based informative essay.

First, I analyzed information from online, academic, and print sources to support my research questions. I wrote my findings on note cards and organized my note cards by topic. After that, I read through my note cards and determined the most significant research question based on my findings. Next, I plan to create an outline for my essay based on this research question and information from my sources.

Is this an effective research process?

Yes, because Ariel is using multiple resources to form the basis of his research.
Yes, because Ariel is organizing his information before he starts writing.
No, because Ariel has not considered revising his research questions or writing new ones.

Answer 1

Yes — because Ariel is organizing his information before he starts writing.

His process shows good research habits: using multiple source types, taking notes, grouping them by topic, and narrowing his focus based on what the research actually showed. Those steps set him up to write a focused, evidence-based essay.

A few quick suggestions to make the process stronger:
- Evaluate and record the credibility and bibliographic details of each source as you take notes.
- Be open to revising the research question as you outline and draft (sometimes new evidence changes the focus).
- Draft a thesis statement from the chosen question, then outline evidence to support it.
- Build in time for drafting, revising, and getting feedback.