Research Writing
Writing a research paper or research writing requires a demonstration of a systematic thought process that gives rise to logical solutions to a problem. In logical thinking and reasoning, researchers are required to demonstrate how they derived their conclusions. Unfortunately, this does not happen without challenges and errors. This article points out the errors you should watch out for in research and logical thinking:
- Failure to provide evidence for an assertion-
The bedrock of research writing is having a standpoint and supporting it with evidence. An argument without evidence is termed invalid because it cannot be substantiated.
- Assumptions that are not validated-
Any assumption stated in your research paper must be validated by giving reasons, otherwise, you will not satisfy your leader if he/she is of the opposing thought.
- Stereotypes and prejudice-
Although some stereotypes may be true, they should never find their way to your research assignment. If a person with a different pinion proves otherwise through presenting evidence, then your research writing assignment will be incomplete.
- Circular reasoning-
This kind of thinking and reasoning focuses on reinforcing one’s beliefs as opposed to the deriving conclusions from facts obtained in the research process.
- Appeal to emotions-
Appealing to emotions works but not in logical thinking and reasoning. In logical thinking and reasoning, you MUST demonstrate to the reader how you arrived at a conclusion.
- Using false analogies-
Comparison in research paper writing is acceptable, however, you must demonstrate a close relationship between the items you are comparing, failure means that your analogy is discarded.
- Presenting evidence that is not exhaustive-
Naturally, humans have a tendency to lean more on what suits them. In research writing, you must present both arguments supporting your case and arguments contradicting your case. Failure to present both sides of the coin weakens your case.