Using Sources
When writing a research paper, it’s imperative that you have a thorough understanding of your sources to be able to turn them into credible data and integrate them into your argument. Having a diverse batch of information before you begin pondering how your sources come together to support your claims is important. When using your sources in your paper you have the option of either paraphrasing, summarizing, or quoting directly from the source; each of these must be done properly to maximize effectiveness and avoid accidental transgressions. “Patchwriting,” or simply taking material from a source and inserting it into your paper, is an example of plagiarism and should be avoided at all costs. I’m surprised that this even needs to be said. Putting information from a source into your own words doesn’t take too much effort and is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of a source (and increase your credibility).
Introduction to Refining Your Writing Style
A writing style is a person’s unique “voice” that shapes their writing. When writing in certain disciplines, however, we have to alter our writing style to fit their acceptable conventions. Knowing these conventions is especially important as it allows us to break or change them while maintaining credibility. To further refine your style when writing in a specific discipline, imagining an audience is helpful. As long as this audience isn’t general, visualizing it can help make your piece and your style more truthful. Trying on different styles is a good way to experiment with your writing and make it even stronger, although we’re all basically already doing it. I feel like my writing style is an amalgamation of bits and pieces of different styles that I had picked up over years of reading and listening.