Research Methods FAQ

Question 1

How many sources do I need for my research paper?

Accepted Answer

The number of sources depends on your assignment length and complexity. A general guideline is 1-2 sources per page for shorter papers, but quality matters more than quantity. A 10-page paper might need 8-15 sources, while a thesis requires extensive coverage of your field. Always check your assignment guidelines and consult your instructor if unclear.

Question 2

Can I use Wikipedia as a source?

Accepted Answer

Wikipedia is useful for background reading and finding leads to primary sources, but it's generally not acceptable as a cited source in academic papers. Instead, use Wikipedia's references section to find scholarly sources you can cite. Some instructors allow Wikipedia for introductory context, but always verify information in peer-reviewed sources.

Question 3

What's the difference between a scholarly and popular source?

Accepted Answer

Scholarly sources are written by experts for expert audiences, undergo peer review, include citations and methodology details, and appear in academic journals. Popular sources are written for general audiences, rarely cite sources, and appear in newspapers and magazines. Both can be valuable—scholarly sources for evidence, popular sources for context—but understand which you're using.

Question 4

How do I know if a source is peer-reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Check the journal's website for peer review policies, look for database filters for 'peer-reviewed' or 'scholarly,' or use Ulrichsweb to verify. Peer-reviewed articles typically include abstracts, methodology sections, and extensive reference lists. When in doubt, ask a librarian or your instructor.

Question 5

How current do my sources need to be?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your field. Sciences and technology require current sources (last 5-10 years), while humanities may rely on foundational works regardless of age. Balance seminal older works with recent developments. If your topic involves rapidly changing information, prioritize recent sources. Always consider whether newer research might have superseded older findings.

Question 6

What should I do if I can't access a full-text article?

Accepted Answer

Try these strategies: check Google Scholar for free versions, search the author's personal website or ResearchGate, use your library's interlibrary loan service, email the author directly (researchers often share PDFs), or look for open-access versions in repositories like PubMed Central or arXiv.

Question 7

How do I avoid confirmation bias in my research?

Accepted Answer

Actively seek sources that challenge your thesis. Search for counterarguments and opposing viewpoints. Consider why researchers might disagree with your position. Evaluate evidence on its merits, not whether it supports your argument. Acknowledge limitations and alternative interpretations in your writing.

Question 8

What's the best way to keep track of my sources?

Accepted Answer

Use reference management software like Zotero (free), Mendeley, or EndNote. These tools capture citations automatically, store PDFs, and generate bibliographies in any format. Start using one early—your library grows over your academic career. At minimum, maintain a spreadsheet with complete citation information for every source you use.

Question 9

How do I evaluate sources found on the internet?

Accepted Answer

Apply the CRAAP test: Currency (when was it published?), Relevance (does it fit your needs?), Authority (who wrote it and why are they credible?), Accuracy (is evidence provided?), and Purpose (why does this source exist?). Check the domain (.edu and .gov are often more reliable), look for author credentials, and verify claims in multiple sources.

Question 10

When should I quote vs. paraphrase?

Accepted Answer

Quote when the exact wording matters: memorable phrases, definitions, or when the author's language is itself the subject of analysis. Paraphrase for most other situations—to show understanding and integrate sources smoothly. Summarize to condense large amounts of information. Aim for mostly paraphrase with strategic quotes.

Question 11

How do I synthesize multiple sources effectively?

Accepted Answer

Look for patterns: agreement, disagreement, evolution of ideas, or methodological differences. Group sources by theme rather than discussing each separately. Use phrases like 'While Smith argues X, Jones counters with Y.' Your analytical voice should guide the discussion—you're creating a conversation among researchers, not just reporting what each said.

Question 12

What makes a good research question?

Accepted Answer

A good research question is specific enough to be answerable, complex enough to require genuine investigation, and significant enough to matter. It should be debatable (reasonable people could disagree), feasible (you can access needed sources/data), and appropriate for your assignment length and scope.

Research Methods FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many sources do I need for my research paper?

Can I use Wikipedia as a source?

What's the difference between a scholarly and popular source?

How do I know if a source is peer-reviewed?

How current do my sources need to be?

What should I do if I can't access a full-text article?

How do I avoid confirmation bias in my research?

What's the best way to keep track of my sources?

How do I evaluate sources found on the internet?

When should I quote vs. paraphrase?

How do I synthesize multiple sources effectively?

What makes a good research question?

Still Have Questions?

Explore Our Research Guides

Research Questions →

Finding Sources →

Citation Guide →

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