The Norton Field Guide

 

From the readings, I learned that it is crucial to critically evaluate sources before using them in research. The Norton Field Guide emphasized the importance of assessing the credibility, relevance, and usefulness of sources. It also highlighted the need to consider the author’s qualifications and biases, as well as the publication’s reputation. This tip reminded me of the importance of being discerning when conducting research and not relying solely on the first source that comes my way.

A successful research skill that I have used in the past is creating an organized system for note-taking. The Little Seagull Handbook’s section on doing research mentioned the significance of taking detailed notes during the research process. This is something I have found to be effective in keeping track of important information and ideas. By organizing my notes according to themes or subtopics, I can easily refer back to them when writing my paper.

In terms of my research methodology, my process has typically involved conducting preliminary searches to gather background information on a topic. Then, I would narrow down my focus and perform more targeted searches to find relevant sources. However, in this course, I plan to be more systematic in my approach. I intend to create a research plan that includes setting clear research goals, identifying keywords and search terms in advance, and utilizing various databases and resources. Additionally, I aim to keep a research journal to record my progress, thoughts, and any challenges encountered throughout the process.

Based on the feedback on Milestone 1, I have decided to pursue the topic of the impact of social media on mental health. My argument will focus on how excessive social media use contributes to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression among young adults. I will argue that while social media has its benefits, such as connecting people and providing access to information, its negative consequences on mental health cannot be ignored. The three search terms I might consider using are “social media,” “mental health,” and “young adults.” These keywords are strong and effective in capturing the key elements of my topic, allowing me to find relevant sources that discuss the relationship between social media and mental health in young adults.