The Bedford Researcher Chapter 14 Summary

"Drafting" is the topic of the 14th chapter of "The Bedford Researcher".  It illustrates the concepts of using outlines, effective paragraphs, introductions, the ease of following a document, and conclusions to enhance the qualities of a research paper.  The book expresses that research writing is a long process consisting of identifying and leaning about an issue, reflecting on what you have learned, and contributing to the conversation about your issue.

The use of an outline provides the foundation to plan the points, the order, and evidence that will be included in the body of work.  Organization of your ideas and substantiating the evidence can aid in the approach of gathering your thoughts and ideas in a systematic manner.  Weaknesses such as not incorporating enough evidence, relying heavily on one source, and creating a bias towards one side of an argument will be made apparent as you go through the process of creating an outline.  Reorganization of your ideas as you proceed in composing your paper may be necessary.

The creation of effective paragraphs to acquire the attention and focus of your readers is initiated by providing the focus on a single idea, organizing by following a pattern, use of details, use of sources that are confirmed by authority, and employing effective transitions between paragraphs.  These techniques will assist the reader in following your writing with ease.  It will aid in connecting the information in a sequence that makes the most sense.

Drafting the introduction is important for identifying to your readers what the main idea of your paper is about.  If the reader finds it compelling, they will choose to continue reading your work.  As mentioned earlier, the body work should be easy to follow and understandable.  This can be accomplished by using techniques mentioned in the book such as, providing a map in your introduction, using headings and subheading, providing forecasts and cross-references, use of a menu, and paying attention to design principles.  Drafting the conclusion allows you to reiterate the claims made in your introduction.  Reinforcement of what you have included in your paper allows the work that you have accomplished come full circle.