SHSS - PDEV - Search research literature effectively: How to Read a Research Article

How to Read a Research article  - from  Babbie (2010) Chapter 17  

Not like a novel or a story or a newspaper article

1. Abstract first

• Helps you decide if you want to read the whole thing)
• Gives you a framework for reading the rest – preps you

2.Skim

• Note headings&  look for graphs & tables
• Pay close attention to *methods* and *conclusion*

3.Carefully read the whole thing & take notes

4.Re-skim

• Anything new pop out? New ideas? New connections?

Try: Meet with your some classmates; each describe & explain one article you read in 5 or 6 minutes.

Some helpful videos (try one)

• How to Read a Scholarly article - video (2 min 34 sec)  by Western University
• How to Read a Scholarly Article -   video (5 min, 11 sec)  by  Kishwaukee College Library
• How to Read Academic Research - video (11 min 43 sec) by Russell James

Thanks to NCSU Libraries for this excellent tutorial!