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Chemistry Research Guide

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Ellen Cline
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Understanding the different parts of a scientific paper

Usual parts of an academic paper:

  • Abstract - summarizes the research and findings
  • Introduction - includes background, history, and rationale for the project described
  • Methods - "what did the authors do, and how did they do it?"
  • Results - findings of the work
  • Discussion - "what does it all mean?" as well as limitations of the work
  • Conclusion - summarizes results, and often includes suggestions for future work

Finding Sources

In class, we will work in groups to look at the resources listed below.

Still can't find exactly what you're looking for? Try one of the many other options listed on the Finding Sources in Chemistry page.

Dealing with scientific jargon

It's ok if you don't recognize all of the words in a scientific paper. This is actually a common occurrence! A few tips:

  • You don't have to read linearly (that is, from the first sentence, in order, all the way to the last).
  • Ask yourself: what question does this paper ask? What's the main point?
  • Look for section headings (see below) of interest.

Evaluating Sources

But how can I:

  • Know if I've found enough?
  • Know if I've found the "right" information?
  • Know what's most important to include?

You get to decide!

As you search, find sources, and deal with the deluge of information, ask yourself:

  • Which results are most relevant to your work?
  • Why does this particular source exist? What's it's purpose?
  • Do you need to have the most current information?
    • In the sciences, the answer is usually yes. However, you might be interested in the evolution of a technique you plan to use in your own work.
  • What do others have to say about this particular piece of information?

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