Inquiry and Research Skills Flashcards

Which step in the research process should come BEFORE writing a thesis statement?

Answer: Conducting preliminary research on the topic

Preliminary research helps a writer understand the topic well enough to form an informed, arguable thesis.

A student finds two credible sources that disagree about a historical date. The BEST approach is to:

Answer: Note the discrepancy and consult additional authoritative sources

Consulting additional authoritative sources helps resolve factual discrepancies and strengthens the accuracy of research.

What does the 'R' stand for in the CRAAP test used to evaluate sources?

Answer: Relevance

In the CRAAP test (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, Purpose), 'R' stands for Relevance, meaning how well the source relates to your topic.

Which of the following is an example of a CLOSED research question?

Answer: Did the number of U.S. households with internet access increase between 2010 and 2020?

A closed research question has a definite, verifiable answer (yes or no), while open questions require analysis and interpretation.

In a research paper, signal phrases are used to:

Answer: Introduce quotations or paraphrases by identifying the source

Signal phrases introduce borrowed material by naming the author or source, helping integrate evidence smoothly into the text.

Which type of bias occurs when a researcher only seeks out sources that confirm their existing beliefs?

Answer: Confirmation bias

Confirmation bias leads researchers to favor sources that support what they already believe, undermining objectivity.

A student is writing about the dangers of texting while driving and uses only sources published by auto insurance companies. This raises a concern about which evaluation criterion?

Answer: Purpose/bias

Sources published by companies with a financial stake in the topic may have a purpose-driven bias, making objectivity questionable.