It is important to be able to identify which sources are credible. This ability requires an understanding of depth, objectivity, currency, authority, and purpose. Whether or not your source is peer-reviewed, it is still a good idea to evaluate it based on these five factors.

When considering the relevancy of a source, there are several things to ask yourself: Is the scope of the source is appropriate for your research? Does the source provide a general overview of your topic or is it focused specifically on a single aspect of your topic? Who is the intended audience for the source?

It is described as the gap in knowledge about a particular problem or issue. A functional research problem helps close the gap in knowledge in a field that can lead to more research. An accurate statement to the problem helps you identify the motive of the research project.

A research problem helps you formulate that sequence. Research problem also helps you avoid unnecessary steps during the research. A research problem can help you identify each and every step of the research process: the study design, sampling strategy, research instrument and research analysis.

The goal of a research paper is not to inform the reader what others have to say about a topic, but to draw on what others have to say about a topic and engage the sources in order to thoughtfully offer a unique perspective on the issue at hand.

A research paper analyzes a perspective or argues a point. Regardless of the type of research paper you are writing, your finished research paper should present your own thinking backed up by others’ ideas and information.