Gathering Sources Is Only the First Stage
Source collection is the first step, but before putting any words on paper, there should be a decision on how the sources will be organized. To organize research sources effectively, a well-thought-out organization will make the task easier and will save a lot of time. There are two possible organizations – chronological and thematic.
Begin with the Earliest Studies
This technique provides an account of the development of the subject matter from its inception till date. Start with the older research that you identified. Then continue to do newer research. In this manner, the development of the ideas on the subject is visible to the readers.
The Sources Fall into Natural Periods
Usually, the sources fall into natural periods. For instance, a study of work and technology might separate the years before factories, the age of machines, the digital age and the years after the pandemic. A theory may also be divided by its versions. One scientist formulates one model of the theory, another scientist modifies it, while a third one refines it even further.
Why a Spreadsheet Helps
Managing the notes becomes very easy through spreadsheets as compared to paper. The rows can be labeled, sorted and filtered within seconds. If you adopt the time-based system, there should be another column for each period that the sources were produced. From then on, it will only take one click to organize the notes into periods. This makes it easier to organize research sources and find the information you need later.
Groups Sources by Topic Rather Than by Year
The second technique uses sources based on topics rather than years. It’s almost like coding that you might learn in your qualitative research class. Begin with your spreadsheet again. Write the key topic discussed in each source beside the notes in your spreadsheet.
Choose the Best Order for Them
Sort your rows on the basis of their titles. In no time, you will have a list of all your main points like point A, point B, and point C. The only thing left for you to do is decide on an appropriate sequence of these points Since your notes have been sorted out, it is not difficult.
Your Goal Decides the Method
The choice of the approach will depend on your purpose. In case you need to demonstrate how a concept has developed over time, go for the time approach. However, if you have several variables in your study, then opt for the concept approach. For example, while studying self-efficacy, confidence, and two other variables, make sure that each variable is given a separate paragraph, and finally give an overview of all these variables at the end. This approach can help you organize research sources according to the purpose of your review.
Each Section Should Have a Job
Each section should have a job. The thesis statement should start the essay. Afterward, provide the supporting research. Lastly, relate the supporting research to the greater body of research.
A Reason for Your Own Project
Additionally, one can use their critique in pointing out weaknesses of research conducted by the previous researchers. It can assist in determining the weaknesses in previous research and how they create a gap that your research will fill.
Never Treat Your First Plan as Permanent
Do not take your first schedule as something final. There are a lot of students who spend many days arranging their notes, but receive comments from the supervisor that the arrangement is too confusing. However, it is a rather normal situation and should not discourage you.
Ask Your Supervisor How They Would Arrange the Material
For this reason, you should seek help from your instructor to see how they would go about organizing this information. You will then change your outline accordingly. This could sometimes involve changing the order of paragraphs and even entire sections.
Write a First Draft and Read It from Start to Finish
Planning ahead is important, but be flexible with the planning. Write out your review, and then go through it from start to finish. If the ideas aren’t connecting very well, rearrange them. These little changes will go a long way in the future.
