Narrative Writing Techniques

Writing a Narrative

• Captivate readers by using specific, vivid details that evoke the five senses.
• Incorporate metaphors and similes to enhance storytelling.
• A personal reflection can clarify the narrative's meaning, employing methods such as turning points or imagery.

Research Questions

• A research question is an inquiry that guides and focuses a research project.
• It informs the formation of a hypothesis, which is a testable proposed idea.
• Effective research questions should be clear, focused, complex, and answerable.
  • Clear: Easy to understand and directs the research process.
  • Focused: Narrow enough to target specific aspects of a topic.
  • Complex: Requires critical thinking and cannot be answered with a simple yes or no.
  • Answerable: Can be investigated through research.

Steps to Formulate a Research Question

• Select a general topic of interest.
• Generate specific inquiries about the selected topic.
• Write an effective question addressing clarity, focus, complexity, and answerability.
• Evaluate the adequacy of the question.
• Begin the research process, revising the question if necessary.
• Well-defined topics facilitate effective inquiries and critical thinking.

Reliable Sources

• Reliable sources present current and unbiased information, showcasing multiple perspectives.
• Peer-reviewed sources ensure accuracy, as they undergo expert evaluation before publication.
• Avoid one-sided sources that may present opinions rather than facts.

CRAAP Test

• A tool to evaluate the reliability of sources:
  • Currency: Is the information up-to-date?
  • Relevance: Does it pertain to the topic at hand?
  • Authority: Is the source credible and from a reputable author?
  • Accuracy: Is the information supported with facts and data?
  • Purpose: What is the intent behind the information provided?

Using Reference Material in Writing

• Consult experts to define the parameters of your topic, similar to finding criteria for an ideal chocolate chip cookie.
• Seek out primary sources (first-hand accounts) and secondary sources (analyses of primary sources) for information.
• Aim to use primary sources whenever available to ensure accuracy in quoting original works.

Research Steps for Writing

• Gather broad information first before narrowing down to specific details.
• Explore a variety of reputable sources, particularly peer-reviewed journals and expert publications.
• Utilize a minimum of two sources for facts and three for broader information in writing.
• Acknowledge differing opinions within the research to enhance credibility.

Synthesizing Knowledge in Writing

• Combine insights from various sources to create a cohesive narrative or argument.
• Properly cite sources to acknowledge the original authors and give credibility to your work.
• Introduce unique perspectives or ideas beyond the gathered research to distinguish your writing.

Creating Unique Content

• Synthesize research findings and share personal insights to contribute something new to the topic.
• Move beyond mere citation of sources; build upon collected information to form a unique narrative worth reading.