I made a classic mistake: I researched first and asked questions later. I now have about 50 sources saved in my Zotero library, two notebooks full of notes, and absolutely no idea what my thesis is anymore. I've read so much that I can see every side of every argument, and now I can't commit to a single stance. Every time I try to write a claim, I think, 'But wait, Source X had a counterpoint to that, and Source Y nuanced it further.' I'm paralyzed by information overload. How do you scale back? How do you 'unlearn' or filter out sources so you can actually form a coherent argument? I feel like I'm trying to drink from a fire hose and I just need a sippy cup.
I've done too much research and now I can't write a research paper without drowning in info.
- Thread starter CheryD
- Start date
I've found that sometimes the amount of research material out there can be both a blessing and a curse. I remember working on a Studio Art project at my college in Texas, and I spent so much time researching different techniques and artists that I felt like I was losing my own creative voice in the process. Have you tried focusing on just a few key points or themes in your research?
That approach has helped me narrow down the overwhelming amount of information and make my writing more focused. nvm speaking of texas education, have you taken any cool art history or design courses at your college? i took this amazing course on texas artists' contributions to the art world, and it really opened my eyes to the rich artistic heritage we have here in texas! do you have any favorite spots on campus where you go to get inspired for your art projects?
for me, nothing beats sitting under the big oak tree near the fine arts building on a sunny day.
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That approach has helped me narrow down the overwhelming amount of information and make my writing more focused. nvm speaking of texas education, have you taken any cool art history or design courses at your college? i took this amazing course on texas artists' contributions to the art world, and it really opened my eyes to the rich artistic heritage we have here in texas! do you have any favorite spots on campus where you go to get inspired for your art projects?
for me, nothing beats sitting under the big oak tree near the fine arts building on a sunny day.
.