The Craft of Research (Chicago Guides to Writing, Editing & Publishing)

I recommend this book to all our undegraduates who are interested in academic research. It is short, clearly written, and to the point. It addresses most of the key questions research students typically struggle with: What is a research question? What is evidence? How to present an argument? How to revise a text? etc.

Ph.D. students will also greatly benefit from this book: It should save them a lot of time.

People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.