Insights Gleaned from My Initial Scholarly Writing Project
As the Humanities Correspondent, I am delighted to share my reflections on strategies I've been employing to improve my workflow for my second junior paper.
Currently, I am working on this second junior paper, which, unlike my first, is more serious in nature. To manage my time effectively, I have intentionally set aside dedicated research time as part of my daily life. I mark these sessions on my calendar with a distinct 'yellow' colour to ensure they stand out.
One of the key tools I've found invaluable is my research journal. In this journal, I record notes, track bibliographic information, ideas, reflections, and evolving arguments. By structuring my entries by date, theme, or source, and regularly revisiting the journal, I am able to promote self-regulated learning—active goal-setting and monitoring progress, which has been linked to academic success.
In addition to this, I have composed a schedule that intentionally sets aside time each week for my research. I am proud to say that I have managed to set aside three hours every Sunday for my junior paper research.
Moreover, I have been taking copious and helpful notes to guide my research. These notes help me to record thoughts, readings, sources, central arguments, questions, and important quotes.
I have also been using Zotero as a tool to streamline my research. This tool has been instrumental in managing my bibliography and references.
As I negotiate with my advisor about deadlines, research content, framing, among other aspects, I am also mindful of minimising distractions during my research blocks. I use tools such as timers or calendars to reinforce time allocation.
Reflecting in my research journal after each session helps me to monitor my progress and adjust my strategies as needed. This practice has been crucial in ensuring that I am staying on track and making the most of my research time.
My first junior paper explored the attitudes and ideologies of consumption that post-war consumers held, particularly in relation to an acute shortage of nylons. In my second junior paper, I identified many letters to the editor that female consumers sent in to voice their opinion about how nylons should be distributed, who deserves them, and how the shortage was affecting their everyday lives.
As the semester progresses, my other classes are demanding more time. However, I am determined to create a great piece of research for my second junior paper. By combining disciplined time management with a well-maintained research journal, I am confident that I can achieve this goal.
Engaging in my personal-growth journey through education-and-self-development, I've been channeling my efforts in managing my time effectively for my second junior paper. By setting aside dedicated research time, maintaining a research journal, and utilizing tools like Zotero, I aim to contribute a unique and thoughtful perspective towards my paper's theme, fostering growth in my academic pursuits.
