Guide To Writing Empirical Papers, Theses, And Dissertations.pdf

ISBN: 0-8247-0605-6

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Preface

The inspiration for this book was both the foundation of a new doctoral program

in my department, and also my memories of what little guidance I received when

writing my dissertation at a famed Ivy League institution. While every paper,

thesis, and dissertation is different, it is my hope that this volume will be helpful

to writers starting on the path to publication. Other books have been written on

this subject, but I have sought to make this one of particular relevance to those

engaged in empirical research, in which the writing process is inextricably bound

to research design and statistical methodology.

This volume is intended to enrich students’ comprehension of the structure

and execution of the written research project. Toward this end, each chapter con-

tains an overview, a checklist of writing considerations, and bibliographic guid-

ance to further understanding of the topic. Special attention has been given to

computer-based research tools, not just in statistical matters, but in brainstorming

one’s topic, locating data and information, managing a bibliography, and all the

other elements of the research process.

An attempt has been made in this book to treat the entire quantitative re-

search process in its writing aspects, including brainstorming, framing an analytic

question, developing a comprehensive outline, and providing a roadmap for the

reader. Electronic search resources and bibliographic software get particular at-

tention as a prelude to meta-analysis of prior research and development of the

literature review. The student is urged to think in terms of modeling as well as

operationalizing variables. Selection of research designs and appropriate statisti-

cal methodology are treated, as are the basics of writing fundamentals, validity,

iii

Preface

and data visualization. The work concludes with emphasis on research ethics and

issues associated with drawing inferences and making generalizations. Dealing

with one’s thesis or dissertation committee is not forgotten, and ﬁnal chapters

make explicit the special characteristics of quantitative research writing in the

humanities and in the natural sciences. Last, but not least, funding sources for

dissertation research are inventoried, with Web links and other contact informa-

tion.

I wish to thank all those who have helped with the preparation of this book,

especially my students and Paige Force, production editor at Marcel Dekker, Inc.

Errors and omissions, of course, are my own and should this volume prove of

some use and see another edition, I would thank dear readers who are kind enough

to send their reactions and suggestions. In the meantime, additional information

on quantitative research is found at my website, http:/ /www2.chass.ncsu.edu/

garson/PA765/.

G. David Garson

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