ENGL 3400 (Spring 2024): Getting Started

How to Skim a Scholarly Article: Triage Method

1. Abstract: Quickly skim the Abstract of the article for your keywords and/or words related to your research topic. If the source seems relevant to your research, move on to the next step.
2. Introduction: Next, skim the Introduction of the article. Note any keywords and synonyms for your keywords. If the Introduction passes inspection, move on to the next step.
3. Conclusion: Read the Conclusion of the article and note what the article is arguing and whether it is relevant for your research topic/question.
4. Body: Now, go back and skim the body text of the article. Use the Find function (CTRL/Command+F) to locate keywords and relevant synonyms throughout the article.
5. Bibliography: Skim the Bibliography portion and open links to additional sources that look relevant to your research. Note any relevant sources and save them for later.
6. Congratulations! If you've made it this far and the article still seems relevant to your research, there is a very good chance that it is a useful source for your research assignment.

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