Published: 30th March 2021
Masha,
Data and Discourse Studies M.A.
I put enough time into research of the subject and make sure that I have sufficient information to support my argument.
Get an overview and make a plan
First of all, I have to clearly understand the subject of my research whether I have to pick a topic by myself or one is assigned to me. If I are experiencing any trouble, professors or tutors are always there for me to guide me at all stages of my research. I make an rough time table for the next steps and also plan enough time buffers.
Time to start research then! I put enough time into it and make sure fully comprehend the subject and that I have sufficient information to support my argument.
I might begin with looking through the course reading material, which often contains useful references.
Literature research
Then I start my search in the university library. My personal tip: I chose the VPN-client and browse the library catalogue. I search by keywords. In this way, I can easily find relevant digitised material which can be downloaded. If it is still an analogue source, it tells me whether the book is available to pick up. Depending on what I‘m looking for, I may also use external sources. WorldCat is the world’s largest library catalogue where one can find global libraries and archives that contain specialized and up-to-date information on research topics. For example, the historical resources from World Digital Library or statistical material from UNdata are available for the public.
Literature and more
The University and State Library ULB is the place at TU Darmstadt where you can find your specialist literature. Get to know the UBL digitally in the form of video tutorials and virtual tours! In addition to the so-called reference library in the departments, you can quickly find suitable academic articles using TUfind.
But the ULB offers more. The learning rooms provide the right atmosphere for concentrated work. The ULB workshops helps you getting started with literature research, scientific citation or the use of word processing programmes.
Catalina,
Biomolecular Engineering B.Sc.
Depending on what I‘m looking for, I may also use external sources like WorldCat, the world’s largest library catalogue.
Start writing
Once I have found all necessary sources, I write an outline which will help me to keep my paper coherent.
Now all is prepared for writing, but I have difficulties to start with! No worries – I shall have a look on example sentences (opens in new tab) offered by Online Writing Lab. It definitely saves my time to make sentences and what is more, my text is now better structured! [Templates] are waiting here, too. Why don’t you try as well? You can also find the answers for general questions about writing in Online Writing Lab. If you need additional support, visit SchreibCenter and you can get online writing workshops (and consultation if you need).
Writing Center
Scientific writing is a characteristic style and has to be learned. But you get support from the SchreibCenter. In the Online Writing Lab OWL you find many tips for planning your scientific papers. You will find everything summarised briefly and concisely: introduction, structure, time management and citation. If you need any further advice, the consulting team will help you or attend one of the workshops. By the way, there are also tips on cover letters and CVs.
Sooyeong,
Data and Discourse Studies M.A.
As indicating references is always important, especially for the writing ethics I use a literature management tool to keep the overview.
Correct citation
Indicating references is always important, and writing ethics should be emphasised at anytime. So, what I do is using literature management tool – Citavi (for Windows) & Zotero are the ones. Regardless of the OS you are using, there must be one which suits for you. If you are not familiar with these tools, ULB offers a great overview about it.
Final Step
Now the work is almost finished. I myself know my work inside out and easily miss typos or spelling mistakes or inconsistent conclusions. That's why I ask a friend to proofread the term paper at the end.
We hope we could give you an overview of our approach to writing term papers. Now you should be well prepared for your own writing journey. Good luck!
Catalina
Hello, I’m Catalina! The Technical University Darmstadt is one of the best technical universities in Germany and is part of the TU9 university network. My degree programme offers a wide range of subjects from different fields. In addition, the university is located in a science city and there are many research opportunities. That's why I chose this university.
Masha
Hey! My name is Masha and I’m doing my master’s in Data and Discourse Studies. It always takes long to explain what exactly I am studying. My program is a kaleidoscope of disciplines and methods, which are weirdly and fruitfully intertwined together. For me it is a fusion of hobby and profession: languages, history, programming, philosophy! I love it how we mix approaches trying to gain this voluminous image of our world.
Sooyeong
Hey, I'm Sooyeong from South Korea and doing my Masters in Data and Discourse Studies at TU Darmstadt. I moved to Germany as a piece of my journey to live in my favorite countries and it's been a few years. Here, you will find out why I decided to stay and choose TU Darmstadt, and also how I enjoy my days in this city. Maybe we'll get to know each other soon!
