Research Terms & Definitions

​Trustworthy

Sources or individuals that are dependable and can be relied upon for accurate information.

​Support

Evidence, facts, or reasoning, that back up or strength a claim/argument.

Formal Language

Used in academic or professional settings, follows rules of proper grammar.

Research

The investigation of a topic or issue.

Cite

To acknowledge the source of information used in an essay (where you found your information).

Thesis Statement

Your claim or argument, typically found in a sentence in the introductory paragraph.

Plagiarism

Using someone else's words, ideas, or work without citing (AI is also plagiarism).

Research Question

A clear, focused question that guides your research process.

Evaluate

To assess or judge the strength of an argument/claim.

Argument

A logical or reasoned presentation of a claim, with the goal of persuading others.

Claim

A statement that presents a viewpoint on a particular issue.

Evidence

Facts, data, examples, or expert opinion that supports a claim/argument.

Counterargument

An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main argument.

Conclusion

The final paragraph of an essay, often including a final thought or call to action.