Academic Writer
Asking questions
It is sometimes useful to ask big or speculative questions
which you then might try to answer in your paper. It is however possible to leave some
questions unanswered (or to answer only some of the questions you raise). The same goes
for problem solution frameworks, where
it is not necessary to provide a 'solution' for every problem you raise.
Something to Avoid: Direct, informal questions directed to the reader to
the reader are OUT! E.g. 'Have you ever thought about...?' It is NOT good
practice to include questions such as this in an academic essay.
EXAMPLE
Why at this time in our society is there such an interest in "repression" and the uncovering of repressed memories? Why is it that almost everyone you talk to either knows someone with a "repressed memory" or knows someone who's being accused, or is just plain interested in the issue? Why do so many individuals believe these stories, even the more bizarre, outlandish, and outrageous ones? Why is the cry of "witch hunt" now so loud (Baker 1992: 48; Gardner 1991)? |
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Academic Writer 2000