Christian Ogwo 

A well written research paper is reader oriented. The writer makes strong arguments that keep the reader engaged. Arguments must be defined, followed up with broad perspective; yet precise enough to keep the reader focused. Since almost every research attempts to answer a question that solves a problem the researcher must define the problem and make arguments to prove to the reader and the research community that the problem deserves attention and that a solution to the problem would make a difference.

It is important to know that when a reader is reading a research paper the researcher is usually not present to answer questions, so it is good practice in writing a research paper to write it from the perspective of the reader. In other words it is expedient to anticipate the readers’ questions and respond to them. This affords the writer the opportunity to answer questions such as; what is the problem? Why is it a problem? Why should I care and what is in it for me? This perspective also helps the writer to evaluate the strength of his arguments and maybe find alternative arguments, illustrations and evidences to support his claim. 

A research paper makes a claim that is supported with reason, evidences and warrants all of which are components of the researcher’s arguments. However it is important to avoid the pitfalls of warrants that are easily challenged such as warrants based on methodology and warrants based on articles of faith. Therefore the writer should test his warrants to ensure that they are strong, true and appropriate to the readers.

The book is well written with a lot of knowledge to impart. The authors did a great job. I have just one comment to make regarding the emphasis on ‘writing from the perspective of the reader’ which is commonsensical and very important. However it is important to realized that readers come from all works of life and with all kinds of personal experiences which include upbringing, education, culture, location, etc. So the usual general questions of ‘what is the problem, why it is a problem, why should I care and what is in it for me’ could be very provincial. Well, I guess it is part of the challenges that a writer faces, from which he acquires the ingenuity to write a paper that cuts across varied experiences and demography of readers.