A&B 1.1, A&B 20.1

The Allyn and Bacon Guide to Writing says, "Experienced writers immerse themselves in subject matter questions in pursuit of answers or solutions."  A good writer is trying to discover something in their writing, and some of the best questions that can be asked don't pick a side on the subject matter. They are questions that explores both sides, also known as open ended questions. These question will help when writing a research paper.  A good research paper should avoid "data dumps" or papers with a bunch of random facts.  The Allyn & Bacon, Guide to Writing, says a research paper should have a "interesting problem, a contestable thesis, and ethically use sources."  The hardest part for people is coming up with a question.  The best way to come up with a question is to think about things  in your life and the world around you.  Then Allyn and Bacon Guide the suggests you think about your interest in, the significance, and  the ability of the question to get you to your desired length.  Think about all those will help you come up with your question and then you can "establish your role as a researcher"(Allyn,Bacon).  In other words you will go on to find your stance, and eventually write your paper.  With a good question it becomes so  much easier to write a paper so I plan on  using the Allyn and Bacon suggestions, to help me better formulate mine, so that way I can have real direction in my writing.