The Bedford Researcher -- Chapter 15 Summary

Mike Palmquist's The Bedford Researcher: Chapter 15, "Using Sources Effectively," is an extremely beneficial chapter to the writer. It provides the information required to, as Palmquist states, introduce ideas, contrast the ideas of other authors, provide evidence, define concepts, set a mood, provide an example, and qualify or amplify a point. To introduce an idea or argument, the writer "can use a quotation, paraphrase, or summary to introduce an idea or argument to [their] readers" (247). To contrast the ideas of other authors, the writer can source information to show the severity of a disagreement. The writer can also provide support for their own argument with the quotes and evidences of other sources. Another effective tool the writer can use for support is aligning their argument with an authority figure, such as a scientist, politician, or religious leader. According to Bedford Researcher, this is "allows you to borrow someone else's credibility or status" (249).  Defining a concept involves quoting a dictionary or encyclopedia, or using an illustration to help clarify a complex process. By defining a concept, the writer is educating their readers about something in their paper that may not be common knowledge. By using these steps, the writer can successfully use sources to their full potential.