Final answer:
Formal research involves systematic methods of finding, evaluating, and citing sources, conducting studies, and presenting findings in a structured report with proper format and citations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Formal research involves a methodology that includes finding and evaluating sources, careful reading, note-taking, and proper citation of referenced ideas and quotations. When doing formal research, you may be required to gather evidence, evaluate its reliability, and present your ideas in a well-structured report. The process of formal research culminates in the writing of a report that is well-organized, often follows a specific format, and includes sections with headings for clarity.
For example, a researcher using formal research methods might first consult and evaluate a variety of texts such as academic journals, books, and other credible sources. Once information is gathered, the researcher writes notes, journals reflections, and drafts that contribute to the final formal report. Formal analysis, on the other hand, does not require external research and is based on your informed point of view, relying on your existing knowledge and experience.
The key steps in the research process include designing and conducting studies and drawing conclusions. Studies might involve experiments, surveys, or data analysis, and formal reports always include proper citations of information sources, using specific documentation styles like APA. These reports often feature visual aids such as graphs or charts to support the findings.
Academic disciplines including the social sciences, natural sciences, technical fields, and business often require the production of various types of formal reports, such as lab reports, research reports, and proposals. Utilizing the scientific method or an interpretive framework are common approaches for structuring the research phases.