Final answer:
Mable Jane should begin with a purpose statement to identify the direction of her research. This will guide her in determining the scope of her essay, formulating a thesis statement, and understanding her audience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mable Jane should start with a purpose statement to clarify the task and determine what questions she should consider for research. A purpose statement helps to define the direction of the research. It involves asking questions like: Is the purpose to examine a problem, explain possible solutions, or recommend a specific solution? After establishing the purpose, everything that follows, from formulating a strong thesis statement to outlining the scope of the essay, will contribute to a clearer, more focused research process.
Understanding your audience is also crucial. This means taking into account their social, cultural, or linguistic factors that could affect your communication. Once the purpose is clear and the audience is defined, Mable Jane can then define the scope of her project and identify any specific problems to address. This sets the stage for deeper research questions and ultimately a clear thesis that aligns with the purpose, audience, and scope of her work.