Research Basics
PAAR Test
MLA Citations
Jane Schaffer Structure
Ratios & Rules
100

What is the main reason researchers gather evidence?

 To support ideas with credible facts

100

What does PAAR stand for?

Purpose, Authority, Accuracy, Relevance.

100

What is an MLA in-text citation used for?

To give credit to the source of information or a quote

100

What does TS stand for?

Topic Sentence.

100

 What does the 2:1 ratio mean?

Two CDs for every one CM.

200

What does it mean if a source is “credible”?

It comes from a trusted, knowledgeable author.

200

What does “Purpose” mean?

Why the source was written.

200

Which part of a website title goes in parentheses when there’s no author?

The article title.

200

What does CD stand for?

Concrete Detail.

200

What ratio do we use for History writing?

2 : 1

300

What is plagiarism?

Using someone’s words or ideas without giving credit.

300

What does “Authority” mean?

 Who wrote it and if they’re an expert.

300

What punctuation comes before an in-text citation?

A space, then parentheses before the period.

300

What does CM stand for?

Commentary.

300

Which comes first in a paragraph — commentary or concrete detail?

CD

400

Why should writers avoid plagiarism?

It’s dishonest and steals another person’s work.

400

What does “Accuracy” mean?

If the information is true and supported by evidence.

400

What is wrong with this citation? 

“The Tigris River is one of the most important rivers in the Middle East.” (“Middle East Geography”).

the period after "East"

400

What does CS stand for?

Concluding Sentence

400

What is the ratio for literary analysis? 

1:2

500

Where can you find credible research sources for this class?

In the class LibGuide

500

What does “Relevance” mean?

If the source fits your topic.

500

What should appear at the end of every expository paper?

A Works Cited page.

500

What is the purpose of a Commentary sentence?

To explain why the fact or detail matters.

500

What is the correct Jane Schaffer order for History writing?

TS → CD → CD → CM → CS.