Understanding Scientific Research Papers: Essential Pre-Reading Steps
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Chapter 1: Preparing to Read Research Papers
Before diving into a research paper, there are several crucial steps that can enhance your understanding and save time in the long run. Drawing from my extensive experience reading papers during my PhD, I've improved my ability to digest and utilize the information. In this post, I aim to illustrate how you can grasp research papers, even if they fall outside your primary area of expertise.
For this example, I will reference a paper by Zeppenfeld et al., published in 2017 in PLoS One, titled "Rhizosphere hydrophobicity: A positive trait in the competition for water." If the specifics of this study do not pique your interest, feel free to skip the italicized sections!
The chosen paper serves as a valuable case study, demonstrating that while some concepts may be challenging (like modeling), it’s still feasible to read and analyze the work critically. This post marks the beginning of my series on reading and comprehending scientific literature, focusing on the preparatory steps necessary before engaging with the material.
Section 1.1: Key Considerations Before Reading
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before you start reading a research article. Taking the time to address these can lead to new insights and save time in the long run. Below are seven essential steps to follow:
Identify the Authors and Their Affiliations
It's not critical to recognize all authors initially, but noting frequently cited researchers can guide your future literature searches. Consider looking into their other work, seminars, or personal blogs for additional insights.
Furthermore, be aware of the issue known as "helicopter research," where researchers from affluent countries conduct studies in less wealthy nations, often taking the findings home without benefiting the local scientific community. For instance, if a study is conducted in Ethiopia, check for Ethiopian scientists among the authors.
In the case of Zeppenfeld et al. (2017), the authors include a mix of spatial ecologists and modelers, primarily based in Switzerland, which indicates their expertise in the field.
Evaluate the Journal
Instead of focusing solely on whether a journal is prestigious, prioritize its integrity. Many smaller journals publish high-quality, specialized research, while avoiding predatory journals is crucial. Tools like Beall's list can help identify such journals, though some may have respected editors and reviewers.
Zeppenfeld et al. (2017) was published in PLoS ONE, known as the first fully open-access journal. Its broad subject scope makes it a suitable venue for authors unsure of their target audience.
Publication Date
While academia tends to progress slowly, scientific advancements occur rapidly. Papers from the 2010s may already have follow-up studies that reinterpret earlier findings.
Be cautious not to dismiss older papers outright; many foundational studies from the 20th and even 19th centuries remain relevant and often easier to understand due to their straightforward methodologies.
The paper by Zeppenfeld et al. (2017) was published six years ago, and given its modeling focus, subsequent experimental validation may be necessary.
How Was the Paper Discovered?
Reflect on how you came across the paper. Was it recommended or found through a literature search? The ease of finding a paper may indicate its popularity or, conversely, its obscurity.
For instance, I found Zeppenfeld et al. while researching one of the authors, Carminati, and it reappeared during my literature review on 'rhizosphere repellency.'
Citation Count and Context
A paper's citation count can offer insights into its impact. While low citations might not necessarily indicate a poor study, a well-cited paper is often a must-read in its field.
Zeppenfeld et al. (2017) has been cited 18 times, which is reasonable for its interdisciplinary nature, and checking who cites it can reveal other relevant studies.
Purpose of Reading the Paper
Consider why you selected this paper. What specific insights are you hoping to gain? This can help you focus your reading, whether you're looking for supportive results or new techniques.
For Zeppenfeld et al. (2017), I'm interested in understanding how creating a hydrophobic rhizosphere can enhance plant water competition, despite the counterintuitive nature of this approach.
Contextualizing the Paper within Existing Literature
Understanding where this paper fits into the broader research landscape is crucial. Is it central to your work, or just tangentially interesting?
A method I learned from Jeremy Nguyen involves summarizing relevant papers using their abstracts to quickly gauge how they interrelate.
Zeppenfeld et al. (2017) connects soil properties and plant dynamics, filling a gap in literature regarding how plant interactions can influence soil characteristics.
Now that we've thoroughly examined the paper in its broader context, it's time to prepare your reading environment for an efficient review. Stay tuned for Part 2!
In the first video, "How to Read a Scientific Research Paper," viewers will gain insights into effectively navigating academic papers.
The second video, "How To Read a Scientific Research Paper: Extracting the Essentials," provides strategies for distilling key information from complex studies.