Research is a frustrating task. However, with the right support from teachers, fellow researchers, and hopefully with some new tips from me you can turn your feelings of frustration into hopeful curiosity.
Research does not have to be a solitary activity.
The stereotypical image of a researcher is someone in a deserted library hidden behind stacks of old books. While there are definitely times when you will have to put in some extra time on your own in order to fully meet your research goals, it can be very beneficial for you to have a research group. It is a common practice among academic researchers at universities to create research groups full of people researching similar topics. However, it is not a requirement for everyone to have the same topic in a research group. You can gain great perspective and fresh ideas from collaborating and working with researchers in other fields. In the age of social media, it is also possible to create a virtual research group if you cannot find a group in your area.
Take a break!
While I have had several deadlines to meet over the years, I don't recall a time when I had to spend exactly 30 minutes reading a book and another 20 minutes creating a bibliography. Usually, you have the ability to set these time limits yourself. A class that meets for a certain length of time obviously puts a limit on how long you can spend researching in that particular setting, but that would not prevent you from continuing your research after class. This is a round-a-bout way of saying "take a break!" If you find yourself overwhelmed and frustrated, do not force yourself to continue. One very important tip though that will allow you to take breaks when you get frustrated is to start early and
do not procrastinate!
Look for resources in more than one format.
The reason I recommend that you do not only use books or websites for you research, is that it is very easy to become bored and frustrated when using the same type of resource all of the time. Many teachers ask you to use various types of resources so that you can learn how to find and access a variety of resources. However, I also would suggest that you switch to a different format if you are getting frustrated. What do I mean by a different format? I am referring to not only whether a resource is in a print or digital format, but also the type of resource. If you like using print resources, don't only use 500 page books. Look for some professional studies in academic journals. They are usually not 500 pages in length and offer a different perspective. Podcasts created by a noted expert in your field of research are also great substitutes for websites, although you may find some of these podcasts on the websites you have already accessed.
