02 keeping track of it all
Based on some frustrating experiences with previous research papers, I know that just tossing everything into a big folder comes back to haunt.
I’m using Zotero, and will be watching the ‘how to’ materials as many times as it takes so I understand how to fully exploit the capabilities. Louise recommend RefWorks, and I have visited the site, but was very frustrated by how the site is structured. There is no easy video to view, each how-to topic is a pdf — seriously, a PDF? And not just one… oh no, one for every topic area. Pretty ghetto – does not present itself as a hi-tech tool .
I’ve already collected a stunning amount of ‘leads’ and have created sub-directories to organize the various tendrils I’m exploring. I’ve started making notes within Zotero about the significant information each addition contains.
! If anyone if actually reading this a big tip I’d like to pass on is … pay attention to the studies and authors that articles you find mention. They can lead you to the original sources that you will eventually need/want and also might give you the vocabulary that might make additional searches more fruitful.
Filed by Michele Buchanan at January 15th, 2013 under Uncategorized
Thank you so much for sharing the Zotero information. I am downloading it as I type this message. I have been trying to keep a journal with thought and ideas and little pictures connecting areas. That is working very nicely for me, however no matter how I try to organize my digital content and idea sources, they are still an overwhelming mess. I have half saved in bookmarks and the others saved in folders (and subfolders). Everything of course relates back to my journal of ideas and leads. I will keep you posted on my success or failure to implement Zotero with my current saved reference files.
Additionally, wonderful advice on how to locate the core authors relating to various articles. I have been using that same method myself and have found new and interesting tidbits that I had not previously encountered or honestly even thought of. I can see how this is a serendipitous process (with a bit of luck and determination).
Comment by Ericca Hope — January 15, 2013 @ 7:24 pm