Mapping

Mapping was an idea that was brought about from the book “Writing the Successful Thesis and Dissertation” by Irene Clark, a required text for the thesis preparation class.

The word ‘mapping” came from the thought process: as a student “struggles to find their way, they may wish for a set of directions or a “map” of the terrain that will enable them to traverse its roads more effectively.”

To summarize: it is a great method for readers to use when they encounter unfamiliar or dense text.

So how do we construct one of these “maps?”

Here are the ten strategies according to Clark’s book on how to construct a map:

1. Get an overview of its topography.

2. Examine the text for its central moves.

3. Consider the text in a rhetorical context.

4. Situate the text within your discipline.

5. Locate the “sea of former texts” – areas of “intertextuality.”

6. Compare this text to other texts you have read,

7. Consider why you are reading this text.

8. Create signposts that will enable you to see the path more clearly.

9. Keep track of your own location as you proceed.

10. Evaluate your presence within this text.