A Look at Chapter One

Chapter one in The Bedford Researcher is split into two parts; the first is an overview on writing with confidence and the second is on choosing a topic. 

In the first, we learn how it is important to take ownership of our project, understand writing processes and manage sources. It also talks about understanding the genre a document is presented in and the importance of that genre’s design. As writing is a form of communication, considering the readers is very important to the writing process. Context and technology roles are also examined.

The second part is about choosing an appropriate topic, with regard to the assignment, our readers, the role we take, and the contexts that exist. There are plenty of helpful ideas on how to generate ideas about topics, and then pick the right one for your situation.

We have been working on selecting topics in class and this chapter is very appropriate. I found some suggestions, particularly the research log and project timeline, to be interesting and potentially very useful. I like one paragraph that talks about finding a topic that will keep you motivated as you write. It challenges us to “Look for topics that can help you pursue your personal, professional, and academic interests.” It’s important to think about our readers, but how can we expect them to be interested if we aren’t ourselves? 

Choosing a good topic is probably one of the hardest parts of writing for me. The Bedford Reader comes to the rescue and walks us through practical techniques, like brainstorming and free writing, to help generate ideas and narrow topics. These will definitely be helpful to start exploring topic ideas.