Relevance

Overview

Relevance in research means choosing sources and information that directly relate to your topic or research question. A source can be accurate and current, but if it doesn’t connect clearly to your purpose, it may not be helpful. Selecting relevant sources helps keep your writing focused, clear, and persuasive.

Match sources to your research question

To determine if a source is relevant, ask yourself if it actually helps you answer your research question or support your thesis. If a source goes off-topic or covers unrelated ideas, it may not belong in your paper.

Example:

Research question: How does social media impact teen mental health?

• Relevant source: A 2023 study on Instagram and teen anxiety.

• Not relevant: A general article about how adults use social media for business.

Only include sources that contribute meaningfully to your argument or analysis.

Use sources that support your main points

A relevant source should connect clearly to one of your body paragraphs or main ideas. If you can’t figure out where it fits, it’s probably not needed.

Example:

• Thesis: Online classes reduce student engagement due to limited interaction and increased distractions.

• Relevant source: A study showing that 70% of students feel less motivated in virtual learning environments.

Good research supports the specific claims you’re making—not just the topic in general.

Avoid sources that are too broad or too narrow

Some sources cover so much information that they’re hard to use effectively. Others are too focused on one small detail that may not relate to your topic.

Example:

• Too broad: A history of education in the U.S. from 1800 to today.

• Too narrow: A blog post about one person’s opinion on their fifth-grade Zoom class.

Look for sources that match your scope—not too big, not too small.

Consider the audience and purpose of the source

Relevance also depends on whom the source was written for and why. A scholarly article might be more relevant for an academic paper than a casual blog or social media post.

Example:

• More relevant: A peer-reviewed journal article studying the effects of remote learning on college students.

• Less relevant: A tweet from a student saying “I hate online classes!”

Academic research should be built on credible and purposeful sources.

Keep your thesis in mind while researching

As you gather sources, constantly ask yourself: “Does this help me prove my point?” If a source doesn’t add anything useful or leads you off track, it’s better to leave it out.

Example:

• Unfocused research: Including a source about smartphone addiction in an essay that’s supposed to focus on study habits.

• Focused research: Using a source that connects smartphone use directly to procrastination and time management issues.

Let your thesis guide your research choices.

Summary

Relevance means choosing sources that clearly support your research question, thesis, and main points. A relevant source adds value to your writing, keeps your argument on track, and helps you make a strong case. By focusing on relevance, you avoid clutter and create a paper that is focused, effective, and meaningful.