Reading and research constitute the cornerstone of academic writing, providing both knowledge and a framework for engaging critically with scholarly discourse. A strong foundation in reading allows students to access diverse perspectives, theories, and evidence essential for constructing well-informed arguments. Concurrently, research furnishes not only empirical data but also methodological approaches, enabling writers to position their arguments within established academic norms. This article explores the role of reading and research in academic writing at the master’s level, highlighting their impact on comprehension of disciplinary conventions, vocabulary development, analytical skills, originality, and scholarly credibility. The discussion underscores the interconnectedness of these practices and emphasizes the cultivation of critical thinking and accurate referencing as essential for contributing meaningfully to knowledge.

reading, research, academic writing, higher education, critical thinking, master’s level.

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