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Document Analysis Research Guide: S.C.I.M.

Directions: While researching, you will run into many documents related to your topic. However, not all sources are created equally! Use the SCIM method when
examining different texts in order to analyze their credibility and identify their utility. Finding and understanding stronger sources will ultimately help you construct a better policy presentation!

Summarize
What kind of document is this?

Contextualize
When and where was the source produced?

What is the main idea or argument in this source?

Why was the source produced?

What specific supporting details or facts does the source provide to back this up?

Could these factors influence the credibility of the information?

Infer
What perspectives or views are indicated by this source?

Monitor
What words, concepts, or charts need further defining from this source?

What inferences may be drawn from absences or an omission of information in the source?

Overall, how useful is this source in answering questions about your presentation topic?

What do these inferences tell us about the validity of the information in the source?

What NEW questions do you have about your presentation topic after viewing this source? What additional evidence do you need?