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citizens. The research findings guide policymakers in making
informed decisions that address pressing societal issues and
Data-driven lead to tangible improvements in public health outcomes.
policymaking
Staying up-to-date on the latest research: Think of
keeping up with research like updating the software on your
phone. When you first buy your phone, it works fine. But
over time, bugs are found, new features are added, and if
you don't install the updates, your phone gets left behind.
Research is similar. When a study is first published, it
provides the best information available at the time. But
as technology and knowledge advance, researchers find
limitations, biases, or mistakes in past studies. They build
on prior research with new discoveries. If you only read the
Staying current original study from years ago without following the updated
with research research, your knowledge becomes outdated, just like an old
phone operating system. You end up making decisions based
on faulty or incomplete information, like trying to use an
app that no longer works on your outdated phone. So while
original research provides a foundation, the advancement of
knowledge requires building upon it over time. Keeping up
with the latest research helps ensure you are always operating
on the cutting edge, not stuck in the past. Just like you update
your apps, you need to continuously update your research
knowledge.

Publishing research: Conducting studies and publishing
your findings is good for showing you know your stuff and are
an expert in your field. Putting your research out there proves
Expertise and to people you've got the skills when it comes to your subject.
credibility in It's like if you're a scientist researching new treatments for a
your field disease. Doing careful studies and publishing them in science
journals show how on-the-ball you are in your field. Other
scientists will see your work and think "They really know
their stuff - they are one to watch!".

Or say you're a historian writing papers on mediaeval battle
tactics. Getting your original research out there can mark
you out as a leading thinker on that topic. Your work speaks
Publishing for itself that you've got something valuable to contribute.
enables Authority on your subject can open doors career-wise.
opportunities Opportunities to advance and take on bigger leadership roles
may come your way. People will take you more seriously
knowing you've done and shared robust research.

Innovation and Development: Research and innovation
led to the creation of the Internet, a global network that

SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing 37