How to develop qualities of a Researcher - 3

Something may go wrong with your laboratory experiments simply because you forgot to clean a test tube. Be extra conscious on cleanliness.

Accurate and precise data are of importance in research. Data are the pillars of your conclusions. So, be extra cautious in collecting data and in performing an experiment.  Not only the data are guarded, but also your health and the health of others when you are extra cautious and always try to be accurate and precise in your work. Accidents can happen anytime when you are not cautious and careful  to consider safety.

What should be done must be done at once. Yes, it should be kept in mind that timing is also important in dealing with situations and in dealing with other people specially in asking permissions or approvals. However, unnecessary procrastination should have no room in research.  Be quick and responsive.

Overlooking something is not an excuse.  You should be able to detect even the slightest change. So be keen in observing and be careful and  accurate in recording data.

First thing first. If you will be confused with so many things to do, you will end up doing nothing. Plan ahead. Be systematic in your schedules and be reasonable in setting your priorities.          

A time may come when your research will require you to lead a team of researchers - be skillful in leadership. Encourage cooperation for it plays a vital role in a team.

At last you are done with your research. You have succeeded in generating the outputs of your research. Remember desirable qualities of a researcher do not end here. There are still important qualities upon success: contentment and willingness to be of service   Contentment is good. This means you are satisfied and happy of your success.  It is alright to relax before jumping into another research. Celebrate your success.

Humility may be needed to conform to some society’s expectations.  However, to be proud of ones hard work is a thing that you can claim.              

It is better if a researcher is willing to share his work so it can be benefited by the community  or even the entire world. Sharing your work doesn’t only mean sharing the outputs but also sharing the experiences you gained from doing research in which other researchers can learn. A little like “a note to beginners”.   

Remember there is a researcher within us. It is just waiting to be unleashed.

Author of the source article: Camilo Tabinas Y Apita