DEALING WITH AMBIGUITY AND DOUBT IN LIFE

With the internet at our fingertips, we are more used to obtaining answers within minutes of formulating a question. However, in the academic world, questions are raised in new areas and answers may not be found for years, or even lifetimes. This can feel uncomfortable if you are used to ready answers. This does not mean, though, that vague answers are acceptable. 

If you look at articles in academic journals, you will see that they are very closely argued, often focusing on a minute aspect of the subject in great detail and with precision. Students, too, are expected to develop skills in using evidence, even if drawn from other people's research, to support a detailed line of reasoning. 

It is worth remembering that in academic work, including professional research for business and industry, researchers often need to pursue lines of enquirer knowing that:

• No clear answers may emerge;

• It may take decades to gain an answer;

• They may contribute only a very small part to a much larger picture