Q: The previous scholarship the authors reference can help you place the paper in a continuous line of research. These prior researchers paved the way for this paper, or may have raised questions this paper seeks to answer.  Some fields may have competing theories – especially in a new or developing area of study. If the authors have chosen one theory over another, consider how the competing theory might relate to this study. If the paper's conclusions differ from conclusions in similar studies, compare the methodology of the two different studies. Try to determine why the two studies came up with different conclusions. If you already have a basic familiarity with the field of study, figure out how the paper relates to what you already know. Try to connect the paper to other resources you've already evaluated.  For example, if you've studied neurology, you might relate an article on the plasticity of the brain with another article you've read about recovery from traumatic brain injury. Consider how the study's findings may affect the findings of other studies. They may be considered shocking or disruptive in the field, or may overturn previously held beliefs. Proper citation lets your readers know that you've done the appropriate research for your own paper. You also give your readers information to read the papers themselves. Citations are made up of a footnote or parenthetical citation in the body of your paper, as well as a full list of references at the end of your paper. The format depends on the citation style you're using. Include an in-text citation every time you mention the paper in your own work, or talk about any conclusions drawn by the authors of the paper.
A: Check references to gain a better understanding of the paper's context. Relate the paper's findings to your knowledge of the field. Include an appropriate citation if you mention the paper in your own work.

Q: Some bands may only be looking for someone to fill in for one of their members part-time, while others may be looking for a new full-time member. Be clear about your own goals and expectations for your membership in the band to avoid anyone being misled.  For instance, if you’re an experienced musician and you only want to play with other experienced players, let the other band members know before you decide whether to join the band. You could say something like: “I just want to make it clear that I want to join a band as part of a musical career. If this band is more about just having fun, maybe I wouldn’t be a good fit for you.” If you post any ads or videos looking for a band to join, include this information as well. At the very least, you should be as serious about the band as the other band members are. They are devoting time and energy to the group, so you need to do the same in order to make your membership in the band successful. Avoid having to rely on other band members to provide the things you’ll need to play. This may also include any other equipment you will need when performing or recording, such as an amplifier, effects pedals, and so on.  Note that some of this equipment can be pretty pricey. If you’re on a budget, or your band isn’t trying to “make it big,” you may want to invest in some used equipment and instruments from a local thrift store or resale music shop. If you are a lead vocalist, you should consider buying at least a 4-channel P.A. system. After joining a new band, it doesn't hurt to keep spare strings, batteries, drumsticks and guitar picks in your gig bag. The first time your guitarist forgets one of these items or the drummer breaks a stick, you'll be a hero. Jamming and writing songs is often a trial-and-error process, so it will require some humility and willingness to learn from others to be good at it. Always remember, you won’t be any fun to play with if you’re not having fun yourself! For example, if a member of the band offers some constructive criticism of how you’re playing, say something like: “Thanks! I’m always looking for ways of improving my playing.”
A: Be upfront about your goals and expectations before you join a band. Take your commitments to the band seriously once you join. Have your own instrument and equipment to play with. Be willing to learn from your mistakes and have fun.

Q: At the very least, this means checking out the company online and reading any "About Us" or "History of" pages.   If you want to be even more educated, read up on their stock price or any appearance of the company name in the news lately.  Pay special attention to the company's mission statement and future goals, since you can focus on answering questions in a manner that will address these concerns. Knowing about the industry in general is also a good idea. The more informed you appear, the better the interviewer will think of you. If at all possible, ask who will be conducting your interview.  Knowing who to ask for, what his or her job title is, and how to address him or her will give the interviewer a more positive impression of you. Learn from other employees, if you can. Read any articles that you can find about the company and talk to current employees or others in the industry who know more about the company. You do not need to know it word-for-word, but it wouldn't hurt, either.   Knowing what a company wants will allow you to pitch yourself as the person who can meet those wants.  If there is a job description posted online, make sure you read each requirement and responsibility. Be ready to address each one and to talk about past experiences or current skills that address each point. An interviewer might throw out a question or two that you will have no way of anticipating, but in general, most questions asked at a job interview are pretty much the same. Write out at least five to ten potential questions you might be asked. Practice giving answers that address your career goals and qualifications.  "Tell me about yourself." The interviewer is essentially asking you to provide a professional overview of yourself. Briefly describe your past work experiences, how you got into the field, and any other information that describes your connection to the industry. If you mention anything personal, keep it brief and tailor it to demonstrate your overall character. "What is your biggest weakness?" Give a genuine interest, but phrase it in a way that dampens the effect. Also provide a quick explanation on how you have learned to deal with it. For instance, if you have crippling shyness, you can answer, "I tend to have trouble communicating with people at first, but as a result, I've learned how to observe people more thoroughly so that I know how to best interact with them after the first few encounters." "Where do you see yourself in five years?" This question can be difficult to answer since you need to seem both motivated and stable. If this is a company you plan to work for long-term, make sure that the interviewer knows this, but describe your desire to contribute and advance within the company. If the job is only temporary, say so, but make sure you describe what you aspire to reach after leaving the job and what you hope to have contributed after you go. "Why do you want this job?" This is your chance to show off your knowledge of the job description and the company. Show how the company's values align with your own. If it is a fast-paced company that hopes to advance quickly, express a desire to advance along with it. If it is a company dedicated to a cause, describe your passion for the same cause. At the end of the interview, the interviewer will probably ask you if you have any questions of you own. Never shrug this off, since it could be interpreted as a lack of interest on your part. Ask questions about office culture and questions that clarify what your job responsibilities would be. Also find out how soon you can expect to hear back from them. As a general rule, wear clothes that are one step more professional than the position demands.   Make sure that all your clothes are washed and ironed for the interview so that you look your best.  If the employees wear casual clothes, show up in business casual. If the employees wear business casual clothes, come to the interview in a full suit. If the employees already wear fully professional attire, though, then show up in the same.
A:
Research the employer. Know who's interviewing you. Memorize the job description. Practice answering some basic interview questions. Prepare your own questions. Prepare a professional outfit.