# PTE RTS #20: Addressing Academic Research...

Respond to a Situation #20 - Level 3 - Feeds Speaking

> Read the situation and listen to it. You have 10 seconds to prepare, then 40 seconds to respond as if you were speaking to the person in it.

You're working on your master's dissertation and discovered that two research papers you're citing contradict each other on a fundamental concept. You're unsure which approach to follow for your own work. How would you discuss this confusion with your research guide?

## Answer

Hello Dr. Sharma, I'd like your guidance on a challenge I'm facing with my dissertation. While reviewing the literature, I found two key research papers that contradict each other on a fundamental concept. As a result, I'm unsure which approach would be more credible and suitable for my work. Therefore, I was hoping we could discuss this so I can understand the reasoning behind each perspective. Your insights would help me make a well-informed decision and proceed confidently with my analysis and I want to ensure my framework is sound before proceeding. Thank you.

## Explanation

A strong response acknowledges the conflict clearly, outlines the two opposing viewpoints, and asks for the supervisor's guidance on how to reconcile or choose between them for your dissertation.

## Hints

- Start by clearly stating the problem you have encountered with the two papers.
- Explain why this contradiction is significant to your specific research goals.

## Transcript

You're working on your master's dissertation and discovered that two research papers you're citing contradict each other on a fundamental concept. You're unsure which approach to follow for your own work. How would you discuss this confusion with your research guide?

[Practise this question with the exam timer](https://testmigo.com/pte/practice/respond-to-a-situation/addressing-academic-research-contradictions) - [All Respond to a Situation questions](https://testmigo.com/pte/practice/respond-to-a-situation)