If you already have some background knowledge of your topic, GREAT! But if you are new to your topic, research can be difficult.
If you aren't sure where to start, try doing some preliminary research on your topic. Read about your topic in a textbook or on a credible website or library database. While you read take note of any keywords used or topics discussed!
Library Databases for Background Research
Once you have completed your background research, you can begin to narrow your topic.
Think about what you have learned about your topic and ask yourself:
How specific you need to be depends on the length of your assignment: the longer the paper, the broader the topic; the shorter the paper, the more narrow the topic.
Finally, create a list of keywords that can be used to research your topic.
When you are ready, you can move on to the next step, About Sources!
The types of sources you need to find will depend on the type of research project you are working on. Always read your assignments carefully and contact your professor if you have questions regarding the types of sources you should be using!
To get started, visit the Articles & Databases, Books, or Websites pages to view recommended resources, check out the Evaluating tab to learn ways to determine a source's credibility, or read the Research Tips below to discover how to search for sources more effectively.
There are many methods of evaluating resources. Choose the method that works best for you.
Use Boolean Connectors AND, OR, and NOT to refine your searches!
Use Truncation, Wildcards, and other Methods to Limit your Search!
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