How to Get Started with Research
Background Information-Library Resources
Databases-Background Information
- eBook Collection This link opens in a new windowAccess to over 200,000 full-text eBooks, many by academic and university presses published in the past ten years. Good for reliable background information on broad topics.
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new windowSeries of reports on current and controversial issues originally designed to provide background information on a topic for journalists. Good resource for a quick and thorough overview of a topic. Reports also include a chronology/timeline which can be valuable resource for a quick historical overview of an issue.
- Gale eBooks This link opens in a new windowSearchable access over 60 specialized encyclopedias full-text.
Sample eBook Results
The Research Process
The research process can be like a cycle that follows these steps:
1. Research your topic: What are you interested in? What does your instructor want you to write about? What types of sources do you need?
2. Select keywords: What are the main points in your research topic? What words describe your topic?
3. Search for sources: Look in the library's book, ebook, and article databases for sources that talk about your topic or support the point you want to make.
4. Evaluate your sources: Are your sources credible? Do they fit and support your research topic? Do they fit the requirements your instructor told you to follow?
5. Create source list: What citation style do you need to use? Create your works cited/reference list to show what sources you are referring to in your paper.