1. Describe your topic
Write down your research question. Your question will give you a few search terms.
- For example: You want to learn about the.. .
Question:
- You'll come across more synonyms when you start searching. Write these down, too!
2. Search for background info
Background information will help you begin to understand your topic.
- Look in the Reference Sources tab for encyclopedias, dictionaries, and reviews.
- Look in the Books tab for materials in the library, limiting LibrarySearch to books or newspapers.
- Use Academic OneFile to find popular magazines.
3. Read, evaluate and refine
- Quickly read each of your sources.
- Evaluate the sources using the tools in the box above. Are they useful? Relevant? Appropriate?
- Refine your research topic. Now that you know more, what would points would you like to make in your paper? Have your research questions changed? What more do you need to know?
4. Answer research questions
Scholarly journal articles can provide answers to more specific research questions.
- You can limit a search in LibrarySearch to peer reviewed, scholarly articles.
- The Articles tab or a subject guide will help you find discipline-specific research databases.
5. Write and revise
Be sure to be in touch with your course mentor or peer writing tutor when you write your paper. Also consult Writing Guides, created by the Peer Writing Tutors.
6. Cite
Create your notes and bibliography. Resource management software, such as RefWorks or Zotero, makes it easy.
- Get started: Cite It!
- The Academic Honesty section of the College Handbook describes the honor code and why it's important.
