Research tips
- Plan Ahead Quality research takes time. Good research is a thorough investigation into a subject in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions. Thorough means you may need to get resources from other libraries through Interlibrary loan which can take time.
- Define your topic Choose a topic that interests you, but make sure it satisfies your assignment. State your topic as a question. Think about the significant terms, concepts and keywords that describe your topic.
- Work from the general to the specific Identify main concepts and keywords important to your topic. Find background information first in handbooks and encyclopedias, and then use more specific and recent resources.
- Record what you find and where you found it Record the complete citation for each source; you will need it later. See citation guides for help with citation formats.
- Ask a librarian There are many places to look for information. Asking a librarian may help narrow your search and save you time.
- Still not sure where to start? See our guide on Research Strategy.
Communication & Collaboration