Getting Started with Library Research
Use the following steps to help guide you through the research process.
The Research Cycle
3. Explore & Refine Your Topic
Start with presearch! Tools like Credo Reference or OneSearch help you explore the basics and uncover key issues to refine your topic and research.
4. Find Sources
Search like a pro! Craft a search strategy using keywords and smart search tools. Combine terms like “AND” and “OR” to narrow or broaden your results. A great place to start is OneSearch, which searches across books, articles, and more. You can also explore general-use databases like Academic Search Ultimate or JSTOR for a wide range of scholarly resources.
5. Search Effectively & Evaluate Always
Judge the goods! Not all sources are created equal! Use the SIFT method (Stop, Investigate the Source, Find other sources, and Trace the Information) to evaluate quality and keep your research organized.
6. Write
Tell Your Story (and Cite It, Too!). Outline your ideas and weave in evidence from your sources. Use citations to give credit and stay plagiarism-free. Free to LPC resources like NoodleTools and our Reading and Writing Center tutors can help!
1. Understand the Assignment
Get in the know! Read your assignment carefully, ask questions, and break it into manageable tasks. A solid plan = less stress!
2. Have a Topic
FInd your focus and choose a topic that excites you! Explore resources like Opposing Viewpoints or CQ Researcher for inspiration. Refine your idea with a research question.