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First, choose a problem or question that can be addressed using information.
What interests you? What is a suitable topic for your assignment? What is a research question appropriate for the scope of your assignment? Refine your search If you are not finding enough information, your question may be too narrow. Consider broadening it by exploring related issues or expanding the keyword search by using synonyms. If you are finding too much information, your question may be too broad. Consider narrowing it by adding another element to the topic, limit to certain time period, geographic location, or population. |
Make a list of keywords related to your topic. Keep it handy and revise as needed as you conduct your research.
As you identify keywords related to your topic, it may be helpful to find some background information to gain a good overview and better understanding of the context of your topic.
Tools for background information:
1. Reference Research Guide includes print and online encyclopedias/dictionaries for general topics and subject specific background information.
2. Wekepedia provide background on a wide variety of topics for overview of topics. Be aware not to quote anything from the source because it may not be reliable.
3. Web search engines - make sure you evaluate the websites carefully and verify the facts you found. Web sources can be unreliable.
4. Books - for background information on popular topics.
