Before you get started:

• Choose a topic that is interesting to you and relevant to your coursework.
• Give yourself as much time as possible to get the work done.
  • This research calculator can help you plan your time.
• Save your work often so you don’t lose anything.
• Use organization tools (research logs or graphic organizers) to keep track of your work.
  • Many of our databases also have the option of creating an account to save articles and searches.

Step 1 – Formulate Your Question 

• Your research may start as a general idea or a specific question, statement or thesis.
• Know what you want to focus on before you begin.

Step 2 – Get Background Information

• Read about your topic using websites or encyclopedias.
• It introduces you to the topic, helps you to focus on its key elements and can help you decide to broaden or narrow your focus.
• These sources often include bibliographies that you can “piggyback” to find more sources on your topic.

Step 3 – Focus and Refine Your Topic

• Think about how you want to explore the topic.
• Ask yourself:
  • Is my research intended for a general group or class or is it more specialized? 
  • Can or should I limit my topic by time period or place?

Step 4 – Research Tools

• You need the right tool for the job. Using our research guides can help you find these answers.
• Ask yourself:
  • What types of materials do I need? 
  • How recent should my materials be? 
  • How long do I have to do my research? 
  • What subjects are covered by my topic?  

Step 5 – Select Your Tool and Begin

• Use the library’s resources to find journal articles, eBooks and videos.
• Use our library catalog to find books or DVDs.
• If you are using websites, make sure they are quality resources – not just the first result!

Step 6 – Get Stuck, Get Help!

• Never fear, we are here to help you with your research questions!
• Stop by, call: 827-2434 or email: [email protected].

Step 7 – Gather Your Materials

• Are your best resources books, journals or websites?
• Does the Library have the book or article or will you have to borrow it from ILL or AcademicSHARE?
  • Remember that you have a deadline and that getting all of your materials may take some time.

Step 8 – Evaluate Your Resources

• You may be overwhelmed by the amount of information you find.
• To find “good” resources for your paper, you must analyze and carefully select them.
  • Journal articles have gone through peer-review before being published.
  • Books are also edited before publication.
  • Use the CRAAP test for website evaluation.

Step 9 – Stay organized 

• Give yourself enough time to conduct your research, so you can understand your topic enough to write effectively on it.
• Keep track of your research so you don’t have to scramble to find it later.
  • Use our research log or graphic organizer to help you stay on track.

Step 10 – Write and Review Your Paper

• Make sure your paper is formatted correctly – APA, MLA or another style an instructor requires.
• Check to make sure all of your sources have been cited and your research is properly listed at the end of your paper.