How to Research
How to Research
| Step | Objective | Next Step/Links |
Select and develop a topic | Select a topic based on the class assignment. List questions you have about your topic. | -What is your topic? - What do you already know about your topic? -Thesis (what do you predict, believe, propose) |
| Find background information | Find background information and gain an overview of your topic. Use ARC reference materials, online subject directories, and online encyclopedias. | Encyclopedia Brittanica Internet Public Library |
| Develop a search strategy | Based on what you already know about your topic and the questions you have, brainstorm keywords, synonyms, proper nouns, etc. | List the keywords, synonyms (broad and narrow), proper nouns (names, places, organizations), etc. |
| Find the best sources for your topic | Use your search strategy to develop a query for finding the best sources for your research project including books, videos, audio, periodical articles, or Internet web sites. | Internet Search |
| Evaluate your sources | Evaluate the sources found based on Authority, Bias, Currency & Documentation. | Five Criteria for evaluating Web Pages |
| Cite your sources | Create a Works Cited page or bibliography | A Writer's Reference Documenting Sources Duke Library NoodleBib |
| Plagiarism and copyright | Copyright and Fair Use Guidelines for Teachers |