5 Quick Hints Before Jumping on the Computer...

1. Develop your topic.

Topic selection is the most important step of your research. A poorly developed topic makes it harder to do research, and often leads to finding too much material, which can waste time and leave you frustrated.

2. Learn a little about it.

Research can proceed much faster if you understand the basic facts, events, and issues surrounding your topic. With this basic knowledge, you can quickly determine what information you need and have a greater understanding of how to search for it.

3. Know what to look for.

Part of the challenge of doing research is knowing if need to find a book, article, or website for your research. The type of information you get is going to differ depending on what item you chose. Looking in the wrong place for you information can often lead to many dead ends and cries of "but I can't find it anywhere!"

To avoid this particular frustration, take a moment to go through this quick website on the Flow of Information. (UCLA Libraries)

4. Know where to start looking for information.

Once you have decided what you need - books, articles, or websites - you have to determine how to find them. Refer to the "Where to go to find information" handout given to you during your first library session.

5. Remember help is always available.

Please do not hesitate to ask for help at the Reference Desks of the Bartle and Science Library. We can help you with topic development and your research.

You can also contact Janet Hogan, Bartle Reference Librarian, directly for help.