How do I get started?

Ask yourself the following questions:

• What type of assignment is it?
• How much information do I need?
• Is timeliness or currency an issue?
• Do I need information from a certain type of publication?
  • What if I need to find scholarly journals?
• Is point of view an issue?
• What if I hate to go to the library?

What type of assignment is it?

• Reporting on a topic
• Reviewing the state of research in a given area
• Reading and critically analyzing a text (you may be asked to "discuss," "compare and contrast," or "react to" the text)
• Investigating and taking a stand on an issue
• Generating an original thesis and using the information you find in the library to support your point.

Remember that you may be expected to deliver your research in the form of a written report, an oral presentation, or even a project.

Your assignment will affect the type and the amount of information you need. Be sure you understand what your instructor expects. If you are not clear about what is being asked of you, talk to your professor before you begin your research. Also, if your instructor gives you a handout explaining the assignment, you may find it helpful to refer to that sheet as you begin your research.

      

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