Research Tips

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Research is a method of gathering, analyzing, interpreting and applying data to gain a better understanding of something. It is one of many tools for learning or understanding things.

Research: How to Get Started

  • Develop a topic: develop a thesis by establishing questions you will seek to answer through your work.
  • Identify Potential Sources that support your research.
  • Search using keywords
    • ex. if you were to conduct research on the effects of global warming in the U.S., use keywords such as global warming AND U.S.
  • Make sure sources are relevant and up-to-date.
  • Use information responsibly, ethically, and legally (citations)

It may feel like you are falling into a rabbit hole. Stay focused on your research topic.

What Resources can I use for research?

Type of Sources

  • Primary: Diaries, interviews, letters, original works of art, photographs, speeches, and works of literature
  • Secondary: Biographies, dissertations, indexes - abstracts, bibliographies, journal articles, and monographs
  • Tertiary: Dictionaries, encyclopedia, and handbooks

*AVOID using Wikipedia - not a reliable source*

Avoid plagiarism

Plagiarism is stealing someone's work and claiming it as yours. It is a serious offense and will not be tolerate. To avoid plagiarism is to cite their work. Check with your professor which style to use for citation, like MLA, APA, and Chicago Style. Best source and guideline for citations - Purdue Owl