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Library Research Tutorial for General Information Topics NEXT >>>

GETTING STARTED

Research can be defined in many ways, and you will find people calling many different activities "research." Research assignments might involve doing a number of different things, such as reporting on a topic, reviewing the state of research in a given area, reading and critically analyzing a text (in which case you may be directed to "discuss," "compare and contrast," or "react to" the text) or investigating and taking a stand on an issue. Or, you might be asked to generate an original thesis, perhaps involving gathering original data, and use the information you find in the library to support your point.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR ASSIGNMENT

Before you start your search for materials, be sure you understand the assignment you've been given. To help clarify your assignment, you may want to consider the following questions:

  • What is the purpose of the assignment or project?
  • When is the assignment due?
  • What kind of assignment do you have to complete?
    • A five minute informative oral presentation?
    • A three page persuasive essay?
    • A ten page research paper?
  • How much information will you need to gather?
  • Is currency important?
  • Is point of view an issue? Do you need opinions?
  • What types of information sources are appropriate to the discipline and the teacher's expectations?
    • Newspaper articles?
    • Books?
    • Journal articles?
    • Statistics?
    • Diaries?
    • Trade publications? etc.

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you when you research your topic. If you are not able to answer any or all of these questions, read the assignment carefully and consult with your instructor if you need further assistance.


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Last Modified: 10 August 2005