History 100 Library Research Guide: Research Process

The research process typically includes five broad steps. Most often you complete one step before moving onto the next. However, there may be times when you will need to return to a previous step or complete multiple steps simultaneously.

Step 1. Develop a Topic
Use reference resources, course readings, and conversation with professors and fellow students to zero in on a topic of interest to you.

Step 2. Locate information
Use library resources to find books and articles relevant to your topic.

Step 3. Evaluate and analyze information and sources 
Assess whether the information you've located is current, relevant, authoritative, accurage, and right for your research purpose.

Step 4. Use, organize and communicate information 
Use paraphrasing and notetaking strategies to synthesize your sources and your own ideas.

Step 5. Complies with legal, ethical and moral standards 
Make sure you're not plagiarizing by citing your sources using the right citation style.

Make a list to keep track of keywords related to your topic. Keep it by your side when you start your research.

The keywords you use can have a profound impact on the results of your research. Using the “right” words will speed up the research process, while the “wrong” words can bring to it to a screeching halt.

If the keywords you choose initially do not give you the results you need, revise your keywords as needed.

Can’t think of a topic to research? 

• Scan your textbook for broad topic ideas.
• Use magazines and newspapers to see wha catches your eye.
• Browse print and electronic encyclopedias.
• Look at "hot topic" databases, such as Points of View Reference Center, which feature articles on current events and controversial issues.
• Discuss potential topics with your instructor, your librarian or a classmate.

Once you have selected an initial topic, the next step is to develop research questions. To begin:

• Write down what you already know or don't know about the topic.
• Using the information you wrote down, develop questions you'd like to answer when doing your research.
  • Use probing questions such as why? how? what if? should?
  • Avoid questions that can be answered with yes or no. 

Before you can begin searching for information in a print or online resource, you need to identify keywords related to your topic. Key terminology can be easily be found by scanning:

• Your initial research questions
• Encyclopedia and other articles used when conducting background research
• Bibliographies found at the end of books and articles

If you are still struggling, then try these suggestions:

• Use a print thesaurus or Microsoft Office's thesaurus tool to identify synonyms
• Find pictures related to your topic, then describe the picture
• Brainstorm keywords with a librarian, your instructor, or a friend

Is your topic too broad? Or too narrow?

Examples:

Broad Topic: Global warming

Narrower Topic: How will climate change impact sea levels and the coastal United States?

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Narrow Topic: Does cartoon viewing cause violent behaviors in children under the age of five?

Broader Topic:  What are the negative effects of television viewing on children and adolescents?