Getting Started

Research tips + tricks that will help you get started!

CHOOSE A TOPIC 

  • Keep track of guidelines set forth by your teacher(s) – this includes length, citation style, and due dates.

CONDUCT BACKGROUND RESEARCH

  • A basic Google search can go a long way at the beginning of your research process. Refer to Google like a Pro for tips on how to use Google effectively. Pro Tip: These strategies can also be used on most databases! 

REFINE YOUR TOPIC

  • Narrow down what areas of your research you’d like to develop further. Keep the who, what, when, where, and why in mind. 

CREATE A RESEARCH QUESTION

  • Come up with a tentative question you plan on answering in your project. Keep in mind that this question may change over time and that’s okay!

DEVELOP A STRATEGY

  • Determine which resources/keywords have been most helpful to you. Some databases may be helpful to you and others may not, it’s a process!

SEARCH

  • Conduct multiple searches to find your sources and always check “Related Topics/Subjects”. Research is not linear and may take other avenues to find credible sources. 

EVALUATE YOUR SOURCES

  • Determine the credibility of your sources and ask yourself the following questions:

    • Is the website credible?

    • What are the author’s credentials? Are they knowledgeable/well-versed in this subject matter? 

    • Is the source based in fact, opinion, or speculation? Keep the language and tone of the source in mind.

    • How old/recent is the source? For example, an article written about Twitter in 2006 would greatly differ from an article written in 2021. One should consider context, relevance, and new research that has since been conducted.

    • Have I cross-referenced the information presented in the source?

Please keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of how to determine the credibility of a source by any means but it is a good starting point. If you need more support, refer to Evaluating Online Sources or ask your Librarian!

ADJUST/REFINE YOUR SEARCH

  • Try different keywords, resources, or strategies if you’re hitting a dead-end with your research. You could even meet with your Librarian for extra support!

START WRITING

  • Begin incorporating your sources into your writing. If you’re unsure of how to organize your thoughts, try using NoodleTools to organize your sources.

REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW

  • Identify any holes or incomplete arguments as you draft your paper. If you feel that a sentence/argument could be further developed, consult other databases or continue to refine your search.

CITE SOURCES, REVIEW, AND EDIT

  • As you wrap up make sure to cite all your sources (consult our Citation Guides), review, and put the finishing touches on your paper. 

If you need help starting your research, feel free to reach out to Ms. Hernandez!