Consider your Topic

What is Your Information Need?    

Choosing a topic may be the biggest hurdle in doing research. Before you begin research make a list of dates, people, events, concepts, and keywords related to your subject. General reference sources such as dictionaries and encyclopedias may provide you with additional words and phrases.

When analyzing your assignment, you will also want to consider the type, quantity, and format of information you will need. Answering the following questions may help you organize your research:

• What kind of assignment do you have to complete? (e.g., 5 minute oral presentation, 10 page paper, 50 page paper)
• How much information do you need?
• Is currency important?
• What types of publications do you want to read? (newspaper articles, books, journal articles, diaries, trade publications, etc.)
• What formats do you need? (visual, audio, printed, electronic)
• Is point of view an issue?
• Do you need opinions?
• How much time do you have?

Types of Information

Locating appropriate and valid information for your research needs can be confusing and challenging. There are several sources and forms to choose from when searching for information. You can check Step 4 : Selecting Information to see the advantages and disadvantages to the different formats.

The following guides will assist you in searching for information in different forms.

Finding Information