Keep track of your resources!
When gathering resources for your paper, keep track of the information you will need to cite those resources if you use them for your paper. That means, write down or save the information typically used in a citation, for example, the author(s), publication date, web link, etc.
The reason for this is that if you don't keep good records, you may end up needing to re-locate an article. This can be time consuming and frustrating, so do yourself a favor and stay organized!
There are all kinds of resources available through the library, from books and magazines to academic articles and films.
When doing research for a paper or assignment, both your topic and the assignment requirements will determine which types of sources to look for.
Here's a list of what you can find through the library.
Types of sources
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How to use for research |
Where & how to find them |
Examples |
|
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Background information Get an overview of a topic. Find small amounts of info on several topics. Get ideas for other sources to use. |
* Search for your topic or keyword, then read one or a few short articles. * Look at the Bibliography/Works Cited for additional sources. |
- General Reference & Research databases - Reference books (dictionaries, encyclopedias) - Internet search* |
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Books & eBooks Find a collection of articles on a topic/theme, or read an in-depth exploration of a question, issue, event, etc. |
* Review the Table of Contents and Index to see if the book is relevant for your research. * Read the full book, or choose certain chapters. |
- Library eBooks - Discovery Search |
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Academic articles Read about current research and knowledge in an academic field. Get specialized information that’s not available with a web search. Research articles are peer reviewed to ensure accuracy. |
* Read the Abstract (summary) first, to see if the article is relevant for your research. * Look at the Bibliography/Works Cited for additional sources. |
- Google scholar - Tip: Use the “Peer Reviewed” filter in library databases. |
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Industry publications Read about current research and knowledge in a technical or professional field. Research articles are peer reviewed to ensure accuracy. |
* Read the Abstract (summary) first, to see if the article is relevant for your research. * Look at the Bibliography/Works Cited for additional sources. |
- Tip: Filter by “Source type: Trade Publications” |
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News sources Read about recent events, pop culture, and emerging knowledge. Get multiple perspectives on certain issues in opinion pieces. Research historical information in older publications. |
* Use for information and perspectives on current events. * Be on the lookout for bias; learn to distinguish facts from opinions. |
- Internet search* - Tip: Filter by “Source type: News & Magazines” |
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* Be sure to carefully assess online content such as websites, blogs, and social media for accuracy and bias. Unlike library resources, some online information doesn’t have a reliable process for fact-checking or editing.
This short video from Yavapai College explains what's so great about library databases.