How Do I … Start My Research?

Start My Research
	Explore for Ideas
	Find Background Information
	Identify Keywords
	Refine the Topic
	Locate Additional Information
	Evaluate Sources
	Cite Sources

 

 

FIND Background Information - Once you’ve decided on a topic, the next step is to find background information. Exploring reference materials such as dictionaries, encyclopedias, almanacs, handbooks, and statistical sources will provide further detail on your topic. Textbooks are also a good source of background information.

Reference materials on nearly every subject are located in the Reference Collection on the main floor of the Hesburgh Library. You can use the ND Catalog to locate some of these materials. Try a keyword search for “encyclopedia and psychology” or “encyclopedia and religion” to see a list of encyclopedias on those subjects that are owned by the Notre Dame libraries. Please Ask A Librarian if you need help locating reference materials for your topic.

Some reference sources are also available online. Visit the Electronic Reference Shelf for access to these resources.

As you read more about a subject, write down the unique or distinct words used when the topic is described. These keywords will aid in your search for additional information.