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Steps of the Research Process

This guide outlines the four steps of the research process

Find background information

Background and introductory information place a research topic into a greater context. Lecture notes, textbooks, and reference books such as encyclopedias and almanacs make up important background information.

1. Look up keywords in the index of an encyclopedia, find the entry, and don't forget to take note of the bibliography at the end of the article for further readings.

2. Browse the Library's reference collection in the corresponding call number area. Read articles in the sources you find to set the context of your research. Pay close attention to the vocabulary the authors use.

3. Search for bibliographies on your topic in OneSearch by conducting a subject search on your topic followed by Bibliography. Example: Human Rights -- Bibliography


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