Medaille College Library Research Guide
Research is the ability to
gather information on a given topic, locate the information needed, evaluate
the information found, and then incorporate the relevant information into
a coherent project.
BEGINNING THE RESEARCH
Before beginning your research, there are some basic
questions you should ask yourself:
- When is my assignment due?
Be sure to allow plenty of time for good research. Keep in
mind, you may have to obtain some of your information at other libraries or through
interlibrary loan. (This may take up to two weeks. See "Interlibrary
Loan").
-
What sources are required for the paper?
There are numerous sources that will provide many types of
information: books, articles, newspapers, encyclopedias, interviews, Internet, etc. Keep
in mind, sometimes an instructor will be very specific as to what sources must be used.
-
How many sources do I need?
Your instructor may specify how many sources of information
you are required to have for your paper. If not, a general rule of thumb is approximately
one source for every page required. Keep in mind though, this may vary especially if the
sources of information are very short.
-
What is the required length of my paper?
The preparation for a two-page paper is quite different from
the preparation for a twenty-page paper. Be sure to understand what is required and base
your needs and time accordingly.
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