Research Process: A Step-By-Step Guide: 2a. Know your information need

Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment. Consider:

• Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own?
• How many pages/words do you need to write? How long is your presentation?
• Do you need to include specific types of sources (e.g. scholarly journal, book, etc.)?
• When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?
• Is currency of information important?

When in doubt, consult with your instructor.

 Can’t think of a topic to research?

• Scan your textbook.
• Peruse current magazines and newspapers.
• Read background information on your topic in encyclopedias, dictionaries, and thesauruses.
• Discuss topics with your instructor, a librarian or a classmate.

Do some preliminary searches in general article and newspaper databases to get ideas for a research topic.

Choose a topic that interests you and will hold your attention. If you do, the research will be more enjoyable!