Start with a broad topic area (this might already be decided for you as a requirement of a course) and narrow this down to select a specific topic for your paper so that you don’t waste time wading through too much information.
The purpose of your paper will vary with the subject matter, but any paper will include a thesis. The thesis or statement of intent needs to be clearly stated so you are focused in your research and when writing your paper. |
If you have trouble narrowing your topic, talk to your instructor, take a look at 100 More Research Topic Guides For Students by Dana MacDonald (Z710 .M19 1999).
You can also view the subject listings, word lists, and thesauri of various databases such as Expanded Academic Index or Proquest. Another place to look for ideas is in the research guides which have been prepared by the subject librarians. |
Data to support your thesis can be gathered from a variety of sources, including books and journal articles. To find journal articles related to your thesis, you'll need an index, which will provide you with citations to periodical articles.
There are also other sources that might be helpful, depending on your topic. Have you thought about finding a biography for a key player in obituaries or Who’s Who publications? Have you searched for diaries, correspondences, and other types of primary sources?
If you are using the internet for research, it is especially important to evaluate the accuracy and authority of the information you find there. Learn more about evaluating information on the web.
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Research guides are prepared by subject librarians and are excellent resources for finding subject-specific materials.
The library catalog is the tool you use to find books, journals, and other materials located in the library. Books and other materials are organized by codes referred to as call numbers. To find a book using the call number, try this guide: using call numbers to find a book.
Drexel University has over 300 electronic databases for searching a wide array of topics. To determine which are best for your topic, check the research guides or browse the databases by subject areas.
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A style guide or publication manual is a reference tool that lays out the format you should use when writing your paper. Be sure to use the correct style guide—your professor will be the best person to help you make your choice. You will probably use the style guide preferred by the organizations in your professional area.
Please remember: Plagiarism is cheating and cheating is unacceptable. Take pride in your work and give credit where credit is due. |
The librarians at the Drexel University Libraries are trained to help you sort through information resources and can get you on the path to success. Drop by the library and speak to the people at the reference desk, or contact a reference librarian who specializes in your subject area.
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