Make sure you take time to learn a little bit about your topic before you begin looking for research articles about that topic.
How do I do this?
Reference sources (encyclopedias and dictionaries) and class resources (textbook and class readings) will give general background information on your topic. These are different from peer-reviewed journal articles. They may be scholarly, but they are designed to present general information in a summary rather than presenting new research.
Use a reference database to find more information about your topic. In addition to reference sources, consider your textbook and class readings. Some of the links below also include general statistical information and data.
How do I do this?
Ask a question that you want to know about your topic. Keep in mind that the first question you construct is just a starting point. It may change as you research your topic. Try to keep your question: open-ended, without a definite answer, broad enough to find information on the topic, and narrow enough to cover in a paper.
Identify the main ideas in your question. What are the main words in your question that describe what you want to find? For example, the main ideas in the above question are highlighted. These are the words and phrases most relevant to your research.
Use the following information to help direct your search:
The most popular filters in WorldCat Discovery are described below.
Held by Library:
Format:
Content Type:
Publication Year:
Subject:
Appointments are not required, but our Research Help form will help you make an appointment in advance that works with your schedule.
Go to Quicklinks on the right side of the library homepage and click 1-on1 Research Help. This form goes directly to your Research Librarian and will include your preferred dates/times to meet, your preferred meeting format, and any files (like your syllabus or research outline) or notes (like your assignment description) that you want to add.
If you do not hear back in 1 business day during weekdays please email your librarian directly at jhill@umo.edu.
Research help is available in-person and virtually. This specific form is for help requested 24-48 hours in advance. If you need immediate assistance, please email Moye Library directly during open hours or use Library Chat during closed hours.