Step 1. Choose a Research Topic & Make a Plan
- Use these resources to choose a topic:
- Credo Reference - your results will include a concept mind map, which can help you explore related and more-detailed topics.
- Topic Development (PDF) & Coming Up With Your Topic (from UNCW Writing Center)
- Plan your work schedule using the Assignment Calculator at UMN.
Step 2. Find Background Information
- Use these resources to explore your topic:
- You can also look for subject encyclopedias by searching the Library Catalog (e.g. search for encyclopedia and psychology)
Step 3. Develop a Search Strategy
- View a tutorial on Basic Keyword Searching
- Develop your search strategy using the "My Research Strategy" tool
- Not sure about your search strategy? Get help from a librarian.
Step 4. Find Books and Articles
- View a tutorial about the search box on the Randall Library website
- Search for books and articles using the search box on the Randall Library website
- Search subject specific databases
- Get items from other libraries
Step 5. Evaluate Your Sources
- View a tutorial on popular / scholarly / trade publications (5 min)
- View a tutorial on evaluating information (3.5 min)
- Review Steps 1 through 6 if necessary to find additional, or different, information
Step 6. Cite your Sources
- Use these resources to cite your sources properly and avoid plagarism:
- Citation & Bibliography Help
- How to Recognize Plagiarism (self-paced module)
- Make an appointment for citation assistance with the UNCW Writing Center
Step 7. Write Your Paper & Get Peer Feedback
- How to create outlines, write drafts, and other writing guidelines (from UNCW Writing Center)
- Make an appointment with the UNCW Writing Center