Background Research
Background research helps you to develop a more effective research question, and leads you to additional keywords and search terms. Here are some places to find help with background research:
- Your instructor is a great resource! They understand your assignment and can provide good advice about your topic and how to frame your research question.
- Talk with a librarian. We can help at any stage of your research project.
- Check the K Library Research Guides for resources to explore in specific disciplines.
Resources for background info on topics:
- Wikipedia can be helpful for background information and links to other resources.
- Reference databases like Gale eBooks, which has reference ebooks and sources.
- The Opposing Viewpoints database provides good background information on controversial topics.
Where you search depends on the sources you need. Helpful starting questions:
- Does your assignment require you to use specific sources?
- Does your topic lend itself to a particular type of source?
- Books may be the best source for some topics, particularly when you are looking for a historical overview of ideas and events.
- Scholarly journals may be best for other types of research, especially in the sciences and social sciences, and when you need criticism and analysis.
- The latest news sources are best for current events and hot topics.
