Explore for Ideas

Need a paper topic? Look at articles in journals, magazines and newspapers (both in print and online). Find something that interests you, something you would like to explore.

• Find reference books in Funderburg Library
• Browse print periodicals in Funderburg Library
• Browse general databases

Find Background Information

Put your topic in context with a general overview of the subject.

• Encyclopaedia Britannica
• Encyclopedia.com

Identify Keywords

There is usually more than one way to describe your topic. As you gather background information, make a list of keywords you can use to search for books and articles in the library's databases.

• Too many results? Use more specific keywords.
• Too few results? Use more general keywords.

Cite Resources

Document your research, and give credit where credit is due.

• APA Style (dianahacker.com)
• APA Formatting and Style Guide (The OWL at Purdue)
• MLA Style (Diana Hacker/Bedford St. Martin's)
• MLA Formatting and Style Guide (The OWL at Purdue)