The Changing Nature of Information Research: Evaluating Sources Research: Using Databases The final thesis statement How do I find information about my topic? How do I choose a research topic? The Changing Nature of Information Research: Locating Sources Research: Techniques and Tools Defining Research Introduction


How Do I Find Information About My Topic?

After you have selected a general area within a broad topic, you should begin to superficially explore the available information. You will do this for the following reasons:

  1. To determine whether there is enough applicable information to create a research paper. If you are having difficulty locating sources for the general area, you will have even more trouble locating sources for a narrower topic. It might be wise to find a new broad topic, or you could seek help from a librarian at the Reference Desk.
  2. To generate ideas for a narrower topic. As you examine articles and books on the general area, possibilities for a narrower research topic will present themselves.
  3. To gather general information about your topic. A broad general knowledge of your topic area will help you make better decisions and judgments when you begin to write about your more specific topic.

In most cases, you begin with only a smattering of information about your topic. The detailed facts—important authors, nuances within the subject, crucial concepts and ideas—are yet to be discovered. Several broad methods of fact-gathering are outlined next:

  • General knowledge to particular knowledge
  • Particular knowledge to general knowledge
  • Serendipity
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These pages were written by Glenn Remelts. and edited by Jeffrey L. Nyhoff and Nancy Zylstra
©2005 Calvin University (formerly Calvin College), All Rights Reserved

If you encounter technical errors, contact computing@calvin.edu.