Determine Your Information Needs

Perhaps the hardest part of research is deciding what you need to find.  The questions below will help you start thinking about the kinds of information you need and where to look for it. 

• Review your assignment.  Does your assignment specify what types of sources you need to use?
  • Books
    • Provide in-depth, detailed coverage and background information
  • Articles from academic / scholarly / peer-reviewed journals
    • Provide information that is up-to-date and highly specific for scholars, researchers, and professionals.
    • 
  • Articles from trade publications
    • Provide information targeted to professionals in a particular industry.
  • Articles from popular magazines
    • Provide broad summaries of research or issues on a topic for a general audience.
    • 
  • Articles from newspapers
    • Provide up-to-date, national and regional information on a current topic.
  • Internet sources
    • Can be useful for a variety of information needs, but each website will require critical evaluation .
• What kind of information do you need?
  • Background, context, or historical information? Try looking for books.
  • Current information? Try looking for articles.
  • Brief overview of the topic? Try an encyclopedia.

If you need help, Ask a Librarian!

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