The Research Process:  Background Information

Why is this so important?  Not only will you gather basic information on you topic (names, places, events, dates, etc) but 20 minutes of background reading can actually save you hours of research time (and may even prevent a headache or two...) as you progress further in your library research.  By having an overall picture of your topic, you will also be able to decide how you want to progress with your thesis --- do you need to revise your thesis statement?  

Its quite simple!  You need to:

• Use general and subject encyclopedias to get an overview of your topic.  Encyclopaedia Britannica is available in print or online.  The reference room contains subject encyclopedias in many subject areas.  Oxford Reference Online Database is an excellent resource and contains online reference books on a variety of topics. 
   

• For easy-to-use, quality information, visit our List of Online Reference Databases and Books.  This is a subject listing of online reference sources available, both reference databases and books, including the ABC-CLIO book database.
   

• 3-day loan books (Located in the Large Reserve room) and CQ Researcher provide pro/con information about social and political issues
   

Updated:  05/21/09
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Grove City College 2009