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*The Research Process: A Guide for GWC Students

Use library resources to locate and evaluate information for your class assignments.

The Research Assignment - Define the Task

Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment. 

Consider:
  • Have you been assigned a topic or can you pick your own?
  • How many pages/words do you need to write? How long is your presentation?
  • Do you need to include specific types of sources (e.g. scholarly journal, book, etc.)?
  • When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?
  • Is currency of information important?

When in doubt, talk with your instructor.

Tip!

Tip!
Choose a topic that interests you and will hold your attention. 

If you do, the research will be more enjoyable!

Great Databases to Start Your Research

Topic Ideas

Can't think of a topic to research?

More topic ideas:

  • Page through your textbook.
  • Peruse current magazines and newspapers.
  • Browse encyclopedias, such as Funk & Wagnalls New World Encyclopedia.
  • Look at the databases listed on this page.
  • Search Gale eBooks for information on thousands of topics
  • Discuss topics with your instructor, a librarian, or a classmate.
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