In instances where you are given the option of selecting a topic, there are a number of ways to come up with an idea.
Consider class discussions, readings or areas of personal interest.
Current events : check out recent newspapers or magazines. Have a look at the InfoTrac Onefile database and do a keyword search on a topic to see if there are supporting articles.
Browse the shelves: do a keyword search in the catalog, get a call number and locate a book on a topic. Other books on the subject will be in the same area. Look at the bibliography or list of references - they will identify related sources on the topic
Have a look at some of these sites if you need a bit more help in this area:
Encyclopedias are often great sources to get an overview of a topic, especially when you are not familiar with the area. They are generally written by experts or authorities within the field. They usually point you to other related books or articles on the topic which will help you in your search for additional resources.
Some of the key information they can provide:
Encyclopedias should not be used as the main source of information in your paper, but don�t discount them as they can help you get a handle on your topic.
There are a number of online encyclopedias you can look at, here's a few:
Check the FAST START page for some other ideas.
Don't overlook print encylopedias - there are quite a number on a wide variety of subjects in the collections at Swem.
Use a keyword search in the library catalog to find out if there are some relevant titles:
encyclopedia and <topic> (ex. encylopedia and sports)
Many of the Swem Subject Guides list relevant encylopedias for subject areas.
What kinds of sources should you use?
| If you need: | Look For: |
| Coverage of recent events | Newspapers, Magazines, Journals |
| Current General Information | Magazines |
| Current, In Depth Information | Scholarly Journal |
| An Overview | Encyclopedia |
| More Detailed Information | Books |
Have a look at the FAST START page for suggested resources and links to find facts, stats, books, reviews, biographies and more.
Look at the Swem Subject Guides as well - they identify major sources for various subjects.
Check here for more info on finding books and articles at Swem.
Have a look at a few of these sites:
A+ Research and Writing Step by Step (IPL)
Composition Center: What is an Academic Paper? (Dartmouth)
Check out the Writing Resources Center on campus for individual help in writing your papers.
A look at the impact of time on the flow of information and how you will find information about events.
Plug in your assignment due date and see how much time you need to complete your paper. Check the online catalog to see if suggested resources are at Swem.
Links to dictionaries, encyclopedias, biographical sources, essays, reviews, news, articles, statistics, government information, photos, and more.
