Start here! Useful databases for getting started on your research. Visit the tab on "Finding Sources" for more subject specific research resources.

Search or browse all databases. Recommended databases are listed below.

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Request materials through Interlibrary Loan.

As you're working on your writing, you may need to complete historical research or research that can help you write from a different perspective. Developing a research question can help you focus you research, here are some things to think about during this process: 

1. Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Look at course readings, class notes, Google, Wikipedia, CQ Researcher or Credo Reference for initial ideas.

2. Consider the scope of your topic. If it is too narrow, you might have trouble finding enough information. If it is too broad, you might be overwhelmed with information.

• Think about your assignment prompt while determining the scope of your topic. It is important to consider the size of the assignment and the length of time you have to complete it when thinking about scope. 

3. Turn your focused topic into a research question. Know that your research question may change depending on what sorts of resources you find. While you should have a topic or question in mind, allow the sources you find, along with your interests, to help shape and refine your topic further.

Questions to guide the development of your research question:

• Is it focused enough to be covered in my paper or project?
• Is there enough literature available on this topic?
• What is the question that my research is answering?
• Am I genuinely interested in this topic?
• Is my topic going to be new and interesting to my audience?

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The Mansfield Library provides a full suite of video tutorials to help you with topic selection, searching, citations, copyright and more.

Welcome Introduction

Topic Selection

Keyword Searching

Advanced Searching

Research Guides & Databases

Information Ethics

Choosing Sources

Copyright

Disciplinary Sources

Original Scholarship

Reading Citations

Research Gaps

Ethical Citations

Research Questions

Information Production