Still Stuck?

Sometimes it is difficult to know where to start. If you are stuck, try some of the suggestions below.

Research Checklist

• Wrap your mind around what you need to do

  • Read the request completely, then reread.

  • Make notes on key requirements

  • Start to brainstorm the types of sources that will satisfy the requirements

• Make a Plan of Attack

  • Do you understand the topic, or do you need to find some background information first? Having a solid understanding of the topic and the requirements lets us speak with authority on a topic!

    • If after background research, you do not feel confident, release the request.

• Presearch

  • Use the Wonder Master Research List to help you pinpoint the best places to begin your research.

  • If you get stuck, try thinking of other “Golden Keywords” that might help you get the information you need.

    • Try KeywordTool, KeywordPlanner, or a thesaurus to come up with multiple keywords.

      • For example, if we use KeywordTool for the word “vaccine”, it gives us 529 phrases that are associated with vaccines. This is a great way to help remove a “block” when you just can not figure out where to search next.