Gather Information
Gather Information
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Good researchers know how to find quality information. In this step, identify key words and plan possible resources. Locate and evaluate sources for quality. Read to find answers to your research question, and record notes and bibliographic information.
Gather Information:
Find answers to your research question. Quality sources are the heart of your presentation, so take the time to choose well.
Make a research plan.
Search books, databases, and more. Use a variety of sources and techniques to get the best results.
Read and annotate your sources before taking notes.
Complete these steps using the Online Guide or pages 4-5 of the Printable Guide. For extra help, use the resources below or contact a librarian.
Source Types
Source Types
It is important to use a variety of sources for a balanced and complete view of your topic. Get to know what's available in order to choose effectively.
Annotating Sources
Annotating Sources
Annotating sources promotes active, close reading as you analyze your source material. You can choose to annotate on print or digital copies of your sources, depending on your learning style. If you prefer digital, your school Google Docs are a great place to start.
Taking Notes
Taking Notes
A notecard should include one idea and contain the following information:
Citation information
Source text or media
Your paraphrase
Personal insight or connections
Use this helpful Notecard Template.
Summarizing Tools
Summarizing Tools
It can sometimes be difficult to understand academic language or read lengthy texts, but a summary of an article's main points may aid comprehension. Try these online summarizing tools:
Summarize This lets you copy and paste to create a summary.
SMMRY allows you to copy and paste text or a web address to create a summary. You can also upload a pdf.
Paraphrasing Practice
Paraphrasing Practice
Most of your source information should be paraphrased rather that quoted. Paraphrasing maintains your voice as a writer and allows you to integrate ideas from many sources. It's important to paraphrase thoroughly since minimally paraphrased text can be flagged as plagiarism. Don't worry if your paraphrase is longer than the original or sounds less academic; those are signs you've paraphrased well.
Here's how to paraphrase in five easy steps:
Read the passage several times to fully understand the meaning.
Make note of key concepts.
Write your version of the text without looking at the original. Pretend you're explaining it to a friend.
Compare to the original text and adjust any words and phrases that remain too similar. Make sure to maintain the original meaning.
Cite the source, even though it's now in your own words.
Use these sites to practice:
Citing Sources
Citing Sources
It's a good idea to create a working bibliography as you locate your sources. Check with your teacher for the required citation style, and learn more with these resources.
Video: Why You Need to Cite Sources
MLA Style: Purdue Online Writing Lab
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