Research Strategies

Check out the OWL at Purdue to help with your research paper. Click HERE.

#1 - Task Definition

Define the task (Brainstorm to focus the topic and formulate research questions)
Identify the information you will need to complete the task

#2 - Information Seeking Strategies

Identify potential sources of information that can assist you, keeping in mind to consider the best sources.. Consider possible search strategies using keywords and phrases. Possible sources may include:

Books (use library catalogs to locate)
Online databases
Reference materials (Encyclopedias, subject specific references, bibliographies)
Community Information Agencies
Media (podcasts, webcasts, videos, documentaries)
Interviews and surveys

Select the best sources for your task. Consider whether each source is:

Accurate
Authoritative
Current (if applicable)

#3 - Location and Access

Locate appropriate resources in library media center, other libraries, community agencies, etc. Find the needed information within the resource. Remember to use points of access such as table of contents, indexes, and the [control + F (PCs)] or [control + apple (Mac)] feature on computers.

#4 - Use of Information

Read, view, or listen to the resource. Then extract relevant information. Use dictionaries, annotations, and other note-taking strategies.

#5 - Synthesis and Presentation

Organize and process the information. Use techniques such as notecards, outlining and drafting. Present the information in an appropriate format.

#6 - Evaluation

Judge the process (efficiency)
Judge the product (effectiveness)
Make any necessary improvements

Remember! Always document all sources as you use them. It is much harder to retrace your research steps.