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Start Your Research

Start Your Research is a guide to the best resources for your research assignments. The guide takes you through the main steps in a typical research process. If you need help, ask a CSN librarian.

STEP 1: Start with a Good Topic
STEP 2: Learn More about Your Topic
STEP 3: Find Books, eBooks, DVDs/Videos
STEP 4: Find Different Views on Your Topic
STEP 5: Find Articles from Newspapers, Magazines, Academic Journals on Most Topics
STEP 6: Cite Your Sources

Step 1: Start with a Good Topic

Every research assignment starts with a topic. If you’re stuck choosing a topic, here are links to lists of great research topics.

Step 2: Learn More about Your Topic

Now that you have a topic, what do you know about it? Who are the key players? What are the improtant events? Use these resources to find out.

Step 3: Find Books, eBooks, DVDs/Videos

Get more detailed information or find useful chapters on your topics.

Step 4: Find Different Views on Your Topic

Are you writing or presenting on a controversial issue? Are you writing a persuasive or argumentative essay? Use these sources to learn about both sides of your topic.

Step 5: Find Articles from Newspapers, Magazines, and Academic Journals

Need an article? Find it here. Click the links below to find articles appropriate for college level research.

Step 6: Cite Your Sources

Whether you need to cite your sources in MLA, APA, or Chicago style, these websites and guides will help you get it done quickly.

More Options

Use a Research Guide to find all the resources for particular subjects. Use OneSearch to simultaneously search most library resources, including books, articles, and videos.

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