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English 1A - Allport: Research Paper

Researching your topic using the Library

Start -- Choosing your topic

If you aren't sure of your topic yet, you can get ideas by exploring some of the databases that we have:

Try doing a few searches in Opposing viewpoints, or use the "Browse Issues" link on the upper right-hand side of the Opposing Viewpoints home page to look at some topics (see image to the right) 

You can also look online, but be aware that information on any website, no matter how 'trusted' it may look, it's good to double-check and verify the information given.

Check out this guide on the SIFT method, which is a very simple and easy way check what you're finding online!

Gather Background & General Information:

You might have a topic you're interested in, but you're unclear or need more background or history. Books can help with more detail on a general topic. 

For more help in finding and locating ebooks, see our guide on Using the Library Catalog & Finding Books and eBooks

EBooks

Print Books (in Library)

Digging Into Your Topic

At this point, you should have a good idea about the basics of your topic, and hopefully, you've found some great ideas/words that you can use in your search.

You can start at the Databases A - Z page, which lists all our databases, or use some suggested databases below.

If you aren't sure where to start, Ask Us!

Suggested Databases

Tips & More Help:

Search Tips:

  • Use keywords when searching the databases -- keep the language simple.
  • If you find an article or two, search them for words you may not have thought of to describe your topic. Write them down, and use them for more searching.
  • Note the number of results in your searches. Note that the first page of results may not be the best pick for your topic, so look them all over! You want a manageable number of results (around 60) to review quickly.
    • Too many results?
      • Make sure your topic isn't too broad, such as Health
      • Try narrowing your topic by adding to the search bar or using the 'narrow by' columns, either to the right or left of your results. 
        • Including a group type, such as Childhood Obesity
        • Including a location such as California
        • Change the date range to the last few years so the information is current
    • Too few results?
      • Try using broader topics, like 
      • Add other search terms, or try using various terms, for example: 'teens OR teenagers OR adolescents OR young adults.

Still need help? Chat with us online, visit the reference desk in the library, or call (951) 372-7115.

More Help:

Citation Help - MLA Style Links