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Researching at Jacobs Library

This guide will help you get started on your research projects as well as identifying, locating, and evaluating sources for you research.

Starting Your Research

Choosing Your Topic

When choosing your research topic, brainstorm some ideas about something that you may have an interest in. You can even do some quick Google searches to gather background information about a couple of topics. Try to choose a research topic that you want to know more about.

Have a strategy! Don't get lost in the research process; instead, start the process by being organized! Use our Organization Guide to help you keep your research organized.

Write down your keywords so you can keep track of them. Use our Keyword Generator Activity below to generate more keywords! Or, use a thesaurus!

Keyword Generator Activity

Keyword Generator Example

Keyword Generator Activity (Allied Health topic)

Identifying the Scope 

Knowing WHERE to search is very important! Start by using the library's discovery service, SOAR. Click here to view the library's tutorials on how to search within SOAR.

Another great tool is the library's A-Z Database List! The A-Z List showcases all of the library's databases & tools in one easy-to-use location. You can filter by subject (e.g. Nursing) or database type to narrow down the list and find the best database for your needs.

Once you've chosen a research interest to develop, consider alternative viewpoints about your topic. Try using a database like Gale's Opposing Viewpoints to gain multiple perspectives on your topic.

Research Questions

When developing your research question, try to identify a specific area of your topic that you want to learn more about. Perhaps there is a gap in the research that makes you ask more questions. You may need to broaden or narrow your question depending upon how much information is out there about your specific topic. 

A Successful Research Question:

  • Has significance for you
  • Warrants attention from others
  • Has identifiable consequences and effects
  • Recognizes its context (historical, social, personal, scientific, etc.)
  • Leads to possible outcomes and/or solutions.

 

Sample Research Questions

What are the most effective dietary changes for treating depression and anxiety?

How can we best measure climate change in the Midwest regions?

What kinds of learners are most successful in online environments?

What kind of training would best prepare local law enforcement and service providers to identify and respond to cases of human trafficking that might otherwise go unnoticed or unaddressed?

What cultural factors have led to the rise in popularity of zombie film, fiction, and television?

 

Source: Arizona State University New College Writing Program Library Guide