Doing Background Research
When you start a research project, background research can help you:
- Understand the size and scope of a potential topic
- Find subtopics that interest you
- Learn key terminology for the topic
- Identify influential people and events
- Discover highly-cited sources about the topic
Databases for Background Research
The following databases can help you find overview articles about your topic.
- Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
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Search for short articles from subject-specific encyclopedias and dictionaries. - Opposing Viewpoints This link opens in a new window
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Explore information about controversial current social issues. This resource is helpful for understanding the arguments made by people with many difference stances in complex debates. - CQ Researcher This link opens in a new windowFind overview reports about current social issues compiled by CQ Researcher staff. Explore extensive citations and lists of related topics.
Strategies for Exploring a Topic
- Video: Exploring Your TopicSome sources offer a broad scope on a topic, while others offer a narrow scope. Learn how you can effectively use broad and narrow scope sources at different points in your research process.
- Video: Analyzing Source PerspectiveEven while you're exploring and developing your topic, it's important to consider the perspective a source brings to your research. Learn three strategies for analyzing the perspective of a source.
- Infographic: Using Google Scholar
Learn how Google Scholar can be a useful tool as you're exploring your topic and beginning research, as well as limitations to watch out for.