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How Do I Improve My Research Skills?

Need help find a topic?

• Finding Topics for Papers & Speeches

Exploring a Topic

One of the best ways to start exploring a topic is to locate information in a subject-specific encyclopedia. These are located on the first floor in the reference area. Ask a librarian to point you to a good reference book, or browse the collection yourself, using one of these guides:

• Subject Encyclopedias (pdf)
• Browse for your topic in the Library of Congress Keyword Guide
• Do a keyword search in the Book Catalog and limit your search to Reference

Learn Research Skills

• Self-Guided Tour and Activities
• Sources: primary or secondary?
• Find Pros and Cons for a topic
• What is a Scholarly Journal?
• The Research Process
• How to Write an Annotated Bibliography
• Search Strategy Worksheet
• Wikipedia: Its Place in Research [3:49 Flash movie]

Evaluate Information

• Evaluate web resources
• Website evaluation checklist
• Evaluate Information Resources

Organize/Present Information

• Presentation Tips from Dave Kosloski (Speech)
• Presentation Tips from Mary Evens (BTEC)
• PowerPoint: Start-up Tutorial
• Helpful Hints to Creating PowerPoint Presentations, from Mary Evens, BTEC

For the Self-Motivated

Web-Based Tutorials:

• Full TILT: Three complete interactive modules introduce basic and advanced research skills.
• TILT for Success: A "lighter version" provides an introduction to research.
• Plagiarism: What Clark College Students Need to Know.