Start with Reference sources:

Search or browse the library database CQ Researcher for reports on current topics in criminal justice and more.

Use Background Info as a Starting Point

An overview of your broad topic area helps you understand...

• what the key issues are and how you may want to refine your topic

• definitions of key concepts and terminology in the field

• who are the stakeholders (the groups or individuals this topic concerns)

• a context of how your topic relates to the other issues that surround it

• a historical perspective on your topic

• specialized vocabulary or search words that are used in your field (you will use these words for searches later in your research process)