To learn about the broad topic and facts first. This will help you identify areas on which to narrow and focus your research and discussion more deeply.
To gather background information on the history, issues, stakeholders and context of your topic
To gather key concepts and specialized vocabulary to use as search terms in library research tools and beyond
To find leads to other resources
Note that while reference sources are excellent to use and cite in your research projects, they are NOT considered "scholarly" or "peer-reviewed"
Step 1: Use general concepts as search terms in reference sources.
Use simple search terms, or keywords, to find background information on your topic from academic and reference sources. Use the word "AND" to connect and focus ideas. In this example we are searching "nutrition" and "geriatric".
Step 2: Look through the results list and assess articles for relevancy and usefulness.
This search returned 712 results. Skim list, looking at article titles, publication information, and read the short summary paragraph to assess if the article meets your needs. Open any articles that seem relevant or useful.
Step 3: Read for definitions, facts, issues, organizations, history, key stakeholders and concepts and language you can use as search terms.
This excerpt of the first article from the results list shows some of the basic facts reference sources can provide e.g. Definition and Description. The whole article provides an overview of the topic, including demographics, purpose, preparation, aftercare, and also links to more resources.
Click on the databases below to search for good reference sources on your topic:
