Research Process  

Recommended titles on the research process.

Basic College Research Skills - Bookman, Steven

ISBN: 0761835512

Student guide to research in the digital age - Stebbins, Leslie F.

ISBN: 1591580994

The research process typically includes five broad steps. Most often you complete one step before moving onto the next. However, there may be times when you will need to return to a previous step or complete multiple steps simultaneously.

This guide will help you through the research process - from developing your topic to citing your resources.  Explore the tabs across the top for more information.

Step 1. Develop a topic
Selecting a Topic | Develop Research Questions | Identify Keywords | Find Background Information | Refine a Topic

Step 2. Locate information
Find Books | Find Videos | Find Articles | Find Websites | Search Strategies

Step 3. Evaluate and analyze information and sources
Evaluate Sources | Primary v Secondary Sources | Types of Periodicals

Step 4. Use, organize and communicate information
Notetaking | Paraphrasing

Step 5. Complies with legal, ethical and moral standards
Plagiarism | Citation Styles | Works Cited Examples | Copyright

Circulation: 309-457-2190

Reference: 309-457-2301

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Our thanks to Johnston & Wales University which gave us to permission to use their Research Process Guide.