Mapping Out Your Research

First - pack your "Research Toolbox" (see details in the  right-hand column)

Second - use academic reference materials as your map to choose a destination (see suggestions below)

Third - datamine your reference sources for search terms that connect with your topic (key theories & terms of art; names of leading researchers & authors; specialized subject headings)

Fourth - use simple searches to test your search terms in the reference materials you have, the library catalogue, and electronic databases; keep a record of which terms and sources are most effective

Fifth - focus your search using the limiters and features of each search tool:  date limits, suggested subjects, citing/cited by links, etc.

Keep these useful tools together and accessible for your research.  (If you can keep them in a backpack, totebag, etc., in your car, you'll be able make a side-trip to the library when you have some time available.

• one or two flash drives labeled with your phone number (for downloading articles & saving notes);
• a notebook (paper or electronic, but not loose sheets) to keep progress notes of your research journey;
• pens, pencils, highlighters;
• sticky notes or flags;
• headphones for listening to audio or video material in the library;
• cash for copiers, etc.;
• bottled water, packaged snack, tissues;
• cell phone plus e-mail addresses & phone numbers for classmates & professor;
• folder, folio, envelope, etc. to keep documents clean and neat;
• copy (paper or electronic) of assignment & procdures;
• ability to sign onto your e-mail account (URL, password, etc.);