How to Find Sources for a Research Paper

By eHow Education Editor

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Finding quality sources is the first step in writing a research paper. Use this "bibliographic bootstrap" method to get what you need.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Academic Counselings
  • Desk Lamps
  • Miniature Reading Lights
  • Index Cards
  • Classes On Writing A Research Paper

Step1
Decide on a topic.
Step2
Consult with your teacher/professor and with a reference librarian to find three or four sources to peruse first.
Step3
Skim these sources, getting a feel for whether or not they are relevant.
Step4
Write down each source's bibliographic information on an index card (this will vary according to the type of source): author, date of publication, title, journal, volume, city, publisher, and relevant page numbers.
Step5
Number each card for future reference.
Step6
Look through each source's bibliography as you begin to get a sense for what other information you'll need.
Step7
Track down these sources, skim them and consult their bibliographies.
Step8
Repeat this process until you've got enough material for your paper.

Tips & Warnings

  • Try not to let your bibliography get too large, as it easily can with this method. Use only the materials that are most directly related to your paper.
  • Remain in consultation with your teacher or professor; he or she will be able to guide you in selecting sources.
  • Consider taking a class on writing a research paper.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Whatever you search for, it's out there.
Ask your teacher or professor if taking sources from the Internet is allowed. Make sure you write the source's address in case you were asked to include it.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Make good use of the reference librarians at your school. They know how to find info on almost anything. These are people to make friends with.

AFrieske said

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on 1/18/2008 It is all about the reference librarians. You really could have ended the article right there; actually you pretty much did..you didn't actual give any other advice. Pretty weak article, editor.

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eHow Article:  How to Find Sources for a Research Paper

eHow Education Editor

eHow Education Editor

Category: Education

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