Developing a Research Topic
Once you have selected an initial topic, the next step is to develop research questions. To begin:
- Write down what you already know or don't know about the topic.
- Using the information you wrote down, develop questions you'd like to answer when doing your research.
- Use probing questions such as why? how? what if? should?
- Avoid questions that can be answered with yes or no.
The one minute video below provides more tips.
Boolean Operators
Boolean Operators are a great way for you to broaden, narrow, and refine your search results. This Boolean Operators animation illustrates what each operator does.
Assignment Calculator
The Assignment Calculator can be used to help you stay on track when working on a research assignment. The calculator will help you break your project down into manageable chunks with deadlines for each section.
Length: N/A
Background Research
Conducting Background Research (1:06) is an important part of the overall research process. This quick video will give you tips on how to go about this part of the process.
Evaluating Database Results
This video, Evaluating Database Results, is helpful for understanding the criteria you can use in determining if an article is good to move forward with. The criteria is often referred to as the "CRAAP Test" because of its focus on Currency, Relevancy, Accuracy, Authority, and Purpose.
Length: 2:34
Research Overview (Online Info Lit Course)
Has it been awhile since you've had to develop a research question and a search strategy? Not sure how to navigate UK Libraries' resources?
Consider enrolling in Online Information Literacy, a self-paced course in UK's Canvas which was co-developed by your librarian. The course takes around 40 minutes to complete.
Navigating Young Library
Navigating Young Library shows the services, collections, technology, and other amenities available on each floor of the library.
