Suggestions for Finding a Topic
- Discuss your topic ideas with your class instructor.
- Discuss your topic ideas with a reference librarian. It may be wise to set up a research consultation, if your project is lengthy. You can request a personal research consultation using this online form.
- Scan the following titles on the tables in the Uris reference collection or online: CQ Researcher [CQ Researcher online], Issues and Controversies on File, Taking Sides, and Editorials on File. See also Keesing's Contemporary Archives (Olin Reference D 410 .K26) [Keesing's Record of World Events online].
- Look over the index and the article titles in a specialized encyclopedia that covers the subject area or discipline of your topic (for example, psychology, United States social history, women's studies, linguistics, environmental studies, etc.). For help locating an appropriate encyclopedia for your subject, consult a reference librarian. You can also use the subject guides we have prepared on many topics.
More details on finding and using subject encyclopedias and other background sources.
Revised 31 March 2004 Michael Engle URL: http://www.library.cornell.edu/olinuris/ref/research/suggtop.html
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