Here are some resources to refer to when selecting a topic and preparing to write a paper:
Choosing an interesting research topic is your first challenge. Here are some tips:
Background information can help you prepare for further research by explaining all the issues related to your topic, especially when you're investigating a field that's unfamiliar to you. Tips:
See also:
A database of in-depth, authoritative reports on a full range of political and social-policy issues extending back to 1923. Each report is footnoted and includes an overview, background section, chronology, bibliography and debate-style pro-con feature, plus tools to study the evolution of the topic over time. -- CQ Press
Opposing Viewpoints In Context is an engaging online experience for those seeking contextual information and opinions on hundreds of today's hottest social issues. Drawing on the acclaimed Greenhaven Press series, the solution features continuously updated viewpoints, topic overviews, full-text magazines, academic journals, news articles, primary source documents, statistics, images, videos, audio files and links to vetted websites organized into a user-friendly portal experience. -- Gale Cengage
You're probably already familiar with Wikipedia, a free online encyclopedia. The reference sources listed on this page are similar to Wikipedia, with some differences that you should be aware of, including:
Wikipedia can be a good source to begin with. However, you should balance what you find there with information from other reference sources as well. And make sure you evaluate information you find from the Wikipedia or any other source.
If you have questions about the kind of information you find, please Ask Us. Library staff are happy to help you find quality information on any topic you're researching.
Courtesy of the MIT Libraries