PHIL 1304 - Bell: Before You Start Your Research

Ask yourself these questions before you start your research:

• Do I know enough about my topic to choose meaningful search terms?
  • ​Reference books such as encyclopedias are useful sources for learning basics about a topic before starting your research.
• Does it matter how old your sources are?  
  • Should you use sources dating from the beginning of time to the present? 
  • Do you only want the most current information?
• How specific is your topic? 
  • ​Are you giving a broad overview of the topic?
  • Do you need in-depth research on the topic?
• Who counts as a credible writer on this topic?
  • Does the writer need to be an expert in the field?  What kind of credentials will prove that this person is an expert?
  • Is it okay for the writer to be a non-expert who cites his/her sources well?

These sources will help you find background information on your topic.  This can help you narrow your research question to a manageable size and also suggest some search terms you might use once you begin your research.