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Contents At a Glance (A summary chart of the research process) Refining Your Topic Understanding your task Narrowing a broad topic Choosing your own topic Writing a thesis statement Developing an outline Finding Information Looking for information Developing search terms Using Southworth Library Using Information Evaluating your sources Creating note cards Avoiding plagiarism Creating an outline The Final Product Writing your paper Citing your sources Proofreading The final product Links (Includes Works Cited and Student Handouts)

The Research Process at a Glance STEP OBJECTIVE LINKS choose and refine your topic Select a topic based on class assignment. Develop a clear thesis statement. - Refining Your Topic find initial information Find background information and gain an overview of your topic. Use Southworth Library reference materials, online encyclopedias, and online subject directories. - Southworth Library Catalog - Encyclopedia Britannica - Librarian's Index to the   Internet develop a list of search terms Take notes while you read introductory material about your topic. Be careful about spelling. Note the dates that correspond to your topic. Think of synonyms and other search phrases.   evaluate your sources Evaluate your sources to be sure they are relevant, authoritative, unbiased, and current. - Evaluating a Web Site - 20 Questions for a Web Site organize your information Create note cards, develop an outline, write and rewrite your paper. - Creating Note Cards - Creating an Outline cite your sources Create a "works cited" page or a bibliography. - NoodleBib - Citation Styles Chart avoid plagiarism Learn the difference between paraphrasing and plagiarizing. Be careful to cite your sources when appropriate. - Recognizing and Avoiding   Plagiarism - More Info on Plagiarism