Library Research for College Students: Step-by-Step

Research Steps Overview

Use the links to access more detailed information about each of the six steps.

Step 1: Choose your broad topic area

Choose a broad topic area that you enjoy or in which you are interested.

Some general examples may include:

• Topics of personal interest -  arts/crafts, sports, cars, cooking, gardening, genealogy, etc,
• Your chosen career interest -  related to your program at Western or future job goal
• The world around you - current events, news, social issues, politics, etc.

Step 2: Gather background information to narrow your topic focus

This information helps gives clarity to your chosen topic.

Examples:

1. Broad topic area: gardening | Narrowed topic focus: native plants of Western Wisconsin
2. Broad topic area: health care field | Narrowed topic focus: pediatric nursing
3. Broad topic area: climate change | Narrowed topic focus:  how fossil fuels contribute to extreme weather events

Step 3: Use search terms and strategies to find articles in Library databases

The resources you find can provide information and evidence. 

Step 4: Find books in the Library (if needed)

Step 5: Evaluate your sources for credibility and relevance

Step 6: Use your notes to pull the pieces together and prepare for the writing process