Resources

1. Start at the source. The MSU Libraries’ website is the best starting place: lib.msu.edu. You will find thousands of electronic publications, plus you will be directed to the 7+ million books in the libraries’ collections—even Google cannot give you that.

1. Know your topic. Make sure your research topic is not too broad, too specific, or lacking context. Write your topic as a specific question to focus your research, and get context from an encyclopedia.

1. Descend the Pyramid. With so much information available to you, where should you start? Try the “reverse pyramid” method: start with the most general information and then move on to publications that tend to be more specific.[pic 1]

At the beginning of your research, a reference tool such as an encyclopedia can provide a general overview of your topic and put it into a broader context. Go beyond Wikipedia— the library has thousands of more reliable academic reference articles, both online and in print. After getting an overview, move on to more in-depth books, and finally go to the most specific (and perhaps more technical) journal articles last.

1. Choose the right tools. The publications listed above can be found by using various “discovery tools”— databases on the libraries’ website which let you discover different types of publications. From lib.msu.edu, you can find books, e-books, and a selection of articles via the Search Plus search box.

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To dig deeper and find more articles, including encyclopedia articles, try a Subject Guide for your research area, which will direct you to librarian-recommended tools. You either use the search box towards the top of the page or navigate by subject from the options below.

1. Evaluate your results. Your search will probably result in a lot of information—perhaps lists of hundreds of publications. How can you choose the best? Here are some basic things to consider. Author’s qualifications (Is s/he affiliated with a university or research organization?) Publisher (Is it a university press, for example?) Publication date (Do you require the latest information, or a classic or standard text?) Length (Is the publication too brief? Too detailed?) Are there references? (Reliable research publications usually list their sources.) Any subject or content details? (Abstracts, subject headings, descriptors, tables of contents?) Peer review (Academic journals use this rigorous publication process.) Also consider how the publications compare with the general body of academic literature in the subject area. It is usually best to research broadly to ensure you find a range of perspectives which generally represent academic thinking on your topic.

1. Read it! Take the time to carefully read the key information sources you find, not just skim or scan them. You may need to “unplug” and find a quiet corner of the library. Think carefully about the arguments and issues presented by the author. Keep in mind that any subject expert who reads your research assignment (such as your professor) will likely be able to tell whether or not you have fully and critically comprehended the sources you reference.

1. Write right. There are several standard writing guides at the library and a guide for Writing and Communicating in Business. You can also visit the MSU Writing Center website for more information.

The Writing Center holds appointments in a number of Neighborhoods around campus, and also holds appointments at the Main Library: http://writing.msu.edu/locations/

You can also get online writing help through the Writing Center: http://writing.msu.edu/locations/online/

 The Writing Center also holds Workshops, hosts Writing Groups, and even has podcasts!

1. Take time to seek out the research experts. Do not assume that you will be able to find everything you need for a research paper in an hour or two. All aspects of the learning process require time. Finding relevant and reliable information, critically reading and evaluating it, and writing clearly about it—all are time-intensive activities. As a general rule, expect the research process to take about three times as long as the writing process. You will likely need some help along the way. When you do, remember that the library is in the business of providing research help:

Course and Subject Guides

Subject Librarians