Step 4: Make a List of Useful Keywords
Keep track of the words that are used to describe your topic.
Look for words that best describe your topic
Look for them in when reading encyclopedia articles and background and general information
Find broader and narrower terms, synonyms, key concepts for key words to widen your search capabilities
Make note of these words and use them later when searching databases and catalogs
Step 5: Be Flexible
It is common to modify your topic during the research process. You can never be sure of what you may find. You may find too much and need to narrow your focus, or too little and need to broaden your focus. This is a normal part of the research process. When researching, you may not wish to change your topic, but you may decide that some other aspect of the topic is more interesting or manageable.
Keep in mind the assigned length of the research paper, project, bibliography or other research assignment. Be aware of the depth of coverage needed and the due date. These important factors may help you decide how much and when you will modify your topic. You instructor will probably provide specific requirements, if not the table below may provide a rough guide:
Assigned Length of Research Paper or Project
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Suggested guidelines for approximate number and types of sources needed
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1-2 page paper
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2-3 magazine articles or Web sites
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3-5 page paper
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4-8 items, including book, articles (scholarly and/or popular) and Web sites
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Annotated Bibliography
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6-15 items including books, scholarly articles, Web sites and other items
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10-15 page research paper
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12-20 items, including books, scholarly articles, web sites and other items
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