Researching a Topic as a Writer

 84% of college students find getting started the hardest part of research (Project Information Literacy). Often getting started means finding some context and defining a topic. The reflections and tools below offer some routes into the process.

The sample concept map below plots out aspects of a topic that can be helpful to find as you're finding context and exploring questions around the topic.

 

Generally it's a good idea to be flexible about the search words you use.  Parse your topic into effective key words. As you search, look for other phrasing in background and scholarly sources. 

Use this Generating Keywords Excercise (from the University of Connecticut Library) to identify possible phrasing around your topic.  (Can be used individually or as part of a Think-Pair-Share activity).

Use the following reflections to consider the nature of the sources you're finding (and how you might use them as a writer).

• Rhetorical Analysis of a Source
• Source Analysis for Drafting an Annotation

Using Academic Sources 

This tutorial includes 10 modules with guidance for using and integrating academic sources, including finding relevant material, close reading, and citation practices. (Can be completed on one's own or as part of coursework. Together all 10 modules take about an hour).