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CST 100: Principles of Public Speaking (Gower-Loudoun)

This guide has been created by librarians to help you find books, articles, videos, and other types of resources related to this program of study. Direct comments to Michael English, menglish@nvcc.edu.

Gathering Background Information from Encyclopedias and Other Reference Books

 

An encyclopedia is a type of reference book. These are great resources for gathering background information on your topic, as well as for:

  • Defining important vocabulary words related to your topic,
  • Finding a basic overview and main issues related to your topic, and
  • Finding references to additional resources.

 

Below are some key NOVA Library databases where you can locate encyclopedia and other reference book articles.

Encyclopedia Search Tips

Since encyclopedia articles focus on basic, general information about a topic, what you type in the search box should also be general:

Instead of searching for: How does social media affect anxiety among teens and adults?

Instead try single concepts:  "social media"

Instead of: How do video games affect young adult interpersonal relationships?

Try: "video games"