How to Use Reference Books
Encyclopedias are 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.
They are good resources to use in the beginning stages of your research for learning more about your topic, but they should not be part of your cited reference list.
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:
YES: "Video Games"
YES: "Video Games" and "addiction"
NO: How does video game addiction affect the socialization of teenagers?
Getting Started - Resources for Background Information
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The Credo Reference database includes a great MindMap tool (see example at right) to help you brainstorm topic ideas. You'll find another great brainstorming tool in the Opposing Viewpoints database: Click on "Browse Issues" to see a long list of topic ideas in alphabetical order. Find more databases below: |
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- Britannica Academic This link opens in a new windowFully-searchable collection of authoritative encyclopedia articles. (NVCC)
- Credo Reference This link opens in a new windowA collection of over 500 reference books on a variety of topics. (NVCC)
- Opposing Viewpoints (Gale In Context) This link opens in a new windowEssays, magazines, journals, newspapers, statistics, primary sources; focus is on controversial issues. (VCCS)
- Oxford Reference Online This link opens in a new windowMore than 100 Oxford University Press dictionaries and reference books. (VIVA)
Encyclopedia Britannica has a web-based resource you might consult as well, ProCon.org. If you are unsure of a topic for your argumentative essay, for example, click on "More Issues" in the top navigation bar to view over 100 suggestions (accompanied by pertinent research).