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American Dream? : Getting Started

Where to start...

Where to start...

The strongest researchers spend their energy at the beginning of the research process reading around the topic

Research topics can often feel daunting if you do not start with a strong foundation of understanding. So take time at the beginning of your research to access sources that are well oraganized with basic background information about your topic - such as an encyclopedia database. 

Encyclopedia Databases

START HERE

Encylopedia Databases

Read around your topic with Encyclopedia Databases.

During the beginning stages of your research, reading around your topic helps you to: 

  • Build a foundation of understanding.
  • Find a path for your research.
  • Identify important key terms, events, and people for your research. 

Encyclopedia Databases provide thorough background information on a variety of topics and are a strong resource at this stage of research. 

Issue Databases

ABC-CLIO: Issues

Explore modern issues and controversies in society.

Facts on File: Issues and Controversies

Strong resource to explore modern issues and controversies in the United States.

Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context

Explore issues and controversies in modern society from a variety of viewpoints and sources.

Additional Databases

Videos

Research Footer

Citation Tutorials
Keyword Generator
Website Evaluation
Username and Passwords
Book recs and research help