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Gingrich Library: Your Success Is Why We're Here!

FYS 100 -- The Truth of Suffering: Research Starters

Research is a process. Knowing how to effectively search for and use information is a skill that will support you all of your life.

Background Information

Gale Virtual Reference Library
ONCE LOGGED INTO GALE, IF ASKED FOR A PASSWORD AT THE SIGN IN BOX, TYPE albright.--
GVRL is a collection of electronic reference materials in a variety of subjects.

Basic Research Steps

Select an interesting and doable topic.
Identify each component of your topic.
Select appropriate terms to describe the components and use truncation as appropriate.
Determine the correct use of Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT).
Select fields to search if appropriate (author, title, subject).
Limit your results as necessary (date, scholarly vs. popular, etc.).
Evaluate your results and rethink your strategy as necessary.