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Mapping Out Your Research Plan

The starting place for your research is with a topic about which you'd like to have more information.  A well-focused topic is essential for an effective search of article databases and library catalogs.   

• How much do you know about your topic?
• What keywords can be used to describe your topic?
• Is your topic often covered by the academic world?
• What personal interest do you have in your topic?
• Do you have any philosophical, political or religious Views?
  

Your answers to these questions are important. They will influence how you will use different resources from databases to academic journals to recently published books. Remember, if you need assistance please ask at the Reference desk or go online with Ask a Librarian or AskColorado or AskAuraria  

 Getting Started 

1. Use a single sheet of paper or computer document page
2. Choose a topic that interests you.
3. Use either outline form or "bulleted items."

• Write down what you already know about your topic
• Include persons whom you might know
• Write down what you would like to know
• If you can't think of anything, choose another topic and repeat this exercise

Credit: Auraria Photostream

Original Sources

Find the words, speeches and documents from history's greatest leaders, discoverers, and creators.   Use the pre-defined Browse and Search pull-down menus or create your own search.