English Research Guide

Background research can help you:

• narrow down a broad theme into a smaller topic
• learn the basics of your topic
• develop a list of keywords to use when searching for more sources
• develop a research question and/or thesis statement

Starter databases:

• simple, browseable databases meant to help students with background research
• often contain credible reference articles, but can also have viewpoint essays
• a good alternative or supplement to Wikipedia

Best starter databases:

Gale eBooks Tutorial

• This database has subject-specific encyclopedia articles which provide simple topic overviews.
• A perfect way to get to know your topic before diving deeper into scholarly research.
• Watch the video below to learn more:

Opposing Viewpoints Tutorial

• This browseable database contains information on current events and controversial topics.
• A great place to find and refine topic ideas, and read pro and con arguments.
• Watch the video below to learn more: