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Chemistry: Research Skills

Information Literacy @ Cairn

Research Skills, a large piece of Information Literacy, are built over time.
Use the Masland Library's Information Literacy Module to learn more so you can:

  • Find quality sources efficiently
  • Evaluate their credibility for strong arguments
  • Use evidence ethically to avoid plagiarism

 

Choosing a Topic

Moving from research assignment to thesis statement:

1. Area: Start with a general area of interest.  The assignment might dictate specific areas which can aid you in choosing your topic.

2. Subject: List subjects that fit within that area.

3. Topic: Select just one of the subjects to be the topic of your research.

4. Aspect: List different aspects of the topic.

5. Description: Choose the aspect of the topic that you want to explore further and formulate a description of your topic.

Search Strategies

Identifying Keywords/Search Terms

Keywords

Many databases and search engines use keywords to locate information. To effectively find resources, you will need to break down your topic or research question into the most important ideas or concepts.

Research Help

Need help...

  • Thinking through your topic?
  • Finding background research?
  • Accessing material?
  • Building your information literacy skills?

Schedule a Research Appointment

Request an in-person or virtual consultation with a librarian for an in-depth research appointment. 

 

Writing Lab

  • The Writing Lab offers one-on-one help with academic writing and assignments.
  • The Writing Lab tutoring service is open to all undergraduate, graduate, and degree-completion students.

Lab Hours
Mon-Fri: 10 am-5 pm
Online appointments are available by appointment only.

CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Find more information about the ARC here: https://cairn.edu/arc/