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How to Research a Topic

Use these steps to research a topic and document your sources.

Find Background Information

Once you've decided on and developed your topic, you might want to find some background information on your topic so you understand the basics of it before you dive into more specific research.

Subject Encyclopedias

Subject-specific encyclopedias have more detailed articles written by experts in a field. Bibliographies in these sources tend to be more comprehensive.

We have many subject encyclopedias. To find one, Search the Library. Do a keyword search for your subject followed by the word "encyclopedia."

For example: If you need an encyclopedia on education, enter "education encyclopedia" in the search box.

General Encyclopedias


Plough Library · Christian Brothers University
Library Hours

650 E Parkway S, Memphis, TN 38104 · (901) 321-3432