Formulating a research plan

FARA DAYANA MOHD JUFRY

RESEARCH TIPS & TECHNIQUES
https://www.umflint.edu/library
 STEP 1: CLEARLY DEFINE YOUR RESEARCH NEED

• What is it that you need or want to know? How much information do

you need or want? How long does your paper need to be, do you
need a specific number of citations?

• Begin researching with “broad” resources such as encyclopedias,

dictionaries, text books to familiarize yourself with the subject more
and better understand your topic.
 STEP 2: BEGIN YOUR SEARCH

• Use the library website to locate books, journals, magazines,

newspapers, and media available in your library and in other
Michigan libraries.
STEP 3: CAREFULLY SELECT YOUR SEARCH TERMS

• Keywords: Use the most specific words to describe your topic

including synonyms and alternate terms, such as abbreviations and
scientific terms.

• Use controlled vocabulary: Database descriptors, the Library of

Congress Subject Headings, or other thesauri gather information on
the same topics together and may contain other useful words for your
research. Ask the library reference staff for help in finding thesauri.
STEP 4: CAREFULLY AND ACCURATELY RECORD YOUR
FINDINGS

• Take detailed notes or print out full references for bibliographies

• Carefully organize your bookmarks within meaningful headings
• Citing print and electronic sources
STEP 5: CRITICALLY EVALUATE THE INFORMATION THAT
YOU FIND

• Is the resource useful, well written, up to date and/or at an

appropriate level for your need?

• Don't waste time on less useful resources. If you are not finding
useful information try another resource

• Remember the Internet is a self publishing medium and contains a

huge range of data, including useless and offensive materials
 STEP 6: GET HELP WHENEVER YOU NEED IT

• Ask your supervisor/ lecturer for help

• Use “HELP” screens and online assistance when available
• Ask a reference librarian for assistance
• Don’t waste time if you are not finding any information at a particular
resource. Ask for help before getting too frustrated.