Find Introductory Information
Part of developing your research question is thinking about potential areas of interest and finding introductory information. This will help you:
- Learn basic information and vocabulary about a topic you might not know a lot about yet
- Determine the current status of research in your area of interest
- Decide if the topic you're thinking about is the right fit for you
See below for some ways to find introductory information.
Use Textbooks
The main textbook for CHEM 222 is available online here. There is also a print copy on reserve.
Other helpful textbooks are on reserve at the science library, including:
Read Current Science News
Also try browsing the current periodicals in the science library!
Use Encyclopedias, Handbooks, and Dictionaries
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AccessScience @ McGraw-HillProvides full-text access to articles, dictionary terms, biographies, research updates and links to related websites in all areas of science and technology. Covers 2000-present.
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For more, try a search like this:
- Go to Tripod.
- Click the "Books and More" tab.
- Click the Advanced Search link.
- Enter biology in the top box.
- Enter encyclopedia or handbook or dictionary in the second box.
- Choose limits (such as location=Haverford or year of publication).
- See the example search below.