Research assignments

This guide should help you regardless of your area of study. What is the most effective way of presenting the information? What are the most important topics, subtopics, etc., that your paper needs to include? What order should you present them?

Geography, dates, location, gender & age are just a few of the ways you can narrow your research topic. We recommend starting with one of these resources:

  1. CQ Researcher:  Find in-depth background information on controversial and current issues. Browse Recent Reports or By Topic to paper topic ideas. Reports written by CQ staff writers.
  2. CREDO Reference: An excellent source for background information! Credo Reference has 3.2 million entries from more than 450 encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, guides, and atlases in all fields.
  3. Opposing Viewpoints in Context: This Gale portal features a range of perspectives on important issues and related references to bring research on these perspectives to light.
  4. Search in the URSUS catalog for "your topic and Opposing viewpoints" or "your topic and Taking sides". These book series cover the 'pros' and 'cons' of current issues.

Please click on image below for Keywords tutorial.

This Keyword tutorial from Auburn University is described as:
This resource is intended for those who need to search a library database in order to find sources for research and writing activities.

Learning outcomes:
Recognize that the careful selection of keywords can help focus your research
Apply strategies to select relevant keywords and synonyms for your own research

The Library of Rush University Medical Center has put together this guide that may help with your search.

How to Construct a Search Strategy

Brainstorming Your Topic

Time to Brainstorm

A concept map can be a helpful way to brainstorm around your topic and figure out exactly what you want to talk about for your assignment. Keywords are what you will use to conduct research on your topic. We have a helpful worksheet you can work through to figure out keywords for your topic. Check out the example sheet below the concept map video for guidance. 


Try brainstorming some keywords on your own:


Or watch this video on keywords:

Accessibility Statement
The University provides reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities upon request. Any person with a disability who needs accommodations for a workshop should contact UMA Libraries at uma.library@maine.edu to submit a request. Due to the lead-time needed to arrange certain accommodations, individuals should submit their request no later 1 week before the event.