Gathering Background Information

Where do I find background information on my topic idea?

Use reference sources to help you find background information and subtopics.

For example, look for articles in general or specialized, subject-specific encyclopedias.

While encyclopedia articles are usually considered too general to use as sources for your
paper, they can be excellent tools for gathering useful facts and issues related to your topic
idea. They can also help you decide which specific aspect of a general topic you should choose
to use for your paper.

Some sources for background information:

• general encyclopedias:
  World Book Encyclopedia 
  Encyclopedia Americana 
  
  
• specialized encyclopedias:
  Encyclopedia of Bioethics 
  Encyclopedia of Crime and Justice 
  McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science and Technology  
  
  
• CQ Researcher
  
  
• Opposing Viewpoints series. The library has volumes on many controversial topics.
  Abortion 
  American Values  
  Death Penalty  
  Terrorism  

NEXT: Narrowing or Limiting Your Topic