Getting Started
The starting point for most writing assignments is to develop a clear understanding of your topic.
This guide is here to help you navigate library sources so that you are able to find the information you need.
You may want to review the assignment provided by your instructor. If you have questions or don't understand something, now is the time to make things clear. Some excellent sources for help include:
The library. For research assignments, a librarian can be your best friend. Much of the terminology and process is well known to your EPCC librarians. They'll be able to help you understand the assignment and use library resources to find the information you need.
The Tutoring Lab. They may have experience with your assignment and will be happy to help you sort things out either way.
The Writing Center. They specialize in writing, so they would be able to assist you in that regard. They may be able to answer other questions as well.
Your classmates. A big part of the college experience includes interacting and working with classmates. You each may be able to share helpful information and learn together.
Your Instructor (of course!) The best place to get information is from the source itself.
You'll want to be clear about your topic from the start, and writing it down will help you organize your thoughts.
You can add related terms and synonymous terms to your searches as you develop a better understanding of your topic.
The best way to take these first steps is by using a reference database.
There, you will find great overview articles for your topic.
Click HERE to visit our collection of reference databases.
This is a sample result of a search for the term "Aphasia" in The CREDO Reference Database.
Note the variety of information types.
The Related Concepts (image right) diagram is especially useful for expanding your understanding in a very quick way. You can explore the topics displayed by simply clicking on them.
