1. Introduction to Research
How to search, select, and cite credible sources.
Adapted from the original PowerPoint
by Kristen Dembroski

2. The Search for Information & Evidence
When searching the internet, use search terms that come directly from your main topic and your research questions.
EXAMPLE:
Topic: Smoking
Research Questions: Is smoking harmful?
Should it be banned?
What are the current laws about smoking?
Search Terms: smoking health smoking laws
secondhand smoke studies on effects of smoking
effects of smoking

3. Strategic Searching
When searching the internet, it’s tempting to just start clicking away on any result that pops up. But…
Keep in mind some companies pay to keep their results near the top of the list
Not all links are credible sources of information
When deciding what to click on, ask yourself these questions:
Is it on topic?
Is it credible (more on this later)?

4. Strategic Searching Not finding enough sources? Be strategic.
Use root words of key terms
Put exact phrases in “double quotation marks”
Remove search terms that are common but not helpful by using a minus sign
Example: smoking effects -cancer

5. Finding Credible Sources
Stick with sources that are well-known and well-established.
Always know who created the website and why (read the About tab)
Look at the date of the information
Verify facts by cross-checking them with other reliable sites

6. No Excuses
It is your job to read, sort through the information, and choose the best evidence to support your topic and fulfill your purpose of informing your audience.

7. Avoiding Plagiarism (aka Cite Your Sources)
Definition: Using other people’s words, thoughts, or ideas without giving them credit.
How to avoid it
Put EVERYTHING including your notes in your own words
Give credit to the author (this should be done sparingly – most of your work should be in your own words)
You must do this for ideas (summaries of opinions or thoughts) as well as direct quotes!!!!

8. Bibliography / Works Cited
MLA – Modern Language Association
APA – American Psychological Association