Although research begins with an intriguing question or issue, it quickly becomes a fast-paced hunt, moving among electronic, print, and human resources. Time is always limited, so you need efficient search strategies to help you find substantial, relevant sources. Should you begin your search for sources on the Internet? Or should you first log onto the campus library site?

Many instructors advocate beginning your research through the campus library. They are confident that you will be able to identify and access reliable information there, especially “peer-reviewed” or “refereed” articles — those whose scholarship and research methods have been assessed by experts in the field before being accepted for publication. Because college papers are built through an academic exchange, you need to rely on high-quality sources and strive to draw solid, well-grounded conclusions for your audience.

However, instructors also know that most of us spend a lot of time on the Internet, so you — and they — can easily browse for ideas or run a quick search for key terms. For news-oriented topics or opinions on trending social issues, you also can find up-to-the-minute, though not necessarily reliable, information. Where you begin your research may depend on your experience and the nature of your topic. Even if you start looking for a topic on the Web, turn to your campus library for focus and depth.