Chapter 11: Beginning Your Search

How should I focus my search for sources?

How can I develop a search plan?

How can I keep track of my sources?

How can I create a bibliography?

  • Generate potential research questions

  • Select and refine your question

  • Identify relevant types of sources

  • Identify appropriate search tools and research methods

  • Review and refine your plan

  • Manage print materials

  • Manage digital materials

  • List sources in a working bibliography

  • Summarize sources in an annotated bibliography

image Given the amount of information available through library collections, databases, and the Web, writers have become less worried about finding enough sources and far more concerned about finding the right sources. This chapter explores strategies for collecting information for a writing project and then looks at how you can keep track of that information.