The Research Process in a Nutshell:

Do basic preliminary research to get a better idea about your topic
- Try using the database called Britannica School for this step
Make a list of search terms (words that are related to your topic)
Begin searching through databases using words from the list of search terms you created
Quickly browse through the articles that your search brings up and sort out your options by deciding:
- Yes, I will definitely use this
- Maybe, I will use this
- No, I will not use this
Read through the articles that you think you will be able to use and begin taking notes
Draft and create your product (paper, presentation, etc.)
Revise and Repeat as necessary. Remember: Research is NOT a linear process. It is very common and necessary to start over and move around the steps many times before arriving at a final product

Internet Search Tips:

Remember the difference between using Google vs databases:
- Google (or other web browser) mostly offers website sources only. On occasion, ebooks are available. In addition, many of the images/videos found are not easily citable and may conflict with copyright law
- Databases off many types of reliable resources in one place, including, but not limited to: books, journals, magazines and newspapers, podcasts, videos, images, websites, reference materials, etc. And databases are VERY EASY TO CITE. (Check out the many databases offered below!)
If you choose to use Google (or other web browser):
- Remember that the first things that you find are not always the best or most relevant to your search or topic
- Pay close attention to the author's credibility, reliability, etc.
- Pay close attention to whether or not a larger institution (such as government, educational institutions, or organizations) is affiliated or connected with the article.
- Pay close attention to any biases (opinions) that the author or larger institution may have
- Pay close attention to when the article was last updated or if there is a copyright date