How to Use Background Information
Why Start Your Research with a Specialized Encyclopedia?
- Encyclopedia articles can help you select your research subject.
- Encyclopedia articles are an excellent way to initially become aquantied with a topic because they are short; subject experts have condensed the information down to one to two pages typically.
- Because it's the easiest way to get good search terms; encyclopedia articles mention and define keywords that you can use in your research.
- Encyclopedias articles guide you to high-quality resources; use the works cited at the end of the article to expand your number of sources.
- Starting your research with an encyclopedia will save time.
Online Encyclopedias at UMKC
These databases are available while you are logged onto a computer at Miller Nichols Library as a guest user.
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Points of View Reference Center provides essays that present multiple sides of a current issue; each topic also includes an overview, point, counterpoint, critical thinking guide, and additional sources. |
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CQ Researcher provides comprehensive reporting and analysis on issues in the news, specifically issues addressed by Congress. |
Topic Tip: Browse
Hint: If you are having trouble selecting a topic try using the Browse by Category feature of Points of View Reference (available while you are logged in as a guest user at Miller Nichols Library).
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