What is this guide for?

The library has many resource guides - most are focused on a specific subject (ex. education) or a specific course (ex. COM 211). 

If you want one of those guides or just want to see what's available, head back to the Resources Guides home page

We recommend you use this guide if: 

  • You have an assignment that gives you freedom to pick from a wide range of topics (ex. you have to write a persuasive essay on any topic).
  • You need ideas for a research project topic. 
  • You're feeling overwhelmed by how many library resources are out there, and you're not sure where to start. 
  • You're interested in learning more about a current event or controversy. 
  • You have a general question - like "What does this word mean?" or "Did the Buddha really say that?" 

Research Starters

Need topic ideas or background information? Start with these sources!

We all use Wikipedia, but if you want something authoritative and reliable, Britannica® Academic is a great option. Like all encyclopedias, this source is a good way to find background information on a topic. 

Note: Results will open in a small new window.

CQ Researcher is a great source for information about current events and controversies. However, it also has some useful historical information, usually about political events (ex. U.S.-Iran relations). We recommend this source when you're having difficulty coming up with a topic. It's also a good tool if you already have an idea, but aren't sure what direction to take. 

Widget - oswego - ovic
Opposing Viewpoints is a great source for information about current events, especially controversial ones. They provide a wide variety of sources on each topic - everything from opinion essays to scholarly articles. We recommend this source when you're having difficulty coming up with a topic. It's also a good tool if you already have an idea, but aren't sure what direction to take.
Search POV Reference Center

This source is very similar to Opposing Viewpoints in Context - it's a good place to look for information on controversial issues.

Background Information

Plan Your Research

Not sure how long it will take you to complete an assignment? Want to make sure that you're not stuck at the last minute? 

The Assignment Calculator can help you plan your work. Don't forget to email yourself the schedule, or print it - both options are at the bottom of the page.