When you select a topic, keep in mind the subject may be so new that there is little available information; i.e. you heard it on a television or radio show or it is new or cutting-edge. There may be information available, but some digging will be required. Consider doing some background reading on the topic before making a final selection…….you may want to change your topic.
Background reading has many purposes:
- It helps you find out what is available on your subject and helps you get updated on a topic with which you're already familiar. Should your topic be more specific? More general? What does the library have that is readily available?
- You can get an overview of the subject, without going into much detail. Examine information from the last 3-5 years, particularly if your topic is in medicine, business, or law, because these fields continually change.
- Look at the focus of various authors….what approach did they take to your topic? Select one of their methods, or choose your own path.
- What subject areas and search terms are used? Are these terms specialized? Are you aware of any special indexes, books, or encyclopedias published in the field?
- Search where previous authors or researchers have searched……some sources are available, others out of print or archived. Noting citations in the encyclopedia article can send you to more resources.