Information Literacy

Step 3

When the thesis statement is chosen, start gathering articles. Make sure there are enough full-text articles to support the argument. Follow the professor’s guidelines for number of articles.

Remember to be specific.

• Identify Reliable Sources
  • Use scholarly databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, or PubMed.
  • Reference books, academic journals, and government reports for credible information.
  • Be cautious with web sources—stick to reputable sites (e.g., .edu, .gov, .org).
• Take Purposeful Notes
  • Summarize key points instead of copying text verbatim.
  • Highlight important quotes that directly support your thesis.
  • Keep track of source details (author, title, publication date) for citations.
• Organize Your Findings
  • Categorize data by theme, argument, or section of your paper.
  • Use tools like notecards, spreadsheets, or research apps (e.g., Zotero, Evernote).
• Check for Bias and Accuracy
  • Cross-check facts across multiple sources to ensure accuracy.
  • Consider the author’s credibility and potential bias in the information.
• Balance Your Sources
  • Include both primary and secondary sources to provide depth.
  • Avoid over-reliance on one perspective—incorporate diverse viewpoints.
• Identify Gaps in Your Research
  • Ensure all key aspects of your thesis are well-supported.
  • If gaps exist, refine your research questions and seek additional sources.
• Properly Cite Your Sources
  • Use the correct citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago) as required.
  • Keep a running bibliography to avoid accidental plagiarism.