Which Information Source Should I Use?
There is no right or wrong choice of information tools, but, depending on what you’re researching, one tool may be more effective than another. Just be sure that you always give credit to all your sources in your works cited page (Citation Guide ). Here is a quick guide that may help you decide which information tool to use:
I should use Books if I want:
- in-depth coverage on a particular topic
- information written by specialists who have done extensive research
- information that does not have to be very current (always check the copyright date)
- information logically and coherently arranged with an index and a table of contents to help me
- You can’t go wrong with a good, well-researched book on your topic.
I should use Encyclopedias if I want:
- a short general overview of my topic to scan for background information
- answers to specific factual questions
- information written by specialists who know their subject
- information that does not have to be very current (check the copyright date)
- Many teachers recommend that you start your research by reading an encyclopedia article on your topic to get an overview of it. Good idea!
I should use Periodicals (magazines or newspapers) if I want:
- very up-to-date information
- information on current events
- information on popular "hot" topics
- articles written by professional journalists who have done research
- a focus on a narrow part of a large topic
- examples of events or people in the news that help make my research clearer
- Go to: Online Databases through Michigan eLibrary
I should use the Internet if I want:
- information that is really hard to find anywhere else
- the very latest information on my topic, but I must always check the dates posted
- opinions from different people or organizations about my topic
- a great variety of information from people, businesses, organizations, and even some reference books
- For a checklist to help you verify the quality of information from a website, go to Validation Form