To find out the first things you should do when tackling an assignment, check out the Approaching an Assignment page in this guide.
There are a few things students can do to make online research efficient and effective:
1. Identify Effective Keywords
Keywords are words and phrases that you enter into a search engine (like Google) to find information on the topic or assignment you are researching. The better your keywords, the more relevant and effective your results will be. Watch the video in the box on this page to see how finding and using effective keyword searches will benefit your research.
2. Do a basic, 'first' search for information online using your keywords
How effective are your results? Are you finding the information you need? If your online research is not helping you find relevant answers, you may need to go back to Step 1 and reconsider your keywords. Chat with the Library Team by submitting a Library Helpdesk ticket, for assistance.
3. Evaluate your sources
Check to see if the information you have found and want to use is authoritative - that is, is it accurate, reliable information? Check out the page in this guide titled Evaluating Sources for more information.
4. Make Notes
Make some notes from the research you have found. Does it answer your research questions and meet the marking criteria? Now is also an excellent time to reference your information sources - take note of the information you are using and where you got it from. Reference as you go! Use the APA Reference Guide, and ask the Library Team for help if you need it.
5. Write your Assignment
With great research, notes and references, and checking the marking criteria, you are on your way to completing a great assignment!
6. Proofread and Edit your Assignment
Double check your work, read it aloud or to a family member or friend. Does it all make sense? Any spelling or grammatical errors? Where can you improve? Check out the information on the Proofreading and Editing page in this guide.