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Welcome!

This site contains everything you need to successfully complete your research.

But remember, if at any point you're not sure what to do or where to go next, you can always ask a librarian!

Developing Your Research Topic

Whether you've selected your own research topic or your instructor has provided you with one, you will likely find yourself modifying it as you write and gather information.


Most of the time, we hear great topics from students. Sometimes these topics are so unique and brilliant that data has not yet been compiled and published about them. So, if you are searching and searching and can’t find the data you need, its possible that data doesn’t exist. Be sure to ask a librarian before you decide the data doesn't exist. If this is the case, be flexible. Take a look at what you are finding and tweak your topic to address data that does exist.
 

(And, save that topic! When you start doing original research, you’ll already have a great research question ready to go.)

Keyword Development

Good keywords are essential to good research. So it is a good idea to come up with a list of keywords before you even start researching.

Two simple questions can get you started:
1. What do I know about my topic?
2. What do I want to know about my topic?

List out the answers to those questions using single words or simple phrases. These will become your keywords.


Be prepared that this may all change as you learn more information through your research.

image of the undergraduate services librarian

Questions? Please contact

Katherine Jones

Undergraduate Services Librarian

kathjones@ksu.edu

785.826.2637

111F Technology Center

Thank you! We will get back to you soon!

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