The research process is just that: a process. A good researcher isn't someone that puts the right words in the search box the first time, it's someone who uses each search to improve the next one. By being aware that you'll circle back and perform tasks more than once, use more than one tool, and look at more resources than you actually use, you'll be better equipped to plan how long your research takes and pick the best sources. Remember to use the citations of a good source to find more sources, as if you were building a chain. Whenever you're reading an article or book, or as you get oriented with an encyclopedia or other reference work, keep an eye out for citations to interesting sources.
Ask a Librarian 24/7 service: Anytime, anywhere! This instant messaging reference service lets you chat with a librarian no matter what time it is. Puget Sound librarians can email you to follow up if you leave your email address.
