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Finding and Evaluating Scholarly Sources: Home

This guide will introduce you to scholarly resources you will need for your research assignments; Scholarly and Popular Publications-journals, magazines, newspapers; and define primary and secondary sources.

Scholarly Resources

Books -- FAMU Library catalog

Journal articles --   Databases A-Z  (eg. ProQuest, Academic One File)

Background information -- Reference resources   (Encyclopedias, directories, Credo Reference, Britannica Online)

 Introduction to Finding and Evaluating Scholarly Sources

At some point in your college career your coursework will require you to do research papers.  You will be required to locate and use specific types of resources.  Skills needed to successfully conduct research include determining which resources  best fit your needs, and, evaluating resources chosen.  Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Where should I begin looking for resources?
  • What clues should I use in my search for resources?
  • Should I look for resources that only support my thesis statement?

Once you've found material on your topic, decide whether to use it in your paper or project.