The Research Process: General Overview
Starting Points for Background Information
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
This link opens in a new window
Provides overview reports on topics ranging from health and social issues to environment and technology. Each report includes an introductory overview, background and chronology on the topic, an assessment of the current situation, tables and maps, pro/con statements from representatives of opposing positions, and bibliographies of key sources. Includes reports from 1923 - current.
Collections of Encyclopedias
- Gale Virtual ReferenceFull-text encyclopedias on many subjects
- Oxford Reference Online This link opens in a new window
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Dictionaries, encyclopedias, and subject reference works.
About Reference Sources
| When | For an overview of your topic |
| Why | Background info, topic overviews, bibliographies |
|
Where |
Snoqualmie Building, Reference Section, 1st Floor Search UW Libraries Search |
UW Libraries Search
UW Libraries Search
Searching UW Libraries
Tips for searching:
- Combine the keywords of your topic with the term Encyclopedias to find reference books. Example: Vietnam war encyclopedias
- Once you complete your search, you can limit your search by choosing UW Tacoma Library in the dropdown.