Preparing for research
There are some practical tips that can help you prepare for the research process and begin it with more confidence.
Comfort Tips
Find the place that best works for you to study and write; your college library or your own room.
Decide if it works for you to work quietly or with a little distraction such as background music.
Avoid distractions from your social environment like roommates, and online social media networks.
Determine the time you enjoy doing mentally engaging work; early in the morning or later in the day.
Mechanical Tips
Bookmark the library website and find out when the physical library is open.
Identify the log-in or authentication procedure for accessing library resources from off-campus.
Issue a photocopying and printing card, as some of the resources may be in print format.
Get a removable storage device or access Google Drive or Dropbox to save your sources.
Psychological Tips
If you are a procrastinator, start research early enough or you are taking the risk of doing too little.
If you are a perfectionist, try not to cover everything, or you are taking the risk of missing your focus.
Contact a librarian at [email protected]. We can help you find resources and strategically plan your research. You will feel that you are not alone in this process.