Step 6: Record your searches and information about your findings

Why?

As you work the steps of the library research process, keep track of what you found, and how you found it. Keeping a record of the terms you used to search, the places you searched, what you found, and where you found it will make the research process more efficient.

As you begin work with your sources, take down the information you will need to cite it properly in your paper. Keep track of the page numbers as you take notes. The references of your paper build the foundation of your paper. They should not be collected as an afterthought when your paper is complete.

How?

  • Use a research log.
  • Know what plagiarism is and how to avoid it.
  • Follow the style manual specified by your instructor.

    Style Guides in the Library:

    • MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing
      • University Library Ready Reference (2nd Floor North). Call number LB 2369 .G53 2009 (Non-circulating)
      • University Library Bookstacks. Call number LB 2369 .G53 2009
      • University Library Circulation Desk. Call number LB 2369 .G53 2009 (7-day library reserve)
      • Mitchell College of Business, Reference. Call number LB 2369 .G53 2009 (Non-circulating)
    • Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th edition
      • University Library Ready Reference (2nd Floor North). Call number BF 76.7 .P83 2010 (Non-circulating)
      • University Library Circulation Desk, 7 Day Library Reserve. Call number BF 76.7 .P83 2010
    • Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition
      • University Library Ready Reference (2nd Floor North). Call number Z 253 .U69 (Non-circulating)
    • A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations: Chicago Style for Students and Researchers, 7th edition
      • University Library Ready Reference (2nd Floor North). Call number LB 2369 .T8 2007 (Non-circulating)
      • University Library Bookstacks. Call number LB 2369 .T8 2007
      • University Library Circulation Desk, 7 Day Library Reserve. Call number LB 2369 .T8 2007
      • Mitchell College of Business Library, Reference. Call number LB 2369 .T8 2007 (Non-circulating)

    Online Style References: