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CPS Online Library Research Guide (UNH Manchester Library): The Research Process - Start Here

Library Research to Complete an Assignment - It's Different

Research has become a common activity. With the availability of internet access, Google, and search algorithms we have become very used to a quick and informal process for finding the information we need. When doing research for college class assignments, the process is a bit more formal.  Without understanding the process associated with library research, you can spend a great deal of time becoming frustrated looking for the information you need. This section of the UNH CPS Library Research Guide will walk you through research steps that make use of the resources available to you and will increase your efficiency in completing these types of assignments.

Important Note: While the process outlined here is most frequently taught in academic libraries, your instructor may have particular guidelines or suggestions. In all cases please follow your instructor's guidelines for what you submit as your assignment.

The Following Process Steps are Described in this Section of the Guide. Hover over this tab to see more information about each step.

  • Understand the Assignment
  • Do You Have a Strategy?
  • 7 Steps to Completing a Research Assignment - An Overview
  • Step 1: Explore & Define the Topic
  • Step 2: Narrow the Topic
  • Step 3: Gather Information
  • Step 4: Create a Research Question
  • Step 5: Find & Evaluate Sources
  • Step 6: Research Integrity & Citing Your Sources
  • Step 7: Writing Your Research Paper