## 1.5 : When should I use each type of information source?

#### 1.5.1: I'm looking for basic information on a subject

What should I use?

Reference works: to find information on general concepts (encyclopaedia) or a particular word (dictionary).

Why?

- Here you can find a relatively brief description of your subject and often a selective literature list as well.
- To become acquainted with the subject of your paper.
- To quickly look up information on a topic or person,
- To find new appropriate search terms for your subject.

Some reference works are only available in printed versions, so you will have to visit a library to access them.

#### 1.5.2: I'm looking for a particular author's work or about a specific subject

What should I use?

- Catalogues: to search the library's print and online sources.
- Databases: to consult online sources of texts, images, objects, etc.

Why?

- To familiarise yourself with and better understand your subject.
- To study your subject in depth for the first time. Studying the critical introduction of an edition is often highly appropriate for this.
- To learn more about what researchers think about your subject.
- To familiarise yourself with the various theories and hypotheses over aspects of your subject.
- To test the various theories and hypotheses against the sources.