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.