One of the early stages in the research process is when you investigate the existing research on your topic, which may include articles and books, magazines and newspapers, data, or other historical primary sources. Investigating that existing research is like listening to a conversation that’s already been going on--asking your own questions and producing a response is adding to that conversation. Learn more about “Research as a Conversation” in this short video (or read the text transcript).
UNLV Librarians can help you find existing research to prepare you to join the research conversation!
Types of Sources
- Looking for background information on a topic? CQ Researcher has great overviews of many topics of current social and political importance.
- Need to use sources in a particular format (book, article, government document, map, etc)? You can search for sources by format.
- Learn what a scholarly article is, and how it’s different from a popular article.
- Different types of sources (a tweet, a news story, a book) can be used for different purposes. The “information lifecycle” explains these differences. (text transcript)
Finding Sources
- Learn how to search for sources effectively. (text transcript)
- Find out where to find books. (text transcript)
- Discover where to find scholarly articles. (text transcript)
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Need more articles?
- Check the library guide on your subject, where your librarian has listed the best journals and databases for this subject.
- Know which database you want? You can find it on our database page.
Getting Help... from a Librarian
- Use our website to schedule an in-person appointment with a librarian.
- Contact us by text, IM, email, or phone.
- Feel free to drop by a library research desk (Lied’s is on the first floor) for in-person assistance!
General Resources for Research Projects
- Guides to library resources (by course subject)
- Research-related video tutorials
- “Scholarly” vs. “popular” sources (PDF)