¢ How to Start Researching:
— Sources of Information:
¢ Internet (Lexis-Nexis, academic journals)
¢ Library (books, encyclopedias, DVDs, etc.)
¢ Experts (your dad)
— Formulate questions:
¢ What do you want to find out about your speech topic? Write a list of questions that you can answer throughout your research.
¢ This will help structure your research and be a way to know when you have “finished.”
¢ Learn the Lexicon
— As you research you will discover new terms that are specific to the field
¢ Write down terms that are used frequently
¢ Make a list of definitions
¢ Learn to “talk the talk”
— This will help you understand your research and add to your credibility
¢ Interviewing
— Types of experts
¢ Educators
¢ Public Officials
¢ Agencies or Non-Profit Organizations
¢ Athletes
¢ Doctors
¢ Accountants
¢ Any professional
— Make a list of questions
¢ Avoid vague questions
¢ Don’t disagree, argue, or interrupt
¢ Send a thank you note
¢ Record Your Sources
— Use MLA or APA as your format for recording your sources
— Find an organizational system that works for you
¢ Note cards
¢ Notebook
¢ Word Document
— Record quotes and data in a way that you can easily find it later