ENG101: College Writing (Forman): Home
Welcome
Welcome to the Research Guide for ENG101, College Writing.
Research
When you're writing a research paper, the strength of your argument relies on the evidence you present, so locating reliable and factual sources is key to your success. Start by choosing a topic you are passionate about, then refine it. Brainstorm dimensions of your topic to add specificity and formulate keywords. At this stage, using online sources will help you understand which factors are central to the discussion surrounding your topic, but you will want to think critically about each online source before citing it in your paper. For example, who is the author or publisher? Do they have a bias or agenda? When was the source created, is it timely?
Argumentative essays require you to examine your topic, collect and evaluate evidence, and take a stand on one side of the issue.
Alternatives to Wikipedia
- Credo Reference This link opens in a new windowProvides full-text online versions of hundreds of top quality reference books in all major subjects from art to medicine, psychology to history, and technology to literature. Includes bilingual and biographical dictionaries.
- Britannica Library: Reference Center This link opens in a new windowAccess to high-quality, comprehensive information. The rich combination of the insightful Encyclopædia Britannica plus Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary and Thesaurus, magazines and periodicals, and many other research tools provides the variety of reliable sources that students need to consult when conducting thorough research—all from one database.
Example: Overcrowding in the U.S. Prison System
Thesis: Overcrowding of U.S. prisons causes increased recidivism and prevents individuals who are incarcerated from receiving rehabilitation.
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Library Help Chat
BCC librarians are available to help you with your research. We provide guidance in locating information and using resources available through the library and on the internet.
If a librarian is online, use the window above to chat live. A librarian is available to chat during normal business hours.
You can also use our off-line form, and a librarian will e-mail you back with answers and suggestions. You will receive a reply within 2 business days.