Research 101
Research 101 is a series of online tutorials and guides to teach basic library research skills and introduce you to the services available at Queen's University Library. You will learn how to find books, journal articles and how to order materials from other libraries and more.
Research 101 is not a guide to finding specific resources for a specific topic; instead, it introduces the process of doing research and the skills required to make good decisions along the way.
The Research Process
Why the Library?
Although Google does contain a lot of information, it does not contain everything and it should not be exclusively used in academic research. The Library has print and subscription electronic resources that will assist you in your coursework.
Discover the Library
How to Find Books
Search QCAT, the library catalogue to find books and more that Queen's owns. The following guide and web pages will show you how to search for hard copy, electronic books and more.
Finding Books and More (PDF handout)
How to Search QCAT
How to Find Journal Articles
Journals and magazines are important sources for up-to-date information in all disciplines. The Library provides access to a large collection of journals, both in print and electronic formats. Use databases to locate journal and newspaper articles, book chapters and other resources to specific subject areas.
The tutorial and handout will show you how to search for articles through the use of a couple of CSA databases.
Finding Journal Articles (PDF handout)
Faculty often request that their students use scholarly journals in their research. It is important to be able to tell the difference between scholarly journals and popular press. The following guide will help you identify whether a journal is scholarly or not.
Distinguishing Scholarly Journals from other Periodicals
How to Order Materials from Other Libraries
If Queen's Library does not own the material you need, you can request them from other libraries. For information, please check the guide.
How to Evaluate Materials
It can be easy enough to find information, but it is sometimes harder to assess whether it is reliable, current, or correct. To find quality information, check out our guide.
Help
You can get help in several ways by either checking out our help guides, subject guides or by calling, emailing or coming into the libraries for assistance.
Last Updated: 07 December 2010