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The Research Process

An overview of the research process, which includes information about search strategies, how to choose and refine topics, kinds of resources, and citing sources

Introducing the research process

This is a simple outline to help you with the basics of the research process.

  1. Select a general topic
  2. Develop search vocabulary
  3. Find background information
  4. Narrow or broaden the topic
  5. Focus your research
  6. Find current and specific information using library databases
  7. Find detailed and historical information via the library catalog
  8. Find current and specific information on the open web
  9. Cite sources

Feel free to contact library staff for assistance with any step of your research!

  • Last Updated: Oct 30, 2025 8:44 AM
  • URL: https://libguides.aacc.edu/researchprocess
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