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Choosing Your Research Topic: A Beginner’s Guide
Welcome to Your Academic Journey at NU!

Selecting and developing a research topic is a crucial first step. Begin by discussing your ideas with your course instructor to ensure your topic isn’t already extensively covered in existing papers and that sufficient information is available for your project. If you’re uncertain about how to proceed, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your professor.

Finding suitable databases can be challenging at first. Start by searching the library’s Primo using key concepts or keywords related to your topic. Check out our Primo Quick Start Guide to learn about its powerful features that will help you find the best resources for your project. You can also ask for the librarian's assistance at Research Support or Teaching & Learning for valuable advice and resource suggestions. Additionally, our library collections contain many books on writing and research.

As you conduct research, remember the importance of properly citing and referencing your sources. Accurate citation not only credits the original authors but also strengthens your work’s credibility.

Finally, explore all of NU Library’s databases and research guides, and consult your Liaison Librarian if needed. We also highly recommend attending our library sessions and workshops to learn more about our services and enhance your research skills.

Good luck with your research, and remember, support is always available to help you succeed!

Read more in the NU Library Guide: Introduction to Research.
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