History (Primary Sources)

1. Explore your topic

Before you settle on a topic, it is a good idea to explore a bit first! The library is a great resource for background information!

2. Refine your topic

Now that you've done some background research, it's time to narrow your topic! Remember: the shorter your final paper, the narrower your topic needs to be. 

3. Search for Sources

After you have decided on a topic, you will need to begin searching for resources. Will you need books, articles, or something else? 

4. Evaluate your sources

After you have found sources, you will need to decide if they are the right ones to use for this assignment. 

5. Write

Now it is time to pull together all of your research into your assignment. Tie together your research into a compelling argument. VCSU's Learning Commons can help with that! 

6. Cite / Format

Once your paper is written, you are going to want to double check your citations and formatting. What style are you using? APA? MLA? Turabian? Journal of Wildlife Management?

Get Help 

Need help at any moment along the research process? The library is here for you! We can help with developing topics, finding sources, and citation!