Research Basics: Find Background Information
Sources of Background Information
Background information can be found in: 
- textbooks
- dictionaries
- general encyclopedias
- subject-specific encyclopedias
- article databases
These sources are often listed on the Books & E-Books tab of our subject guides.
Purpose of Background Research
Once you have identified some keywords, the next step is to find background information on your topic. Background research:
- Provides a good overview of the topic if you are unfamiliar with it.
- Helps identify important facts -- terminology, dates, events, history, organizations, etc.
- Can help refine your topic.
- Leads to bibliographies which provide additional sources of information.