Which information source should I use?

                  Developed by Connie Zack, Library Media Specialist, Cole Junior High, East Greenwich, RI

There is no right or wrong choice of information tools, but depending on what you're researching, one tool may be more effective than another. Just be sure that you always give credit to all your sources in your bibliography. Here is a guide that may help you decide which information tool to use.
 

Books
I should use a book if I want:

  • in-depth coverage on a  particular topic.
  • information written by specialists who have done extensive research
  • information that does not have to be very current (always check the copyright date) 
  • information logically and coherently arranged with an index and a table of contents to help me) 

(You can't go wrong with a good well-researched book on your topic.) 

Encyclopedias
I should use an encyclopedia if I want:

  • a short general overview of my topic to scan for background information
  • answers to specific factual questions
  • information written by specialists who know their subject
  • information that does not have to be very current (always check the copyright date)

(Many teachers recommend that you start your research by reading an encyclopedia article on your topic to get a good  overview of the topic. Not a bad idea!)

Periodicals
I should use a magazine or newspaper if I want:

  • information on popular "hot' topics 
  • information on current events
  • articles written by professional journalists who have done research
  • local news and information
  • very current information
  • a focus on  a narrow part of a larger topic
  • Examples of events or people in the news that help make my research clearer.

(If your teacher asks you to use a periodical, don't forget that can be a magazine, a journal, a newsletter or a newspaper and many of them can even be found online.) 

 

Internet
I should use the Internet if I want: 

  • information that is really hard to find anywhere else
  • the very latest information on my topic, but I must always check the dates posted
  • opinions from different people or organizations about my topic
  • a great variety of information from people. businesses, organizations and even some reference books. 

(When you use the Internet, you should always try to find out who posted the information and how much they know about the topic. Are they experts in their field or students? Are they giving facts or their own opinion?)