ENC 1101: Written Communications - Moreau: Research Steps

Welcome to the Library Guide for ENC1101 - Professor Moreau

My name is Janie Richardson. I am your ENC1101 Librarian.

If you have questions, send me an email, or we can set up an appointment in Teams. 

Starting your research:

1) Understand the process for argumentative essays.

Take a look at the slides and information from Purdue's OWL site on Argumentative Essays (see box below).

• The SCF Library has a featured database called Writer's Reference Center with videos that can help.

2) Understand the research process.

• If you are unsure, The SCF Library also has a featured video database called Research Companion that can help

• Check out the tutorials created by SCF Librarians using our resources

3) Databases

Once you are ready to look for information, start with Quick Search box on the library's homepage and then migrate to specific library databases if needed.

• Use the tips below to improve your search results - the Library has over 100 databases. 
• Databases recommended for this assignment are listed in the Pro/Con tab at the top of the guide.

Tips! 

• Have "keywords" ready to try in the search boxes.  You might need to try combinations or synonyms.

• Select FULL TEXT when available.

• Email the document to yourself for safekeeping.

3) Evaluate your sources!  If you want your argument to be good, your evidence needs to be good, too!

• Follow recommended evaluation steps & use the CRAAP test to see if your sources are valid.

• Make sure all citation elements are easy to find.

4) Make sure you understand the rules concerning plagiarism

• If you paraphrase, quote, or summarize information, make sure you CITE it.

• Correct formatting mistakes and any missing information from your citations.

• Use the the Citations Guide Page or  work with a librarian using the ask a librarian chat.