Research
How to Find and Screen Sources for a Research Paper
Build search terms, keep a search log, set selection criteria and record your screening decisions.
Good research starts with good sources, and good referencing shows where they came from. These guides explain how to find and screen credible academic sources, use Google Scholar and library databases, write an annotated bibliography and structure a research paper. For referencing, you will find a complete Harvard guide, a comparison of Harvard, APA and OSCOLA so you can see which one your course expects, and a guide to common reference list mistakes. Use them alongside your department's referencing guidance, since small formatting details vary between institutions.
Research & Referencing
Reference List Mistakes to Avoid
The most common reference list errors in academic writing, and how to check yours before you submit.
Research Papers
How to Write a Research Paper: Format & Structure
Format, structure, choosing a topic, writing the abstract, and common mistakes to avoid.
Research
How to Write an Annotated Bibliography (With Example)
What goes in each annotation, how it differs from a literature review, and a worked example.
Referencing
How to Use Harvard Referencing Correctly: A Complete Guide
Master in-text citations and reference list formatting with clear examples for every source type.
Referencing
Harvard vs APA vs OSCOLA: Which Referencing Style Should You Use?
A clear breakdown of the three most common UK/US referencing styles with examples and when each is required.
Research
How to Find Credible Academic Sources for Your Essay
A guide to using Google Scholar, JSTOR, PubMed and university library databases effectively.
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