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East Central: Guide to Library Resources for English Students: Research Help

Citing Sources

When you write a research paper or report for a class, you will need to cite your sources.  Never fear, help is available! 

For a short interactive tutorial on citing sources and avoiding plagiarism, see IvyTILT, Module 6. For another good source on avoiding plagiarism (with links to additional sources), Click here --from EBSCO.

  • Many of our library databases, such as EBSCO or ProQuest, offer help citing the sources you find -- look for the options available when you print or email an article, or sometimes a link will be available onscreen when you are viewing an article. (Be sure to double check what they provide against one of the following tools.)
  • NoodleTools can help you build a citation for any kind of resource you need to cite.  For more information (and if you are a first-time user), see below.
  • And finally, you can stop in your campus library for a copy of the Citation Handbook developed for our region, or download a copy here.

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Getting Started with NoodleTools/NoodleBib

NoodleBib is a comprehensive MLA and APA bibliography composer with a fully-integrated note-taking component. A tour and user's guide are available to acquaint you with this tool.

Each user must create a "personal folder" (i.e., select a personal ID and password) by clicking the "Create a new folder" link on the NoodleTools login screen.

A student clicking on "Create a new folder" from within the IP range we have on record will be automatically authenticated. Otherwise, they will be prompted for the campus subscription login (or just the password). If this happens, contact your library for assistance. Once you have created a personal folder, you will not need campus "authentication" again, but only your newly created personal ID and password at the log in screen.

Please feel welcome to ask library staff for assistance.

Where To Start

First step : Be sure you understand your assignment. Clarify anything you don't understand with your instructor, then bring your assignment in writing to the library so that staff can better help you find the kinds of information you need.

If you want to write a paper and you don't have a topic, there are many good places to get ideas. Current news articles (see Find Articles tab) are great ideas for paper topics. You can also look through the table of contents of a journal (see IvyJo). Almost any topic of interest may be found in the Opposing Viewpoints database, which supplies sources from books, as well as articles from magazines/journals, and more -- you can browse the opening screen for ideas. ProQuest offers a similar "Topic" browse. (When opening databases from this guide, if you are not logged into Campus Connect, you may be asked to enter your Campus Connect ID and password--the first time.)

Also, if you need a general orientation to library resources, and where to find them, see this guide: Orientation to the Virtual Library

Types of Information

 

Search Strategies

The sources listed in "Where to Start" also address search strategies.

Research & Statistics

Subject Guide