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English Research Guide: Home

Resources and information for research in English studies.

Know Your Topic

It is important that you know exactly what you are researching.  If a topic is too general, you won't get real answers.  The more specific you are, the better your research will be.  Use mind mapping to develop your topic.  Here are some great mind mapping tools

  • Mind Map Your Topic: use this easy and interactive tool from the University of Arizona.  It will allow you to pose a research question when you are done and print the entire map.
  • MindMeister: social networking meets the mind map.  Use this to collaborate with others on topic development.  Basic accounts are free.

 

What do you do if your topic is too narrow?  Get a little bit broader with location, dates and similar information.  Your job is to take the broader research and decide if it is connected to your narrower topic.

MLA Style - Humanities

MLA (Modern Language Association) Style is primarily used for the humanities - English, philosophy, music, religion - but can also be used in other subjects.

Helpful MLA related sites to assist you with proper citations:

ILLiad: Get Articles, Books or A/V from Another Library