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Encyclopedias are a great place for initial research topic ideas. You might want to explore the following encyclopedia databases in order to get overviews of a topic that include major aspects, issues, people or events related to the topic. (Hint: This can help you narrow your topic's focus as you develop your research.) Here are our preferred sources for education:
Encyclopedias and Dictionaries (also known as reference sources) are great resources when you're looking to learn more about a topic, test what you think you already know, identify new search terms, narrow your research focus, or find more advanced resources. Watch the short video from the University of Guelph below to learn more about how you can use reference sources in your research.