You can get help with your research, even when you can't come to campus!
Use the icon above to contact a reference librarian by chat or email.
If chat is not available at the moment, email library-reference@redwoods.edu, and a librarian will respond as quickly as possible. Please allow at least 48 hours for responses to emails!
Using Google to search for literature resources online can be difficult, not least because many of the materials that you will turn up are likely to be papers written by other college students - not a good source if you're trying to impress your teacher with your research skills! However, there are good sources of literary criticism and research online, and we've listed some of them below to help you get started.
TIP #1: USE SITES RECOMMENDED by sources that have editors, professors, scholars, scientists, or librarians who review and select the best sites. Recommended links lists can be found in these research guides created by our librarians, and online databases such as Britannica, CQ Researcher, CREDO Reference.
TIP #2: USE FORMAT TERMS when using a search engine such as Google:
TIP #3: USE SEARCH COMMANDS, or use the advanced search:
TIP #4: USE SITE SEARCH to limit to .edu, .gov, or to specific websites:
TIP #5: USE LOTS OF SEARCH WORDS that relate to your topic. Think of synonyms, variant forms, and plurals. Consider what words might be used by journalists or popular media, as compared to scientists, specialists, or researchers. Remember, you are searching a HUGE database with all kinds of content. Maximize your chances for success by including as many search words as possible. Some examples:
TIP #6: TRY OTHER SEARCH ENGINES. Each Internet search engine uses its own proprietary search system, and some are better with certain types of search than others. Most will allow you to use the same search commands outlined in this guide. Engines listed below are the Top Ten most popular search engines in the world, by 2018 market share.
Once you've found a good website, you need to use your critical thinking skills to evaluate the information:
The following guides may also be useful for you as you research your subject: