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Hartness Home Guides & Help Research Basics Gather Background Information
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Step 4. Gather Background Information


Presearch

Look up background information in textbooks, encyclopedias, or other reference resources.
Use the general information to help you narrow or broaden your focus or to identify related
information that might fit with your topic, and to look for more keywords.


Names, Dates, & Facts

As you investigate, look for information that will help put your topic into context.
Specific locations, dates, names, or facts may also help you focus the subject of your paper.
Review Step 2. Refine Your Topic for more ideas.


Video Tutorial


Go to Step 5