Encyclopedias, Almanacs, and Atlases
Before the time of the Internet, there were other ways one could research specific topics. Three of these options included:
- encyclopedias;
- almanacs;
- atlases.
These reference materials are still readily available in a library, as well as through online libraries. In using these materials, you will continue to improve your research and allow your topic to have additional facts you might not be able to find elsewhere.
Encyclopedias
When you are researching any topic, an encyclopedia can be a strong starting point. These books are filled with basic information about a variety of topics, and the topics are all put together into one book.The topics are arranged in alphabetical order, allowing you to easily find the main topic. Many encyclopedias also include pictures and charts, which help to create a stronger understanding for a reader.
Here are some easy strategies to use when researching with an encyclopedia:
- Determine a big topic for your research. Instead of picking a smaller detail on which to focus, find the bigger topic you want to study. For example, if you need to research the behaviors of cats, you would look up "cats" instead of the full question.
- Find the most current encyclopedia. Because information changes, it is best that you choose an encyclopedia that is current and contains information that is still relevant.
- Look in the table of contents or the index to find the page number of your topic.
- You also can look through an encyclopedia, as topics are arranged alphabetically.
- Read the section on the topic.
- Review the pictures and other information on the page.
- Look to see what other related topics might be covered in the encyclopedia. Many topics will have a list of related topics at the end of the entry.This will help you find even more information.
- Look at the encyclopedia bibliography for other resources to use.
Many encyclopedias are now available on CD-ROM and online. These are consistently updated, and they provide you with research no matter what time of day or night it is.
Libraries also have current copies of many encyclopedias, like the popular Encyclopedia Britannica.
Other possible ways to use an encyclopedia include:
- learning the overview of a larger topic;
- finding out more about a specific animal or plant;
- learning about a specific person from history.
With an encyclopedia, you will begin to understand the larger picture. This will inform you about your topic and allow you to see what questions have not been answered in your research yet.
With this knowledge in mind, you can begin to refine your search for additional information, using other sources of reference to continue your research.
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