Where to start, what to write, how do I begin to research, how do I write an essay? Writing an essay for school or a business report for the office can be one of the most intimidating chores we have to endure.  Time and time again we just want to throw our hands up into the air, pull out our hair, and bite our nails to the bone; hopefully after spending a few minutes on our site we will be able to point you into the correct direction! 

How to Research

The internet is a great resource for research, at the same time is is a little overwhelming. How can you best use the internet for research? Our Research Page will help you coordinate your research sources, and provide support on finding basic facts. Our Reference Desk includes hits and tips on how to properly use search engines. Our writing assistance section tells you how to start your research through detailed support on various writing style guides.

• Search Engines - The net is too big at times.  Use these links to make your job easier.
• Reference Desk - Basic facts, figures and every day knowledge.  Great starting place!
• Indexes and Journals - Looking for Journal articles and on-line copies of professional publications?
• Libraries - Why leave your room for the simple reference list?
• Newspapers & Current Events - Find out what happened 5 minutes ago in the world or research current issues.
• Virtual Library - Environment - a resource center for a wide range of environmental data
• Writing Assistance - Where to start, what to write, how do I begin to research?
• General Research Links - These past links and a few more.

Style Guides

Different academic disciplines use different documentation styles; your instructor may require you to use a particular style, or may allow you use one of your choosing. It is important to fully understand the documentation style to be used in your paper, and to apply it consistently.

Check out our detailed guides to these major styles:

• American Political Science Association (APSA)
• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Modern Language Association (MLA)

Writing your Essay

• How to Organize your Thesis, by John W. Chinneck.

Editing your Essay

• Commonly Mixed Up Words