Lesson 3: Deciding What Information You Need

• Not all assignments are created equal. The information you need and the sources you use for different assignments can vary greatly. Some assignments are short, while others are longer.
  
  
• Simply looking in the catalog for a book on your topic may or may not result in anything you can use. If you select the wrong sources, writing your paper may become frustrating or even impossible.
  
  
• In the 21st century, using the library is not just a matter of looking in a catalog, finding a book and taking it home. There really is a lot more involved. 
  

Understanding Your Assignment

• As you begin your research, make sure you understand your assignment, and any restrictions on what kind of materials you may use (magazines, journals, Internet sites, books etc.).
  
  
• Restate the assignment to yourself and if you have any questions, see your instructor. 
  
  
• Do not expect the reference librarians to interpret or explain your assignment.  Ask your instructor.
  
  
• Remember, you and only you are responsible (with help from your instructor, if needed) for determining the requirements of your assignment.