IPT Literature Review - 7 steps to get you started  

Follow the tabs above from Step 1 through Step 7 to get an overview of the research process. You will find information and resources at each step.

• Be sure to complete the "Activity" and "Self Check" before moving along to the next step.

• Get help when you need it! Feel free to contact me via email or phone. My contact information is on the right.

Have fun! Engaging in inquiry is an opportunity to follow your interests, so enjoy the process.

Simply put, honing your ability to efficiently locate quality information will save you time in the long run. For example, instead of fumbling around on the Internet, a skilled researcher is able to identify and navigate the academic and authoritative information sources in their field.

After working through the 7 steps in this guide, you will have the foundational skills to:

• locate background information on a topic
• craft keywords to use in a search
• identify databases and search engines useful for your research
• find relevant books and journal articles
• cite sources using APA
  

A thorough review of existing literature will strengthen your papers by linking your ideas to the scholarship in your field. Tapping into lines of scholarship isn't always easy or intuitive, but going through the steps outlined by the tabs above, will provide a foundation for the skills and concepts you need to successfully perform academic research.

Here are some of the ways you will use these information-finding skills now and in the future:

• papers and projects that ask you to find information beyond the course readings
• literature reviews for theses and dissertations
• evidence-based practice in your field

Feel free to contact me and ask for help!

Elaine Watson, Librarian
ewatson@boisestate.edu
208-426-1737

Why bother going through the 7 steps of this guide?

This guide was originally created by Sara Seely.  Thank you, Sara!