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As with writing skills,
though, research skills are rarely taught — professors and mentors assume aspiring
writers and students know or can figure out how to do good research. Thank heavens
for Google, right? If you took a bibliography course in university, like me,
you might still remember your “real” research skills ―that doesn’t include
Wikipedia, Google, or any search engine. Before
you start doing all the research for your next novel, you first need to keep in
mind what ALL professors and publishing companies despise: plagiarism.
1. Be
Diligent. Nobody said that being a sleuth
was going to be easy. The Internet is not the only source of information. Libraries
(remember them?) have a myriad of resources, including DVDs, microfilms, CDs, good
old books, etc.
2. Do
research of your research. I know it
seems redundant but it’s important to double check your facts, especially when
the information obtained comes from a dubious source.
3. Be
selective. Use information effectively for a specific purpose.
4. Develop
a scheme for tracking your work. Whether you audio/video record
or take notes of your findings, make sure you save them in two different places
and always back up your computer.
5. Avoid
cutting and pasting. This could lead to plagiarism.
Remember to cite properly and give credit to your sources.
