Before you can start any research on your topic, you must have some background knowledge of it. This will help you make a list of search terms and possible subtopics. Find a list of recommended websites, encyclopedias, and more below.
ProCon.org presents sourced pros and cons of debatable issues, as well as a host of reference information relevant to those issues, thoroughly researched and compiled by our research staff and editors.
Reference sources, such as encyclopedias and dictionaries, are great for gathering general information a topic. If you need definitions of words or concepts, statistical information, or background information, reference sources are a good place to start.
While most dictionaries and encyclopedias are credible sources of information, reference sources only summarize topics, and should not be used as a substitute for scholarly research. Some professors will not allow you to cite encyclopedias in research papers, so be sure that you understand the expectations of an assignment beforehand. Finally, be sure to choose reference sources wisely! Encyclopedias and dictionaries should be published by a credible source.
The Grove Encyclopedia of American Art by 
The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms by 
The Routledge Encyclopedia of Films by 
The Routledge Handbook of Greek Mythology by 
The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians by 
The Shorter Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy by