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Humanities

A resource guide for study and research in humanities.

Background Information

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.

Reference Sources

Reference sources, such as encyclopedias and dictionaries, are great for gathering general information a topic.  If you need definitions of words or conceptsstatistical 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.