Not finding what you need? Visit, chat, call, or email a librarian. We are here to help you succeed.
Fall and spring semester research help hours (EDT):
M-W: | 10:00 am-9:00 pm |
Th: | 10:00 am-5:00 pm |
Fri | 10:00 am-3:00 pm |
Welcome!
On this guide you will find resources to guide you through the research process. From forming a question or refining a topic to researching articles and citing sources, the library and its online resources are here to help.
Use this guide to support your research journey and reach out to your librarian as you have questions.
Writing Center tutors are here to guide and support you at all stages of the writing process.
They are located on the third floor of Cushwa-Leighton Library. You may drop in or make an appointment through the online form.
Where to start
Find an idea or topic that interests you. If you are not interested, curious, or excited about your topic, consider shifting focus.
Search the literature! Remember to limit to articles published within the last 5 years (on or after January 1 is acceptable) and to use the Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt Hierarchy of Evidence to find articles that rank at Levels 2, 3, 4, or 6.
Think you have your articles? Read through them and make a draft outline. When you feel confident that your articles fully answer the research question or address the nursing problem, reach out to your mentor for article approval.
How to get organized for pre-writing
Once your articles are approved, read them! Pay closest attention to the sections Results, Discussion, Implications, and Conclusions.
The more time and conscious effort you put into outlining, notes, and the literature table, the easier it will be to transition to writing.
Definitions and elaboration of what constitutes evidence in each of the seven levels of Melynk & Fineout-Overholt's Hierarchy of Evidence.