How do I write an academic research paper?

Background information can be found in:

• textbooks
• dictionaries
• general encyclopedias
• subject-specific encyclopedias  
• article databases
• Gale Online Reference Library (GVRL)
• CQ Researcher
• Opposing Viewpoints in Context

Q: How can I use Wikipedia for background information?

A: Very carefully. Wikipedia is an open encyclopedia that at present suffers from weak authority, as there isn't an editorial board to check for quality (which lowers reliability). Further, even though the authors of entries mean well, some of them are using sources that may be erroneous, shallow, not evidence-based, or outdated.  Avoid looking like a fool by exercising extra caution around Wikipedia.

Once you have identified some keywords, the next step is to find background information on your topic. Background research:

• Provides a good overview of the topic if you are unfamiliar with it.
• Helps identify important facts -- terminology, dates, events, history, organizations, etc.
• Can help refine your topic.
• Leads to bibliographies which provide additional sources of information.