Don't end your research here! Reference sources are too general to be used on their own. But, they are perfect for finding basic information and ideas before proceeding into in-depth research.
When using a reference source, look for key terms, clues and leads such as:
- Important dates and time periods
- Notable places
- Subjects, characters, stories, symbols, etc.
- Artists, patrons and other people involved
- Info on style, form, function
- Related historical and social factors
- Prominent scholars and suggested articles and books (check bibliographies/references)
Write down these terms, then use them as keywords when searching library catalog and databases.
Be aware a person, place or idea may have more than one name! Remain alert for synonyms and alternative words.
