What is research?
Research is a conversation - it's about asking questions, exploring new ideas, and learning from what others have discovered. When you do research you're joining a much bigger discussion, one that includes many voices, experiences, and points of view.
According to the ACRL Information Literacy Framework, research isn't just about collecting facts. It's about understanding where information comes from, thinking critically about what you find, and using it to add your own ideas to the conversation.
Good research means knowing that there isn't just one kind of expert or one perfect source. What counts as reliable can depend on your topic and purpose. By asking questions, evaluating sources, and putting ideas together, you can help build new knowledge.
So, research isn't just about finding the "right" answer. It's about learning, thinking, and becoming part of a wider community of curious thinkers.
The following tabs outline the research process, and provide an overview and resources for each step along the way.
National University Library has created this handy visual of what the research process may look like.
