Research Guides: CHEM 360: Biochemistry (Bencze): STEP 2: Background Research

STEP 2: Background Research in Encyclopedias & Reference Materials

STEP 2: Background Information (Encyclopedia and Reference)

You might want to do some background research in encyclopedias and reference materials to get some background information and develop some ideas for potential topics and keywords. These resources include generally accepted knowledge about your topic and can help you gain a foundational understanding of it. As you develop your research topic, keep a list of keywords to use when searching databases. Try searching some of the reference resources listed below:

Credo Reference E-Book Collection This link opens in a new window
Reference e-books on a wide range of topics. Sources include dictionaries, encyclopedias, handbooks, and more. Search by keyword or browse titles by topic. From your results list, select articles that have a longer word count that will dive into more detail.
AccessMedicine This link opens in a new window
A comprehensive online medical resource providing a complete spectrum of knowledge including: full-text medical textbooks, an integrated drug database, examination and procedural videos, patient safety modules, diagnosis tools, quick reference, self assessment modules and more.
Gale Virtual Reference Library This link opens in a new window
Over 1200 cross-searchable reference e-books on a wide variety of subjects.
Health & Wellness This link opens in a new window
Delivers up-to-date reference material as well as full-text magazines, journals, and pamphlets from a wide variety of authoritative medical sources.

What's Next?

If you've got a good grasp on your topic, move on to:

STEP 3: Proteins & Genes