Unit 7: Evaluating Reference Resources

Lesson 4: Determing Your Reference Needs


To determine which type of reference resource you need to consult, ask yourself some questions about the type of information you need to find. If you asked yourself:

1. How many or how much, you need to find statistical information. Consult an almanac or statistical abstract.
   
   
2. What does_____ mean or what is the definition of, you need to look up a definition. Consult a general or specialized dictionary.
   
   
3. What happened during or what were the effects of you need to find an overview, summary, or introduction. Consult a general or specialized encyclopedia.
   
   
4. Where is or how far is, you need to find geographical information. Consult an atlas or gazetteer.
   
   
5. What is the address of, or who works for, you need to find information about an organization, association, or company. Consult a directory.
   
   
6. Who is or when and where was_____born, you need to find a profile of a person. Consult a biographical resource.
   
   
7. How do I or how does_____work, you need to find expert or “how to” information. Consult a manual or handbook.
   
   
8. What is happening in or what is the current research on, you need to find current research or information about recent developments and/or events.
   
   
9. What else has been published on or what other sources exist relating to you need to find a list of resources on a particular subject. Consult a bibliography or guide to literature

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