LIBS 150: Introduction to Research

LIBS 150 at the University of Maryland Global Campus is a one-credit introduction to the research process and to methods for retrieving information in a library or through online sources.

UMGC says the aim is to identify an information need and locate, evaluate and use appropriate resources in keeping with academic integrity and ethical standards.

Because the course is short, assignments move quickly. The best preparation is to learn a simple research routine and apply it to each task.

What LIBS 150 Covers

Key Concepts Explained

From Topic to Question

A broad topic gives too many results. Narrow it with who, what, where and when until you can state a question a source could answer.

Keywords and Combinations

List the main ideas, then synonyms for each. Combine ideas with AND to narrow and OR to broaden, and use quotation marks for exact phrases.

Evaluating a Source

Ask who wrote it, why, when, and what evidence it gives. A recent, well-referenced article by named experts is usually stronger than an anonymous page.

Typical Assignments and How to Approach Them

A Simple Research Routine

Research and Academic Integrity

The course ties research to ethical use of information. Quote or paraphrase only with citation, keep a record of where each idea came from, and never submit someone else's work as your own.

Comparing Two Sources

A table makes evaluation visible. The sources below are invented to show the method.

Parts of a Citation

Every style asks for the same core details: who, when, what, and where. Record author, date, title, publication and location (such as a DOI or link) as you find each source. Your required style sets the order and punctuation, so check the style guide your instructor names.

Practicing with the Library

The UMGC Library's electronic resources are a core part of the course. Practice by choosing a small topic, running the same search in a general search engine and in a library database, and comparing the quality of the first ten results.

Note which filters help, such as date range, peer review or full text. Keeping these notes gives you material for reflection questions and a repeatable method for later courses.

A Short Self-Test

Try these on a topic of your choice before an assignment.

• Turn your topic into one clear research question.
• List five keywords and two synonyms for the main one.
• Write a search that uses AND, OR and quotation marks.
• Name three questions you would ask to judge a source.
• Write one citation in your required style from a source you actually found.

Where Students Get Stuck

• Too broad a topic. Narrow with specifics.
• One search only. Refine and try again.
• Weak source judgment. Use a consistent checklist.
• Citation details. Check every element against your style guide.

Study Tips for LIBS 150

• Keep a log of your searches.
• Save citation details as you find each source.
• Ask a librarian when stuck.
• Compare at least three sources before choosing.

How We Help with LIBS 150

Send the assignment, the required citation style and your notes. A research tutor can explain the process, review your search strategy, or check your citations. For longer papers, see our research paper help guide.

GradeEssays is independent and not affiliated with University of Maryland Global Campus. Our work is a study and reference aid: use it to understand the method, then complete and submit your own work under UMGC's academic integrity policy.

Every order is written from scratch, comes with free revisions within the scope of your original request, and is refunded in full if it is late.