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Architecture

Starting Your Research

In order to do a successful search for your topic, you need to understand the basics.  Think about the "who, what, why, when, and where" aspects of your topic. 

For example, if you are researching Zaha Hadid, but have no idea who she is, where she's from, or what designs she is known for, then gathering background will be helpful to develop good search keywords, and to develop a refined research question.  After gathering background, you can ask a question like "How did Zaha Hadid use technology to create designs influenced by her Arab heritage?"

Use resources such as Oxford Art Online and SAH Archipedia to find background information.

Sources for Background Information

Encyclopedias & Dictionaries

Timelines and Overviews

Bibliographies