Encyclopedias can help you become more familiar with the ideas, major concepts and basic vocabulary in your chosen research topic. Such background knowledge places your topic in a wider context, deepens your understanding and helps you feel more comfortable with pursuing your research. Articles from encyclopedias may also help you find a more narrow focus for a topic that is initially too broad..

Read articles in these encyclopedias to give you a more solid overview of your research topic and set the context for your research. Note any additional keywords and relevant items in the references at the end of the encyclopedia articles.