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Specialized Human Services Resources

Opposing Viewpoints: Health Issues

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How to Use Encyclopedias

Why Use Encyclopedias?

  • Get a good overview and history of a topic, term or issue.
  • Focus your topic and place it properly within the context of the field of study
  • Find alternate keywords to help locate relevant articles and books.

Can I Cite an Encyclopedia in my Paper?

Ask your instructor, but normally, encyclopedias provide insufficient information when researching a topic. Instead, use them as a starting point to understand the scope and terminology associated with your topic, so that you can begin in-depth research.