Knowing how to research is important because research skills are critical life skills that go beyond writing college papers.

Whether in your private life or your professional career, you will need to:

• know how to find reliable information
• know how to interpret and synthesize that information
• know how to communicate that information effectively

Research papers give you the opportunity to acquire those skills.

Look upon a research paper as more than just a way to earn a good grade. It's your ticket to success in your career and your life.

Watch the video below to see why you need to do your own research and not rely on the words of others.

Don't be a victim of "fake news." Know how and where to get the correct, factual information.

Use the links for the research calculator and the WCSU LibGuide on the Basics of Library Research below to learn how to break your research down into approachable tasks. The calculator will help you identify each step and organize your time in such a way that you won't find yourself in a panic as the deadline approaches.

• WCSU LibGuide - Basics of Library Research

• Univ. of Minnesota Research Calculator

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