Use the resources in this guide to find library resources, such as articles, books, and videos, on topics related to music. Make sure that you pay attention to the search tips and examples provided on each page. They will help make your research more successful. If you are having trouble finding sources for your assignment, ask a librarian for help.
Before you settle on a topic, it's a good idea to do some background research first. The library is a great source for background information! After you've found some background information, you can refine or narrow your topic. Remember, the shorter your final paper, the narrower your topic needs to be.
After you've refined your topic, it's time to start searching for sources. Do you need books, articles, or something else? You may find that you need to adjust or even change your topic once you start searching for sources. It is a normal part of the research process to go back to the Explore and Refine phase and start going in a different direction.
These search tips will help you conduct more precise and effective searches. This means you will get better results! Taking a few minutes to review these tips and suggestions will save you lots of time in the long run. Remember, a librarian can help you at any point in your research process.
It's always a good idea to evaluate sources before using them in your assignment. Do you need to have scholarly sources or the most recent research?
Pull everything together to share your argument and your evidence. Tie ideas from your sources together with your own thoughts and analysis to make a compelling case.
If your assignment requires you to find information about a career related to this topic area, your research will go in an entirely different direction. If the career page on this guide does not have enough information, go to our Career Guide where many more career resources are listed. if you need help, ask a librarian.
The username and password to access databases from off campus is similar to what you use to access the PCC campus portal (myPittCC) and Moodle. For the username, use the first part of your myPittCC email address only. DO NOT include @my.pittcc.edu. The password is exactly the same as what you use to log in to the campus portal. Generic logins are available to community residents with PCC library cards, and others who are enrolled in or are affiliated with PCC programs and continuing education courses.