It is a good idea to "test" your topic very
early in the research process. If resources need to be borrowed from another library, information on your topic is difficult to find, or if your "narrow" topic turns out to
be too broad you will need time to find and reserve resources and/or narrow your topic.
Ways in which to "test" your topic include:
Looking up your topic in a subject or specialized encyclopedia. Encyclopedia entries supply basic information
that can be used to focus a broad topic or add to your knowledge about
a new subject. While testing your topic, look for a list of sources for further reading at the end of an encylopedia article. These additional sources are not only helpful in further testing of your topic, but may also prove useful later in the research process.
