Complete Listing
Below is a complete listing of the research guides and instructional handouts made
available by the Undergraduate Library's Reference and Instruction staff.
These handouts may be printed or downloaded as instructional resources
for individual or classroom use.
Research Guides
Constructing a Search Statement - a step-by-step guide to identifying terms and phrases for a research topic and building an effective search statement
Dewey Decimal Classification system - a brief explanation of the Dewey Decimal Classification system
Evaluation of Information Sources - a chart outlining criteria for evaluating types of information sources, with sources to consult when authority seems questionable
Finding Articles in General Databases - brief descriptions of six online general (article) index databases; especially useful for beginning researchers
Indexes and Abstracts - describes coverage of some of the most commonly used article indexes
Library of Congress Subject Headings - learn how to identify accurate subject terms for searching the Libraries catalog
Locating Journal Articles - a guide to locate specific journal or magazine articles through the Purdue libraries
Quick Stops for Topics - a listing of selected sources to help you choose a topic or find general information for a research paper or speech
Research Project Advisory Service - a summary of the appointment-based UGRL service offering Undergraduate students the opportunity to work one-on-one with a Librarian on any kind of research project
Research Strategy - an overview and flowchart introducing the research process
Topical Encyclopedias - selected encyclopedias from the UGRL Reference collection covering a broad range of topics
Welcome New Boilermakers! - a listing of orientation resources to learn more about the Purdue Libraries
What's the Difference? - a chart that compares and contrasts characteristics and features of popular magazines and scholarly journals
Hot Topics
Biographical Sources - list of databases, print resources and websites containing biographical profiles and information
Censorship - list of library materials that contain information about issues related to banned books, censorship, intellectual freedom, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, etc.
College and University Directories and Ratings - contains a variety of resources useful in comparing and evaluating schools
College Success and Student Life - identifies sources that help students adjust to campus life and a rigorous academic environment
Company Information - selected materials containing information on companies and industries
Finding & Using Digital Images - a guide to finding and using digital images on the Internet
Funding for College and Graduate School - all types of assistance are covered, including scholarships, fellowships, grants, loans, and other funding opportunities
Multimedia Development - information relating to multimedia design and development
Reviews: Book, Movie and Media - print and online resources containing reviews of books, movies and media
Career Pathways:
- Career Opportunities - selected materials to guide the process of learning about a variety of careers and determining which ones are a good match
- Finding a Job / Internships - key resources for finding a job or internship nationally and internationally
- Resumes & Cover Letters - contains sources with information on creating resumes and cover letters
- Interviewing - video, web, and print resources focusing on key interviewing techniques and strategies
Guides to the Libraries Catalog
Searching the Libraries Catalog
- Author Browse search
- Assisted search
- Call Number search
- Keyword search
- Keyword search (Advanced)
- Media search tips & FAQ
- Relevancy-ranked search
- Subject search
- Title/Journal Title search
Children's Literature collection
Course Reserves
Your Library Account (renewals)

