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Philosophy 103 - Critical Thinking in Philosophy: Your Assignment

Comparing both sides of a controversial issue.

What You Need to Know

Understanding Your Assignment

Before you begin looking for information you should make sure you understand your assignment. Some good questions are:

  • How many pages?
  • How many sources?
  • What kinds of sources?
    • Books
    • Articles
    • Websites
  • What format?

Your professor is your best resource to answer these questions.

image of student with her hand raised

Contact Information

11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650
(562) 860-2451

Circulation Desk ext. 2424
Reference Desk ext. 2425

Computer Lab Help Desk ext. 2184 or email studentcomputerhelp@cerritos.edu

Your Assignment

Select a topic that interests you. For your research, use this guide to access the resources available through the Cerritos College Library. They will lead you to reliable sources for your paper.

Research Basics - Step by Step

Breaking Down The Research Process    

The following outline gives a simple and effective strategy for finding information for a research paper and documenting the sources you find. Depending on your topic and your familiarity with the library, you may need to rearrange or recycle these steps. Adapt this outline to your needs. We are ready to help you at every step in your research.                                         

  1. Choose a topic - or have one assigned
  2. Understand your topic
    • Refine your topic 
    • Consider a main focus
    • Background reading
  3. Search Sources
  4. Write your paper – Informative, Analytical, Argumentative, Critical
  5. Cite Your Sources

    Talk to a Librarian

    Need Help 

     

    The Cerritos College Librarians can help you with your research in a variety of ways:

    Librarians are available during library hours to answer your questions by phone or chat.
    (562) 860-2451 x2425

    Cerritos College Library | 11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650 | 562-860-2451 | Reference ext 2425 | Circulation ext 2424