Types of Reference Sources If you are finding information there are several ways to do this..

Index Gives citations to periodical articles, books, conference proceedings, and other information sources All the information you’d need to find a source in print Many print indexes now exist as electronic databases You can also find an Index at the back of a book – for quick references.

Almanac Usually a single volume Compilation of statistics and other facts Often published yearly Book of facts that is updated every year. It has specific/verify current facts.

Almanac

Atlas Book of maps and geographical information May focus on places/spaces Road atlas May focus on places over time Historical atlas May focus on differences between populations Atlas with statistical information

Bibliography Compilation of sources of information Provides literature on a specific subject or by a specific author Often the EASIEST way to begin research on a topic

Biographical Dictionary Sources of information about the lives of people Short entries

Chronology Presents information organized by date Can cover brief or long time periods World War I vs. all of human history May be subject-specific

Dictionary Confirms spelling,definition, pronunciation Tells how words are used Gives synonyms & antonyms, as well as word origins May be general or subject-specific

Directory Lists names and addresses of individuals, companies, organizations and institutions Telephone books = directories

Encyclopedia Covers knowledge, or branches of knowledge, in a comprehensive but summary fashion May be general or subject-specific Main entries generally alphabetical from A to Z BUT the index is the most effective way to access information

Thesaurus Find synonyms and antonyms to make writing more varied.

Nonfiction Books Books containing information about a specific topic. Used to research topics in detail.

Internet A network of connected computers that offers users access to many types of online reference sources. To use in research for specific topics/information

Newspapers and Magazines Daily, weekly, or monthly publications that present current information about a place or a topic. Used to find out about current events that happen on a daily, weekly or a monthly basis.

Yearbook Covers trends and events of the previous year May be general in coverage, or limited to one subject or place