Remember that research is like a conversation. Sometimes you go into that conversation already knowing a little about the topic. Other times you might need to learn a bit more about the topic before diving into the discussion. Reference sources are the foundation on which you will start to build your understanding of your topic.

At some point, whether it’s before you begin your research or after you’ve gathered a little background information, you’re going to start to have some working knowledge about the topic. Citing sources that support what you already know adds credibility to your argument. It’s a way of backing yourself up and providing proof that this way of thinking about the topic does, in fact, exist.

You likely don’t know everything about your topic. Or it could just be that there’s an angle you haven’t considered yet. Your knowledge about your topic doesn’t need to be exhaustive, but it should be well-rounded. Seeking out sources that add new information will help you make sure your bases are covered.

This is where research can get a little nerve-wracking. Why would you incorporate a source that challenges your point of view? Doesn’t that weaken your argument? In fact, the contrary is true. Remember that research is not about finding the right answer, but instead about negotiating meaning from a variety of perspectives. Acknowledging and addressing other points of view can make your own argument that much richer.