There's nothing like the web when it comes to research. Where else can you pull up information about virtually any subject in a matter of seconds—at 11 pm on Sunday? But there are drawbacks to basing all of your research on information you find online. For starters, chances are all of your classmates are digging up the same information on, say, the history of the Titanic, as you are. If you really want to stand out from the crowd, there are other ways to research a subject besides the web. Say, speaking to the great-granddaughter of a Titanic survivor—now that beats late night web research any day.
Library/Media Center
Here's something you may not know: Librarians have a degree in library science—which means they are absolute, certified pros at research. On your next visit to your community library, stop by the reference desk and introduce yourself. Ask what kind of research services they offer, or mention a specific topic you’re studying. From reference books to historical newspapers to television archives not available on the web, you never know where a library search will lead you.
Mentors
If you count up your friends on MySpace, it may not be a huge number, but if you start to count up your friends’ friends, you know a whole lot of people. The same goes for your parents, mentors and the people they know. An uncle may have served in Vietnam, a friend of the family may be a retired chemist, or one of your community leaders may be an expert on the subject matter at hand. The quality of information you can get from real-life sources will expand your knowledge, offer a different point of view and may be unlike anything your classmates will dig up. Plus, your teachers are sure to be impressed by your resourcefulness—a few phone calls or emails within your circles could bring you closer to an "A" on that paper. Ask your parents if they know anyone familiar with your subject and schedule some time to speak with them.
Parents
Speaking of parents, while they may have some annoying qualities (like making you clean your room), you never know what or who they know until you ask them. A simple conversation about the topic you are researching could send you down an entirely different path than where you started, which is a good thing. Tell them about the project you are working and ask them a few questions—they may not be up on the latest hit song, but they could be your secret resource for research.
Bookstore
Visit the information desk of your local bookstore. Many bookstore employees are walking encyclopedias and can be your best resources when it comes to new, breakthrough books on non-fiction subjects. Also, ask about upcoming book readings that could put you face to face with an author who is knowledgeable about your subject. If you have the time and the bookstore has some comfy seats, hang around and meet some new people. Asking, "Hey what are you reading there?" could open your circle of friends and knowledge.
So go ahead try something new when it comes to your next research project. You never know what you’ll come up with and you’ll most definitely have more fun along the way!