Specialized encyclopedias provide detailed introductions to topics. For this reason, they are particularly helpful when you are new to a topic. Think of them like a trustworthy version of Wikipedia, in which all of the articles are written by experts!
In LEAP 8, we recommend starting your research with Gale Virtual Reference Library.
GVRL is a large online collection of specialized encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks. It is a multidisciplinary resource, meaning that it covers all subject areas -- from the Sciences to Literature to Religious Studies.
If you can't find an article on your topic in Gale Virtual Reference Library, you may need to think about your topic more broadly or brainstorm related topics.
Let's use the topic of plastic pollution in the world's oceans as an example. If you don't find an article with this exact title, try looking at articles on broader topics, such as Plastics or Microplastics or Oceans. You may find helpful context for your discussion there.
