Once you've determined the focus of your research, you'll need to identify the type(s) of information most appropriate for your topic.

Different types and formats of information may be better suited to the time frame of your topic, the perspective you want, or the scope of your research.

General –

Provides a brief overview of or an introduction to an issue, event, or topic. The process for researching this kind of information is also quite simple but it may take more time than a single fact search.

In-Depth –

The most challenging type of research, this requires more energy, time, and focus than single fact or general information research. It attempts to answer complex questions that require more searching, collecting, analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing before realizing a final product.

Single-Fact –

Provides answers to simple factual questions. Typically it is a name, a place, a number, a year, a percentage, or a simple yes or no. Finding this kind of information is usually simple and quick.