Q. I am supposed to write a paper about a controversial topic. How do I start?

The Alkek library has databases on controversial issues as well as hot topics.  These databases will give you an overview of the topic, context, point (argument) and counterpoint (opposing argument), references, and related articles. 

The Controversial/Hot Topics databases are also great sources for keywords when you later search for other resources, such as books, articles, statistics, etc.  To get to these databases, you would go to the research databases page, and, from the type drop-down menu, select Pro/Con Issues & Hot Topics.

Once you have read an overview, adjusted your research topic as needed, and have found potential search terms, you are ready to search for scholarly articles in our subject-specific databases or our multi-subject databases like Academic Search Complete and the Start Your Research tool.