Encyclopedias

Encyclopedias contain factual articles on many subjects.

Although encyclopedias may have been a major source for research in high school, in college you'll need sources that contain more depth.

There are two types of encyclopedias -- general and subject. General encyclopedias provide overviews on a wide variety of topics. Subject encyclopedias contain entries focusing on one field of study.

At the NCC's Libraries, encyclopedias are available in print or electronic format. 

Use an Encyclopedia

• when looking for background information on a topic
• when trying to find key ideas, important dates or concepts

Examples

• Encyclopedia of India (subject encyclopedia)
• Encyclopedia Britannica (general encyclopedia)