Types of Sources: Encyclopedias

Encyclopedias

Encyclopedias contain factual articles on many subjects.

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.

Use an Encyclopedia

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

Examples

• Encyclopedia of Psychology (subject encyclopedia)
• Encyclopedia Americana (general encyclopedia)

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