Module 2 - Selecting Sources - Types of Sources - Encyclopedias

Types of Sources

Encyclopedias

Encyclopedias are collections of short, factual entries, often written by different contributors who are knowledgeable about the topic. There are two types of encyclopedias: general and subject.

General encyclopedias provide concise overviews on a wide variety of topics. Subject encyclopedias contain in-depth entries focusing on one field of study.

Stanford has many print and on-line encyclopedias. See the Reference Shelf for a listing of on-line encyclopedias, such as Britannica or Encyclopedia of Science and Technology.

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

• Encyclopedia Americana (general encyclopedia)
• African-American Encyclopedia (subject encyclopedia)
• International Encyclopedia of Women Scientists (subject encyclopedia)