At all stages of the research process it is essential to keep a record of the following, including the dates:

• Search strategies used, e.g. note the exact search strings used for future reference.
• Research tools used, eg record the different databases searched.
• Books, journal articles and all other materials retrieved and consulted, it is essential that you record the full bibliographical details, eg author or editor's name and initials, title, date of publication, place of publication, publisher. For further information on this look at the'Referencing and Bibliography' module of this tutorial.
• Websites consulted, in addition to any 'bibliographic' details note down the URL and the date that you accessed the website. Remember the website may have changed or been removed next time you look for it.
• Libraries and other institutions visited.