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    • Research and Writing Tools

    If you need help with research for a writing assignment or project, these research and writing tools can be helpful as a part of the research process. The free tools below are used to research credible, scholarly sources, brainstorm, build citations, check for grammar errors, and avoid unintentional plagiarism.

    GC Library Databases

    • Find the best library databases for research. Galveston College students, faculty, and staff have free access to scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles. 

    GC Research Tutorial

    • This tutorial is designed to assist you through the various steps of the research process, including identifying and developing a topic, gathering information, finding library resources, and evaluating and citing sources. The numbered tabs to the left represent the research process.

    Google Scholar

    • A smart tool to help locate credible material for paper and report writing, general research, and other projects.

    Purdue Online Writing Lab

    • Purdue Online Writing Lab provides instructional material for all aspects of writing and research.

    Scribbr Researching, Writing, and Citing Knowledge Base

    • Explore hundreds of articles, videos, and other resources about research, writing, and citation. 

    Citation, Grammar, and Plagiarism 

    BibMe

    • BibMe helps with citations and checks your paper for grammar errors, missing punctuation, unintentional plagiarism, and more.  

    GC Library Citation Guide

    • This guide will help you learn about APA, Chicago/Turabian, and MLA citation styles. This guide includes tutorials, examples, and other resources to help you with citations. 

    Grammar Bytes

    • Grammar Bytes is for skill development and offers interactive exercises, handouts, videos, and tips.

    Grammarly

    • Grammarly is a free writing assistant that automatically detects grammar, spelling, punctuation, word choice, and style mistakes in your writing. 

    Scribbr APA Citation Generator

    • The most user-friendly citation tool automatically generates accurate references and in-text citations for free in APA. 

    Scribbr MLA Citation Generator

    • The most user-friendly citation tool automatically generates accurate references and in-text citations for free in MLA. 

    Scribbr Plagiarism Checker

    • Scribbr’s plagiarism checker, powered by Turnitin, detects plagiarism more accurately than other popular tools—particularly when texts are heavily edited.

    Brainstorming

    Bubbl.us

    • Bubbl.us is a simple and free web application that lets you brainstorm online. The free version includes up to 3 mind maps, image export, and mind map sharing. 

    MindMeister

    • MindMeister brings the concept of mind mapping to the web, using its facilities for real-time collaboration to allow truly global brainstorming sessions. The basic, free version includes up to 3 mind maps, share, collaborate, and import. 

    Popplet

    • Popplet is a mind-mapping tool that is perfect for visually curating your ideas and brainstorms. The free version allows you to make 1 popplet, access easy-to-use tools, collaborate, and post.