Political Science Research Guide

research
writing
methodology
A comprehensive guide to conducting research in political science, including finding sources, citation formats, and writing tips.
Published

8/20/2024

Modified

6/19/2025

Getting Started with Political Science Research

Research is at the heart of political science. This guide will help you navigate the research process from topic selection to final paper submission.

Finding Quality Sources

Academic Databases

  • JSTOR - Academic articles and books
  • Political Science Complete - Discipline-specific database
  • LexisNexis Academic - News and legal documents
  • CQ Researcher - Policy analysis and reports

Government Sources

Think Tanks & Research Organizations

  • Brookings Institution - Centrist policy research
  • American Enterprise Institute - Conservative perspectives
  • Center for American Progress - Progressive viewpoints
  • Pew Research Center - Public opinion polling

Citation Guidelines

All papers must use APSA (American Political Science Association) citation style.

Book Example

Putnam, Robert D. 2000. Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. New York: Simon & Schuster.

Journal Article Example

Bartels, Larry M. 2008. “Unequal Democracy: The Political Economy of the New Gilded Age.” American Political Science Review 102(1): 1-18.

Online Source Example

Pew Research Center. 2024. “Public Trust in Government Remains Low.” Retrieved August 15, 2024 (https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/).

Writing Tips

Structure Your Argument

  1. Introduction - State your thesis clearly
  2. Literature Review - What do we already know?
  3. Analysis - Present your evidence
  4. Conclusion - Summarize findings and implications

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using Wikipedia as a source
  • Failing to cite properly
  • Making claims without evidence
  • Ignoring counterarguments
  • Poor grammar and spelling

Getting Help

  • Writing Center: Free tutoring and feedback
  • Library Research Desk: Help finding sources
  • Professor Office Hours: Discuss ideas and get feedback
  • Study Groups: Collaborate with classmates

Remember: Start early, cite everything, and don’t hesitate to ask for help!