Database Guides: CQ Researcher

Each CQ Researcher report is based on a common structure.

The opening section, or "Overview" ("The Issues" in the PDF version), introduces the subject under consideration and poses one or more questions such as, "Should minors who commit adult crimes be tried as adults?" or "Is a liberal arts education the best way to prepare for the workplace?" The report then offers a "Background" section, which provides a history of the topic, including pertinent policy and legal decisions.

Under the heading "Current Situation," the report provides a snapshot of the issue at the time of publication, and, in "Outlook," the report offers a projection of what the future may bring. The "Pro/Con" ("At Issue") section brings together statements from representatives of opposing positions on the topic. To offer perspectives, the report includes sidebars on other dimensions of the subject. The "Chronology" section offers a list of key events in the issue's history, and graphics and data also help illuminate the topic.

To achieve a well-rounded perspective, the report's writer quotes a range of sources, including lawmakers, academics, interest group representatives, government officials as well as citizens involved in the issue. The report concludes with a "Bibliography," containing an annotated list of key sources, and "Next Step," an additional bibliography providing sources related to particular questions considered in the report. "Contacts" are also provided.

There are multiple ways to find CQ Researcher reports that are of interest to you. You may:

• Select from the current or recent reports on the homepage.
• Search for a keyword, using the quick search box or by using filters on the Advanced Search page.
• Use Browse by Topic, which allows you to browse all reports on all topics, and narrow the focus of your research.
• Use Browse by Date of publication, which allows you to locate the most recent reports published or to see all reports published in a particular year.
• Use Browse by Issue Tracker, which allows you to see all of the reports published on a narrowly defined topic.
• Use Browse by Pro/Con, which lets you select a report based on the expert Pro/Con debate feature contained within each report

This guide will cover the Basic Search available in CQ Researcher and provide Search Hints for additional help.