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University of Houston Libraries

Computer Science Research Resources

Explore key concepts and essential resources for computer science (CS) research. UH Libraries provide access to articles, books, research data, and more to support your work.

Research Methodology Guides

In Computer Science, a well-defined research methodology is crucial for systematically solving problems, analyzing data, and drawing meaningful conclusions. It ensures that research is valid, reliable, and reproducible, contributing to the advancement of the field. A strong methodology enhances the credibility and impact of research findings.

  • Key Books:

    • "Research Methods in Computer Science"
    • "Designing and Conducting Research in Computer Science"

  • Research Databases:

    • IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Google Scholar

  • Best Practices:

    • Ensure reproducibility, maintain ethical standards, and provide clear documentation throughout the research process.

Citation and Referencing Guides

Citation is the practice of crediting the original sources of information, data, or research findings used in academic work. In computer science (CS) research, citations are crucial for acknowledging the contributions of others, ensuring your work's credibility, and avoiding plagiarism. Citation guides are essential tools that help you navigate the various citation styles and maintain accuracy and consistency in your references throughout your research.

Here are some key resources to assist you with citation practices in CS:

  • IEEE Citation Guide – A detailed guide on IEEE editorial style, which is widely used in computer science research for citing sources and formatting papers.
  • ACM Style Guide – The official style guide for referencing sources in the ACM format, commonly used for computer science journals and conferences.
  • How to Avoid Plagiarism in Citations – A guide by the University of Waterloo that offers strategies for avoiding plagiarism and ensuring proper attribution in your work.

Latex Resources

LaTeX is a typesetting system widely used for producing high-quality documents, especially in academic and research settings. It is beneficial for writing papers that include complex mathematical equations, citations, and bibliographies. LaTeX ensures consistent formatting, making it an essential tool for computer science, engineering, and mathematics researchers.
Useful Links to Learn LaTeX:

Engineering Dictionaries

Engineering Dictionaries
Engineering dictionaries are specialized reference tools that provide definitions, explanations, and descriptions of technical terms used in various engineering disciplines, including computer science. These resources are essential for researchers, as they ensure accurate understanding of complex terms and help maintain consistency in communication. They are indispensable for those conducting detailed, technical research in fields like computer science.

Helpful Links for Engineering Dictionaries in Computer Science:

Data Management Best Practices

Research Data Management (RDM) is the process of organizing, storing, and sharing data generated during research to ensure its accessibility, integrity, and long-term preservation. It includes planning data collection, proper documentation, and secure storage to make data easily accessible and reusable.

  • Before Research – Develop a formal research data management plan that aligns with funder and institutional requirements. This plan should outline how data will be collected, stored, and shared throughout the research process. Use tools like DMPTool to help create a comprehensive and compliant plan.

  • During Research – Ensure proper storage and protection of your data throughout the research project. Implement secure storage solutions that protect data from loss or unauthorized access, and ensure regular backups are in place.

  • After Research – Store your research data in appropriate repositories to ensure long-term preservation and accessibility. Consider using platforms like UH's ROAR Dataverse to share and manage your data.

For more details on best practices for managing research data, refer to the University of Houston's Research Data Management Guide.

Writing and Editing Tools

Writing and editing tools are essential for producing clear, well-structured research papers in computer science. These tools help researchers with tasks like grammar checking, document formatting, and improving readability. Leveraging the right tools can streamline the writing process and enhance the quality of academic work.

These are categories of tools we recommend for streamlining the writing and research process:

  • Word Processors: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice Writer offer solid word processing features, including document formatting, collaboration tools, and integration with citation tools.

  • Grammar and Style Checkers: Grammarly, ProWritingAid, and Hemingway Editor help refine your writing by identifying grammar errors, improving sentence structure, and enhancing readability.

  • Citation Management Tools: Zotero, Mendeley, and EndNote assist in organizing references, generating citations, and ensuring proper formatting for academic papers.

  • Research Organization Tools: Trello, Evernote, and Scrivener help researchers manage tasks, organize research notes, and structure long-form content like research papers.

  • Last Updated: Jan 29, 2025 2:01 PM
  • URL: https://guides.lib.uh.edu/computerscience
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Subjects: Computer Science