Any scientific work begins in the library and in front of a computer monitor — with source analysis. This is the stage where it is determined what has already been done, where gaps exist, and how the research can fill them.

The search for and analysis of sources is not a chaotic, but a systematic process.

“Information Literacy” is a concept that includes the ability to think critically and to use the found information in a thoughtful and balanced manner.

In an era of information overload, transforming it into an important scientific foundation is a necessary skill.

Main types of sources:

• Primary: original research, dissertations, patents, reports, etc.
• Secondary: review articles, textbooks, monographs, where primary data are analyzed.

Recommended databases:

• Ukrainian: Book Chamber of Ukraine; Electronic libraries (Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine, Kyiv, 3 Holosiivskyi Ave. Library website address: http://www.nbuv.gov.ua/), Yaroslav the Wise National Library of Ukraine (Kyiv, 1 M. Hrushevskoho St. Library website address: http://www.nplu.org/); university repositories.
• International: Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, ResearchGate, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ).

A correctly performed literature analysis will ensure scientific validity. The systematic and structured nature of such work is the key to a high-quality outcome.