Remember though that you will still have to evaluate those resources for relevance to your specific topic. As you read the encyclopedia entries, take note of interesting facts or ideas. Use the following example on coffee for guidance, and write down some answers to these questions. Coffee has been cultivated since the 15th century. The first coffeehouse opened in 1652 in London.
Coffee is consumed by a third of the world.
The history of coffee drinking. The popularity of coffee in the United States. How caffeine works in the human body. Encyclopedias are great starting places for your research, but you'll need to consult other sources, such as books or journal articles, in order to have a well-balanced examination of facts and issues. Your topic is probably still too broad and needs to be made more manageable.