Information retrieval like near enough everything else is good to start by making a plan. Before you can start planning your information retrieval, you need to define your research topic. Ask yourself what do you already know about the topic? What are the central concepts and theories relating to the topic?
Once you've defined your topic, you should consider where look for the information. Is it generic or scientific information that you're after? Are there specialist databases that you could use or can you find what you're looking for through Google? You should also start thinking about keywords and subject terms that you could use in your search. You'll achieve the best results in your information retrieval by using precise and specific search terms.
Mind maps or concept maps are a good way to clarify to yourself what information you are looking for and where you may be able to find it. There are several free mind map applications available online.
Start with identifying the key concepts in your assignment. Once you've identified the key concepts, write them down, also write down related terms & concepts and synonyms. Use combinations of these terms for your search. For example if your topic was privacy management in social media services, your search term map could look like this:
Video by Lucy Schribner Library