Reference material refers to resources that provide factual information and are used to support research or learning. Common types of reference materials include dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases, and almanacs. These resources are designed to be consulted for specific information rather than read cover-to-cover. In academic and professional settings, reference materials are essential for verifying facts and gaining a deeper understanding of a subject. They can include online databases, academic journals, and government publications. Using reliable reference materials, such as those from Wikipedia or Britannica, helps ensure the accuracy of information in various fields.