ENGL 1020 - Babin

Tips for Searching

Speak the language of the databases

  • don't put a whole question or sentence in the search box
  •  identify key concepts in your research question

Try synonyms

  • try thinking about how an expert in the field might discuss your topic
  • use a thesaurus
  • try using broader terms

Found at least one article that works?

  • Use the Abstract or introduction to identify new keywords to search
  • Use the bibliography or works cited to find more articles
  • Use the detailed record to lead to more sources (clickable keywords)