Searching Techniques
This tutorial will help you develop a search strategy and focus your research to retrieve the best information on your topic.
1. CHOOSING A TOPIC
This is often the hardest part, unless your instructor has given you guidelines. If you have problems finding a topic you might try clicking on the link, “Web Resources ” on the NLU Library website. This link provides links to reliable websites in various subjects.
Example: depression in Alaska
2. FOCUSING THE RESEARCH QUESTION
It is always a good idea to restate your topic as a focused research question. This will help you to clarify your topic. You will have an easier time finding resources by answering your focused research question. When students don't use a question, they tend to state facts about a topic.
Incorrect: There are more depressed people in Alaska than any other state.
Correct: Are there more depressed people in Alaska than any other state?
3. FINDING BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Once you have restated your topic as a focused research question, you will need to find background information about the topic you have chosen. You need to know some basics about your topic before you begin searching the Internet. Several good places to look for background information are: Encyclopedias (usually the best place to begin looking), Reference books, Books, and Articles.
4. CHOOSING KEYWORDS
The first keywords you want to begin with are the ones from your focused research question. Then start adding other words which may be found in the background information.Example of a Focused Research Question: Are there more depressed people in Alaska than any other state?
Example: Keywords - depression, Alaska
5. FINDING SYNONYMS
Now that you have taken your keywords from your focused research question, you need to find synonyms or related words for each keyword. These synonyms or related words can serve as possible search terms in addition to your keywords.Example: depression = unhappiness
6. STARTING YOUR SEARCH
Now that you have identified search terms (your keywords, synonyms, and related terms), you are ready to begin searching in the online catalog or articles databases! You will also want to pay attention to the Subject Terms or Descriptors listed in the citation or abstract of articles or books; these can serve as productive search terms. You will want to search different combinations of your keywords and synonyms in order to see what combination produces results and to get a variety of information on your topic. You should also use multiple databases with your keywords and synonyms. Remember to stay flexible!Should you have any difficulties developing a search strategy or finding sources, contact your campus librarian or call 1.800.443.5522, ext. 5495.