Search
Before you begin
Research for a paper, project, or personal interest is a predictable process. In 1991, Carol Kuhlthau suggested this be called the Information Search Process (ISP). The ISP divides the search process into six stages of information seeking behavior. At every stage, the searcher (that's you!) experiences distinct feelings, thoughts, and actions. Confusion, frustration, and doubt are completely normal feelings as you explore your topic. Ask your librarians if you need help getting out of this stage.
Where to start
If you are looking for quick or background information, websites are a great place to start. Even Wikipedia, which most teachers at IHS do not allow as a source, can be a place to find other sources. Go to the bottom of the Wikipedia page to References. Then choose from the links and evaluate the source as you would any other.
Sometimes the number of results from Google can be overwhelming, and you can limit or expand your search results more effectively in the databases. If your database search isn't returning useful results, you may need to look outside of the databases until you build your background knowledge.
For example, if your research focus is on endangered gorillas, a quick Google search returns results of non-profit organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, and experts in the field, including Dian Fossey. Skimming these results will give you search terms for the databases, including:
gorilla conservation
World Wildlife Fund
Dian Fossey
Search Smarter on Google
When was the last time you thought about how you search Google? Look at this article for tips on how to search Google more effectively. Or try Google Advanced Search to expand or limit your search results.
What is a keyword?
A keyword is an important word or concept found in your research topic or thesis. You use a keyword or keywords to find information you need about a subject. Synonyms can be used as keywords to expand your search results.
How to generate keywords
Use the University of Texas Keyword Generator to come up with search terms. The Keyword Generator is integrated with JSTOR, but the search terms can be used on any database.
Search strategies
Developing: Use anywhere (web, databases, print sources, etc.)
Words, events, and themes that reoccur are clues to help you focus your research
Think of synonyms:
Tyrant: dictator, despot, oppressor
Hurricane: called a typhoon in the Northwest Pacific
Place names may have changed over time:
Mumbai was Bombay, Myanmar was Burma
Advanced: Use on databases or Google Advanced Searching
Limit publication dates (can also do this in the library catalog)
Search within search results
Find sources listed at the back of a useful article
Boolean searching: using “AND,” “OR,” & “NOT”
Truncation: uses an asterisk * at the end of the word, which allows you to pick up any ending
Teen* returns results for teen, teens, teenage, teenager, and teenagers
Boolean searching
Watch the two videos from McMaster Library for more on Boolean searching.