AHS Media Center
Effective Search Strategies
Directions: Skilled researchers create targeted searches by breaking their topics into main concepts, rather than entering entire questions word for word. Because people may use different words to talk about the same ideas, you should also brainstorms synonyms and related concepts. As you search and evaluate your initial findings, your question or purpose itself may evolve.
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2. Break down your research question into at least two main ideas or concepts. Tip: Circle the most important words in your research question.
Concept or Idea #1 _______________________________________________________________________________
Concept or Idea #2 _______________________________________________________________________________
3. Brainstorm synonyms and related terms. Think about ideas that might be broader and narrower.
Synonyms/Related Terms for Concept #1__________________________________________________________________
Synonyms/Related Terms for Concept #2 __________________________________________________________________
4. List background concepts you may also need to research.
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Source: Adapted from the University of Maryland Libraries User Education Services.