Locate & Access Sources
identify keywords or terms
What exactly are "keywords"?
Keywords are main terms related to your research topic. Keywords are what you enter into search boxes to get search results.
Identify the main concepts or keywords related to your topic, question, or thesis statement. These will help you find information in search tools like library catalogs, databases, and on the open Web. By creating a list of keywords, you will be able to search more quickly and effectively.
How to Develop Keywords
Watch this video created by the University of Houston Libraries to learn about keywords, including helpful examples.
Important ideas to remember:
Keywords are words and short phrases you use to describe your main concept.
Use keywords to find information when searching.
Keywords are not full statements or questions.
Think of synonyms to try using as keywords.
You may need to use related terms, which are not synonyms but are associated with your main concept.
Tools for Developing Keywords
3-step process
Follow this three-step process for discovering keywords. It is helpful to keep track of the keywords in your notebook or a Google Doc for reference.
Wikipedia
Wikipedia can help you locate keywords. Search for your topic and pay close attention to words that are in bold and hyperlinked.
Use search Tools to locate authoritative sources
Print sources
WCI Library catalog: search by keyword or subject. Watch how.
Use the call number of the book to locate it within the library—all nonfiction books are organized numerically using the Dewey Decimal System
Use the Table of Contents and Index to locate relevant information within the source
Use the Bibliography, References or Works Cited to identify other sources with potentially relevant information
digital sources
Destiny Discover: search websites and OERs. Watch how.
CCCLib — you'll need your library card
Use the Table of Contents or other navigation tools like the a sidebar or dropdown menu to locate relevant information quickly
Searching on the open web
Search Engines
Most of you will be familiar with Google and will use it every time you need to search, but there are a number of different search engines to choose from that also search the Internet. Learn more.
Search Strategies
Simply typing in your search term will bring back thousands, sometimes millions, of 'hits.' Be smart and reduce this number to get exactly what you want from your search. Learn how.