If you'd like to review the search tips slideshow from class, check out the
This Common Search Tips (2:16 minutes) tutorial provides an overview of commonly used keyword search tips. Generally, you will start your research with keyword searches, so it is a good idea to memorize these tips. Also, instructions for searching databases, including date and format limits and other searches types, can be found on help screens in the databases.
Sample search:
("african clawed frog*" OR xenopus) AND "bisphenol a"
In addition to entering a keyword search in a single box, most databases have an advanced search which allows you to create more nuanced searches with multiple boxes.
In the below example, you will see that each text box is focused on one concept. In addition to the use of Boolean Operators (AND, OR, NOT), universal tips like putting common short phrases in quotation marks and using the * (asterisk) to find endings at the end of a root word are used.
Line one: synonyms for indigenous people
Line two: synonyms for united states
Line three: the phrase financial literacy.
To access library databases, select the Articles/Databases tab on the box on the Andersen Library homepage. Here is a video tutorial that demonstrates Accessing Library Databases (0:59 minutes).
Below are some tutorials about searching in specific databases.
How do you know whether an article is scholarly or not? Check out the Scholarly Journal, Trade Magazine, & Popular Magazine guide.