When you search online for information, the results you get depend on the words and/or combinations of words you use. Search engines, library catalogs & databases recognize the words you type into the search box.

Before you can begin searching for information in a print or online resource, you need to identify keywords related to your topic.

Key terminology can be easily be found by scanning:

• Your initial research questions
• Encyclopedia and other articles used when conducting background research
• Bibliographies found at the end of books and articles

If you are still struggling, then try these suggestions:

• Use a print of online thesaurus to identify synonyms
• Find pictures related to your topic, then describe the picture
• Brainstorm keywords with a librarian, your instructor, or a friend

Credits: JWU Denver Campus Library
Pfau Library, University of California, San Bernadino

You can combine your keywords or search terms to broaden or narrow your search with a Boolean Search using AND, OR, or NOT. Conducting a Boolean Search will help you retrieve the search results that you want.

Too Many?

• Try a different search strategy - combine search terms or keywords
• Narrow your search
• Try searching subject headings
• Select the title search option and try another search

Not Enough?

• Try a different search strategy
• Broaden your search
• Think of other words that describe what you are looking for
• What other search terms or keywords will retrieve more results?
• Check your spelling

Important note: When searcing online, the database only recognizes the words you use. This is why it's important to be creative, flexible and precise when searching.

You can do a subject search even if you don't know what subject heading(s) are used to describe your topic.

ll you have to do is find one really good item on your topic and look at its subject headings.

A good strategy is:

• First, use your own terms in a Keyword Search.
• Then, look at the records for items that are on your topic.
• Jot down any good subject terms that are listed and use them later in subject searches or
• Click on the linked subject term to run a subject search automatically.