Don't ever pay for articles!
Always access databases through the Library links. If we don't have a subscription to a journal, order the article through our interlibrary loan service.
Do preliminary searches before settling on a topic
Don't assume there will be a lot of information on your topic. Do a few searches before committing to a topic. You may find that you need to narrow or broaden your topic.
ANDs and ORs and NOTs
In addition to using database filters to narrow down your results, you can also combine your search terms with these connecting terms (called "Boolean operators"). Use AND to narrow a search and OR to broaden a search.
Focus on scholarly sources
Use primarily scholarly or peer-reviewed sources. Such articles are typically not freely available on the Web and cannot be found by searching Internet search engines like Google or Yahoo. See the Articles tab above and view this tutorial on this page to learn more.
Search multiple databases
Don't miss the very best book, article, or summary on your topic.
Books vs. articles
Books may be helpful for background information and for familiarizing yourself with a topic. Articles can provide more current information and typically address a very narrow piece of a topic. The scope of your assignment will determine what types of sources are best.
Use the one good resource approach.
When you find a good article/resource, look at the bibliography in the back to see what resources that author used and try searching for them. If you found the article/resource in a database, look at the keywords or subject terms used by the database or library catalog.
Keep a log of your search process
Keep track of what sources and search terms "work" and which ones do not.
Cite as you go
Write out or save a complete citation for each source you find; you may need it again later. Use citation management systems like Zotero or EndNote to help you.
Ask a librarian for help!
Call the Research Support Desk at 404-413-2800, use the chat box on the Library homepage, or visit one of our libraries for in person assistance.
