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Navigating the Research Process

Introduction

Effective database searching requires strategic keyword selection. Unlike Google, which can handle full sentences and questions, library databases work best with focused keywords and phrases.

Before searching, take time to identify the most effective keywords for your topic. This preparation will save you time and improve your results.

What Are Keywords?

Keywords are the main concepts, ideas, or terms that describe your research topic. They're the words you'll use to search in library databases.

Example research question: "Do video games cause children to be more violent?"

Main keywords:

  • video games

  • children

  • violent

These core terms are your starting point for database searching.

Developing Alternative Keywords

Strong search strategies include multiple keyword options. For each main concept, brainstorm:

  • Broader terms - more general words
  • Narrower terms - more specific words
  • Related terms - synonyms or alternative phrases

Example: Brainstorming Keywords

 

video games children violent

computer games

gaming

first-person shooter games

youth

students

preschoolers

Kindergartners

violence

aggression

antisocial behavior

Why Brainstorm Multiple Keywords?

  • Different databases and articles use different terminology

  • Authors may use various terms for the same concept

  • Broadening or narrowing terms helps you find more relevant results

  • Your understanding of the topic will evolve as you research

Important: Research is not linear. You'll likely need to circle back and develop new keywords as you learn more about your topic.

Search Strategy Tips

Use multiple searches

  • Don't expect one search to find everything

  • Try different keyword combinations

  • Experiment with broader and narrower terms

Develop keywords as you learn

  • As you read, note the terms authors use

  • Add new keywords to your list

  • Refine your searches based on what you find

Combine keywords effectively

  • Use AND to combine different concepts: video games AND children AND aggression

  • Try one concept at a time if needed: first-person shooter games

  • Adjust based on your results (too many? narrow down; too few? broaden)

Key Takeaways

  • Use specific keywords instead of full sentences or questions

  • Brainstorm broader, narrower, and related terms for each main concept

  • Plan for multiple searches with different keyword combinations

  • Add new keywords as you learn more about your topic

  • Research is iterative - expect to revise your keywords as you go

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