The Right Search Terms

Without the right search terms, you may miss important sources. Hints:

Be as specific as possible. Use different keyword combinations and specific phrases. For example, if you're looking for information on media and the Vietnam War, search also for particular events, sources, reporters, types of media, etc.
Synonyms. Think of as many synonyms for each part of your topic as you can, search for each and combine them in different ways.
Think broadly and specifically. Some topics (i.e. lagoon park planning in Venice) maybe too specific, depending on the collection of sources you are searching.
Subject Headings. Clean your search results for more terms and phrases. They may be more specific than what you have thought of.
Finding one right source will give you the "key to the kingdom". That source may include a bibliography of sources the author consulted which should be helpful in your research and worth tracking down.

Maintained by lib-webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: Aug 19, 2007, 13:17 EDT