Search Techniques

SECTION 1:  THE RESEARCH PROCESS
B.  The Literature Search 

Now that you have some understanding of how and where a researcher's findings are published, the next step is to gather information about your topic from these publications.  The literature search involves the use of specialized catalogs and indexes to find the relevant information.

• A first step in the literature search involves developing your topic and identifying the concepts and keywords that are important to that topic.  Reference materials, such as dictionaries and encyclopedias, can help and are covered in Section 4 . 
• The next step is to identify sources of information that apply to your topic:  journal articles, books, Internet resources, and government publications are the types of resources covered in this tutorial.  Keep in mind, however, that other sources may need to be consulted, including experts in the field.  
• Once the resources have been identified, you can begin searching for them (using indexes, catalogs, and search engines) and organizing the results.  This tutorial covers some of the techniques necessary for efficient searching. See Search Techniques.
• The next step is to locate the materials you've identified as relevant.  This step may be time-consuming; Interlibrary Loan may be necessary if the materials are not available full-text electronically or at the library closest to you.
• Once you have the materials, carefully evaluate their appropriateness and authority.  This is especially important for any Internet sites you wish to use.  Tracing the works cited in the most relevant materials you find is also important to a comprehensive search.  
• Obtaining proper and full citations is the final step in the library research process.  Be sure to copy down all the bibliographic information from your source as you review it.  It can be frustrating and time-consuming to retrace your steps once your paper is written if you didn't get complete citations.  

A useful side step throughout your literature search is to ask for help.  It can save you time in the long run. 

QUIZ on Section 1