Frequently Asked Questions

How can I choose the correct keywords to search when researching my topic?

There aren't necessarily "correct" keywords to search when researching a topic. Brainstorming for keywords is a process that will help increase your chances of finding information on your topic. You never know what words authors will use in their articles, books, and Web sites that are related to your topic.

Here is an example.

Let's say that you'd like to write a persuasive essay that will convince college students in the United States that they need to save more money. First, you need to identify your main concepts. (See terms in italics.) Then, for each term, brainstorm different forms of the word, synonyms, related terms, as well as narrower and broader terms. (See below.)

Using different combinations of these keywords in your searches of the library databases, catalog, and the Web will help you find information on your topic.

For example, you could try the following keyword search:  college students AND United States AND savings