Doing Research

Do

• Use several keywords, not just one.
• Use the keywords the experts use -- check encyclopedias and textbook glossaries for precise terms.
• Use limiters and filters -- if the assignment says "use sources three years old or less", let the database do the work.
• Look for subjects describing articles you like -- search those same keywords for more good stuff
• E-mail the article to yourself, with the right citation format.  You won't have to find it again, or spend time citing it right.
• Switch databases if necessary-- maybe the treasure is buried somewhere else!

Don't

• Read thousands of articles.  If you get more than 100 results, narrow your search and let the computer do more work for you.
• Fixate on one article -- there are usually many articles on your subject!
• Settle for old stuff -- check the article date  (especially in the sciences.)
• Forget classic articles -- sometimes really good stuff was written long ago  (especially in the humanities.)