Learn how to use the Boolean Operators AND/OR/NOT to target and refine your search.
Learn how to format your search using the Boolean Modifiers quotes " ", asterisk *, and parenthesis ( )
If McMaster Library does not own an article, book, or other item that interests you, you can request it through interlibrary loan.
Articles are a great resource to use when you need to find a more current perspective on your topic. They are useful as articles commonly focus on one aspect of a broader subject and as a result are more specialized in topic.
The goal of a successful search is to retrieve all of the information relevant to a research question without retrieving irrelevant information. This requires creating an effective search string.
1. Identify main concepts from the research question.
2. Brainstorm alternative words and phrases.
3. Create search strings using Boolean Operators.
There are so many databases to choose from! This video outlines how to decide which you should use.(2:20)
If you are having trouble finding articles remember that research is interdisciplinary. Consider what other subjects may be interested in your topic and check out those databases to find resources.
You need journal articles for your essay? Watch this video to learn how to access them online. (5:07)