Search Tips

1. Get organized


• Use note cards, different colored pens, a research log, or emailed print outs.
• Find a way that works for you and stick with it


2. Work with a research question in mind


• This will keep you from getting side tracked in the information mines available to you


3. Understand the Information Cycle


• Look for information in the appropriate places


4. Use boolean logic


• It helps you talk with computer to limit your search


5. Alternate keywords and keep a record of the ones you have tried


• For example when looking up something's "history" try "origin" or "foundation" instead.


6. Scroll down the catalog entry to find out how the library of congress classifies it


• this allows you to efficiently navigate the catalog looking for similar titles


7. Most importantly: Relax: Research takes time and patience, and in the end, it's a lot of fun...