So you've got a topic, and you need to look up some information. Whether you use a print index, an electronic database or a search engine, you'll need some search terms...
Here's how to get your very own:
Brainstorm
1. a sudden bright idea; 2. a harebrained idea
Ask yourself a question:
Before you begin your research, write out a few detailed questions about your topic. Underline the main words and/or phrases in these questions.
You now have a list of related keywords and phrases. These are your search terms!
Think like a thesaurus:
Come up with synonyms - other words or phrases that have the same meaning - for your search terms. If you have trouble thinking of other words, try using a specialized encyclopedia or dictionary about your subject. Pay close attention to spelling (there may be more than one correct spelling), abbreviations and acronyms!
Also notice words that have broader or narrower meanings than your original terms.
For example, consider using
broader and narrower terms for "undergraduate"
Brainstorming helps you choose good search terms before you begin. For example, look at the list of keywords and phrases we thought of for this paper topic:
Concerns about email security demand better programming, authenticated email addresses, and more caution from users.
Keywords:
Phrases:
security
programming
caution
authenticationInternet security
electronic mail systems
software utilitiesNow that you have a set of search terms, let 's go to the next step!
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