ENG 152: Database Searching

As with any research project, take some time to plan your research:

• What kind of information do you need?
• Where will you find it?

Planning your research first will help you use the right search tools and locate relevant sources.

Search Tools

Where are you most likely to find the information you need?

Search Engines (internet browser like Google or Safari): Popular sources like news and magazine articles, government sources, videos, general internet articles.

• Some information may be behind a paywall, including quality news sources and sources from Google Scholar.
• It's also important to note that not everything found on Google Scholar is peer-reviewed.
• Review all sources carefully to make sure you meet the requirements of your assignment and that they are useful for your research.

Library Databases: Popular sources like news and magazine articles, peer-reviewed sources, reference sources, biographies, primary sources, videos, statistics.

• Full text is available for thousands of database sources at any time without a library card.
• Databases identify the information format (academic journal, newspaper, etc.) so you can be sure you're meeting assignment requirements.
• All database sources should be evaluated for credibility and usefulness.

Choosing Sources for Your Research

As you research your topics, it's important to consult a variety of sources and engage with diverse ideas. This helps ensure that your information is:

• Accurate
• Comprehensive
• Balanced
• Supported by evidence