» Searching Tips
- How to Deal with Broad Topics
- Several of the issues connected with the elections are very broad. For example: Crime, Jobs, Education. A search with these broad terms alone will produce an unmanageable list of results. To find the specific sources that deal with the candidates' stances, add words like presidential or campaign or platform to your search statement. This will focus the search specifically to election issues. Another solution for breaking down the large topics is to view the candidates' stands. Seeing the solutions they are suggesting and using those program names (for example, "No Child Left Behind" or "Education Trust Fund") as your search terms might direct your search more specifically.
- How to Choose Search Terms
- Authors often use different words to describe the same subject. For example, for jobs they might use words such as employment, unemployment, wages, careers, etc. As you expand your search, be on the lookout for different ways your subject can be described. Note alternative terms, names of relevant laws, names of experts, etc. that could be used as new search terms. Don't be discouraged if your initial search term doesn't produce the quality or quantity of results you're seeking. Keep searching.
- How to Get More Help
- The tips above are merely starting points for your research. Remember that you can always "Ask a Librarian" for research help. Librarians are available and willing to provide much more specific assistance.
updated on 08/09/04
