Turn your questions into keywords before you search.

Try thinking about your topic from a variety of perspectives to generate a big list of keywords for each core concept.

Multiple keywords can be generated from the research question - How safe is recycled water to drink?

Strategy:

First, identify the core concepts in one of your research questions. Then, generate multiple synonyms and alternative phrasings as well as broader and narrower keywords for each core concept.

Tips:

  1. Ask your instructor or a researcher in the field for their advice on the best keywords to use for your search.
  2. Watch this quick video on crafting a savvy search strategy for more ideas on generating keywords for search:
  3. Chat with a librarian or set up a research consultation to learn more about effective search skills and strategies.

Previous section:
Next section: