How to plan an effective information search

Before you start any search, it's important to give some thought to what information you want or need to find, and do some preparation and planning. This will allow you to quickly find relevant results and save time in the long run.

On

Develop a search strategy

A key step is creating a search strategy which will help you to search for information more effectively and precisely.

A search strategy combines keywords and alternative terms in a comprehensive search which you can then use in information discovery tools, specifically academic databases.

By working through this online tutorial you will learn how to create an effective search strategy.

Start the online tutorial - Developing a search strategy

View the tutorial as a DOCX (21 MB)

Which discovery tools to use

At university you have access to a range of information discovery tools provided by the Library.

These tools all have different strengths and each provides access to different types of content.

By working through this online tutorial you will learn where to search for information and which discovery tool to best use for your specific needs.

Start the online tutorial - Where do I search for academic information for my course and research?

Visit the Subject Guide for your discipline for a list of recommended subject-specific databases

Watch the Database Video Guides for help using specific databases

Discovering information a masterclass workshop

In this workshop you will:

consider your information needs.
have the opportunity to create an effective search strategy.
learn how to use a multidisciplinary academic database.

Book a place on the Discovering information a masterclass workshop/webinar

Producing a literature review

A literature review aims to give an overview of the current scholarly understanding of a particular topic, including any competing theories or perspectives.

The first stage of a literature review is about planning your search and turning your question into a search strategy.

By working through the first stage of this online tutorial you will learn how to create an effective search strategy for your literature review.

Start the online tutorial - Producing a literature review

View the tutorial as a DOCX (348 KB)

StudySkills@Sheffield