Tip!
Make a list of keywords relevant to your topic. Be sure to list similar, broader, narrower, and related terms. Keep the list by your side when you start your research and continue to add to it as you come across useful terms.
Identifying Keywords
Before searching for information, you need to identify keywords related to your topic. The keywords you use have an impact on the results of your research.
If the keywords you choose do not give you the results you need, try the others on your list or use the search strategies found in this guide.
Keywords and phrases can easily be found by scanning . . .
- your initial research questions
- encyclopedia and other articles used when conducting background research
- bibliographies found at the end of books and articles
If you are still struggling, try these suggestions:
- Use a thesaurus to identify synonyms
- Find pictures related to your topic, then describe the picture
- Brainstorm keywords with a librarian, your instructor, or a friend
This is an example of the Identify Your Keywords Worksheet. Use the sample worksheet to guide you in exploring keywords for searching.
Mind Mapping
Created by Joshua Vossler